Hey sorry, I’m considering buying this keyboard, do you think it’s still a good idea even if it’s 4 years old now? It would be my first keyboard ever but I really like to start going all in
@@Ego_S.B. hi. It depends what you are looking. If you just need a keyboard, don't buy it. There are much cheaper options. If you need a hub for other external devices such as synths etc., then it is a beast which can rule them all even without a computer. It also good for Abelron & Logic Pro. And has an amazing sequencer and other features like scales. To be honest if you are not planning performance outside your studio, then you can use a cheaper option with 67 keys and use a sequencer in your DAW. If you just creating music and don't have much equipment, then buy a cheap keyboard with 49 keys or even less and see how you develop. Save your money for good monitors. Check youtuber Taetro and see what he does with his little keyboard. Hope that helps
Finally, this is what I wanted the Komplete keyboard to be but is much more too and standalone without having to rely on a computer for the extended functions like scales, zones etc. An idea for future firmware would be to add probability or play once every 1,2,3... bars to the seq/arp steps and maybe a randomise function to fill the sequencer in one go as the Elektron sequencers do. I've got the 61key version on order, can't wait to get this and clear out a few other keyboards inc the Komplete.
Very late to the party, but I recently bought this controller used (like new, got it for a bargain) and I was also going through a "creative crisis". While I'm not a very good keyboardist, this has brought me a new perspective in music making that has allowed me to start writing again! Apart from the aftertouch on keys, which is a bit "jumpy" (goes from 0 to 100 almost instantaneously), I absolutely love this thing! Props to Novation for making such a useful controller!
Had the keyboard for just under a year and I love it. Probably my Best Buy and well worth the price tag. One way I like to use it is to fill a sequence up with complex chords I’d struggle to play live and use it as a trigger pad when over dubbing a track in ableton. If novation are listening it would be an awesome update to include some kind of save/recall feature for favourite chords in the menu so that you can quickly apply and build a sequence, perhaps taking some inspiration from the Kordbot? Extending choices and suggestions for progressions, also transpose of steps, racheting would be killer updates. All in all though it’s an amazing product as it is and I keep returning to these videos to learn something new.
Amazing demonstration ! I am French and I really do not master English but the explanations are so simple, clear and precise that I understood everything except two or three functions that I did not manage to translate in my head. Thank you very much -CALC- ♥️
Clearly needs a small display above/below the 8 sliders - he has to guess at what each track is. The SL MK1 had this and it makes it much easier without having to look at the computer screen. Other than that, and dropping 8 knobs from the MK1/MK2, this is a pretty awesome looking controller. I absolutely love the scale mode LEDs as I need help when it comes to scales! The new displays above the knobs are a massive improvement over the older models. CV/gate options *almost* replaces the need for a Beatstep pro.
If you hold Shift and move the slider it displays the parameter it is controlling without adjusting anything - essentially showing the names of each fader.
Hey chris, after eventually getting mine updated with the firmware, i absolutely love the SLMK3 49. I use it for controlling multiple synth modules via Cakewalk . And it is superb, I know it is very powerful, but taking it slow and using it in my context it is bearing fruit, i don't use all the features, but i dare say once i get my head around it's many features, i will...in time.
Phenomenal video. I’ve had my SL Mk III for a while but I’ve been wanting to get more out of it - I’ve just been happy using it to play my other synths. I got a lot out of this the first time, but I guarantee I’ll be watching it again in front of the keyboard as I go through everything. Thank you!
I've had my SL49 for about a year now and absolutely love it, though will admit that I didn't even know of most of these features. Well explained and in-depth vid. Cheers.
Hey guys @novation My sincerest request is that if you can issue a firmware update where in you can have a dedicated polychord mode....where you can map custom chords across the keybed (a feature present in the behringer deepmind 12) it will be a game changer for composition and orchestration!!!!
Great video. I learned more watching this than I did reading the user manual twice! Amazingly powerful device. Once you wrap your mind around what it can do, you can work wonders. Never have I had so much hardware working so seamlessly with software. I no longer have to open Live just to fool around, but if I do open it, I’m presented with a zillion more options. Anybody wanna buy my Mkii cheap?
@@NovationTV I really have been enjoying my time with the SL and have come to know it pretty well. Perhaps you could answer a couple of questions for me though. 1. Do the 'Right Arrow' (to the right of the pads) have any function? I can't find any use for them in any mode. I've never seen them light up - indicating that they have an available function. 2. With respect to sequencing. I know I can store up to 16 steps in a pattern and then store eight patterns in per part in a session. I also know that I can multi select patterns to have them play in order. Given that, is there any way to have more of a song oriented playback? Ie, play pattern 1 a few times, then pattern 2, then pattern 1 again a few times, then pattern 3, etc. I realize that I can copy patterns and place them in the order necessary, but this becomes difficult to follow and I eventually start running out of available pattern space. Actually, I run out pretty quickly. It would be great if a session could be thought of more like a song - in terms of sequencing. I really am impressed by the SL though. The hardware control alone - paired with an excellent key bed is worth the price of admission to me. I've created maxed out templates for a Rev2, ModX, Omnisphere, Uno, Skulpt, Moog Grandmother and several others and while I would LOVE to have more pages of controls available, in each case, I can focus on the controls most important to me. The 'Right Arrow' button thing is driving me crazy though. I feel like I'm missing out on some cool feature!
