the polyphonic after touch is an amazing touch. but 749 for the 49 keyboard is crazy.

@lartisan6274

11 ай бұрын

because screen color

@808BOT_Beats

11 ай бұрын

Facts

@nunopinheiro75

11 ай бұрын

Yeah, 749 is a bit much

@andygordon3345

11 ай бұрын

if you want poly aftertouch, buy a Hydrasynth. Awesome thing. I think even the Hydrasynth Explorer has poly aftertouch.

@dage509

11 ай бұрын

@@andygordon3345 i’m a look into that synth

Am I the only guy who really finds not one reason to upgrade from S88 MK2 to S88 MK3? At the moment I am just glad of saving money.

@milkshakescigarettes7513

11 ай бұрын

Except for the polyphonic aftertouch, which is cool but ultimately gimmicky, there is nothing new about this controller whatsoever.

@ET2carbon

11 ай бұрын

There's no reason. Even the lights over keys look dimmer

@SoundslikeTunesTV

11 ай бұрын

@@milkshakescigarettes7513 The pp-aftertouch truly is nice... but far not enough. The new Kontakt version also touches me absolutely not.

@SoundslikeTunesTV

11 ай бұрын

@@ET2carbon and the lights are similar to the MK1 LED. Those were nice, but not new.

@kevinslaney486

11 ай бұрын

Seriously, poly aftertouch gimmicky? Can't agree...it is one of the most expressive things you can put on a keyboard. But for the dance/electro 4 bar loop producers probably won't mean much@@milkshakescigarettes7513

I may finally be able to afford the mk2 with this release YAY!

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Kontrol S MK2 will continue to be supported.

I was really hoping after hearing requests from so many users that faders would have been included if not also assignable buttons and drum pads. Many other top end controllers have these and I was very much hoping for these features.

@ET2carbon

11 ай бұрын

They got way too much empty space

@The1Composer

11 ай бұрын

this was the first thing i thought as well. It's cool but not worth the upgrade from the mkII imo

@johnnieray2423

11 ай бұрын

I feel ya but I never use any little pads I just use my maschine mk3 for that .. but it would've been nice just to have them I ordered it this morning but I'm a little upset I found out at the time no maschine software intergation hopefully that will come later. But I was wanting a mk2 but was holding out for a new one so I guess this is it. I do like the new features minus the lack of working with there own maschine software

@scottcollins4456

11 ай бұрын

It seems like a huge missed opportunity to really bring their products up to what users now expect. Paying $1300 for an 88 key and then having to fish out more money for an independent fader system is ridiculous

@Jason75913

11 ай бұрын

I would have loved some faders, too.

After 6 years, I would've hoped more hardware would've been added to that negative space... like a playable xy pad that correlates to some of the VIs like Straylight and Thrill

@ReidRosefelt

11 ай бұрын

You wouldn't even need to use the negative space. If the screen was a touch screen, it could also provide that function. But I use that negative space for... my xy pad. 😀

@BigMTBrain

11 ай бұрын

@@ReidRosefelt Also, a great spot for a Maschine Micro, especially with a software update that links the two. The Micro would then be a perfect match because the two could share the screen. If NI does provide such a software update, it would be brilliant for them to offer a bundle of any Mk3 + Maschine Micro for $50 to $100 off. The great majority of Mk3 buyers would then opt for the bundle rather than not.

@Jason75913

11 ай бұрын

​@@ReidRosefelt I would far more prefer the separate XY pad over using up the screen for it. Having other controls and things on the screen is better than giving up part or most of that for an XY pad. I wouldn't want touch functionality on my controller screen either, a MIDI controller is simply not the time or place for that. A touchscreen on a workstation box or keyboard is the way to go for those situations. The XY pad is an odd omission, to me, given that they make plugins that can benefit from it, nevermind all the other Kontakt library makers that also use XY pads in their products for us to manipulate sounds with.

@ehlohimwhil5762

11 ай бұрын

THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!

@mitchburtoway2862

11 ай бұрын

Not Having that X/Y pad is why I've not bought a keyboard. They have so many VST's that are asking for it but its never been made a thing. Super disappointing

It's cool, but not enough for me to upgrade from my MKII. Now, if my MKII was to ever break or be in need of being upgraded, that'd be a different story

@DaGabbaGangsta

11 ай бұрын

I only bought mines in march, like you say I've no need to upgrade, unless I start using my mk 2 for live, keep mk3 for studio

@raytoni7013

11 ай бұрын

dito I only bought it 3 months ago and now a new one is coming. I'll get the new one at some point. I'm happy with my mk2@@DaGabbaGangsta

@NEKAYBAAW

11 ай бұрын

Especially with NO Maschine intergration, I'm with you. I'm good with my MKII

@DaGabbaGangsta

11 ай бұрын

@NEKAYBAAW aye we need the maschine integration, I'll be using that for live at some point, break my tracks down to loops, trigger them from s49, same with midi to outboard gear

@DaGabbaGangsta

11 ай бұрын

@@NEKAYBAAW as long as they keep supporting mk2, then I'm happy

I think I’ll wait for the imminent updated Arturia or Novation master keyboards, thanks.

