Serato has ushered in a new chapter in its beat-making ecosystem. In collaboration with AlphaTheta, the company has unveiled SLAB, its first piece of hardware and the first dedicated controller designed specifically for Serato Studio.
Serato Studio launched in 2018 as an entry-level DAW aimed at DJs who wanted to get into production without facing the steep learning curves of traditional music software. Borrowing visual cues from Serato’s DJ platforms, its focus is on creating quick edits, mashups and beats – giving DJs and performers a fast, frictionless way to sketch ideas.
While still not as comprehensive as full-scale DAWs like Pro Tools, Logic Pro or Ableton Live, Serato Studio has evolved into a capable beat-making environment with audio and MIDI recording, step sequencing, stem separation, built-in instruments and effects, automation and more.
Said to “enhance the creative power of Serato Studio”, SLAB brings hands-on production to a platform that was previously software-only. Let’s take a closer look at what SLAB has to offer.
Key features of the SLAB
At a glance, SLAB is a pad-focused controller in the vein of Akai’s MPCs – compact, performance-oriented and built for sample-based workflows. The unit features a grid of 16 velocity and aftertouch-sensitive pads, supported by touch-sensitive encoders, a long-stroke touch strip and dedicated buttons for navigating Serato Studio’s various tools.
A streamlined transport section provides essential controls like play, record and seek, while a multifunctional dial enables faster browsing and seeking. One of the dial’s key features is Focus Control, which you can use to manipulate third-party plugins in real time without the need for manual mapping.
An OLED display delivers clear, real-time feedback on integration status and parameter values, while the four touch-sensitive encoders to the side offer direct access to EQs, stems, effects, and parameter controls in Serato Studio.
Although designed for Serato Studio, SLAB is equally flexible in other environments. Its general-purpose MIDI mode enables integration with Serato Sample, Serato DJ Pro and a wide range of DAWs. When used with compatible Serato software, the Stems Level feature lets you independently adjust vocals, melody, drums and bass directly from the encoders, which comes in handy both in the studio and during DJ performances. And if you pair SLAB with Serato DJ Pro, it serves as an Official Serato Accessory (OSA), expanding the possibilities of your DJ sets.
Pricing and specifications
Measuring 284.3 × 209 × 44.6 mm (11.19” × 8.23” × 1.76”) and weighing 1kg (2.2lbs), SLAB is compact enough to slip into a backpack, making it suitable for home setups or mobile production on the go.
SLAB is priced at $299/£259/€299 and comes with a full license for Serato Studio.
Learn more about the SLAB or locate a dealer via the Serato website.
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