Wahouu ! OKayyyy ! I see a game changer here. A perfect "remote midi keyboard" for all my synth set up, hardware and software ! Great game changer here but i've already said it !
guys you should release a sequencer controller with 8 tracks in the circuit-mk3 format like the beatstep pro , I bet you are working on it already, thank u for your amazing products
Hey Chris! This is 99% perfect. Put in some Kordbot chords type programming in a future software update and this MIDI CTRL from Novation will sell like hot bread. One word: Brilliant!
Thanks for your feedback, Joao. We're glad you're excited about SL MkIII! Using the Sequencer and Scale modes it's possible to quickly create custom palettes of one-finger chords. We can't wait to hear what you create with it!
Hello again Chris! I'm very excited about the SL MKIII, is it possible to show us "Chord Mode" in a short little video. This is a very desirable feature for many users and since it was not talked about in this video i would like to see it in action. I tried to read the manual to know more about this, but there's little info. A video would be really great and it would also help sales. Please...
Hi Novation I'm a very happy user of the 61 SL MkIII and I really like it a lot. But I am missing one function and its the "Scale Chord" for the Pads from the Launchkey Series. When you select a scale on the Launchkey Series, the "Sclae Chord" function on the Pads puts the chords i-vii from the Scale (Major, Minors, 7ths, even 9ths) on the Pads, so you can easily play them and try out Chord progressions from the selected scale. That is such a useful tool for non-piano-players like me, that I really wish it would be available on the 61 SL MkIII. Since that's the flagship controller from novation, one would assume, that things like this from the smaller keyboards are of course also available on the big one, but unfortunately it's not. So heres's my question/feedback/input/improvement-suggestion: Can you PLEASE add the "Scale Chord" function from the Launchkey Series to the SL MkIII ? I'm sure there are a lot of players who would appreciate it and it should be easy to implement with a firmware update, because its just a matter of software and not hardware. Thank you in advance :) kind regards
We really appreciate you taking the time to share your suggestion with us, Michael. Afraid we don't have any news to share at the minute regarding any possible updates to SL MkIII but your feedback has been shared with the team for their consideration.
I'm completely new to this, and ordered the SL....and I'm lost trying to follow. I'm worried because there seems to not be much tutorials, so i'm going to be on my own. I don't understand why they don't put out more tutorials...especially beginner level. These buttons have so many functions. I will say it's not as bad as ableton who shows how to install it, then literally says "now have fun". Edit: ok sorry I found a few video's from ableton that are helping break the ice of understanding. Also there are simple lesson's to the left of the program that I'm starting. Understand that a beginner is clueless when teaching how to use.
We're very sorry to hear that you're feeling a little lost. Please give our Support Team a call or use their 'Live Chat' feature to discuss this with them today - bit.ly/NovationSupport They can explain how to get started and make the most of your SL MkIII. We've also written a detailed User Guide that you might find helpful - fael-downloads-prod.focusrite.com/customer/prod/s3fs-public/downloads/SL%20MkIII%20User%20Guide%20V2%20English.pdf
I'm totally new at this and lost! I bought a Novation launchkey MK3 61 and I'm using Ableton 10 Lite. I downloaded the Standalone features into it thinking that I was supposed too! Now I can't get back to the original settings that came with the controller, when I turn the launchkey MK3 61 on it automatically comes on in the Custom Modes as in the user manual 3.0 Standalone Features. I want to use it the way it in user manual 2.1 Session Mode! How do I change it?
Hiya, re the automation lanes. Can you mute individual lanes? Say I have a lead I want to use pitch bend on. Can I add that and then mute and unmute the automation lane (not the lead sound) Regards
@@dustinpowell6507 Can you make them play consecutively without pressing a button yourself everytime to switch patterns? Dont got the keyboard yet, thinking about buying it
Major oversight on this product, but easily fixed: Relying on Midi Thru to communicate with a fleet of hardware is not ideal when you have a lot of Controller data travelling the same cables like Sysex data for instance. We have 'Midi Networking' these days, where each Midi DIN or 'USB Host Port' has a dedicated connection. Note data is transmitted in a separate pipe from Controller/ Timing data. 2 Din plugs is good...but the 'USB Host Port' needs to enumerate at the bare minimum 16 'Virtual Midi Ports' so that Network software such as Copperlan can push the SL MKIII's data to a swag of gear independently. The SL MKIII should be the Master of a Network...but never will be without 'Virtual Midi Ports'.
Thanks for taking the time to share your initial reactions, Chris. Where you hoping for MIDI thru via USB? We're not sure that we agree that there has been an oversight as SL MkIII is primarily designed to function as a musical instrument and source of MIDI data.
Each Template should have the flexibility to be assigned to a port rather than a channel...when outputting from the SL MkIII. As an example, the iConnectAUDIO4+ interface 'enumerates 29 total, 16-channel MIDI Ports which are available for routing'
One of the modules I want to connect to the SL3 is a Drumbrute. I don't seem to be able to make a sequence work with it - the keys don't relate to a particular drum sound - am I doing something wrong?
