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Description

Combines a high-quality semi-weighted keyboard with a full DAW and plug-in control surface.

The Novation 61SL MkII Keyboard Controller gives modern DAW users every dimension of hardware control. The 61SL MkII offers a hands-on approach to navigating software, audio mixing and controlling plug-ins. The Novation 61SL MkII is an extraordinary MIDI controller value. It integrates a DAW control surface with a quality semi-weighted keyboard-with after-touch-and the most intuitive plug-in mapping capabilities available. All this musical goodness is presided over by Automap 3 PRO-arguably the most advanced control software on the market.

61SL MkII upholds Novation's reputation for building quality hardware (like the SL Mk I, they will also appeal to performers who need a well-constructed keyboard on stage). Quality is not just reflected in their robustness, but more importantly in the way the 61SL Mk II has been designed with every detail calculated to maximize workflow. The 61 SL Mk II's visually feeds back all controller information to the user with back lit buttons and encoder LED rings.

The difficulty with other control surfaces is in knowing what is assigned to what. 61SL MkII has a giant 144-character ultra-bright LCD screen that displays all the parameter names and values for the currently selected row of controllers. All 8 faders and 16 knobs are touch sensitive, so the moment one is touched, the display shows the names and values on that row and puts brackets around the controller that is currently being touched. This enables the user to see which parameter is assigned to the controller without having to change the value, or refer to their software. 61SL MkII also has a dedicated 'Speed Dial' knob, which can be used to change the value of any parameter the cursor is positioned over without making any assignments whatsoever.

The 8 continuous rotary encoders have 11 segment LED rings around each of them, allowing encoders to behave like pots so the user can see the value before moving them. All the buttons have LED lights underneath them so users can instantly see their status without having to press them. There are 8 soft-feel drum pads, a pitch/modulation wheel and an X/Y Xpression touchpad which, (along with footswitch and sustain pedal inputs), are all fully assignable to any parameter with the Automap software

The 61SL MkII has been designed to draw minimum current so it can be used as a USB buss-powered device, and an optional 9V DC power supply can be added for stand-alone use. As well as USB interfacing, the 61SL MkII has 1 MIDI in, 1 MIDI thru and 2 MIDI outs.

The power behind the 61SL MkII's unique ability to map controllers at the touch of a button is contained within the included Automap software. Automap 3 PRO enables users to map controllers with incredible speed and ease-no more digging through MIDI continuous controller numbers, the Automap server takes care of it all. Automap's GUI gives the user a visual representation of all the current mappings on screen, as well as the ability to save and manage mappings across different projects. There is also an option to only bring up the GUI when a controller on the 61SL MkII has been touched!

High quality professional keyboard
Velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted action keyboard from Fatar, with assignable after-touch. Novation delivers the feeling of playing an instrument, rather than just a computer peripheral.

Illuminated controls provide instant visual feedback
Brightly lit LED rings around the eight smooth encoders, and backlit buttons throughout provide instant visual feedback for every physical control, further reducing reliance on the computer screen.

Giant 144-character LCD screen
Frees the artist from being chained to the computer screen, placing all the essential data right alongside the relevant controls.

Huge array of touch-sensitive controls
Full control surface supporting ultra-flexible DAW control and Auto-mappable plug-in controls, 16 knobs, 8 faders and 32 assignable backlit LED buttons.

Automap 3 PRO Control Software
61SL MkII comes with Automap software which enables you to instantly map software parameters to faders, buttons, encoders and pots and other controllers.

Product specs

Brand Novation
Model ReMOTE 61 SL MKII MIDI Controller
Finish Gray
Year 2008
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Semi-Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Number of Pads 8 Pads

FAQs

Does the Novation 61SL MkII offer aftertouch on its keys?

Yes, the Novation 61SL MkII features aftertouch, allowing for expressive playing by responding to pressure applied to the keys after they are initially pressed.

How does the Novation 61SL MkII integrate with DAW software?

The Novation 61SL MkII is designed for seamless integration with popular DAWs, offering templates and an Automap feature to easily control software parameters.

What type of key action does the Novation 61SL MkII have?

The Novation 61SL MkII comes with a semi-weighted keybed, providing a balance between the feel of traditional piano keys and the lighter touch preferred for synthesizer playing.

How many pads are included on the Novation 61SL MkII, and what are their uses?

The Novation 61SL MkII includes 8 pads, which can be used for triggering samples, loops, or controlling various parameters within your DAW.

What connectivity options are available on the Novation 61SL MkII?

The Novation 61SL MkII offers MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, and USB MIDI, providing versatile connectivity for both hardware and software instruments.

Novation

Novation

Novation // SL MkII: Anything, Anywhere

Video thumbnail for Novation // SL MkII: Anything, Anywhere by Novation

Novation // SL MkII: Anything, Anywhere

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Novation

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Novation SL MkIII MIDI Keyboard Review: Is it a gamechanging controller? (49SL MK3/61SL MK3)

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loopop

Video thumbnail for Novation // SL MkII and Automap Tutorial with Johnny Juice by Novation

Novation // SL MkII and Automap Tutorial with Johnny Juice

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Novation

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Novation 61SL MkIII Keyboard Controller Review

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Novation SL Mkii 61-Key Keyboard Full Review

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Novation 61SL Mk III MIDI Controller Keyboard

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Novation 61 SL MkIII - First Look

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Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent functionality in Ableton

  • Durable build, retains value over time

  • Velocity-sensitive and after-touch features enhance expressiveness

  • Loaded with useful pan-pots and faders

  • Good value for the price

CONS

  • Sliders and knobs may feel light compared to hardware synths

  • Overabundance of features might be seen as gimmicky for some users

  • Some features like pan-pots and faders might be underused

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller.

