Native Instruments and Ableton have had notable success with their MIDI controllers, Maschine and Push, which are well-integrated with their respective digital audio workstations (DAWs). Now, Serato aims to carve out a space in this market with its new products, Slab and Serato Studio.
Many companies, such as AKAI and PreSonus, have previously attempted to create dedicated hardware for their DAWs, with varying levels of success. Serato’s approach leverages its relatively new and streamlined DAW, which may appeal to users who find the complexity of other controllers, like Push and Maschine, to be overwhelming. Slab is priced at $329, making it more accessible compared to its competitors.
In terms of design, Slab resembles Maschine not only in its grid layout of pads but also in its overall aesthetics. The device features a gray color scheme, which some may find less visually striking but still maintains a clean look. Constructed entirely of plastic, Slab does not feel cheap, as it has a reasonable resistance to its encoders and buttons and offers a small screen for basic feedback.
The velocity-sensitive pads provide satisfactory response, although they may not match the quality of those found in AKAI’s MPC devices. While Slab includes features such as adjustable aftertouch, it currently lacks support for this function within Serato Studio, which raises questions about its capabilities.
Connectivity options are limited to a USB-C port, and there is no built-in audio interface or MIDI outputs. Nonetheless, Slab allows users to access many features in Serato Studio easily, enabling straightforward sequencing and sample manipulation.
Some limitations exist in navigating its various modes and functions, which may confuse newcomers. While Slab is unlikely to win over users of other DAWs, it may serve well for those already engaged with Serato Studio, presenting a hands-on experience at a more affordable price point.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/tech/839732/serato-slab-midi-controller-studio