Nice! What I want to know is how it coops with paraphonic synths like the Dreadbox Erebus. I like to sustain one note/osc and play the other one/osc. As long as I play that with a midi keyboard this goes well. But does the Novation sequencer work also like that? So for instance, I want to play a low whole note and some high sixteenth notes over that. Will this be recorded and played back like that or will both oscillators reset on the first sixteenth note it encounters because a note-off will be sent with that 16th note?
I've wanted to get the Novation SL for many years but I wish the drum pads was like on the AKAI / had after-touch too so I would have all in one. Haven't bought any MIDI thingy whatsoever because I want a good keyboard + the good pads too. Guess having an XY-pad aswell would add even more functionality.
Hi, can you help me? I cannot send immediate midi messages with each Session change. Can't find info on the Operation Manual.. I think it is important to be able to send midi messages (program changes or control changes) and save them in each Session. Thank you
does it also have the "scale chord mode" with predefined chords (triads, 5ths, 7th,...) according to the selected scale, like the Launchkey? I would really need that... is it possible to implement in a firmware update maybe? :)
Is the Ableton a preset template or something that we would need to configure ourselves? I don't see it as a factory preset on the Novation help centre page.
Ableton Live features dedicated MIDI Remote Scripts for our hardware that allows devices to intelligently take control. Providing you're working with Ableton Live 10 or above, you should find that you have access to the required script. We explain how to set it up here - ruclips.net/video/-oc1KpsWxfw/видео.html
Hi Chris How do I go about connecting my circuit to the novation Sl mk3 and what midi port do I use As there is nothing in the manual to help you also how do you chain synths together Thanks
What happens if you're running Ableton and Reason at the same time with "InControl"? Will the SL swap between them depending on which DAW has focus? Is there any way to play tracks from both at the same time? Thank you
This needs its own sound module, with breath controller, expanded sequencer, with 16track midi, and 16 track audio, and a mic input. and a touch screen app for android, ipad, fire tablets. everything tighly integrated, with no need for a computer, although the tablet could be used for the daw gui.
Is the CV Gate control sample accurate? I mean, when using it with a DAW such as Ableton, and then you sequence a CV/Gate analogue synth, will it all sync nice and tight (the MIDI and CV/Gate together)? Thanks by the way, very good video.
SL MkIII is designed for exactly that: To be used as a central point of sequencing and control for a setup that features both hardware and software and can certainly provide tight integration of all elements.
Is there anyway to get a hotter gate signal from the CV outs? I’m trying to sequence some older gear that needs a bit more than 5v and o can’t seem to find a way to adjust this anywhere.
Thanks for your interest, Thomas. We haven't created any dedicated templates for plug-ins but you can quickly take control of virtually any plug-in using SL MkIII in InControl mode or create a custom template using Components. components.novationmusic.com
Hi there, Just got the SL MK3 and having difficulty moving the red grid in ableton. The red grid that shows which scenes the SL is controlling. I can do one up one down, but not sure how to set it in ones left or right, it will move in 4's 5's but not one by one. thanks
Just got my sl mkiii and this really helps!! Going through the manual got me understanding how to navigate the controller, but left me w/ some workflow questions; this helps to see a little farther down the road. Question. How a bout a deep dive into components?? It is absolutely killing me right now lol. I’m ready to map but just do not understand how components works. Ty!!
Glad to hear that you're enjoying SL MkIII, Mike! Thanks for your feedback, we will certainly look into creating that. You can give us a call if you would like to discuss how to navigate Components: bit.ly/NovationSupport There is also a built-in Tutorial for each element of Components, that you can access from the main menu.
When I click Shift +Templates, my options look a bit different I don't have the ability to choose colors or change channel. I can only select a template, and turn USB, DIN1, DIN2 CV/Gate1 CV/Gate2 on / off. I cannot - for example - select a different MIDI channel. Why?
You need to update your Firmware...I had the same issue...Those great guys at Novation helped me...Now i would cut your arm off if you tried to take my SLMK3 49 away from me.. One great thing i did not realise, if you are using the 2 midi out sockets to control multiple synth modules like i do, you can select midi out 1 or out 2 or out BOTH. Just another wee gem i found by trial and error.
Just bought the 49SL mk3. Awesome!!! Is there an explanation of the the stock templates for the Octatrack, Rytm somewhere? Would you guys have a template for the Deepmind as well?
I love this. It's SO close to perfect. I'm itching to get the 61. Is there no way to build a custom model with polyphonic aftertouch at the keys themselves? It would be easy to use it only on the pads, as according to the specs they send polyphonic AT, but that limits what you can do somewhat with technique. Hmm...
Awesome tutorial! I just got it too, but when I enter scales mode and change the root key to say F, if I want to step record in a sequencer, it doesnt record the key I press. If I press a step in a sequencer and then press F note, it actually triggers A sharp note. Any ideas?
Could you help me decide between Arturia Keylab49 mk2 vs Novation SL MK3. I'm very, very torn between the reviews as of now. Im a beginner level musician, producer. I use Abelton Live aswell as Reaper. I've also heard that with the SL mk3 if you press the keys hard and fast, you will recieve start to "pivot" and the end of the key (in the back) will hit the top of the inside of the case. Causing a very noticeable "clack" noise. Im not sure if this is intended. Would I need a audio-interface with any of the 2? Or would normal PC soundboard suffice. Obviously there would be difference but how significant would it be? Aswell as if I would get the audio-interface could I connect it to portable bluetooth speaker with usb to midi connection? If not what would be the way to connect any of the 2 to a portable, bluetooth like speaker. I know a lot of noob questions but any help is highly appreciated! :)
on Windows, using the onboard soundcard, you will likely get a very noticable latency/delay from pressing to hearing sound. So yes, get an audio interface. I have the Arturia Keylab 61 mk2 flagship, and the knobs are erratic and jumpy. Not good. They say they will put a firmware update out, though. haven't tried the Novation.
