When it comes to music production, having a reliable and high-quality keyboard is essential. The M-Audio Hammer 88 and the Studiologic SL88 MIDI keyboards are two fantastic options in 2023 for any aspiring or professional musician or producer.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the features of these two Midi pianos, exploring their notable features, to help you decide which is best.
The M-Audio Hammer 88 vs. Studiologic SL88: Which is Better?
Studiologic SL73 and Studiologic SL88
Official Product Page – StudioLogic SL Series
Studiologic SL88: Main Features
Both the SL73 and SL88 models come with a great keyboard action, the well-reviewed FATAR TP100LR keybed, which is also used in stage pianos such as the Nord Electro series, and the Native Instruments Komplete series.
This high-quality keybed has a triple switch detection system for increased expressiveness. It is also aftertouch enabled.
Aftertouch is always a fantastic addition to any keyboard or piano as it allows musicians to fully explore the possibilities of their sounds, with differing effects enabled by holding the keys down for longer durations or when using more force.
This is a rare feature in hammer action keyboards and is not included with the M-audio Hammer 88 standard model.
With an all-plastic action and feel the studiologic is extremely lightweight and portable. The 88 key models weigh just 30 pounds in total (13.6 KG). The aluminum metal case is rugged and extremely roadworthy despite its low weight.
This keyboard also has a triple sensor system which makes it expressive and ideal for playing piano parts.
You also get a ‘razor-sharp TFT color display with a ‘high-quality six-way controller knob’, and excellent ins and outs on the back panel:
- 1 MIDI in,
- 2 Midi Outs for your compatible hardware instruments
- USB/MIDI to Host (bus powered)
- Plenty of pedal ports.
Studiologic SL88: Split and Layer
You can split Studiologic SL88 into four zones or layer four instruments together, which is extremely useful for musicians and producers. These features also help you to take full advantage of the in-built screen.
This is a point to consider about opting for the 88-key model as well, as if you are splitting the keyboard up into four distinct zones you will make great use of those extra 13 keys.
Studiologic SL88: Controls
The SL88 has three joysticks on the left for expression, pitch bend, or whatever parameter you dedicate them to. While some prefer traditional mod wheels, these joysticks are generally well-received, and functional.
If you have any experience with the Korg Kronos or Korg Nautilus pianos you will be used to this kind of control over your sound.
One last thing to note here is the addition of the Magnetic Rail System for the optional SL Music Stand and SL Computer Plate. This is a unique and unusual feature, that is often overlooked on both digital and Midi pianos.
After all, if you are composing or performing with this instrument, you will likely need a music rest for your sheet music or phone/tablet, and a place for your laptop to sit comfortably.
Studiologic SL88: Software
The bundled software with the SL88 includes the SL editor, which allows you to program your piano exactly how you want it set up, with 4 different split points, and much more.
Whilst this is not the most user-friendly application, it enables customization options and helps you to make the instrument your own, as well as to organize your sounds and get gig-ready.
It also has the Numa Player software, which is free and cross-platform. It is designed to work seamlessly with the Studiologic SL88 studio.
However, as it is free software, you may choose a different Midi controller and use their software with that instead. It is impressive software overall, with 4 sound libraries labeled acoustic pianos, electric pianos, keys, and strings/pads.
Filled with excellent VST plug-in instruments, this software is well worth a look, even if you don’t own a studiologic instrument.
For a more in-depth look at the best VST plugins available, check out the following articles:
Best Free VST Plugins
Best Paid VST Plugins
Studiologic SL88: Conclusion
This SL88 represents excellent value for money. The SL pianos are sleek and modern instruments, with high-quality construction and build quality.
They are well suited to home studios and make good tour keyboards for professional pianists and organists.
If you are a fan of the SL88 Midi piano but are also interested in digital pianos, check out their Studiologic Numa compact series. This is an excellent competitor to stage pianos from Nord, the Korg Kronos, and Korg Nautilus.
Studiologic SL88 Grand
Studiologic also offers a high-end model, the SL Grand, with an improved keybed. Let’s compare the Studiologic SL88 and SL Grand to see if it is worth the extra bucks.
