AlphaTheta SLAB

Transport Section & Focus Control

The transport section of SLAB serves as the central command for music creation, integrating vital functions such as play, record, and seek into one streamlined interface. At its heart is a multifunctional dial designed to accelerate browsing and navigation, allowing users to quickly scroll through sampled audio and locate specific phrases with ease—dramatically enhancing the speed and flexibility of sampling.

A standout feature of this dial is Focus Control, which enables direct manipulation of third-party plugins, including virtual instruments and effects, straight from SLAB. By simply hovering the mouse pointer over a parameter on the computer screen, users can instantly adjust it using the dial—without any need for manual MIDI mapping. This seamless integration promotes intuitive sound design and offers immediate access to critical creative controls.

OLED Display & Touch-Sensitive Encoders

Positioned at the top of SLAB, the high-contrast OLED display delivers real-time feedback on integration status and parameter values, maintaining clear visibility even in dimly lit studio environments. Beneath the display, four touch-sensitive encoders grant direct access to EQs, stems, effects, and other key parameters within Serato Studio. When an encoder is touched (without being turned), its current assignment is shown on the OLED display, helping users make precise adjustments with confidence and speed.

Multicolour LED Pads

SLAB’s 16 performance pads are engineered for expressive playing, offering full velocity sensitivity and aftertouch support. Four dedicated buttons above the pads enable users to toggle between different pad modes, including Pad FX mode, where up to four effects can be layered vertically and applied in real time during production. This hands-on control extends creative possibilities by allowing effects to be manipulated and heard instantly within a performance.

Managing sampled content is made effortless by the vertically arranged application control section, which provides quick access to functions like Auto Set and Favourite. Whether chopping samples or slicing loops, this intuitive layout accelerates workflow and keeps focus intact. Together, the pads and application controls create a harmonious, efficient environment for music production.

Stems Level

When paired with compatible Serato software such as Studio, Sample, and DJ Pro, SLAB offers precise control over individual parts within a track—vocals, melodies, drums, and bass—via the Stems Level feature. This eliminates the need for separate tracks by allowing users to adjust stem volumes directly through the hardware’s four touch-sensitive encoders. This capability transforms both studio production and DJ performances by enabling detailed EQ and stem adjustments on the fly.

Serato Application Integration

SLAB seamlessly integrates with Serato Sample and Serato DJ Pro. Its flexible MIDI mode lets users work within their preferred DAW while leveraging Serato Sample’s powerful sampling engine for a smooth, efficient workflow. As an Official Serato Accessory (OSA) when used with Serato DJ Pro, SLAB enhances live DJ sets by expanding expressive control options. From home studios to live performances, SLAB supports creativity across diverse environments.

Sleek Design

Compact and portable, SLAB measures smaller than A4/US Letter size, making it easy to transport and ideal for studio work at home, cafés, or on the go. Its modern two-tone grey finish offers a clean, contemporary look while logically grouping controls for intuitive operation. Iconic features like AlphaTheta’s signature circular PLAY/REC buttons and a distinctive illumination bar—modeled after Serato Studio and Sample clip visuals—create an engaging, user-friendly experience for production and performance alike.

The controller comes with a matching grey USB Type-C cable, offering both straight and L-shaped connectors to ensure tidy, flexible setups, even in tight spaces.

LED Long-Stroke Touch Strip

The 130 mm long-stroke touch strip delivers smooth, tactile control over parameters such as filter, pitch, FX level, and swing. Enhanced by vibrant RGB indicators, it enables precise, rapid, and expressive adjustments that elevate both production and live performance.

Compatible Applications

• Serato Studio (DAW) and all Sound Packs

• 50% off Serato Producer Suite for 3 months – includes Serato Sample and Hex FX VST/AU/AAX plugins

Power Requirements

• DC 5V

• Power consumption: 500 mA

Main Unit Weight

• 1.0 kg / 2.2 lbs

Max. External Dimensions (W × D × H)

• 284.3 × 209.0 × 44.6 mm / 11.19 × 8.23 × 1.76

Tolerable Operating Temperature

• +5 °C to +35 °C (+41 °F to +95 °F)

Tolerable Operating Humidity

• 5% to 85% (no condensation)

Input/Output Terminals

• USB Type-C port: 1 set