Thanks 4 all the great information ; few questions 4 u 1. I’m using the motu av usb from long ago to connection all my instruments but compatible windows drivers are hard to find for most of the instruments as well as av, i want to start just using my sl 61 to control everything how would you create mappings that will just do simple changes of instrument patch’s? I don’t really need to change ‘LFO’ ex. instrumentS Yamaha tx81z, Roland jx8p Thanks in advance
You should find that you're able to use Components online to create dedicated SL MkIII Templates for each of your instruments. You can determine the behaviour and messages sent by the rotary controls, faders, buttons, pads, wheels, pedals and keys for each Template. You could create custom assignments that send program change messages to your instruments for functions such as Patch change. You can check out Components online here: components.novationmusic.com/slmkiii/librarian If you need assistance, our Support Team can help you set this up - bit.ly/NovationSupport John // Novation UK 🇬🇧
wow, great effort!! please tell me this can still send sysex like previous versions, will there be a keyless version? i am looking at alpha juno control etc
Thanks for your interest in that. Sysex assignments aren't currently possible but this is something that we might be able to add in the future. We don't have any current plans to create other sizes but we will look into that if there is continued demand.
@@NovationTV I'd certainly spring for a Desktop version. It could look after all six voices of my Nova Desktop, my BSII and my Xio49, which I would also clock my Circuit to. That's one Powerful set up... :)
Wish it had a scales easy like the komplete kontrol keyboards have. The scales are mapped to the white keys in order from c regardless of root note selected.
Hi. I'm on the hunt for a DAWless sequencer/controller and have narrowed it down to either the Keystep Pro or one of the Novation SL3 keyboards. What is the note resolution of the SL3s? How off grid is unquantised recording? Can you match/surpass the Keystep Pro's 48ppq (effectively 12 microsteps)?
Still very relevant review in 2023. Could not have been done better! Thank you, Chris!
Hey sorry, I’m considering buying this keyboard, do you think it’s still a good idea even if it’s 4 years old now? It would be my first keyboard ever but I really like to start going all in
@@Ego_S.B. hi. It depends what you are looking. If you just need a keyboard, don't buy it. There are much cheaper options. If you need a hub for other external devices such as synths etc., then it is a beast which can rule them all even without a computer. It also good for Abelron & Logic Pro. And has an amazing sequencer and other features like scales. To be honest if you are not planning performance outside your studio, then you can use a cheaper option with 67 keys and use a sequencer in your DAW. If you just creating music and don't have much equipment, then buy a cheap keyboard with 49 keys or even less and see how you develop. Save your money for good monitors. Check youtuber Taetro and see what he does with his little keyboard. Hope that helps
Finally, this is what I wanted the Komplete keyboard to be but is much more too and standalone without having to rely on a computer for the extended functions like scales, zones etc.
An idea for future firmware would be to add probability or play once every 1,2,3... bars to the seq/arp steps and maybe a randomise function to fill the sequencer in one go as the Elektron sequencers do. I've got the 61key version on order, can't wait to get this and clear out a few other keyboards inc the Komplete.
This guy looks like British Super Mario
I love it
More like Obelix without braids
JSupper then the SL mk3 is the green mushroom
@@ckay7665 a talented non-alcoholic Gerard Depardieu
Very late to the party, but I recently bought this controller used (like new, got it for a bargain) and I was also going through a "creative crisis". While I'm not a very good keyboardist, this has brought me a new perspective in music making that has allowed me to start writing again! Apart from the aftertouch on keys, which is a bit "jumpy" (goes from 0 to 100 almost instantaneously), I absolutely love this thing! Props to Novation for making such a useful controller!
I just ordered the 61. I cant wait. I've been waiting for these types of features in a controller for years!
Calc is really a product specialist! extremely well done and explained! thanx
Had the keyboard for just under a year and I love it. Probably my Best Buy and well worth the price tag. One way I like to use it is to fill a sequence up with complex chords I’d struggle to play live and use it as a trigger pad when over dubbing a track in ableton.
If novation are listening it would be an awesome update to include some kind of save/recall feature for favourite chords in the menu so that you can quickly apply and build a sequence, perhaps taking some inspiration from the Kordbot? Extending choices and suggestions for progressions, also transpose of steps, racheting would be killer updates. All in all though it’s an amazing product as it is and I keep returning to these videos to learn something new.
Amazing demonstration ! I am French and I really do not master English but the explanations are so simple, clear and precise that I understood everything except two or three functions that I did not manage to translate in my head. Thank you very much -CALC- ♥️
Glad it was helpful!
Clearly needs a small display above/below the 8 sliders - he has to guess at what each track is. The SL MK1 had this and it makes it much easier without having to look at the computer screen. Other than that, and dropping 8 knobs from the MK1/MK2, this is a pretty awesome looking controller. I absolutely love the scale mode LEDs as I need help when it comes to scales! The new displays above the knobs are a massive improvement over the older models. CV/gate options *almost* replaces the need for a Beatstep pro.
