The first dedicated controller for Serato Studio, Serato Sample, and Serato DJ it’s a music production tool for all creators.
Serato has officially unveiled SLAB, the first pad controller purpose-built for Serato Studio and co-developed with AlphaTheta Corporation. Designed to give producers a fast, expressive, and intuitive beatmaking experience, SLAB seamlessly integrates with Serato Studio, Serato Sample, and Serato DJ Pro, bridging the gap between studio creation and live performance.
With deep software connectivity and a streamlined, compact layout, SLAB offers creators of any skill level a hands-on approach to production that truly places emphasis on speed, instinct, and creativity. SLAB serves as a true hybrid tool that’s a dedicated Serato Studio controller, a performance-ready surface for Serato Sample, and a flexible MIDI device for custom DAW mapping.
“For three decades, Serato has been a leader in providing best-in-class software for DJs and music producers, and now we are incredibly excited to dive into the world of music production hardware by working with AlphaTheta to co-develop SLAB, the first native controller for Serato Studio. Our artist community is at the forefront of everything we do, and given our track record of successful collaboration with AlphaTheta, we knew they were the right partner for developing an exceptional hardware product to enhance the workflow of our highly creative community.” – Young Ly, CEO of Serato
So, whether sequencing drums, shaping samples, triggering stems, or navigating projects in real time, the controller’s tactile workflow makes complex tasks feel simple and immediate. Built for portability and versatility, SLAB can anchor a full production setup or fit perfectly into a mobile creator’s workspace. The release arrives alongside major ecosystem updates – including Studio 2.5.0, Sample 2.2.0, and DJ Pro 4.0.1, which unlock even deeper cross-functionality across Serato’s software suite.
Key Features of SLAB:
- 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads for finger drumming, sequencing, and Pad FX with fast access to Auto Set and Favorite functions.
- Large multifunction dial for browsing, scrubbing, slice editing, and Focus Mode plugin control.
- Dynamic LED display showing global project info, Pad parameters, EQ, FX, BPM, Key, stems levels, and more, plus four touch-sensitive encoder knobs.
- Dedicated transport and navigation controls for Scenes, Decks, and Pads.
- 13cm long-stroke touch strip for live control of filters, pitch bends, swing, repeats, and automation.
- Precision Step Sequencer with full grid editing, velocity shaping, swing, and note nudging.
- Compact, USB-powered body sized to fit a US-letter footprint for simple studio or mobile setups.
“We’re so excited to announce the launch of SLAB. AlphaTheta and Serato have been working together closely since 2011, and this product embodies both companies’ deep passion for music. We look forward to seeing music lovers around the world use SLAB to enjoy an even richer creative experience.” – Yoshinori Kataoka, President and CEO of AlphaTheta Corporation
Find more info at serato.com/studio/slab.