Is this 5 years of progress? Joined the 2 screens into one and added poly aftertouch. And a new light in the pitch and mod wheels - really? That was a priority? Just like the 5 year old MK2, this is still a massive under use of those screens. Giant icons....that you have to scroll through rather than tap with a finger!? This is 2023. Who does not look at an icon on a screen and expect to be able to touch it? A giant full screen picture of your plugin instead of visual representation of things like envelopes? Maybe they'll be here in another 5 years. Look at what Akai are doing with MPC Key. A huge touch screen, pads, standalone sequencer functionality. This is such a poor 5 years worth of improvement from NI. Aside from the poly aftertouch, this feels like an update for the sake of an update just so they can stick the prices up. So disappointed.

@ET2carbon

11 ай бұрын

Yuuuup

@agaland

11 ай бұрын

Couldn't agree more! I was expecting so much more from NI, especially after 5 years! During that period of time, seeing nothing was coming, and I needed a new master midi controller keyboard, I've bought a Novation 61SL Mk3. But after seeing that video, I think I'm gonna keep it actually! As for poly aftertouch, I'm lucky enough to own an Expressive E Osmose, so I'm covered. Too bad though, I was really hoping the MK3 would make me sell my SL ... turns out, the opposite!

@sampledude8846

11 ай бұрын

This

@faronmclurkin1103

11 ай бұрын

Agreed. Huge disappointment

@hanlim8061

11 ай бұрын

And they didn’t even dust the keyboard before shooting this. Somebody’s not doing there job 100%

Its a keyboard that is not stand alone, and a midi controller that sells the software separately. You spend $800 on this but you still have to spend another $500 for Komplete 14. If not that screen is completely useless. So this is actually a $1300 midi controller. And it doesn’t even control the flagship Maschine software along with their flagship hardware Maschine Plus. What a joke. This basically pushes Maschine users to a MPC Keys and a MPC.

@tastelesstouch

11 ай бұрын

Well said

Nice, but it doesn't add any functionality over my Komplete Kontrol MKii that I really need. It's just more modern hardware. And it can't control Maschine like the MKii does. So I won't rush to replace my MKii. I expected a bit more to be honest. Like a buildin audio interface. Maschine control with GFX for EQ and Compression and such. Make Plugins take advantage of the screen with TVA and TVF curves and such instead of just a big nice but infoless graphic. Too bad. The big waste of screen estate on the right screen of the MKii where it shows in big letters in which plugin you're at what a user already knows from the left screen is now a big wide nice graphic on top but with no information in it. Missed chance.

They removed five buttons between the left screen and the preset buttons. These are normally not lit, but if you load Maschine 2 software in your DAW (which NI sells to people without Maschines) they all light up: Scene, Pattern, Track, Key Mode, and Clear. With those buttons and the keyboard, you have a lot of Maschine functionality. It's not as good as having a Maschine, of course. I'm sure very few people use them, but I do and I'm not parting with my MK2.

@fedism

11 ай бұрын

Thanks for this input, maybe ill save and get an S mk2 ..

@keithlaury3538

11 ай бұрын

It has no Maschine integration so it's best to keep your mk2

@fedism

11 ай бұрын

ahh, I have the a49 looking to upgrade, @@keithlaury3538

@HoldMyBeerFam

11 ай бұрын

Mk2 s88 all day

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

It’s true - very few people used the Maschine integration. Also true - MK2 is still supported, for those that use it.

I’ve been with NI since «B4». Bought Kore2, and have been a Komplete user since K5. Sold the Machine Mk3, still have the S61MK1. The inability in the KK software to: -layer -split -combine several plugins into combination/performance -do velocity switching -import 3rd party plugin standard vst/fxb bank-files as presets -save and use setlists And the omission of an audio interface in the new controllers.. What a killer studio and performance tool this could have been.

@waltercruz2044

11 ай бұрын

Plugin Guru Unify is kinda what KK should be (except the design is kinda meh and of course no integration to hardware)

@gabrieldonl2311

11 ай бұрын

agree with everything but the interface, I dont understand why people ask for an interface on a keyboard, that of course will be a cheap interface when most people already have one so it would be useless for the most part of them

@Paddas298

10 ай бұрын

@@gabrieldonl2311 b

The design is sick🔥 Using Kontakt without Komplete Kontrol is a huge improvement I've waited for. I wish they update the firmware of previous Kontrol as well😊

@carlosvallejomusic

11 ай бұрын

I hope they do... Finally I ended up not using the keyboard for kontakt control because it is annoying openning Komplete Kontrol if you have multiple instruments in your session.

@lartisan6274

11 ай бұрын

if u want standAlone its 4000 $ Yamaha Kronos etc ...

@Jason75913

11 ай бұрын

@@carlosvallejomusic why?

@ForecastGrim

11 ай бұрын

It’s the cheapest polyphonic Aftertouch keyboard with full sized keys on the market. Expensive but I’d say justifiable.

@carlosvallejomusic

11 ай бұрын

@@Jason75913 because everything must be wrapped with Komplete Kontrol if you wanna use it properly (library screen options, zone lights...). Maybe I am using it wrong, but if you need a few Kontakt instances that means you have to open them inside Komplete Kontrol (of course you can just use it as a normal midi keyboard anyway). In loopop video he confirms Kontakt can be use with Komplete without wrapping. And MKII won't receive an update for that.