If you hold Shift and move the slider it displays the parameter it is controlling without adjusting anything - essentially showing the names of each fader.
^pro tip right there^^^
@@NiElsir I’ll be dammned. Thanks.
4 years after the making of this video I put this controller on my wishlist. And as with most things Novation, wishing means buying ;-) Thanks Chris.
Thanks for your continued support! 🙌🙏
Would love a transpose sequence & ratcheting features for the sequencer
Awesome MIDI controller, and amazing way of explaining everything, a very nice useful video! Thank you, sir!
Thanks! Glad it was helpful!
I've been waiting this for a while! Excellent controller!
Thanks, man! We think you're really going to like this.
Can't wait to put my sequences on display with this monster!
Alba Ecstasy Hey there! I’m all over this as well!
Wow! Now, that's a really capable sequencer! I almost missed this great innovation because of the Moog One hype :-)
Hey chris, after eventually getting mine updated with the firmware, i absolutely love the SLMK3 49. I use it for controlling multiple synth modules via Cakewalk . And it is superb, I know it is very powerful, but taking it slow and using it in my context it is bearing fruit, i don't use all the features, but i dare say once i get my head around it's many features, i will...in time.
I can’t wait to open up my sl mkiii 61 tomorrow in the mail. Nice watch by the way
oh wow, look at that. my X-Station's replacement is finally coming out!
This is awesome :o Who'd want the KeyStep Pro when this is out there?
Phenomenal video. I’ve had my SL Mk III for a while but I’ve been wanting to get more out of it - I’ve just been happy using it to play my other synths. I got a lot out of this the first time, but I guarantee I’ll be watching it again in front of the keyboard as I go through everything. Thank you!
Thanks for your feedback! It's great to hear that you found this inspiring.
Marketing team: The focus group responded positively to the word 'powerful'
Great to see someone else has an Electric Storm print on their wall.
The tune at 43:40 is good. This guy's got some skill.
I've had my SL49 for about a year now and absolutely love it, though will admit that I didn't even know of most of these features. Well explained and in-depth vid. Cheers.
This is the kind of machine that makes any synth great. Good for them who kept all theirs...
Thanks for providing such a video. Super nice to really have an idea of the workflow.
Tuning through the CV calibration was slick, just ordered one up!
Hey guys @novation My sincerest request is that if you can issue a firmware update where in you can have a dedicated polychord mode....where you can map custom chords across the keybed (a feature present in the behringer deepmind 12) it will be a game changer for composition and orchestration!!!!
Great video. I learned more watching this than I did reading the user manual twice! Amazingly powerful device. Once you wrap your mind around what it can do, you can work wonders. Never have I had so much hardware working so seamlessly with software. I no longer have to open Live just to fool around, but if I do open it, I’m presented with a zillion more options. Anybody wanna buy my Mkii cheap?
Thanks for taking the time to share this with us, Gregory! This is great to see. We're really glad you're enjoying working with SL MkIII.
@@NovationTV I really have been enjoying my time with the SL and have come to know it pretty well. Perhaps you could answer a couple of questions for me though.
1. Do the 'Right Arrow' (to the right of the pads) have any function? I can't find any use for them in any mode. I've never seen them light up - indicating that they have an available function.
2. With respect to sequencing. I know I can store up to 16 steps in a pattern and then store eight patterns in per part in a session. I also know that I can multi select patterns to have them play in order.
Given that, is there any way to have more of a song oriented playback? Ie, play pattern 1 a few times, then pattern 2, then pattern 1 again a few times, then pattern 3, etc.
I realize that I can copy patterns and place them in the order necessary, but this becomes difficult to follow and I eventually start running out of available pattern space. Actually, I run out pretty quickly.
It would be great if a session could be thought of more like a song - in terms of sequencing.
I really am impressed by the SL though. The hardware control alone - paired with an excellent key bed is worth the price of admission to me.
I've created maxed out templates for a Rev2, ModX, Omnisphere, Uno, Skulpt, Moog Grandmother and several others and while I would LOVE to have more pages of controls available, in each case, I can focus on the controls most important to me.
The 'Right Arrow' button thing is driving me crazy though. I feel like I'm missing out on some cool feature!
Amazing presentation and clearly explained
This is what Circuit 2 will come from
Hey Calc, hope all well. Great in-depth demo... answered many questions I had 👍🏼
Thanks! Glad you found this useful.
Chris always does great work
I'm very thankful for this super deep dive! It was enlightening.
Really nice tutorial - clear and easy to follow. Cheers.
Amazing!
Just got mine and this helped me learn a ton! Thank you!
Wahouu ! OKayyyy ! I see a game changer here. A perfect "remote midi keyboard" for all my synth set up, hardware and software ! Great game changer here but i've already said it !
Thanks for checking it out! It's great to hear that you're a fan 🙌
The placement of your left hand, with the red circle in your t shirt makes it look like you’re holding a table tennis bat! 😂😂😂
I think I'm going to get the 61 to replace my mk1 :) should work very nicely as a master keyboard and optional sequencer for deluge
I would love a SL25 to work with the Deluge because this looks very easy to use! Greetz and thanx for all your great vids on Deluge 👍✌️👌
This is awesome
i'm selling so much crap when this comes out!
