Novation 49SL MK3

A major evolution in the SL master keyboard lineage

Within Novation's master keyboard range, the SL MkIII marks a significant milestone: it doesn't just control software, it becomes a hybrid command center capable of synchronizing and orchestrating a complete setup. While previous generations of controllers mainly focused on MIDI control, the SL MkIII pushes the "studio hub" concept further with an integrated 8-track sequencer, advanced DAW integration (including Ableton Live), and an open approach to modular gear thanks to its CV/Gate outputs and analog clock.

The result: a controller designed to minimize mouse/keyboard back-and-forth and keep essentials at your fingertips, with ergonomics centered on playing, editing, and performing.

A master keyboard for producers, performers, and hybrid studios

The Novation SL MkIII 49 targets those who want a MIDI controller keyboard capable of acting as the "brain": home studio producers, composers who quickly chain ideas, live artists triggering clips and patterns, or musicians equipped with hardware synths and Eurorack modules. Its approach suits both "in the box" workflows (100% software production) and "out of the box" setups, where external machines are sequenced and synchronized.

Thanks to configurable zones and layers, you can split your playing and stack sounds (splits and layers) to control multiple instruments simultaneously, while maintaining precise control over parameters, dynamics, and expression.

Sequencer, control, and integration: the heart of the SL MkIII

8-track sequencing and real-time performance

The internal 8-track polyphonic sequencer is designed for quickly creating structures: real-time recording, step input, direct editing from the keyboard, and pattern management to build variations. Controller movements can be automated on the fly, transforming a static loop into an evolving sequence-ideal for electro, modern pop, hip-hop, or scoring.

Between quantization, swing, and pattern chaining, the SL MkIII encourages lively playing while staying locked in: perfect for synchronizing a DAW, groovebox, and analog synth without losing tempo.

Tactile control, visual feedback, and advanced mappings

With its 5 color screens, encoders, faders, assignable buttons, and RGB pads, the SL MkIII emphasizes readable control: you see what you're modifying and maintain a clear "page" logic to navigate your parameters. Mappings are highly customizable to fit your software collection and external instruments, and the editor makes creating templates easy to instantly recall your setups.

Scale and key tracking functions add creative comfort: explore harmonized ideas faster with coherent visualization that reduces wrong notes, while remaining fully playable by ear.

Playability and expressiveness: aftertouch and RGB pads

The synth-style semi-weighted keyboard prioritizes responsiveness, with assignable aftertouch to control a filter, vibrato, reverb, or any other parameter. The RGB drum pads are suited for finger drumming, clip launching, and step sequencer control; their sensitivity and polyphonic aftertouch enhance expressiveness, both in production and live performance.

CV/Gate, MIDI, and clock: a true hardware bridge

The SL MkIII naturally integrates into a hybrid studio thanks to its MIDI connections and CV/Gate/Modulation outputs, as well as an analog clock output. You can sequence a modular synth, synchronize external machines, and maintain rhythmic stability, all while controlling your DAW via USB.

Technical specifications

Velocity sensitivity of the pads	Yes	Key format	big
Number of switches	16	Transposition	Yes
Number of faders	8	Aftertouch	Yes
Number of potentiometers	8	Splittable areas	8
Arpeggiator	Yes	Inputs	Expression pedal, Sustain pedal, Midi, Footswitch, USB Midi
Compatibility	PC, Mac, HUI, Logic Control, Mackie Control	Outputs	USB Midi, USB Type B, Clock 3,5 mm, CV out, Gate out, Sync out
Controller	Aftertouch, Pitchbend, Scroll wheel, Modulation, 16 assignable buttons, Octave up/down, 8 encoders, 8 faders, 16 pads, Transport	Color	Black
Provided software	Ableton Live Lite, GForce Bass Station, Loopmaster loops (4Go), XLN Audio Addictive Keys	Sequencer	Yes
Backlit pad	Yes	Power supply	AC Adapter
Velocity sensitive	Yes	Display	5 OLED screens
Category	Master keyboard	Number of pads	16
Number of keys	49	Weight	5.36 kg
Touch	Dynamic with aftertouch	Dimensions (mm)	817 x 300 x 100