Review: Studiologic SL88 Studio – USB-MIDI Masterkeyboard

The Studiologic SL series offers MIDI controller keyboards in various sizes and with different keyboards. The SL88 Studio is the more affordable alternative to the “Grand” model. Although it lacks wooden keys, its conventional hammer action keyboard still provides excellent playability at a highly competitive price.

High-Quality Keyboard for Less Than 400 Euros

The heart of the controller is, of course, the keyboard. The SL88 Studio features Fatar’s TP/100LR keybed, a popular choice found in many MIDI controllers from various manufacturers. However, the SL88 Studio and its smaller counterpart, the SL73 Studio, are the only piano controllers on the market that offer a hammer action for under €400.

The SL88 Studio allows for a highly realistic and enjoyable playing feel. The key weighting is well-balanced, neither too light nor too heavy. It truly strikes the perfect sweet spot for both fast runs and expressive, dynamic playing. Not only that, but the Fatar keybed even features aftertouch.

Key noise from the hammer action is minimal, making for a quiet playing experience. The key surfaces are made of standard plastic, so those looking for an ivory touch finish will have to opt for the Studiologic SL88 Grand.

Well-Designed Concept in a Compact Form

When it comes to controls, the SL88 Studio keeps things minimal. However, compared to the M-Audio Hammer 88, which costs €60 more, it offers a solid feature set. Examples include three joysticks and a color display. It’s also important to note that the SL series follows a different concept than traditional DAW-focused piano controller keyboards.

Comprehensive and flexible MIDI controller features are the main focus here, making a color display (320 x 240 TFT LCD) and an encoder for data input and menu navigation essential.

While the onboard MIDI controls are intuitive, there’s an even more convenient option: the SL Editor for Windows and macOS, which allows seamless communication with the controller when installed on a computer.

Controlling External Sound Sources with the SL88 Studio

Like all models in the SL series, the SL88 Studio supports MIDI control of up to four different instruments. The encoder lets you control the volume of each instrument separately, which is especially useful in layer mode.

And that’s not all: Not only can you assign specific key ranges to each instrument for use in split mode, but you can even mute instruments at any time by pressing the encoder.

The controller supports up to 250 user presets, with the option to create and store groups. This allows for easy organization, such as setting up song lists for quick navigation during performances.

Conclusion: Studio or Stage?

The Studiologic SL88 Studio is an outstanding MIDI controller with an excellent Fatar hammer action keyboard. Despite what its name might suggest, the SL88 Studio is well-suited for live performances.

Of course, it also excels in a studio setting, where its compact design and high-quality keyboard are equally beneficial. However, if you need more hands-on control over a synthesizer or plug-in when recording, you may want additional faders, knobs, buttons, and ideally a transport section to start and stop a DAW recording directly from the controller. While optional SL|Mixface provides all of these features, you can also integrate other MIDI controller solutions.

Whether on stage or in the studio, if your main priority is a high-quality keyboard for practicing or performing piano parts, the Studiologic SL88 Studio is the best you can get for under €400.

Studiologic SL88 Studio – Overview

Release date: March 2016
Keyboard: 88 weighted hammer-action keys (Fatar TP/100LR) with aftertouch
Software: Numa Player (Win/macOS/iOS), SL Editor (Win/macOS)
Manufacturer/Distributor: Studiologic / B4 Distribution

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