I've been selling shyte and pretty damn near have enough to score one too lol
Great video, love my slmk3
guys you should release a sequencer controller with 8 tracks in the circuit-mk3 format like the beatstep pro , I bet you are working on it already, thank u for your amazing products
Hey Chris! This is 99% perfect.
Put in some Kordbot chords type programming in a future software update and this MIDI CTRL from Novation will sell like hot bread. One word: Brilliant!
Thanks for your feedback, Joao. We're glad you're excited about SL MkIII! Using the Sequencer and Scale modes it's possible to quickly create custom palettes of one-finger chords. We can't wait to hear what you create with it!
Hello again Chris! I'm very excited about the SL MKIII, is it possible to show us "Chord Mode" in a short little video. This is a very desirable feature for many users and since it was not talked about in this video i would like to see it in action. I tried to read the manual to know more about this, but there's little info. A video would be really great and it would also help sales. Please...
Joao Filipe Santos I agree!
Excellent demo!
LOVE IT!
Can you have the arpeggiator running while playing other sounds and then also still be able to morph and tweak the arpeggiator live?
this might sound REALLY SIMPLE but how do you control the master volume of Ableton?
There are probably a number of ways to allocate a fader, but what are people finding to be the best way to set this up?
Stay in the "InControl" button mode. AFAIK with Ableton 11 live and firmware 1.4
Excellent video man, cheers. Is that the White Noise: An Electric Storm album I see on the wall there Chris? Oh, and by the way, THAT watch! 👌
just got my si49 today. this video really helped me out. thank you so much. a big thumbs up and sub from me.
🙌
very helpful i will buy one
That's great to hear!
Hi Novation
I'm a very happy user of the 61 SL MkIII and I really like it a lot. But I am missing one function and its the "Scale Chord" for the Pads from the Launchkey Series.
When you select a scale on the Launchkey Series, the "Sclae Chord" function on the Pads puts the chords i-vii from the Scale (Major, Minors, 7ths, even 9ths) on the Pads, so you can easily play them and try out Chord progressions from the selected scale.
That is such a useful tool for non-piano-players like me, that I really wish it would be available on the 61 SL MkIII. Since that's the flagship controller from novation, one would assume, that things like this from the smaller keyboards are of course also available on the big one, but unfortunately it's not.
So heres's my question/feedback/input/improvement-suggestion: Can you PLEASE add the "Scale Chord" function from the Launchkey Series to the SL MkIII ? I'm sure there are a lot of players who would appreciate it and it should be easy to implement with a firmware update, because its just a matter of software and not hardware.
Thank you in advance :)
kind regards
We really appreciate you taking the time to share your suggestion with us, Michael. Afraid we don't have any news to share at the minute regarding any possible updates to SL MkIII but your feedback has been shared with the team for their consideration.
I'm completely new to this, and ordered the SL....and I'm lost trying to follow. I'm worried because there seems to not be much tutorials, so i'm going to be on my own. I don't understand why they don't put out more tutorials...especially beginner level. These buttons have so many functions. I will say it's not as bad as ableton who shows how to install it, then literally says "now have fun". Edit: ok sorry I found a few video's from ableton that are helping break the ice of understanding. Also there are simple lesson's to the left of the program that I'm starting. Understand that a beginner is clueless when teaching how to use.
We're very sorry to hear that you're feeling a little lost. Please give our Support Team a call or use their 'Live Chat' feature to discuss this with them today - bit.ly/NovationSupport
They can explain how to get started and make the most of your SL MkIII. We've also written a detailed User Guide that you might find helpful -
fael-downloads-prod.focusrite.com/customer/prod/s3fs-public/downloads/SL%20MkIII%20User%20Guide%20V2%20English.pdf
This seems like what the Native Instrument mk2 wanted to be.... but its reliance on NI software is its greatest limitation IMO...
I'm totally new at this and lost! I bought a Novation launchkey MK3 61 and I'm using Ableton 10 Lite. I downloaded the Standalone features into it thinking that I was supposed too! Now I can't get back to the original settings that came with the controller, when I turn the launchkey MK3 61 on it automatically comes on in the Custom Modes as in the user manual 3.0 Standalone Features. I want to use it the way it in user manual 2.1 Session Mode! How do I change it?
Great video!
Hiya, re the automation lanes.
Can you mute individual lanes? Say I have a lead I want to use pitch bend on. Can I add that and then mute and unmute the automation lane (not the lead sound)
Regards
Would be much nicer if the sequencers could have 32 steps and also if it had some kind of in scale chords mode like the Launchpad Pro
It has microsteps. 16 eight part steps. 128 steps.
@@ThreeBeingOne Yes, you could have 2 patterns consecutively for 32-steps.
@@dustinpowell6507 Can you make them play consecutively without pressing a button yourself everytime to switch patterns? Dont got the keyboard yet, thinking about buying it
Superb , maybe some note shift and ratchet features would really pay off too.
Major oversight on this product, but easily fixed:
Relying on Midi Thru to communicate with a fleet of hardware is not ideal when you have a lot of Controller data travelling the same cables like Sysex data for instance.
We have 'Midi Networking' these days, where each Midi DIN or 'USB Host Port' has a dedicated connection. Note data is transmitted in a separate pipe from Controller/ Timing data.