You should release a standalone version of this keyboard to compete with stage pianos. With build in sounds, speakers, monitor and headphones out. Because all stage pianos don't have MIDI out. Plus a version with black all black keys would look super sick! It also wouldn't hurt to include faders and pads.

I can’t believe this gets to be called a mkIII. My god. How about adding more knobs and faders? There is so much wasted space

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

It’s not the notes you play, it’s the notes you don’t play? A lot of users appreciate the clean focus, and the expressivity of the instrument integration experience. Certainly, faders are useful in some use cases, but not a majority of our users.

@jloiben12

11 ай бұрын

@@NativeInstruments (1) I would ask for your sampling methodology but we both know that “[c]ertainly, faders are useful in some use cases but not a majority of our users” is something you made up based on your feelings. You didn’t do the sampling to get a genuine understanding of if this claim actually reflects your customers’ opinions. Which is fine. I don’t really care. But it should be noted. (2) I 100% agree that the main value that Native Instruments midi keyboards provide is the NKS integration. Which is why have so few physical controls is mind blowing to me. (3) I will grant you that users think they like the clean focus. Have you put an alternative version in front of these people you are talking about where there are 8 faders on each side of the screen with digital scribble strips so you can look at the hardware and know what you are moving? And if you day this would be better with knobs like the MPC X/Hydrasynth then fine. Whether it is knobs or faders isn’t the point. The main benefit of the keyboards is its software integration yet the keyboard gives minimal control

@dave3987

9 ай бұрын

Yes the surface looks quite boring I like faders and knobs.

@Stormmy314

9 ай бұрын

Agreed

@PunktronicaLive

9 ай бұрын

I am a mk2 user that would of loved to have 8 faders and would use them all the time. I have to have a 2nd controller to have faders. No buy from me .

You could have wowed me with faders and pads seeing as how you have all the space in the world to do it but I can't find a single reason to upgrade to this..

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

You don’t need to! The existing keyboards are still supported. 👍

will mk2 price go down? im not going to buy mk3 after this video and all honest comments

@machiavelli4428

11 ай бұрын

Amazon might still have some in stock marked down.or Google the mk2 then click the shopping tab. Then keep an eye out on price drops

People always waiting for some new crazy improvements but what exactly do you want a Midi Keyboard to do? Most of these keyboards have more than enough functions and I guess most of the musicians don't even use half of them...

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

🤪

Not enough. Needs more

Mate put some faders in there and 16 knobs... What's that empty space...

@josephkissel6062

5 ай бұрын

It's honestly offensive and screams indifference ...

The truth is that I expected the screen to be touch, I have the mk2 and they combined the two screens into one, that is the relevant thing that I see.

@ET2carbon

11 ай бұрын

2 screens is better. They just need to update it.

@pablovalenzuela3505

11 ай бұрын

I could bet that on the Maschine Mk4 they are going to do the same, put the screens together, and that would be it.@@ET2carbon

I would like to see a basic piano sound built into the S88 so that I can sit down and play at anytime, without having to plug in my computer. Seems like that wouldn't be too hard, especially with an onboard computer.

@tonycowin

11 ай бұрын

That would require speakers which come with extra cost and weight.

@ET2carbon

11 ай бұрын

That is why you get standalone like maschine + and run MIDI

@yoshiondabeat

11 ай бұрын

Facts fam 🙏🏾

@Genshi

11 ай бұрын

@@SergioMartinez-el8kg still not that simple. It would add to the cost as you would now need a DAC along with the audio outs (whether it's speakers or headphones.) This is a MIDI controller, not a synth.

@Genshi

11 ай бұрын

@@SergioMartinez-el8kg well, many of us that work as Film & TV Composers have asked for this, so... And why are you so angry? You want a standalone synth/keyboard/electric piano, there are a TON to choose from elsewhere. That's not what this is. They have to make a MK III of their very popular MIDI Controller that works with their software libraries because that is their business model. Why don't you understand that?

I have a strange feeling that Arturia is going to be laughing all the way to the bank when they release their new KeyLab in the next few weeks...

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Arturia are awesome! One of our great NKS partners and collaborators.

@MrPrytania1

10 ай бұрын

Yeah I like my Keylab Mk2

So basically polyphonic after touch and USB-C were the only worth while updates. Not sure if this is worth it coming form a MKII

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

The expressivity of this instrument controller combined with the next generation NKS experience is the big evolution here. That is vastly improved over MK2, although worth noting that we continue to support your Kontrol S MK2.

Repackaged the same thing. How about a unit which combines Maschine, Keys and a Sound Interface with good I/O and CV/Gate I/O? At this time AKAI MPC KEY 61 has Akai leaving NI in their dust.

a few good changes, but not that innovative from mk2. At $749 it’s a no for me. Please update maschine

I mean it is still using the disappointing fatar TP100 keybed instead of upgrading to TP40. I also hope that NI could make the keyboard a bit more compact. Or just adding pads/faders on the empty space. Its size is getting insane. All in all its a midi controller my friend.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

We're using a significantly improved, revised version of the Fatar TP9 and TP100 keybeds, developed in close collaboration with Fatar, and available only in the Kontrol S MK3.

