Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 Controller Keyboard
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NI Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 Product Overview by GAK
Native Instruments have returned with a new and improved version of their popular Kontrol Keyboard series. The unit features 49 semi-weighted keys on a Pro grade Fatar Keybed, Ergonomic pitch and mod wheels, plus an impressive touch strip for expression control.
The onboard display has been completely revamped, now featuring 2 high-res RGB screens, perfect for browsing, tweaking sounds and mixing. The precision Light Guide pinpoints the location of sounds, key zones, switches, scales, and more.
NI also bundle in their Komplete Select software which features 11 premium instruments (including Massive and Monark.) The S49 also allows you to utilise 3rd party VSTi's.
We recently held a Q&A with Native Instruments to discuss some of the new features and software integration.
What's the benefit of the new and improved screens?
Our new high-res RGB screens make browsing, tweaking and mixing so much easier. Another cool feature is that you can use the screens to view mix levels on your DAW.
Do the KOMPLETE KONTROLers work with MASCHINE?
Absolutely. The latest version of Maschine 2 software works with both Komplete Kontrol V1 and 2 series controllers. The MK2 versions offer up more hands on control of the software.
How well do the keyboards work with other VST instruments?
Many software developers are creating NKS compatible plugins which means your Komplete Kontroller will integrate seamlessly. If they're not specifically designed NKS plugins, some features will usually map automatically anyway and by using the software, you can easily map the other parameters and save your progress for quick recall.
What is NKS?
Our NKS plug in format allows software makers and developers to build plugins specifically for Maschine and Komplete Kontrol offering players and programmers insane control over their instruments. The beauty of this is that a lot of people want to use third party plugins but have been limited in terms of hands on control. That's becoming a thing of the past as we've opened up the platform.
Does it come with any software?
Yes, you will receive a copy of Komplete Select - Downloadable via Native Access.
Check out our GAK video of the Komplete Kontrol and Maschine MK3 below
- Smart keyboard controller for all your virtual instruments
- Pro-grade Fatar keybeds with aftertouch – 49 or 61 semi-weighted keys
- Ergonomic pitch and mod wheels, plus touch strip for expression control
- Pre-mapped control of KOMPLETE instruments and hundreds of
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) instruments from leading manufacturers
- Full VSTi support
- Tag-based preset browsing: Find sounds quickly and hear instant previews
- Two high-res color screens for browsing, tweaking, mixing, and more
- Light Guide: RGB lights above each key highlight drum cells, key switches, chords, scales, and more
- Smart Play: See scales and modes on the Light Guide, play chord progressions and arpeggios with single keys, or map any scale to white keys only
- Deep integration with MASCHINE software / hardware
- Intuitive control over Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, and GarageBand. Cubase and Nuendo integration coming soon after initial release
- 4-directional push encoder for one-handed sound browsing and project navigation
- Two assignable pedal inputs •MIDIin/out
- USB 2.0 bus powered
- Includes KOMPLETE 11 SELECT
FINANCE
Customer reviews
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Doug Thompson
15/12/2018
Works well with ableton 10
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Dan
15/9/2018
Awesome features and interacts with Komplete Software superbly... Would recommend this product to anyone
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Justine Barker
01/3/2018
I've only had this for a week so early days but already I can see how this will improve my workflow. It just feels better using software with a more hands-on hardware approach. I have discovered instruments and editing features on instruments that I've owned for years and had not used. Semi weighted keys feel good too.
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David Hughes
19/2/2018
Enjoying using the S49. Quite basic controls when working with Ableton Live. For Ableton users annoyingly when you hit 'record' button if you are in arrangement view, it records only in session view. not sure why as this is quite a limitation. Also you need to be a little tech savvy as you have to move some files around your mac/pc in order to get it working, but once its up and running its great to have such quick access with the sound preview feature and also to be able to quickly experiment with all the pre-defined parameter presets for the native products. overall very pleased with the purchase.
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chris arnott
26/11/2017
I ordered it ,was delivered 2 days later, as stated on ordering . I have no complaints.