2 Din plugs is good...but the 'USB Host Port' needs to enumerate at the bare minimum 16 'Virtual Midi Ports' so that Network software such as Copperlan can push the SL MKIII's data to a swag of gear independently.
The SL MKIII should be the Master of a Network...but never will be without 'Virtual Midi Ports'.
Thanks for taking the time to share your initial reactions, Chris. Where you hoping for MIDI thru via USB? We're not sure that we agree that there has been an oversight as SL MkIII is primarily designed to function as a musical instrument and source of MIDI data.
Each Template should have the flexibility to be assigned to a port rather than a channel...when outputting from the SL MkIII.
As an example, the iConnectAUDIO4+ interface 'enumerates 29 total, 16-channel MIDI Ports which are available for routing'
One of the modules I want to connect to the SL3 is a Drumbrute. I don't seem to be able to make a sequence work with it - the keys don't relate to a particular drum sound - am I doing something wrong?
Nice! What I want to know is how it coops with paraphonic synths like the Dreadbox Erebus. I like to sustain one note/osc and play the other one/osc. As long as I play that with a midi keyboard this goes well. But does the Novation sequencer work also like that? So for instance, I want to play a low whole note and some high sixteenth notes over that. Will this be recorded and played back like that or will both oscillators reset on the first sixteenth note it encounters because a note-off will be sent with that 16th note?
lots to like here and nice music
Thanks, Hank. Glad you're a fan 🙏
I've wanted to get the Novation SL for many years but I wish the drum pads was like on the AKAI / had after-touch too so I would have all in one. Haven't bought any MIDI thingy whatsoever because I want a good keyboard + the good pads too. Guess having an XY-pad aswell would add even more functionality.
Great to hear that you're interested in SL MkIII! Similarly to the Keys, the SL MkIII Pads also feature poly aftertouch.
How can I make the keyboard slave of the tempo of abelton in order to have the sequencer and the arp sync with the software?
Hi, can you help me? I cannot send immediate midi messages with each Session change. Can't find info on the Operation Manual.. I think it is important to be able to send midi messages (program changes or control changes) and save them in each Session. Thank you
Our Support Team would ike to help you with that - bit.ly/NovationSupport
Question - I just got this one. May I ask how to clear the sequencer? It has a demo pattern I can't seem to get rid of.
Thanks!
Al
does it also have the "scale chord mode" with predefined chords (triads, 5ths, 7th,...) according to the selected scale, like the Launchkey? I would really need that... is it possible to implement in a firmware update maybe? :)
Thanks man!
I love it but I want a SL 25, this one is to bulky. Greetz 👍✌️👌
Is the Ableton a preset template or something that we would need to configure ourselves? I don't see it as a factory preset on the Novation help centre page.
Ableton Live features dedicated MIDI Remote Scripts for our hardware that allows devices to intelligently take control. Providing you're working with Ableton Live 10 or above, you should find that you have access to the required script. We explain how to set it up here - ruclips.net/video/-oc1KpsWxfw/видео.html
Hi Chris
How do I go about connecting my circuit to the novation Sl mk3 and what midi port do I use
As there is nothing in the manual to help you also how do you chain synths together
Thanks
What happens if you're running Ableton and Reason at the same time with "InControl"? Will the SL swap between them depending on which DAW has focus? Is there any way to play tracks from both at the same time? Thank you
This needs its own sound module, with breath controller, expanded sequencer, with 16track midi, and 16 track audio, and a mic input. and a touch screen app for android, ipad, fire tablets.
everything tighly integrated, with no need for a computer, although the tablet could be used for the daw gui.
Still very happy with my Novation SL MKIII, but missing very much: mute individual steps in a sequence... Will this be added in a future update?
Thanks for the feedback! We will pass it along to our dev team.
Is the CV Gate control sample accurate? I mean, when using it with a DAW such as Ableton, and then you sequence a CV/Gate analogue synth, will it all sync nice and tight (the MIDI and CV/Gate together)? Thanks by the way, very good video.
SL MkIII is designed for exactly that: To be used as a central point of sequencing and control for a setup that features both hardware and software and can certainly provide tight integration of all elements.
Is there anyway to get a hotter gate signal from the CV outs? I’m trying to sequence some older gear that needs a bit more than 5v and o can’t seem to find a way to adjust this anywhere.
Hi there, our Support Team would love to discuss this, please reach out at bit.ly/NovationSupport.
Are there any VST control templates out of the box? Or just best to use the editing software?
Thanks for your interest, Thomas. We haven't created any dedicated templates for plug-ins but you can quickly take control of virtually any plug-in using SL MkIII in InControl mode or create a custom template using Components. components.novationmusic.com
I LIKE YOUR WATCH
I don't get it. I chose peak but when I change the frequency knob, nothing is happening. What am I doing wrong?
Hi there, Just got the SL MK3 and having difficulty moving the red grid in ableton. The red grid that shows which scenes the SL is controlling. I can do one up one down, but not sure how to set it in ones left or right, it will move in 4's 5's but not one by one. thanks
Just got my sl mkiii and this really helps!! Going through the manual got me understanding how to navigate the controller, but left me w/ some workflow questions; this helps to see a little farther down the road.
Question. How a bout a deep dive into components?? It is absolutely killing me right now lol. I’m ready to map but just do not understand how components works. Ty!!