The new screen and aftertouch are nice, but the removal of the support for Maschine is mind boggling. Perhaps it is time for me to drop NI.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

We appreciate the kind words! The new features are certainly a lot of fun to use, particularly with Kontrol S MK3 being aimed primarily as an expressive instrument controller. Kontrol S MK2 is still supported, if the Maschine integration is important to you. It was deprioritized for Kontrol S MK3 as very few users ever used it, and the physical buttons often confused a majority of users.

@julienDrcq

3 ай бұрын

​@@NativeInstruments the solution will be the integration of Maschine without need specific knobs or bottoms!!! I feel so unfair for all Maschine user, the fact you coming always with same argument it is even irritating for me and disrespectful for your user base in Native instruments. this is for me and may user why we didn't upgrade to Kontrol MK3

seems like a missed opportunity by not adding the pads to the negative space. I'll wait for the standalone model with the keys and pads

I love how most of the comments are either long time NI customers who are very underwhelmed by this or comments asking if it’s standalone and Maschine compatible to which the answer is no. Seems like NI totally dropped the ball on this one, and it’s nobody’s fault but their own. They even sent out surveys and polls asking about what people want and they still missed the mark.

@machiavelli4428

11 ай бұрын

Yes. I was sent that survey 8 months ago.then ni seems to go backwards

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Kontrol S MK3 is an expressive, deeply integrated instrument controller. It is also the first product on a new generation tech stack we plan to build upon. That said, there are a wide variety of user needs, and not every product will meet every need.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Thank you for the feedback😅

@keithlaury3538

11 ай бұрын

​@NativeInstruments so your using the laughing emoji at your customers because of complaints of no maschine integration or pads stuff your loyal customers asked for and you come with this s#*t

@deaddoll1361

10 ай бұрын

@@keithlaury3538 It's you're, you can't even complain properly. 😅

Finally I'll be able to buy the Mk2

the amount of wasted/unused space on this is crazy :/ would it have hurt to add some faders/pads or whatever?

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

It certainly would have made it more expensive, and not everyone uses faders and/or pads. Maybe a separate product one day?

@onnooo

11 ай бұрын

yeah lets go, maybe something thats fits right onto it @@NativeInstruments

looks good but no sliders is a deal breaker

Faders and knobs would be nice

@sophiepooks2174

Ай бұрын

No.

This is really a great update. Nice one NÍ! 👏🏻

I was hoping there would be a drum pad with all the extra space....

@lartisan6274

11 ай бұрын

like the mpc keyboard ah

@soundfx68

11 ай бұрын

I was about to type the same thing, but I'll just comment here for an agree!

@gb3496

11 ай бұрын

That would really cut into their Machine sales...

@lartisan6274

11 ай бұрын

but Akai did the pad, they wasnt scary, and all cheap keyboard have pad. i think they could make great thing with Keyboad pad + new daw inside

@soundfx68

11 ай бұрын

@@gb3496 I'm more concerned about my space over their machine sales.

Actually pretty impressed with the new features! The software integration looks much improved. NI fans love to hate on everything, but actually seeing some positive comments too 🙂

@tuneunleashed

11 ай бұрын

@@MyNameJeff..I agree basically an MK2 S if it were an iPhone

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Kontrol S MK3 is great at what it does, and builds on the past and present products beloved by many users. If it's not for you, that's all good. ❤️

@Stormmy314

9 ай бұрын

Because me being a maschine user the new keyboard doesn't have the features and buttons like the komplete kontrol and we won't be able to use the maschine program with it so yeah we have complaints alot if them too

@MattG1027

9 ай бұрын

@@Stormmy314 admittedly at the time of the video I did not realize it was less functional for Maschine users. That is a bit of a head scratcher, I can only imagine there’s either new machine hardware or software coming soon to remedy that.

$749 for a 49key MIDI controller is ridiculous. 🤨 Especially when it does the exact same thing as the prior generation. As far as I can tell , the only change is one screen instead of 2 .

I love the design, the polyphonic AT, the new screen, etc... but for god sake, why didn't you release a "Pro or XL" version with faders and pads included... c'mon NI!

@BigMTBrain

11 ай бұрын

It's still possible but doubtful, given that with this release it seems NI have decided that the S series should not tread anywhere close to Maschine territory.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Faders need to motorized to be truly useful (like our capacitive endless knobs, which instantly pick up the parameter value without jumping). This would get quite expensive, for this product, and its more of a niche use case. Certainly, we’re hearing from those users, but perhaps Kontrol S MK3 is for everyone else instead.

@Realliedoe

11 ай бұрын

@@NativeInstrumentsThis I can actually agree with, forget the faders 🎚️ BUT, let’s bring that Maschine ecosystem back NI. It’s almost like disconnecting the earth 🌎 from the earth 🌊. Both are great but together it make a planet😁

@Spidouz

5 ай бұрын

@@NativeInstrumentsit doesn’t have to be expensive… you could add touschstrip the way you did on Maschine JAM and it works just fine and still provide “faders” to the keyboard…

All these new features and still no drumpads.. c'mon man.....

