Komplete Kontrol MK2 - Pianist's One Year Review

[@wamote6867]

It's refreshing when someone makes a video about a product they've really used and talks about the pros and cons. KZbin is full of superficial reviews and this one stands out well.

[@JakeBorg]

Thank you very much! That was my intent when making the video, glad it came through! :)

[@combofriend4461]

I agree- it's like when ppl leave an amazon review the day they get something instead of 6 mo/year later when you'd actually know if it performed. But worse on yt bc so many "nudgers" are getting financial incentive to just do an boxing and spit out a shallow soft-ball review.... this review was helpful to not throw so much money down the drain for something that just looks cool lol

[@Dubb1000]

I was just about to leave the same comment. It's so hard to find genuine reviews.

[@JakeBorg]

There seems to be some criticism to my video. I'm responding to it here: 1. It's a studio keyboard and not meant to be used live. I used it in my studio for nine months before I used it live. Most of the problems arose way before that. I don't use it live anymore because it's too unreliable. Using a keyboard live is actually a pretty good stress test because all the flaws come surfacing up pretty quickly when you need things to work as intended. Also, there are plenty of keyboards from the 70's and 80's that has been used live that still perform well and I don't think it's too much to ask that a keyboard made today has the same or better quality. 2. You should've used a stage piano. I have a Nord that I use as a main keyboard. In addition to the Nord I thought it was better to buy the NI S61 instead of a synthesizer because I only use sounds from my computer. 3. You haven't handled it properly/You've dropped it/You didn't have a hard case. I'm very careful about my gear. No, I haven't dropped it. Yes, I have a hard case and I used it. 4. Why did you not replace it? I did. I say so at 5:48. I'm not sure why some of you are so hung up on studio/live keyboards. What are you doing with your keyboard live? Hammering on it? Spilling beer? There might be more wear and tear but it's not like a keyboard (of any kind) shouldn't be able to handle it if treated normally. I thought it was a great addition to the review that I actually put this keyboard up to test using it live. If you browse through the comments you'll see several people having the same issues I had. I hope this clears things up and if you have more questions I'd love to hear them. All the best! Jake

[@swaydigitalng]

Came here after watching your review on the code 49. would you say the code 49 is okay after using this?

[@JakeBorg]

@@swaydigitalng Would not buy either again :P

[@manikchandwadia4372]

Komplete kontrol keyboards suck. They only became famous of KZbinrs

[@swaydigitalng]

@Manikchand Wadia what do you think about the new oxygen pro?

[@seanlimmusic]

Hi Jake! Thank you for the super honest review! Would there be any good quality-per-dollar MIDI Controller(s) you would recommend for Home Studio use then? Apologies if I missed this out somewhere!

[@juneaftn]

This is one of the best reviews on midi keyboards I've seen ever on youtube. The fact that you've used it everyday for one year is significant. I can expect what will break down from an extended heavy use. Thanks!

[@bakkdavidlaszlo]

I have the S88 for 6 months, and I do not have any complaints about is so far. I really love it. Hope I will not have to change my mind.

[@GentleTA]

Any updates about your experience??

[@adamgreenhill110]

Asking again (why not). Any updates?

[@RealBreakBreadFilms]

6 month update!!! 😂😂😂😂

[@bakkdavidlaszlo]

Sorry, fellas, for the late update. I still don’t gave any issues with it. Note, that I have all the available updates for NI products, and I didn’t change the OS on my hackintosh. 🙂

[@HoldMyBeerFam]

@@bakkdavidlaszlo Did you ever get the right screen problem or the clacky keys thing that everyone says they get?

[@Sr7Sr7Sr7]

As a pianist wouldn’t you want the 88 key which is fully weighted? Your 61 key is only semi-weighted.

[@janklas7079]

The 88 key variant and the 61 key variant, are weighted the same. There is no difference there.

[@ojustaboo]

@@janklas7079no they’re not. I just sold my s61 mk2 and was deciding between s88 mk2 or mk3, I went for the mk3 that has the same key bed as the 88 mk2 with added aftertouch. S61 is a synth keybed, s88 is a fully weighted one

[@glasss1978]

@@ojustaboo hi, could you describe to me the "synth keybed"? I'm an organist and looking for a midi keyboard to use with Hauptwerk. I'm not looking for a fully weighted piano keyboard, don't want a weightless synth touch either, but something like a tracker organ touch. Fatar keys are used for many (better quality) midi organ stacks that's why I thought this being Fatar and semi-weighted could be an option. But if it's that soft synth touch, I'll drop it.

