The Novation SL61 MkIII is more than a keyboard controller—it’s a central hub for your music production setup, designed for seamless control of hardware and software. With its internal eight-track sequencer, full DAW integration, and expressive RGB-lit controls, SL61 MkIII empowers producers, performers, and composers to create, sequence, and perform without limits.
Key Features:
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Eight-Track Pattern-Based Sequencer – Step input or real-time recording, plus parameter automation and arpeggiator functionality.
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Scales, Modes & Zones – On-key RGB feedback shows scales and zones for instant visual reference.
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Ableton Live Integration – Includes Ableton Live Lite, plus customizable templates for hands-on control of Live and other major DAWs.
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Expressive Performance Controls – Semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, backlit pitch and modulation wheels, velocity-sensitive RGB pads, assignable faders, and knobs.
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Comprehensive Connectivity – USB, MIDI, and routable clock for syncing your full setup.
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Customizable Templates & Velocity Curves – Tailor your workflow to your hardware and software setup for maximum efficiency.
Built for Creative Freedom
SL61 MkIII is engineered to put every control at your fingertips. Record notes, design rhythms, tweak patterns, and automate parameters directly from the keyboard, while its high scan rate (10 kHz) keybed provides dynamic, expressive playability. The vibrant RGB pads and LCD screens ensure you always know exactly what’s happening in your session, whether controlling Ableton Live or external synths.
Designed as the centerpiece of your studio or live rig, the SL61 MkIII gives you hands-on, intuitive control over your music, so you can focus on creativity—not on navigating menus.
Hardware & Controls
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61-note velocity-sensitive, individually sprung, semi-weighted synth-style keyboard
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16 full-color RGB backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads
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2 page and 2 scene launch buttons
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8 continuous rotary knobs and 8 sliders
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6 dedicated transport controls
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RGB backlit pitch bend and modulation wheels
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2 octave/transpose buttons and 2 track buttons
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5 TFT RGB LCD screens
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59 backlit tact switch buttons
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61-keybed RGB LEDs
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32 assignable buttons (16 × 2 pages)
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32 assignable pads (16 × 2 pages)
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Backlit RGB mode switching buttons, including InControl integration
Rear Panel & Connectivity
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Power switch and DC power socket
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USB B 2.0 port
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3× 5-pin DIN MIDI ports (IN, OUT, OUT2/THRU)
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Sustain and expression pedal inputs (¼” TRS)
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Footswitch pedal input (¼” TS)
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CV/Gate/Modulation outputs (1 & 2) via 3.5mm jack
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Clock output
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Kensington security slot
Sequencer & Performance Features
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64 Sessions, 8 Tracks per Session
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8 Patterns per Track (16 steps per pattern, 128 steps per track)
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Real-time recording of notes, velocity, and automation
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Auto-quantize for notes and automation (6 events per step)
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Automation of all assignable controls (up to 8 lanes)
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Internal tempo range: 40–240 BPM
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Swing range: 20–80%
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16 scale types and chromatic transposition
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Key splits into 8 playable zones
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Pattern expand view with grid flip
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Pattern start/end, direction (including random), and configurable pattern chain
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Instant and queued session switching
Editing Features
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Velocity and gate per step
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Multiple gate lengths per step (via real-time record)
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Step-by-step automation editing
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Clear and duplicate steps, patterns, or sessions
Software & Sounds
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Ableton Live Lite included
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4 GB of Loopmasters sounds and samples
Power Requirements
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12V DC, 1000 mA (power supply included)
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Cannot be powered via USB
Dimensions