Glad to hear that you're enjoying SL MkIII, Mike! Thanks for your feedback, we will certainly look into creating that. You can give us a call if you would like to discuss how to navigate Components: bit.ly/NovationSupport There is also a built-in Tutorial for each element of Components, that you can access from the main menu.
So will I be able to set zones when in InControl mode? I wanted to have different zones for software instruments on my DAW
When I click Shift +Templates, my options look a bit different I don't have the ability to choose colors or change channel. I can only select a template, and turn USB, DIN1, DIN2 CV/Gate1 CV/Gate2 on / off. I cannot - for example - select a different MIDI channel. Why?
You need to update your Firmware...I had the same issue...Those great guys at Novation helped me...Now i would cut your arm off if you tried to take my SLMK3 49 away from me.. One great thing i did not realise, if you are using the 2 midi out sockets to control multiple synth modules like i do, you can select midi out 1 or out 2 or out BOTH. Just another wee gem i found by trial and error.
We really need 88 semiweighted-keys version of sl mk3! Pleeeeeeeease)
Just bought the 49SL mk3. Awesome!!! Is there an explanation of the the stock templates for the Octatrack, Rytm somewhere? Would you guys have a template for the Deepmind as well?
I love this. It's SO close to perfect. I'm itching to get the 61.
Is there no way to build a custom model with polyphonic aftertouch at the keys themselves?
It would be easy to use it only on the pads, as according to the specs they send polyphonic AT, but that limits what you can do somewhat with technique. Hmm...
How do you hook the midi up to each ? are you chaining somehow or do you have a split box of some sort?
Hi, great video. I know it's off-topic, but what type of watch is that on your wrist? :)
Great! But even greater would be a 32 or 64 step sequencer. Is there anything out there?
I am going to buy this midi doll ..
Awesome tutorial! I just got it too, but when I enter scales mode and change the root key to say F, if I want to step record in a sequencer, it doesnt record the key I press. If I press a step in a sequencer and then press F note, it actually triggers A sharp note. Any ideas?
Could you help me decide between Arturia Keylab49 mk2 vs Novation SL MK3. I'm very, very torn between the reviews as of now. Im a beginner level musician, producer.
I use Abelton Live aswell as Reaper.
I've also heard that with the SL mk3 if you press the keys hard and fast, you will recieve start to "pivot" and the end of the key (in the back) will hit the top of the inside of the case. Causing a very noticeable "clack" noise. Im not sure if this is intended.
Would I need a audio-interface with any of the 2? Or would normal PC soundboard suffice. Obviously there would be difference but how significant would it be?
Aswell as if I would get the audio-interface could I connect it to portable bluetooth speaker with usb to midi connection? If not what would be the way to connect any of the 2 to a portable, bluetooth like speaker.
I know a lot of noob questions but any help is highly appreciated! :)
on Windows, using the onboard soundcard, you will likely get a very noticable latency/delay from pressing to hearing sound. So yes, get an audio interface.
I have the Arturia Keylab 61 mk2 flagship, and the knobs are erratic and jumpy. Not good. They say they will put a firmware update out, though.
haven't tried the Novation.
Thanks 4 all the great information ; few questions 4 u 1. I’m using the motu av usb from long ago to connection all my instruments but compatible windows drivers are hard to find for most of the instruments as well as av, i want to start just using my sl 61 to control everything how would you create mappings that will just do simple changes of instrument patch’s? I don’t really need to change ‘LFO’ ex. instrumentS Yamaha tx81z, Roland jx8p Thanks in advance
You should find that you're able to use Components online to create dedicated SL MkIII Templates for each of your instruments. You can determine the behaviour and messages sent by the rotary controls, faders, buttons, pads, wheels, pedals and keys for each Template. You could create custom assignments that send program change messages to your instruments for functions such as Patch change. You can check out Components online here:
components.novationmusic.com/slmkiii/librarian
If you need assistance, our Support Team can help you set this up - bit.ly/NovationSupport
John // Novation UK 🇬🇧
powerful...
wow, great effort!!
please tell me this can still send sysex like previous versions, will there be a keyless version? i am looking at alpha juno control etc
Thanks for your interest in that. Sysex assignments aren't currently possible but this is something that we might be able to add in the future. We don't have any current plans to create other sizes but we will look into that if there is continued demand.
good enough answer thanks guys
I, too, would be interested in a keyless version... :)
@@NovationTV I'd certainly spring for a Desktop version. It could look after all six voices of my Nova Desktop, my BSII and my Xio49, which I would also clock my Circuit to. That's one Powerful set up... :)
D'oh! This was going to be my solution to control my Matrix 1000. Does the SL mkII send sysex?
Wish it had a scales easy like the komplete kontrol keyboards have. The scales are mapped to the white keys in order from c regardless of root note selected.
Hi. I'm on the hunt for a DAWless sequencer/controller and have narrowed it down to either the Keystep Pro or one of the Novation SL3 keyboards. What is the note resolution of the SL3s? How off grid is unquantised recording? Can you match/surpass the Keystep Pro's 48ppq (effectively 12 microsteps)?
Hi Dino! We'd love to chat more with you about these specifics and any other questions you have. Please reach out at bit.ly/NovationSupport
How do you control the volume in standalone mode?
nice watch u got
Are there going to come new updates for this?