The improved graded TP-40 wood keybed in the Studiologic SL88 Grand will help composers and producers reproduce their music’s subtleties with increased dynamic control.
Unfortunately, it does cost twice as much as the studio model, and it does not come with an improved screen, more control features, or any additional instruments, plug-ins, or software.
Choosing between these models depends on how much you value a premium-weighted action in your Midi piano.
M-Audio Hammer 88
Main Features
For those seeking a MIDI piano with a sturdy build and a piano-like playing experience, the M-Audio Hammer 88 is a top contender. The M-audio is built like a tank in comparison to the SL88.
With its robust construction, this instrument is designed to withstand the rigors of studio work and live performances, making it a reliable choice for musicians and music producers.
With its MDF and metal case (17.4 kg total weight), it should last you for many years to come.
The Hammer 88 differs from the SL series as it features a more piano-like hammer action keybed. The Hammer 88 also allows pianists to seamlessly transition between different instruments without compromising on expressiveness.
If you want more of a piano feel to compose or perform on or you want a Midi piano to use for live solo piano gigs, this will likely be the better Midi piano for you.
Users have described the action as not too heavy and not too light, so it is ideal for both piano and Rhodes sounds, but not quite as appropriate for organ playing. As with the Studiologic and other weighted digital pianos, it is possible with practice.
Moreover, the Hammer 88 offers plug-and-play functionality, ensuring hassle-free integration with popular digital audio workstations (DAWs) and other music production software.
This makes it an accessible and convenient choice for musicians of all levels of expertise. It also comes with a detachable music rest, which is always helpful.
There are no screens or joysticks, and no main control wheel. However, you will find standard mod wheels on the left-hand side for pitch and modulation, and some decent bundled software.
Software
This bundled software includes high-quality virtual instruments enabling musicians to dive straight into their creative process without the need for extensive additional purchases.
- Ableton live lite – An excellent DAW for musicians to begin composing and offers you some decent VSTs to get started with
- MPC beats – Great standalone software for hosting your VSTs and quickly mixing modern hip-hop-style beats
- AIR – 80 plug-in effects including reverbs, equalizers, delays, filters, and much more
- Mini Grand – 7 realistic piano instruments
- DB-33 tonewheel organ – 122 presets for organs such as the classic Hammond B3 with their rotary-speaker cabinets, a convolution rotary cabinet, and tube overdrive emulation
- Velvet electronic piano – 5 legendary electric pianos from the 60s and 70s including Rhodes suitcase, MK1 and MK2, Wurlitzer 200A, and planet-T
- Eighty-Eight ensemble – A realistic 9-foot Steinway piano VST
- Air tube synth – Vintage analog polyphonic synthesizers.
- Air electric– Electric piano collection for use in MPC
- Air bassline – Classic monophonic synths, and create your synth patches
- Skoove – Hundreds of interactive high-quality piano patches
- Hammer 88 preset editor – Customise your Hammer 88s keybed and controls, including the footswitches and buttons
Conclusion
Its sturdy build, piano-like action, and plug-and-play functionality make it well-suited for both studio work and live performances.
The bundled software adds to its appeal, providing musicians with a comprehensive package to jumpstart their creative endeavors.
Hammer 88 Pro
The M-Audio Hammer 88 pro offers more features and controls such as hammer-action keys with aftertouch and assignable zones, plus an Intuitive panel layout with an OLED screen for quick control edits.
It also boasts 16 RGB, backlit, assignable, velocity-sensitive pads with note repeat for beat production, clip launch, and more.
This does come at a higher price point of course, but the impressive specifications, and uncommon features such as the keybed with aftertouch, warrant the extra cost.
The Hammer Pro model is similar to the base model Hammer 88, with some additional features borrowed from the M-Audio oxygen series.
M-Audio Hammer vs. Studiologic SL88
They are both fantastic Midi pianos, and choosing between them is not an easy task. Below we have some standout features to consider when choosing your perfect Midi piano for your studio.
1. Key Action
The key action of a keyboard is crucial as it determines the feel and responsiveness of the keys. The M-Audio Hammer features a fully weighted hammer-action keybed, providing a realistic piano-like feel.
The weighted keys offer resistance and natural response, making them ideal for piano players who want to replicate the acoustic piano experience.