Build quality

  • Pitch bend jog wheel may develop jittering; a known issue that can be disabled if not frequently used.

    Source
  • Some owners note that the keys on the Novation Remote 61SL MkII feel more solid compared to cheaper MIDI controllers, providing a more satisfying playing experience for pianists.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The screen provides clear control feedback, a unique feature among controllers.

    Source
  • Custom mapping can overcome Automap issues; essential for smoother operation.

    Source
  • The ability to send SysEx messages is highlighted as a standout feature, offering advanced control for users with specific MIDI needs.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Launchkey MK3 offers better build quality and integration with Ableton compared to SL MK2.

    Source
  • Compared to the Nektar Panorama T6, the Novation 61SL MkII offers better sliders, although both lack CV output capabilities.

    Source

User experience

  • Drum pads require excessive force to function, impacting usability.

    Source
  • Some users appreciate the Novation 61SL MkII's expressive keybed, noting it's suitable for dynamic playing, unlike lower-end models that may feel less responsive.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • $375 is considered high given the MK2's age and issues, especially with newer models available.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Novation 61SL MkII

soundonsound.com

The Novation 61SL MkII impresses with touch-sensitive controls and Automap technology, making it a dream for seamless software integration. The LED encoder rings and streamlined LCD menu enhance usability, although the removal of a second LCD feels like a step back, occasionally causing control confusion. Despite this, the 61SL MkII offers a compelling balance of affordability and functionality, overshadowing minor drawbacks and solidifying its place as a top choice for musicians seeking tactile control over their digital workspaces.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 16 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jhon_shepherd

49SL MKII

I purchased this controller roughly 3 months ago at a fantastic price from reverb.com. As for functionality in Ableton (My current DAW for over a year now) is fantastic. It has a pretty solid weight to it and although the sliders and knobs feel a bit "Light" compared to most hardware synths I've had the opportunity to put through the ringer, Its hands down the most durable MIDI controller I've owned. I can understand that even after 10+ years this particular model still retains its value and rightfully so.

gabriel_c_media

Simplly one of the most flexible controllers you can get!

This controller has an incredible amount of depth to it! velocity-sensitive, after-touch, and chock full of pan-pots and faders. It's definitely one of the most expressive controllers you afford to get!

For me, maybe too much. As I've grown in music production, I've begun to realize just how gimmicky MIDI controllers can get. This particular controller is filled with pan-pots and faders which I've hardly if ever used. I do all of my mixing digitally in my DAW and can hardly complain.

It makes me wonder just how much I can actually recommend this controller or if I'll someday sell it and actually purchase a cheaper simpler controller. Growing in my skills has definitely changed my outlook overtime and I see controllers continuing to get more and more gimmicky and promising tighter integration with VSTs and plugins....which I simply never use.

This controller is incredibly expressive and I don't really see too much value in getting rid of it to afford something cheaper, but I really don't see much value in buying something newer and flashier when it will only have more bells and whistles that you'll hardly use. While I won't say to NOT purchase this controller, please keep it as something to keep before purchasing your next MIDI controller!

S

Worth the money

I didn't have the kind of money to buy a top notch keyboard and in the end had to settle for this, But it's totally worth the money and to be very honest, I think buying this was one of my best decisions ever. I was battling between the 49 key and this one, but in the end went for this because, well... bigger is better. Anyone who wants something good and worth the money has to go for this

justinhayward

Great midi keyboard and controller has quality keys

Artist usage

Add artist
See how David Guetta uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

David Guetta

Music Producer

Africanism All Stars

...
Verified via YouTube

David Guetta is shown in the studio sitting with a Novation 61 SL MKII Midi Controller in this short video.

See how Adam Hann uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Adam Hann

Guitarist

The 1975

...
Verified via Photo

After thorough research, I've identified the keyboard hidden under the stand used by Adam Hann and Ross as the Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller. This conclusion is supported by a user-uploaded photo.

See how Noisia uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Noisia

Music Producer

Noisia & Pacific

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video from Audeze, at 0:54 you can see the Novation 61SL MkII.

See how Jon Bellion uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Jon Bellion

Singer, Rapper

...
Verified via YouTube

Jon Bellion can be seen using the Novation 61SL MkII in his "Making of One More Time" video @ 3:58.

See how Ross MacDonald uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Ross MacDonald

Bassist

The 1975

...
Verified via Photo

"After extensive research, I've identified the keyboard concealed under the stand used by Ross MacDonald and Adam Hann as the Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller. This conclusion is supported by a user-uploaded photo."

See how Max Vangeli uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Max Vangeli

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

A Novation 61 SL MKII appears is seen behind Max Vangeli throughout this video.

See how Röyksopp uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Röyksopp

Music Producer

Röyksopp

...
Verified via Facebook

you can see multiple Novation 61SL MkII keyboards in this photo

See how DJ Mustard uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

DJ Mustard

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see it on the right at 0:49 of the video.

See how Haywyre uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Haywyre

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

On the left of this video shared by Haywyre, at 1:26, it's behind the laptop stand and the go pro.

See how Gareth Jones (producer) uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Gareth Jones (producer)

Music Producer

Depeche Mode

...
Verified via Gareth Jones

Included in equipment list

See how Mark Kelly uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Mark Kelly

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Marillion

...
Verified via Marillion

As mentioned on the Marillion website.

See how Rydel Lynch uses Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller

Rydel Lynch

Singer, Keyboardist

R5

...
Verified via YouTube

..The item can be seen 2:28 into this video... this keyboard is used in R5 Sometime last Night Tour 2015-2016

Album Usage

The Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Novation 61SL MkII 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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matiasdapena

matiasdapena

Gear IQ 166

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