I was hoping for touchscreen and some faders+ drum pads. but glad to hear about the direct connection with Kontakt and poly aftertouch though

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Yeah, the direct connection is HUGE

@Tigerex966

11 ай бұрын

@@NativeInstruments what exactly does it allow. Me to do

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

You no longer need to host Kontakt in Komplete Kontrol. The keyboard will connect direct to any instance of Kontakt 7 on a track, give you all the same browse, load and NKS performance functionality.

The big deal for a lot of people is that you can get the light guides on Kontakt instruments without Komplete Kontrol. That's because this model has a dedicated computer inside to do that. A lot of people have wanted this feature for a long time so for them, it might be a reason to finally buy. It's not a reason for me to upgrade, because I am fine using Komplete Kontrol, which you still need for non-Kontakt instruments.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

❤️

The lights are from the MK first generation.. a step backward.. hope the price will drop soon

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

They’re not. They’re completely redesigned, and are much improved.

I've previously mentioned, in several forums and other platforms, to relocate the ribbon controller since ribbon was being accidentally touched while playing with modulation and pitch bend. Great to see it is relocated. I hope random uncontrolled aftertouch signal problem is also solved.

I just bought a MK3 s49 last night specifically to use the aftertouch capabilities together with my Maschine and I'm extremely disappointed to find it out that there is no Maschine Integration. The DAW controls don't even work. This is a major mistake and I hope you guys prioritize and fix this in an upcoming update or tbh I may have to take it back. And for the record I love your products. I've been a Maschine user ever since MK1 to the MK3. We are committed to your products and you guys should be too.

cant wait for new maschine with THAT display🤙🏻😌

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

👀

And with that they put the nail in the Maschine coffin. To remove the buttons and not even integrate the software is stating the obvious. Maschine software hasn't had a major update in 10 years. Just say you are discontinuing it so the user base can all plan accordingly. This is just disrespectful at this point.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Maschine 3 software would be a lot nicer than discontinuing …

@Realliedoe

11 ай бұрын

@@NativeInstrumentsGood come back 😂

No 76-Key version ?

@RP14_Music

11 ай бұрын

76? What you smoking

@vadimmartynyuk

11 ай бұрын

@@RP14_Music looks like you’re newbie to music. 76 keys have been forever especially in hardware workstations: like Korg Triton Pro, Roland A-70, Roland G-1000, Roland VA-76, Fantom 07, Motif XF7, and many many others.

@quantumsound2423

11 ай бұрын

I would totally get a 76-key version myself

@RP14_Music

11 ай бұрын

@@vadimmartynyuk so like keyboards not midi controllers ok

One more thing: I would choose a S88 plus Maschine+ over an electronic keyboard/piano if the M+ had ALL the Kontakt 7 library sounds. Because I want a piece of equipment where I can press the ON button and play with high quality sounds without having to fiddle with a computer.

@phelper4554

11 ай бұрын

@@SergioMartinez-el8kgyour mpc can play Kontakt library’s? Must be a new one 😅

@tastelesstouch

11 ай бұрын

Not to mention loading a plug-in everytime you want to use the midi controller as is the case with these controllers lol

