I’m a long-time fan of Studiologic keyboards, whether synths, stage pianos, or MIDI controllers.
In this review, I’m testing Studiologic’s latest mid-priced full-size keyboard controller, the SL88 Mk2. I’ll discuss how it differs from the original and how it stacks up against the competition.
Final verdict
I first encountered this controller at Superbooth 25, and I loved it instantly. However, the lack of assignable controls and production tools will be a problem for many users, and the score must reflect that.
If, like me, you prioritize a realistic piano experience and superb build quality over everything else, you’ll love it too! I wish I could score it higher because it’s one of my favorites.
What I like
- Excellent Fatar TP/110 keybed.
- Intuitive workflow.
- First-class build quality.
- Onboard display.
- Audio outputs.
- Numa Player app.
What I don’t like
- Lack of assignable controls.
Why you should trust this review
I’ve been playing piano for over 25 years, and using MIDI controllers of some description for most of that time. Over the last decade, I’ve spent countless hours testing and working with the latest keyboard controllers from popular manufacturers.
Keyboard feel 4.8
The SL88 Mk2 features Fatar’s TP/110 keybed, which is the successor to the previous TP/100LR keybed.
Before I get into the new mechanism, I want to touch on the previous model briefly. The TP/100LR received mixed reviews from players, with some feeling that it lacked responsiveness and was somewhat dull.
Although it didn’t match the more expensive SL88GT, I disagree with those views; in the context of mid-priced controllers, I consider the TP/100LR to be well above average.
I wanted to mention the older action to highlight the fact that the SL88 Mk2 offers an improvement on something that was already at a high level.
The TP/110 keybed offers a pretty authentic weight and a very impressive hammer-action mechanism. The SL88 Mk2 features 88 full-size keys, but a 73-key option is also available for those seeking a more compact instrument.
While I liked the older action, the new TP/110 gets you closer to that high-end quality. The weight of the keys hasn’t changed dramatically, but they return a little faster after being fully depressed, which makes every note feel more responsive.
Many brands use Fatar keybeds, and to give you an indication of the quality, the TP/110 keybed features in flagship models like Arturia’s KeyLab 88 Mk3, which costs almost twice the price of the SL88 Mk2.
In summary, the weight is still authentic enough, but the action has a little more life; lovely.
Assignable controls 4.0
As much as I love the SL88 Mk2, I have to acknowledge some obvious shortcomings, and it starts with the assignable controls.
There are six assignable rotary encoders and two control sticks. The first control stick is a typical X/Y joystick, and it’s excellent; the second is more of a toggle stick, and it’s less versatile.
My first issue is that I preferred the setup of the previous SL88 model, which featured three X/Y joysticks. This new setup mimics the flagship Numa X Piano GT, but it works better for a stage piano; a MIDI controller could use more assignable controls.
On the plus side, the controls have a premium feel that is rarely matched at this price.
Personal preference is key here; I can happily sacrifice assignable controls for a more realistic piano feel because that’s my priority. But, with no faders or pads, it’s fair to say the SL88 won’t be enough for many in this area.
Production tools 4.0
Again, for some users, the SL88 Mk2 may be slightly lacking in this area, but it’s a matter of personal preference.
4 programmable zones
One of the great things about Studiologic controllers and stage pianos is that they make it incredibly easy to create and control multiple keyboard zones.
The SL88 Mk2 allows up to four programmable keyboard zones, and you can use encoders and control sticks to adjust various parameters of each zone on the fly.
Assigning dedicated keyboard zones is a great way to save time in the studio and enhance your live performance setup.
Aftertouch
Aftertouch is a feature that Studiologic generally excels in across all of its keyboards. What I’ve found with the new TP/11o keyboard action is that the aftertouch is more responsive and nuanced, which means you can be extremely expressive with sound.
Workflow 4.8
If the SL88 Mk2 is lacking in some areas, it certainly shines in the workflow department. The upside of having fewer controls is that a minimalist interface is generally easier to navigate.