[@ojustaboo]

@@glasss1978I’m sorry but I don’t know really how to describe it, it’s sold as a semi weighted keyboard, to me, it feels very similar to most other synthesisers I’ve played I’m talking decent synths not dirt cheap controllers or those mini key things that have been released over the past few years. You really need to go to a music shop and try a few. I’ve got the Native Instruments S88 mk3 which is a piano weighted keyboard, totally unsuitable for organs and most synths. I’ve also recently got the Arturia Keylab 61 Mk2 (not the cheaper Essential range) for synth and organ playing, I’m very happy with it but I’m no expert when it comes to organs, so I don’t really have a clue how it compares to one

[@glasss1978]

@@ojustaboo yes, not easy to describe. The words that come to my mind to describe what I can't stand are 'spongy', 'soft' and 'springy'. I just got some chinese crap in from amazon that was described as "semi-weighted", it's the combination of above three, will go back of course... :/

[@batautomat]

So what would you buy as a replacement keyboard? Have you decided yet, or do you have a list of potential replacements? Thank you for the honest review.

[@krucible1]

Thanks for the one year review. Over the years I've used several 88 note controllers, as a live performing musician. I currently have 2 Akai MPK 88 (now discontinued) controllers that I use. One at rehearsal room and one in a road case for shows. I've had to replace a couple of a plastic pieces of the keybed mechanism that wasn't available for separate purchase. I had an engineering friend digitally scan the item and had about a dozen copies of the replacement part 3D printed, which was an interesting story it's self. I have the first version of the S88 keyboard, that I have at home. It has the ribbon pitch and mod strips that looked "cool" when the unit came out, but are much less "cool" in practical application (pretty useless for live performance). I had to send the first instance of this keyboard back to the manufacturer due to PC connection issues. I like the feel of the S88 keyboard, but I use a different VST host instead on Komplet Kontrol (Gigperformer), as I have many other libraries to use. I wish NI would allow all the knobs/buttons to be active in the midi stand alone mode so I could route them with my VST host. Could sure use the preset up and down buttons for patch changes. They are not active (as most other buttons are not either) in stand alone mode. At least not in the first version of this keyboard, and no firmware updates have made them available. I had two Peavey DPM C8X (and a DPM C8) keyboards (really old and discontinued) that had Fatar keybeds, that felt really good, but the keybeds were even less reliable than the Akai keybeds, though the Peavey had a really awesome midi programing control for all kinds of routing and 8 zones. Still on the look out for a reasonably priced 88 note controller to replace these 68lb Akai keyboards.

[@dulistanheman]

I love your brutal honest bro. Auto-subscribed just for that, especially the quality rattling sound, because I've been looking for this kinda review. Beautiful video.

[@anzatzi]

finally a review that talks about key feel

[@enoshimasan2561]

Same here, I'm so sad I didn't watch this video before I bought my S61 mkII. I have most of your issues. And mass native instruments marketing on KZbin really hide this kind of videos. I'm a pro to, I sent back this keyboard 3 times to NI repair center and finally they refused to repair it again, saying it's "normal behavior".

[@phurniz]

I've been using the same keyboard for a bit over a year now. I can fully agree on the knobs and the display. It's crazy how on the first day the knobs all had totally different resistance, after a few turns. Also, the right display is also bugged. I can live with the knobs, but the display has to be changed. Other than that, I haven't had any issues with the keyboard, and would actually recommend it for a home studio, if you want tight NI integration. No rattles, no key or button issues, no glitches. Just keep the receipt...

[@JakeBorg]

Thank you for your comment!

[@JakeBorg]

I cleaned the keyboard right before shooting. All the dust comes from the two hours it took to make this video.

[@aktasluna]

I have been using KK S49 MkII for over a year and BOY THIS KEYBOARD DOES EVERYTHING TO SLOW DOWN YOUR WORKFLOW.

[@vivienk.9368]

The most honest review videos out there! Love it! So, which keyboard controller would you go for next?

[@chriscopeman8820]

Thanks for this review. I was seriously thinking of buying this keyboard. Now, not so much.

[@JakeBorg]

Good luck with whatever you go with!

[@stanleychan2099]

Same here

[@StudioChimps]

So nice to see a real review 👍👏👏

[@zwoods]

Tack for videon Jake! Om man har beslutsangest mellan denna och Arturia Keylab 61 mk2? For studio syften, inte live. Tack!

[@JakeBorg]

Har inte testat Arturian tyvärr men det är flera som pratat gott om den. Däremot kan jag inte rekommendera den utan att själv ha använt den ;)

[@zwoods]

@@JakeBorg Det forstar jag! Kan ju kanske inte bli samre an s61an ;)

[@jjl2099]

Thanks for the heads up mate was about to pick this one up!!

