Studiologic is a brand of the Italian keyboard manufacturer Fatar, so it’s no surprise that Studiologic instruments feature Fatar keyboards. The SL series is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a robust MIDI controller or a high-quality hammer action keyboard for live performances.
Since each player has individual preferences when it comes to key feel, the Studiologic SL series offers a range of designs to meet various needs. The three SL models are tailored for different applications but vary only in keyboard type and size—functionally, they are identical.
At NAMM 2025, Studiologic unveiled the new SL-mk2 series. Retaining the concept of the three familiar models, the new versions feature a refreshed design and exciting new features.
Most controller keyboards are designed primarily for controlling sequencer functions and plug-ins, but the Studiologic SL series takes a different approach. Here, the focus is on the hammer action keyboard and an authentic playing experience. As a result, SL keyboards may seem sparsely equipped at first glance—but a closer look reveals plenty of powerful features.
Although the minimalist control layout might not suggest it at first, the SL concept distinguishes itself from most MIDI master keyboards by offering greater flexibility. DAW control is a secondary concern, at least initially. Instead, the main focus is on two things:
The SL keyboards stand out with their advanced control options, including three XY joysticks and connections for up to four pedals. Another key difference from typical controller keyboards is their ability to manage four independent MIDI zones. These zones can be freely assigned across the keyboard to control external instruments, software instruments, or host applications such as Apple MainStage or Gig Performer.
To integrate foot control into live performances, Studiologic has equipped the SL keyboards with four pedal inputs: Ports 1 and 2 support sustain pedals, while port 3 works with volume or expression pedals. Port 4 is a universal input for either a switch or an expression pedal. This is also the correct port for a half-pedal-capable sustain pedal, as the other pedal jacks function as switches only.
The Studiologic SL series is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality playing experience at an affordable price. A hammer action keyboard for under $500, such as in the SL73 Studio and SL88 Studio models, is a rare find.
In the context of MIDI controllers, hammer action refers to a mechanism that incorporates actual hammers into the keyboard, mimicking the feel of an acoustic piano. However, unlike a traditional piano, these hammers do not strike strings—they merely replicate the touch of a real piano.
While the Fatar TP/100LR keyboard on the two Studio models already emulates this very well, the TP/40 WOOD 88 keyboard on the SL88 Grand offers an even better playing experience.
The small TFT LCD screen (320 x 240 pixels) at the center of the control panel provides a clear and detailed display of all functions. The four MIDI zones are color-coded for easy identification and quick access to all settings. We’ve previously praised the clever UX design of Studiologic’s Numa X stage piano, and the SL Series is no different.
You can customize each zone with various MIDI functions, including program change, bank select, and volume to preset external MIDI devices. Additionally, you can define the keyboard range, assign controllers and pedals, and adjust MIDI parameters such as transpose, octave, velocity curve, and velocity range.
One detail to keep in mind: You can customize joystick and pedal assignments separately for each zone, which, while flexible, may not always enhance clarity.
Last but not least: You can save all your settings with custom names and even organize programs into different groups—ideal for managing different projects efficiently.
The SL Editor makes programming the four MIDI zones even more intuitive. It provides a clear, structured overview of all functions, eliminating the need to navigate through menu screens on the keyboard’s display. However, the onboard display remains fully functional, allowing for quick adjustments during rehearsals or live performances.
Studiologic’s Numa Player, available for free on macOS, iOS, and Windows, is an absolute highlight. The included sounds are truly outstanding—already a major selling point on its own. But what makes it even better is how perfectly the Numa Player has been tailored to the SL Series’ 4-zone concept. You can assign up to four sounds to individual zones, covering everything from upright and grand pianos to Clavinet, Rhodes, and strings. The ultimate in plug and play!
Pros and Cons
Highly recommended! This free plug-in is a real asset to any keyboardist or pianist. What are you waiting for?
Numa Player : Free
TO THE OFFER
Instead of the usual pitch bend and modulation wheels, the SL keyboards feature three joysticks, each with a unique response: While Stick 1 automatically centers on both the X and Y axes, Stick 2 centers only on the X axis, allowing for flexible modulation control. Stick 3 is non-centered, meaning it stays in the last position set. Perfect for shaping synth sounds, controlling rotary and other modulation effects, or navigating soundscapes—simply fantastic.
The SL|Mixface controller occupies a unique position within the SL series. While it is designed to integrate seamlessly with SL MIDI controllers, it also functions as a highly flexible standalone device. You can connect it to any class-compliant MIDI controller, effectively adding the same MIDI controller features found in the SL series.
In other words, the SL|Mixface can transform (almost) any MIDI keyboard into a full-featured MIDI controller with four programmable zones. This makes it a great option for those who already own a keyboard but need additional MIDI and DAW control capabilities.
Beyond its role as a MIDI controller, the SL|Mixface also works as a conventional DAW controller, offering control over transport functions, mixing, volume, pan, mute, and solo. The hardware itself is well-built and sturdy, featuring a slightly magnetic underside that allows it to “snap” securely onto the interface of SL keyboards.
The true flexibility of SL|Mixface comes into its own when paired with an SL keyboard, allowing DAW control and parameter settings for external devices, while simultaneously managing synthesizers on an iPad via Bluetooth.
On PIANOO.com you can find detailed reviews and a video of the SL keyboards. For a quick overview, here are the key features of each model.
If you’re looking for a high-quality keyboard in a compact controller, the SL88 Grand is one of the most affordable hybrid wood MIDI controllers at just under $900. The Fatar TP/40 Wood provides a refined playing experience with its Ivory Feel surface and weighted hammer action.
Pros and Cons
...highly recommended for anyone who values a good playing feel when using piano VSTs and piano apps. The only MIDI controller with a hybrid wooden keyboard for under $1,000.
For those willing to trade high-end key feel for a significantly lower price, the SL88 Studio is available for around half the price of the SL88 Grand. While the feel is different and the key surface is less premium, the hammer action still delivers a solid and responsive feel.
Pros and Cons
The Studiologic SL88 Studio is an outstanding MIDI controller with an excellent hammer action keyboard. Despite what its name might suggest, the SL88 Studio is definitely made for live performances.
If you’re looking to save both money and space, consider the smaller SL73 Studio. It offers the same keyboard as the SL88 Studio, while providing a compact and highly playable MIDI controller solution.
Pros and Cons
...a great piano controller in a compact 73-key format for well under $500. Highly recommended.
Studiologic’s SL series controller keyboards offer versatile MIDI control, a responsive key feel, and solid build quality—all at an attractive price point. The keyboards on all of the models really do set themselves apart from the competition.
If you’re looking for a MIDI controller with a strong focus on keyboard action and playability, the SL series is an excellent choice. And for those who need additional knobs and faders, the SL|Mixface is definitely worth considering—not just as a perfect complement to the SL controllers, but also as a versatile tool for both live and studio setups.
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