On the other hand, the Studiologic SL series has a weighted action from Fatar.
Whilst this action may not be quite as expressive for piano playing (this is subjective), you may also find it slightly better for composing and performing with sounds such as organ, strings, and pads, or may just find the action more pleasing to your style of playing.
Trying both keybed actions out in a music store would be a surefire way to choose which is right for you.
2. Versatility
Both the M-Audio Hammer and Studiologic keyboards offer versatile features that can meet the diverse needs of musicians.
The M-Audio Hammer is bundled with a wide variety of VST software, allowing musicians to start composing music right out of the box.
The Studiologic Sl series, on the other hand, has some good sound editor and arranging software, a screen, and more controls.
3. Connectivity and Integration
The ability to connect and integrate your keyboard with other devices and software is an important aspect to consider.
In this regard, both the M-Audio Hammer and Studiologic keyboards offer various connectivity options such as Midi In/Out, and USB outputs, so that you can connect them to your PC and hardware.
4. Software Integration
Software integration is another key factor to consider when choosing a keyboard for music production.
The M-Audio Hammer comes bundled with a range of software, including a virtual instrument and a DAW, allowing you to start creating music right out of the box.
Studiologic keyboards also offer software integration options, with the SL models including dedicated software for sound editing and customization.
5. Price and Value for Money
Price is often a deciding factor for many musicians when choosing a keyboard. The M-Audio Hammer and Studiologic keyboards are available at different price points, catering to different budgets.
The M-Audio Hammer generally falls into the mid-range category, offering a good balance between quality and affordability. Studiologic keyboards, depending on the model and features, can range from mid-range to higher-end options.
It is important to consider your budget and the value for money that each keyboard offers based on your specific needs and requirements.
Exploring Alternatives: Roland FP, RD88, Yamaha, Kawai, and Casio
While the Studiologic SL88 Studio and the M-Audio Hammer 88 are excellent weighted Midi pianos, it is essential to consider alternative options to find the instrument that best suits your needs and preferences.
While other Midi pianos are available, it could be a digital or stage piano that suits your needs. If you are not sure about whether your setup requires a Midi piano or digital piano, then check out the following article:
Digital Piano vs. Midi Piano – Which is the Better Solution?
Digital Piano vs. Midi Piano
If you are also considering a Digital piano then there are some excellent pianos to choose from.
The Roland FP series, known for its exceptional sound quality and realistic key action, offers a wide range of models tailored to different budgets and requirements.
The main contenders in this lineup are the beginner-friendly FP-10 and the well-regarded FP-30 and FP-30X. which are fantastic digital pianos.
Similarly, the RD88 from Roland combines a premium keybed with an extensive selection of high-quality sounds, making it a versatile choice for both stage and studio use.
Offerings from Yamaha, Kawai, and Casio should also pique your interest, and I encourage any aspiring pianist to try these out in a music store. If a stage piano is what you are after, you could also look into the Nords.
Nord has recently added two new instruments to their lineup and they make premium and professional instruments that are tour-ready. Below are reviews of Nord’s latest instruments, the Nord Stage 4 and Piano 5:
The NEW Nord Stage 4 is Here! (Review)
Nord Piano 5 review – An Upgraded Classic (2023)
Kawai and Casio also offer compelling options with their respective product lines, providing musicians with a broad range of choices to suit their individual preferences.
It is important to remember that digital and stage pianos can also be excellent options for Midi piano controllers.
The PHA IV keybed in the Roland FP series and RD88 is considered one of the best piano actions, with realistic escapement, and a piano-like feel.
For an in-depth look at the FP-10, which has the PHA IV keybed at a very affordable price point and is one of the best entry-level digital pianos of all time, check out the following article:
Roland FP-10 review – Best Beginner Piano? (Yes)
Conclusion
The Hammer 8 also offers great value for a good weighted action piano and would be ideal for a studio musician or a gigging musician. The software included is impressive, and it far surpasses the studiologic in that area.
If you will use the included software and VST instruments, then it is a no-brainer. With the split function, layer, two mod wheels, and an excellent slew of usable software and instruments for your DAW, you have everything you need to start composing music.
Check out these alternative reviews to find out more about these pianos!