Storytime with a lesson. I'm merely an NI customer, not a dealer. After reading about a hundred comments, I feel like the majority of the comments were experiencing a 'Negative Nancy' mood. Yes, it's a MIDI-controlled keyboard (and a 'monitor'), similar to the peripherals of laptops and desktops, such as keyboards and monitors. The mouse and buttons on a PC or Apple/Mac are the joystick or shuttle, plus the buttons and knobs. Once you understand the conceptual design like a parametric EQ, then you'll be happy with all that uncluttered dust-collecting knobs and faders or those who want a touchscreen. Am I the only one who has to clean my phone's touchscreen every day and many times more if my fingers are greasy from hand lotion when winter comes around? Smudges are ugly when the screen goes dark. Having a clean space allows you greater creative workflow because you can become subconsciously fatigued by your brain, visually scanning every detail, regardless of how focused you are in the moment on your music songwriting or scoring. I've been with NI for over a decade, and now I'm all in. Back in the NBI days of Kontakt, it was painful just to load up a library; so many things could go wrong, and it robbed me of the joy of making a complete project. As of this comment's date, I don't think NI is overcharging for the 88 keys at $1400.00 US. They're smart in making a MIDI keyboard that integrates seamlessly with DAWs and internal and external libraries. NI's profits are not in hardware; they're in digital products. HP, Epson, and Cannon designed inkjet printers to be attainable purchases for those who couldn't swing $4K for a Laser Printer. Those printer companies' profits were in the sale of ink when many of us began to spread our wings in desktop publishing in the early 90s. If NI wasn't profitable, you would get the hardware products you now have seamlessly integrated. With expensive R and D, the staff, the initial prototypes of production, marketing, distribution channels, NAMM conventions, and support after the sale online, it's not like they're Apple or Samsung, where everybody is so gifted with talent musically express themselves. Everybody has cellphones and flatscreens. Not everyone can play, jam, compose, or collaborate remotely with like-minded, gifted recording artists. I have dreamed of this moment since I sold keyboards in the mid-1980s. I sold Yamaha DX7s for years. I also sold Kurzweil sampler keyboards for $20K USD (in 1986 dollars), and it worked out pretty well for The Pet Shop Boys. You guys don't need to upgrade your keyboards like you've been programmed to do with your phones! I only upgraded because my M-Audio MIDI Keyboard USB driver is no longer supported. Now I can treat the MIDI keyboard like I did with Yamaha, Roland, Ensoniq, Emu, Moog, etc. Get an inspired tune out of your head and into the DAW as quickly as possible by having all the libraries and tweaks on the same keyboard. Then, use that 48-inch OLED curved monitor to lay it all out for you. The fact that NI added what I would describe as groups, tags, or categories to search for a particular sound or instrument is HUGE. I love bass, strings, percussion, choirs, world instruments, etc. No more floppy disks to load in between songs, no tiny LCD screens like pocket digital calculators. No keyboard racks to support 3 or more keyboard synths and samplers. Most of you didn't exist during the modern-day Renaissance when PCs could begin to 'talk' electronically-linked musical instruments. The best thing that ever happened to me was seeing one of my songs digitally notated on the monochromatic amber-colored monitor which was as close to high definition as today (but in only one color!) That day became a pivotal moment in my life that moved me as much as discovering a cassette tape recorder when I was seven years old. You know what? I'm going to shut up now and enjoy the process of creating some music. I have recorded enough material for 5-6 albums that need renovation of these much greater versions of sampled musical instruments and the natural world of noise for added sound effects. But before I hit the 'comment button...' (TLDR) Thank you, Native Instruments. I know the shoulders you stand on when I look back on 40+ years in the industry. You've taken what was once a massive dose of frustration and made it less painful. Now, let's work on that User Experience when onboarding a new hardware customer because it should not take a solid day to learn how to apply two firmware upgrades before they see the screen properly load up. And I still haven't got to play an instrument yet! If it's hard for me, who is very familiar with firmware upgrades of tech and who is tenacious, I can only imagine the table flips, and chair tossing others are known to do! In closing, fellow NI fans that are quick to complain. Try to hop off the mental hamster wheel of looking for spectacular improvements every couple of years in short spans. Jump on the tech's merry-go-round experience for what you bought, enjoy the ride you get with your purchase, and grind out of that rig everything you can for a decade. Find your signature trademark sound and genre. Look at what Eddie Van Halen did with just a guitar. Hone in on your workflow. Steve Lukather of Toto used to hire a tech when he toured because of his signature sounds. There are many different palettes. All those pedals, knobs, and faders! Don't get too deep in the weeds on each sound, or you'll never finish the project. Let's go now while we still can in this life. Blessings to all of you, and be awesome!

too expensive. i would buy a hardware synth for 800 euro!.. but this one looks really great tho

I hope that newer models including the mk3 ones will get the accessibility features,. I and many other blind people haven't upgraded since the new ones don't support the accessibility yet.

I have never understood NI because I am a customer of theirs since the release of Maschine MKI I have bought more than 20 expansions I have bought Komplete from version 8/9/10/11 Ultimate and 14 Ultimate Collectors Edition I also own Maschine MKIII and every new release even though I am a loyal customer I never find any favorable price on new hardware. I do not claim 50% off but a favorable price for loyal customers would not hurt. Then calculating that in recent years the competition has made great strides. And anyway KUCE 14 didn't change my life in the end since I had already bought half of the expansions and Kontakt sounds in the end are almost the same as the other versions (upgrades don't give you anything for free). I wrote this to know if other people have noticed the same thing or am I the only one. And the price of this last "MIDI keyboards" is exaggerated. I think they will have the same sales problem as the Maschine+ (so much expense and few improvements over the previous model)

Excellent. I've been waiting till the ribbon controller was moved from the insane position of under the pitch and mod wheel! Now its finally time to buy one! I really want the light guide for perc libraries as its a pain not instantly seeing where the KS are! Can't wait!

price is insane for a controller.....

@Jason75913

11 ай бұрын

Their controllers include killer software. Well worth it if you _don't_ already have a Komplete bundle and controller.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

It does include a lot of software. And also deep NKS integration with much more!

I enjoy the clean look. It's one of the reasons I purchased the SMK2 over all the other options which pack in crappy drum pads and sloppy plastic faders. All in one keyboards are gimmicky. My only complaint is my MK2 is only 2 years old and I want to upgrade now. This is a solid update. Also the extra room on the right is where I place my trackpad.

how Ni make both Maschine and Komplete Kontrol but now the new Kontrol board won't pair up with Maschine anymore 🤬 why would i buy the new s series when my s61 mk2 works flawless with my Maschine?? now if yinz don't use the Maschine then its not a problem but for us that do that's dumb af smh

@Stormmy314

9 ай бұрын

Yeah we not priority they made that clear in other comments saying they deprioritize integrating maschine use into the new keyboard because not enough us was using it but I am like that is not good enough reason there is still going to be people like use the still use maschine like me and you

Exciting! Glad I waited. Seems to be some really good improvements. Was sort of expecting a touch screen, but that's okay.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

❤️

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

@MyNameJeff - as demonstrated by this thread, to each their own!

@KevboKev

11 ай бұрын

@@NativeInstruments I already preordered the 88!!

WE NEED FADERS! 3 at least. Mk4?

