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Novation ZeRO SL MkII USB MIDI Control Surface

Novation ZeRO SL MkII USB MIDI Control Surface

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$183.21

4.5 (25)

1 Critic Review

5 Reviews

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12 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

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4.0 (4)

$183.21 1 available Used

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Description

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Step into a world of precision and control with the Novation ZeRO SL MkII USB MIDI Control Surface. Designed with the serious music producer in mind, this DAW controller offers seamless integration with your favorite digital audio workstations for an intuitive and engaging workflow. With its Automap technology, the ZeRO SL MkII makes assigning controls to software parameters effortless, saving you time and allowing you to focus on your creativity.

The controller's hands-on approach ensures that you have everything you need right at your fingertips. Its touch-sensitive, motorized faders give you real-time feedback, while the backlit LED screen provides clear visibility in any studio setting. The ZeRO SL MkII also features a range of assignable knobs, buttons, and pads, delivering a customizable experience to suit your specific production style. Whether you're tweaking synth parameters, controlling your mix, or triggering samples, this control surface delivers precise and responsive performance.

Key Features:

Automap technology for automatic software parameter mapping
Touch-sensitive, motorized faders for hands-on control
Backlit LED screen for clear parameter visibility
8 endless rotary encoders for smooth, continuous adjustments
32 assignable buttons and 8 soft-feel trigger pads
Compatible with major DAWs including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and more
USB-powered for easy setup and portability

Product specs

Brand	Novation
Model	ZeRO SL MKII Desktop MIDI DAW Controller
Finish	White
Year	2008
Categories	Audio Mixers, Consoles and Summing Boxes

FAQs

What are the standout features of the Novation ZeRO SL MkII's control surface?: The Novation ZeRO SL MkII offers an intuitive control surface with motorized faders, touch-sensitive encoders, and an LCD screen for seamless DAW integration. It provides hands-on control for mixing, tweaking effects, and managing virtual instruments.
Is the Novation ZeRO SL MkII compatible with popular DAWs?: Yes, the Novation ZeRO SL MkII is designed to integrate smoothly with major DAWs such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Cubase, offering pre-mapped controls and customizable templates for enhanced workflow.
Does the Novation ZeRO SL MkII require external power or is it USB-powered?: The Novation ZeRO SL MkII is USB-powered, which means it draws power directly from your computer, eliminating the need for an external power supply and simplifying setup.
Can the Novation ZeRO SL MkII be used to control software plugins?: Yes, the Novation ZeRO SL MkII can control software plugins, allowing you to map parameters to its faders, knobs, and buttons for intuitive and tactile control of your virtual instruments and effects.
What kind of connectivity options does the Novation ZeRO SL MkII offer?: The Novation ZeRO SL MkII features USB connectivity for easy integration with your computer, as well as MIDI In/Out ports for connecting to other MIDI-compatible gear, expanding its versatility in a studio setup.

Videos

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TheDSPproject

Novation ZeRO SL MkII review

TheDSPproject

NOVATION: Launchpad e ZeRO SL MKII

ProShows

Novation ZeRO SL MkII MIDI Control Surface Unboxing

Drummer Tech

Novation ZeRO SL MkII and Launchpad Demo

Gear4music Guitars

Reviews

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PROS

Excellent for running DMX lights with its connectivity options
Works well with Mac via conventional MIDI, bypassing USB issues
Durable and resistant, survives extreme conditions
Display screen is very useful for live performances
Highly customizable for Ableton Live, enhancing production and live performance
Incredible software mapping with the updated Automap version

CONS

Compatibility issues with Mac, requiring workaround solutions
Some units may send sporadic MIDI signals over USB and MIDI ports
AutoMap software can be difficult to use or set up
One fader may not work, indicating potential quality control issues
Heavier than expected, making it less portable for frequent live or DJ sets

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation ZeRO SL MkII USB MIDI Control Surface.

Software and compatibility

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Automap does not function above Mac OS 10.3, requiring manual MIDI mapping for DAWs like Cubase and Studio One.
Source
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USB driver 3.1 may offer limited support for MacOS 10.13 and later, but issues persist with newer versions.
Source

Features and functionality

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Automap fails to recognize VST3 plugins, limiting integration with newer software instruments.
Source
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Some users report partial functionality with Mackie HUI/Automap HUI for transport and mixing but not for VSTi control in Studio One.
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The SL MkII can function without Automap, sending CC messages directly from controls, although Windows requires a MIDI driver.
Source
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The SL MkII can be powered over USB, eliminating the need for a power adapter.
Source
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The SL MkII can be configured as a Mackie Logic Control Surface in Logic, providing effective integration without Automap.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

Manual MIDI mapping in Cubase 12 Pro is necessary due to lack of Automap support.
Source

User experience

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Owners express frustration with limited support and documentation for setting up VSTi control without Automap.
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Users prefer the SL MkII's red LEDs for visual clarity in low-light studio environments.
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Comparisons

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Some owners found the MkIII's implementation for Logic problematic, experiencing MIDI timeouts and issues with drum pad mapping.
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The MkII's rotary controls are highlighted as desirable for VST management, contrasting with MkIII's criticized Logic integration.
Source

Critic Reviews

Review of the Novation Zero SL Mk II : Novation Remote Zero SL MKII - Audiofanzine

audiofanzine.com

The Novation ZeRO SL MkII impresses with its touch-sensitive, illuminated controls and robust Automap software, making it a standout MIDI controller for studio use. While the single display and plastic build might deter touring musicians, its intuitive design, competitive pricing, and versatile functionality offer substantial value. Losing a second display is a slight setback, but the innovative features and regular software updates make it a top choice for producers seeking hands-on control. Overall, it's a well-rounded upgrade from its predecessor, ideal for studio-based musicians.

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Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 25 Ratings

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john_withers

815

over 7 years ago

Pretty good but...

I hate AutoMap . I bought this second hand and I knew one fader didn't work but didn't care as long as the rest worked cause I planned to use it as a Midi controller but I could never get AutoMap to work...now I think there is a MIDI mode and I should try it sometime but soon after I obtained a second hand Nektar Panorama and used that...until that stopped working in a way that Nektar could not help me with...Caveat emptor! hehe

opione

about 11 years ago

Perfect partner for the Launchpad

It's a bit too heavy do be brought to every live or DJ Sets I'm playing, but it has been an awesome companion for the Launchpad. The display screen is very useful, and every feature can be tide to control whatever you want in ableton. It's a wonderful friend for production has well, if you want to use the mouse of your computer as less as possible. Very resistant, it survived some DJ Sets at 46°C in Australia.