Novation has announced the launch of the SL Mk II MIDI controller range.

The original ReMOTE SL built its reputation on high quality hardware and pioneering control software. According to Novation, the SL Mk II has some striking additions that set it apart from any other controller on the market, every feature is designed to make mapping and controlling software quick and effortless.

Like all Novation keyboard controllers, SL Mk II is a musical instrument, not just a computer peripheral. A semi-weighted Fatar 'fast touch' keyboard is combined with a full DAW and plug-in control surface that visually feeds back all control information to the user. All knobs and faders are touch sensitive. By simply touching a control, all mapping information automatically appears on the large 144 character LCD display. Back lit LED buttons and LED ringed encoders instantly show the status of controls. SL Mk II also includes full transport control, an XY "Xpression Pad", 8 drum pads, sprung pitch/mod joystick and a unique "Speed Dial" encoder, which enables the user to grab any parameter the cursor is positioned over. In addition to 25, 49 and 61 key versions, a keyboardless "Zero" will be available with longer-throw faders and a central crossfader.

Ultra-quick mapping of all 56 knobs, faders and buttons is managed by Novation's Automap 3 PRO software, which provides instant and intelligent control of all your music software. As well as extensive DAW control, parameters on VST and AU plug-ins can be assigned by simply touching the controller and clicking the parameter. Perhaps Automap 3 PRO's biggest asset is "Keystroke Assignment", this enables almost any QWERTY or ASCII keyboard shortcut (and combination shortcuts) to be instantly assigned to the SL Mk II controls - providing unprecedented DAW control. Automap 3.0 also introduces "Autoview", where the 'heads up GUI' (showing the current status of all controls) can be programmed to automatically appear whenever a controller is touched, then disappear upon release.

SL Mk II is available almost immediately. The 25-key and 61-key models are shipping worldwide, April 2009. Zero SL MkII and the 49-key model will follow shortly after. For further details and pricing, contact your local Novation distributor.