Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $697
High-end/Boutique
$200
$501+
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Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Novation 61SL MkIII". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash your creative potential with the Novation 61SL MkIII, a revolutionary MIDI keyboard controller designed for the contemporary musician and producer. This versatile powerhouse offers an extensive 61-note keyboard with aftertouch, delivering a responsive and expressive playing experience.
The 61SL MkIII stands out with its eight touch-sensitive knobs, nine long-throw faders, and 16 RGB backlit pads, offering unprecedented control over your music-making process. These features allow you to tap, swipe, and rotate for precise control over effects, instruments, and more.
The 16 ultra-responsive pads with RGB backlighting and aftertouch facilitate advanced beat creation and clip launching, while the nine faders provide fluid control over levels and other continuous parameters in your DAW. The 61SL MkIII's lightweight design ensures durability for years of inspired performances and late-night studio sessions.
Deep integration with popular DAWs like Ableton Live ensures a seamless workflow, making the 61SL MkIII an essential tool for any music production setup.
Key Features:
- 61-note keyboard with aftertouch for expressive playing
- Eight touch-sensitive knobs for precision control
- Nine long-throw faders for fluid adjustments
- 16 ultra-responsive pads with RGB backlighting and aftertouch for advanced beat creation
- Deep integration with popular DAWs like Ableton Live
- Lightweight and durable design
- Dedicated control over Ableton Live through Ableton Live Control mode
- Pre-mapped control profiles for other DAWs using Novation Components
- USB-powered for portability
- Internal 8-track sequencer with real-time and step input
- Velocity-sensitive RGB pads with polyphonic aftertouch
- Backlit pitch and modulation wheels
- Customizable mappings for effortless setup and recall
- Comprehensive hardware connectivity including MIDI In, Out, and Out 2/Thru; Analog Clock
Product specs
| Type | Keyboard Controller |
| Number of Keys | 61 |
| Type of Keys | Semi-weighted |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes |
| Aftertouch | Yes |
| Pads | 16 x RGB Backlit Pads |
| Other Controllers | Pitchbend, Mod Wheel |
| Encoders/Pots | 8 x Continuous Rotary Knobs |
| Faders | 8 |
| Dedicated Transport Control | Yes |
| Sequencer | 64 Sessions, 8 Tracks per Session, 8 Patterns per Track, Unquantized Recording, Micro-step Editing |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (expression), 1 x 1/4" (sustain), 1 x 1/4" (footswitch) |
| MIDI I/O | In, Out, Out2/Thru, USB |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Other I/O | 1 x Clock out, 2 x CV out, 2 x Mod out, 2 x Gate out |
| Computer Connectivity | USB |
| Software | Ableton Live Lite, GForce Bass Station, XLN Addictive Keys Studio Grand, AAS Session Bundle, Klevgrand R0Verb |
| Format | NKS |
| OS Requirements - Mac | OS X 10.11.6 or later |
| OS Requirements - PC | Windows 7 SP1 or later |
| Power Supply | 12V DC power supply (included) |
| Height | 3.93" |
| Width | 38.62" |
| Depth | 11.81" |
FAQs
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Does the Novation 61SL MkIII have aftertouch?
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Yes, the Novation 61SL MkIII features a semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch, which is assignable to any parameter, enhancing expressive performance capabilities.
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How many tracks can the Novation 61SL MkIII sequencer handle?
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The Novation 61SL MkIII's sequencer can handle 8 tracks per session, with 64 sessions available, allowing for complex arrangements and detailed compositions.
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Is the Novation 61SL MkIII compatible with Ableton Live?
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Yes, the Novation 61SL MkIII is compatible with Ableton Live and comes with Ableton Live Lite software, providing seamless integration and control over your DAW.
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What are the connectivity options for the Novation 61SL MkIII?
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The Novation 61SL MkIII offers USB, MIDI In/Out/Thru, and CV/Gate outputs, making it versatile for both digital and analog setups.
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Can the Novation 61SL MkIII be used with external hardware synths?
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Yes, the Novation 61SL MkIII includes CV, Gate, and Mod outputs, allowing it to control external hardware synths alongside your DAW.
Videos
loopop
Novation SL MkIII MIDI Keyboard Review: Is it a gamechanging controller? (49SL MK3/61SL MK3)
Reviews
PROS
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Versatile controller with seamless DAW integration, especially Ableton Live
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Keys have a satisfying feel, suitable for nuanced performance
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Features polyphonic aftertouch, adding expressiveness
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Equipped with a powerful sequencer and scale mode for creative composition
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Offers extensive connectivity for controlling hardware synths and devices
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Comes with a comprehensive set of configurable knobs, sliders, and pads
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Key lighting aids in learning and playing, enhancing visual feedback
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Bundled with useful software, enhancing value
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High build quality ensures durability and reliability
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Non-USB bus power option for flexibility in setup
CONS
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Some users report bugs and firmware issues that need addressing
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Learning curve can be steep due to complexity and advanced features
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InControl function for Logic Pro X considered lackluster with poor visual indicators
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Keybed feel may not satisfy all, with mixed feedback on action and sensitivity
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation 61SL MkIII.
Features and functionality
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The SL MkIII offers push-style screens that show encoder control values, enhancing user interface experience.
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SL MkIII can control external MIDI gear independently of Ableton, unlike the Launchkey which relies on DAW integration.
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Scale mode is highlighted as valuable, showing indicators for keys in the current scale being played.
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Scale mode on the SL MkIII highlights correct notes but does not automatically transpose out-of-key notes in FL Studio's piano roll.
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User experience
Use cases and applications
Comparisons
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SL MkIII lacks a quantize button, potentially making it more challenging for beginners compared to the Launchkey.
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Some users find the SL MkIII's keybed superior to the Launchkey but not as refined as the Prophet or Digitone Keys.
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The Arturia Keylab 61 MkII has a more polished build and aesthetic, but its key action doesn't justify the price compared to the SL MkIII's superior keybed feel.
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Value and pricing
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Many consider the SL MkIII overkill for beginners, recommending the more affordable Launchkey for initial stages.
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Build quality
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The SL MkIII's keybed includes poly aftertouch, providing a distinct feel compared to the SL MkII.
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Software and compatibility
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
Jacob has taken out multiple Novation SL MkIII controller keyboards on his latest Djesse tour (2019), including his own 61SL MkIII
the gear is seen on Jack Garratt: His Live Set-Up & How It Works https://youtu.be/hlGpppmWj74?t=90
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 MkIII, it is most commonly used with the following gear.