The SL88 Mk features basic transport controls, allowing you to play and record tracks in your DAW without needing to reach for the mouse.
Studiologic developed a color-coded interface that is used across multiple instruments, including this controller, making it easy to identify which sound or zone you are editing at any given time.
The dimmable onboard display is small but useful, and you can easily navigate settings and parameters with a master encoder and dedicated selection buttons.
A new addition for this latest model is the deep integration with the Numa Player app. The Numa Player app is free and features a wide range of high-quality instruments, including acoustic and electric pianos, as well as orchestral sounds.
The SL88 Mk2 integrates with the app with a single button, and once paired, you can scroll through the app using the keyboard’s master encoder. Alternatively, and more interestingly, you can now use your tablet or smart device to change or adjust the sounds.
If you want to use your controller for live performance, having a tablet with a larger screen to control sounds could make life much easier.
Connectivity 4.9
There have been a couple of changes in this department, and for the better, in my opinion.
The first change is that the number of pedal inputs has been reduced from four to three (1/4 inch), which doesn’t sound like a good start, but three is plenty. Here’s where it gets better: the SL88 Mk2 features two 1/4-inch audio outputs, a feature you won’t find on most typical keyboard controllers.
The downside is that there is no audio input, which rules out using the controller as an audio interface for a microphone, etc. However, if you’re performing live with virtual instruments, you can use the SL88 Mk2 as your output source instead of using an additional audio interface. I love it.
USB Type-C and a single 1/4-inch headphone jack complete the connectivity.
Software bundle 4.5
There isn’t a software bundle, as such, to speak of, but you will have access to the Numa Manager and Player apps.
Although we don’t get the typical bundle that might include an entry-level DAW along with some free sounds, Numa Player is particularly impressive.
I’ve been telling anyone who’ll listen, for years, that Studiologic is drastically underrated when it comes to sound engines, sampling, and sound design.
It’s important to note that Numa Player is free to everyone; even if you don’t have Studiologic hardware, you can still access the sounds.
Build quality 4.9
The only thing that would improve the build quality is having beautiful wooden cheeks, but we’ll have to settle for plastic. However, it’s not much of a sacrifice when you get a full metal chassis, and maybe the most premium-feeling controls in its class.
Everything feels fantastic, and it’s an incredibly robust unit that you can take anywhere without concern. It looks great too, taking the appearance of a high-end stage piano rather than a mid-priced controller.
Compared to others
I love this controller, but as I’ve pointed out above, it’s not for everyone.
Studiologic SL88 Mk2 vs SL88 GT
The flagship GT model comes with a price increase of around $400, but you get the TP/400 Wood keybed, which is outstanding. If you’re a pianist, it’s worth the extra cost if you have the budget.
See Studiologic SL88 GT Mk2’s current price
Studiologic SL88 Mk2 vs Arturia KeyLab Essential 88
If you’re more interested in assignable controls and production tools than a realistic keyboard action, the cheaper KeyLab Essential Mk3 88 is a far better buy (semi-weighted keys).
See Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 Mk3’s current price
Studiologic SL88 Mk2 vs M-Audio Hammer 88
I’ve owned a Hammer 88 for years, and loved it. I prefer the SL88 Mk2, but if you’re looking for a solid hammer-action keyboard and prefer wheels over joysticks, this one might be an option.
See M-Audio Hammer 88’s current price
Who is the Studiologic SL88 Mk2 best suited for?
The new Studiologic SL88 suits composers and performers who prioritize a realistic keyboard action over assignable controls.
See current price at: Sweetwater
Thanks for the review! Hopefully the MK2 is of better build quality. I bought the MK1 a few years ago and within a year 2 notes stopped working and they were near middle C. And it had not been moved at all in that year. After quite a bit of hassle I found an authorized service center I could take it to. Apparently there’s no authorized service centers for Native Instruments MK3 controllers so if you have problems with them you will have to ship them to NI which will be costly especially if it’s the 88 mk3