I'm glad i didnt wait for mk3 and bought into s88 mk2 with that summer K14 bundle. I only wish you thought earlier about moving that strap above the CC wheels and added extra 1-2 faders somewhere with all that empty space. Anyway, I guess ill wait at least for mk4 to see if then the upgrade's worth it :/

Got my S88 stolen from storage.. finally a new one comes out to buy

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Really sorry to hear that! 😮

Well? Still no touch screens huh? 😒

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Not at this time

I literally just bought the MK2 and was like 'FUCK' when I got the email about this MK3. But after watching this video, I'm actually glad. Because let's be honest it's mostly just a design upgrade. This keyboard has no new actual features worth mentioning.

@BigMTBrain

11 ай бұрын

​@@johnny_blzhee heeeeeee! 😂

@BigMTBrain

11 ай бұрын

Agreed, except for the addition of polyphonic aftertouch (pAT). Depending on your style of composition, recording, and/or performance, pAT could be a MAJOR plus, improving your workflow and allowing you to come closer to successfully translating your musical imagination. For many, pAT is a big deal, but possibly not compelling enough to buy in this new, somewhat disappointing NI implementation.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

New keyboard has a ton of features worth mentioning! Direct connection to kontakt, next gen NKS and polyphonic aftertouch for a deeply expressive instrument controller experience. That said, if you’re happy with your MK2 that’s great! It’s very much still a supported product.

One thing I will say. It is MIDI 2.0 compatible. And someone made a good point in the comments by saying, There maybe be a new Maschine software update coming that the controller will be compatible with, this is why Maschine integration is not announced. The same way the scale/arp buttons are removed but available, so to may be the Maschine features.

Wow, I literally just opened KZread. Looks great!

Faders? Assignable buttons? Drum pads??

I had the hope for an XY pad.

When they add drum pads then ill be hype for now ill keep my mk2 thank you

@BigMTBrain

11 ай бұрын

Maschine says it will NEVER happen. NI marketing has a lock on that.

@Barrygraybeatz

11 ай бұрын

@BigMTBrain then they need to realize that will be there down fall as years go buy... people want all in one now from what I'm seeing

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

The Kontrol S MK2 will continue to be supported. But the question of adding pads really has nothing to do with Maschine. It just isn’t a focus for this instrument controller series.

Still no sliders... Sigh

This is lame. Pretty much a non upgrade, and after so many years. No stand alone mode, no drum pads, no faders, and so much wasted space. What a missed opportunity by NI

I was hoping they would have a built-in audio interface like the Maschine MK3 but, yeah… I’m getting one.

@ags911

11 ай бұрын

🤑

@TheJanda777

11 ай бұрын

That's too much of an expectation in my opinion. It would increase the cost significantly and most of the users are probably not needing that.

@scarvello

11 ай бұрын

And drum pad as a option 😢

@scarvello

11 ай бұрын

@@SergioMartinez-el8kg lol no one said it would make them better. It’s simply preference.

@chartbreakers999

11 ай бұрын

@@SergioMartinez-el8kg That wouldn’t be the reason but, please continue to “walk in your truth”. 🙄

gonna keep my mk2 but the mk3 its fire too 🔥🔥

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Your MK2 is still supported so all good there!

@sonicalstudios

8 ай бұрын

have the features missing, look it up

This looks so outdated and is in mine opinion not mk3 worthy, the mk2 is today still more futeristic looking with the 2 screens. Anodized aluminum knobs looks more like anodized plastic. I'll stick to my mk2.

Not impressed minor updates and no touch screen.

Super disappointed that you have chosen not to have faders or pads seriously it could have been perfect, all we needed was 9 faders is that such a big ask?

Looks fantastic but the 49 is the size for me.

@Stormmy314

9 ай бұрын

Right I ain't seen nothing about 49 it's only 61 and 88

And that’s how Maschine dies. I really wanted to NI to be better than a MPC and MPC Keys combo. With this, NI is finally admitting Maschine is subpar. Their own hardware will no longer “ kontrol” Maschine software. Guess its time for a MPC and MPC Keys. I saw the MPC keys come with a suit of plug ins.

What exact keybed model is now used in the 88 version, anybody know? Because the previous one was failing often.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

We're using a significantly improved, revised version of the Fatar TP9 and TP100 keybeds, developed in close collaboration with Fatar, and available only in the Kontrol S MK3.

All this and the arp still doesn’t record in the “arped” pattern into the daw, but rather the one note you actually played in? Seriously guys? If novation can do it on their $200 keyboards, why can’t you? Same with the smart/chord mode.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

That’s coming soon.

So a big screen..... And no integration with maschine? I smell a legacy product ahead..... Sad...

Just waiting for the new maschine mk3

they could've done so much more....at the very least a dedicated envelope section...something...idk...i'm fine with my mk2

was really hoping for a standalone usage feature.....there is no reason to upgrade my s88 mkII for this mkIII

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

👀👀👀

Good improvements, but overall actaully kinda lazy. We wanted a standalone. I have no idea why you guys haven't figured out that if people could take their kontakt libraries on the road and stage, that would be game over all but a few stage piano manufacturers. You gave us the thing nobody wanted as a standalone, standalone, and the thing everyone wanted as just another regular MIDI controller (albeit a very nice one)... Should have 16 knobs too, or 8 sliders + 8 knobs. But the main thing people care about in 2023 when buying 61+ key keyboards is the bed feel, and there was barely a word said about the changes from the manufacturer perspective (I actually had to research that these are fatar keybeds with their brand new poly aftertouch, not the chinese equiv that are in the ASM lineup, at least in the 61 key) Why did you demo the 61 key anyways? It is pretty standard to demo the falgship of any given product line tbh. Or at least both of them. Like, I can buy a hammer action Kawai for the price you want for the 88... You are charging absolute premium prices. Starting acting like a premium company.

@ClevaDon

11 ай бұрын

​@@SergioMartinez-el8kgAkai and NI are oranges and apples. One is dedicated to standalone while the other is dedicated to DAW/Midi/Sound. No comparison IMO.

@prodbyselase

11 ай бұрын

This is what happens when you get acquired by an investment firm. their priority is selling sounds and VSTs now. that gets them the max profit

@Jason75913

11 ай бұрын

​@@prodbyselase scumbag firm, non-musician plebians that lost their souls to the devil long ago, they are just lifeless husks with a humanoid fascade bent on money

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Standalone you say? Hmmm. Intriguing 👀👀👀

@shogunai

11 ай бұрын

@@NativeInstruments OK, you got me. Autosampling, user replaceable SSD storage and 3rd party support for Kontakt instruments and you are firmly back in my good books, and I'll make a grovelling apology📚🔙 😂❤️ PS then a super friendly instrument builder interface is all that is left for you to reign supreme 😉💪

I love the kontakt integration, it's better than kk itself, never been a fan of komplete kontrol software

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Going direct is always better! We hope to expand Direct Connection beyond Kontakt 7.

@Stormmy314

9 ай бұрын

Yeah could not use it like you can with maschine

were the keys fixed ? in MK2 version the black keys are much stiffer than the white keys

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

The all-new keybeds were developed in close collaboration with Fatar, and offer significant improvements over the MK2 generation. Both the 49/61 key semi weighted and the 88 key hammer action keybeds have best-in class polyphonic aftertouch and were specifically calibrated for a smooth and consistent response.

@QMusicUK

11 ай бұрын

But is it the same Fatar keybed as the S88MKII? Just with aftetrtouch? My number one gripe with my S88 is the spongy feel of the keybed.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

No, it’s a revised model of each. A new iteration of the TP9 and TP100 that is not in any other products.

I’m considering getting one. Do you need to install the plugins into the keyboard via a laptop or how do you get the plugins in it?

Faders and pads would've sold me.

The upgraded encoders and better screen seem like a nice touch. Tough to find a reason to upgrade though without an upgraded keyed. The mk2 has a decent fatar model but it isn't as good as the keybed found on many hardware boards, including nord who also use fatar. Dear native, please give us a better action or at least fix the issue with the black keys. You could become the only dedicated midi controller on the market with a pro grade semi weighted keybed.

no touchdisplay? no 3. mod wheel? No good visible LED? WHY?

Very pretty looking keyboard, love the poly after touch, but shame is not a touch screen, have the 49 love the integration with 3rd party synths, already have 4 drum machines so will never need pads.

Does it have internal sounds? Can it be played without a laptop?

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

It does not have internal standalone sounds. It provides a deep integration with your software, making thousands of virtual instruments feel real. More time playing, less time mouse clicking!

Only thing I see new is polyphonic aftertouch 😩. can scale mode work without komplete Kontrol ?

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

Not yet, but watch this space!

@Stormmy314

9 ай бұрын

And arp mode too plus use of maschine needs to be added

The fact there aren't even a few drum pads on this thing at this price is still odd to me. My Impact LX88+ Was $339 and has 8. Seems like the pricing of this thing is way off base for many reasons. NI integration and polyphonic after touch is not worth 749 and especially not 1300.

waiting for something that would make sense to pair with maschine, with hopefully 76 keys, and a lot of knobs, faders and switchers for soft synths real hands on control.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

There are no plans for a 76 key model but that’s good feedback

What happened to Maschine compatibility? Very strange choice from @NativeInstruments

No discussion on the fully weighted keys in the S88 model?

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

The keybeds in this new generation are revised versions of the Fatar TP9 and Fatar TP100, developed in close collaboration and available only in the Kontrol S MK3.

No pads on it yet? That would make it good

Since I play live with a VST host that plays everything and supplying a full automation, I need a general purpose MIDI controller. I am not interested to play live with Komplete Kontrol. I use GigPerformer and I am really satisfied with previous version of NI controllers because of keybed quality. Good dynamics and never a stuck note (something that happens to me with every other supplier). I will try the new device in a shop, polyphonic aftertouch is a must (playing CS80 that way is heaven). In my perfect controller there would have been more buttons and sliders. But NI doesn't like their controllers to be used outside Komplete Kontrol and this is extremely short minded. And disappointing

It is a great keyboard, it is the most valued by live artists, it just lacks 3 factors to be perfect: - Does not include transport control for DAW (Rec, Play/Pause, Rw, Fw, etc...) - The screen does not have an inclination of at least 30° - There is no 76 key version Also, I understand that the screen is not touch screen, because Kontakt and all its instruments would have to include an SDK for touch screens, hopefully it will be included in the future.

@NativeInstruments

11 ай бұрын

It does include some DAW transport controls, but not reverse / forward. You can use the jog wheel for this in some screens.