[@JulieElvenMusic]

Thank you for your detailed and honest review! This was really helpful!

[@JakeBorg]

Glad it was helpful!

[@БорисЛисов-ш5х]

Thank you, Jake! That was very informative and useful video.

[@JakeBorg]

Cheers!

[@dougross2256]

I was really looking at this keyboard and was letting it thank you for your review. What would you recommend?

[@Kettako]

As an S49 owner. God I feel your pain. I'm on my 3rd replacement (under the manufacturer warranty) and the C key now squeaks and the left screen has this gross white contrast that can't be fixed. I absolutely hate the ergonomics of the expression led. The resistance of the knobs are all wonky and cleaning the dust is a pain. Not to mention all the time I had to adjust pedals in the software. All these problems and it doesn't even come with faders like 90% of other midi controllers. About the only thing they did right was the keyboard feels nice....But all 3 of my S49s had some kind of manufactures problem. My most recent of which just BARELY passed the 1 year warranty. I refuse to pay 100$ to fix it. I'll absolutely be on the lookout for a replacement asap

[@derekgreavesjr.34]

I’m a pianist and had my S61 the same amount of time. I have NEVER taken it out the studio because I bought it for production only. I only use Real keyboards for gigs. The S61 has been perfect so far. It’s stays clean and in the studio and is awesome. One review of admitted abuse does not qualify a bad review. I’ve had it going on 2 yrs now. The S61 is not advertised as a gig board period. It’s a controller for the lab.

[@JakeBorg]

I used it in the studio almost everyday for 10 months before using it live. A lot of the issues started occuring within those 10 months.

[@damiengreen28]

My s61 died in the studio on the desk it was put on and barely ever moved from since the day I owned it. Just cos you got lucky doesn't mean they have good quality control, they do not.

[@switterbeet]

Facts, its a frkn MIDI controller, and the defect screen could be easily solved by exchange it with your warranty

[@marianmusic7221]

Thanks for the honest review! All the companies now are interested into visual aspects first, into the first impressions. And as soon as you touch the products with the tips of your fingers you feel them hollow and plasticky. They put more money into advertisement, which use psychological manipulation to make the people buy their products, than they put into the development of the products. I am not surprised to find that the people have very negative opinions about the build quality of the Kemplete Kontrol midi keyboards. It would have been too good to have both the key-pad and the build quality at the same high level...

[@france4me117]

Thank you Jake Borg, you have just opened my eyes regarding this product as I was tossing between this NI 61 Mk2 or the Arturia KeyLab 61 Mk2 which is built like a tank in a matter of fact. Borg sounds like a Maltese surname :). Thank you once again from Melbourne, Australia … Jean-Claude

[@chop661]

Thanks a lot for this video. I originally wanted the NI mk2, but now I'm really happy with my decision to go with an Arturia Keylab mk2 instead.

[@JakeBorg]

Cheers!

[@Omega-Phil]

Wow! YOu must have got a Friday afternoon/Monday morning unit. I haven't got any of the quality issues that you have. A couple of things I would change would be the touch strip should be vertical and to the left, and I would like the knobs re-orientated to the left and right of the screens, vertically mounted and the screens oriented to suit. Apart from that I love it, I'm not a pro player though ;)

[@natas-6747]

Love the outdoor view you have. Good review. Ty!

[@talktalk4503]

Wow u saved me from buying this. It's indeed a gorgeous looking piece. What midi keyboard do u recommend then or are using now? Thx

[@jacksp8de]

I haven't had any of those quality issues. I've only had it for about 4 months and I'm not a piano player so not abusing it as much. Hopefully it holds up.

[@HoldMyBeerFam]

Hey how has your s88 held up do you still have it?

[@jacksp8de]

@@HoldMyBeerFam I have an S49 and it’s still going strong

[@jaysanprogramming6818]

You should have talked about alternatives. Very interesting though. Thanks for your review.

[@Elink321]

Cooooooollll Jake! You made a lot of cool music videos with this product! I think I’ll still buy it. Everybody has different experiences with any new equipment, I just hope the one I get doesn’t have the same problems you are seeing.

[@gmoneymccory5197]

Right

[@w9ahmed]

Hej Jake, thank you for this detailed review. I am curious what MIDI keyboard would you recommend instead of the Komplete Kontrol?

[@suplyr193]

Try Arturia Keylab Mkii 61 and let me know what do you think... Blessings.

[@steveselwood1659]

Thanks for the honest review. Much appreciated ☺

[@JakeBorg]

Cheers!

[@nstarbaby]

Dear sir, thanks for your review. What are you using now or replaced with? Thanks.

[@abhishekrao6017]

I have never seen a more proper and actually reliable review in years about this board but love the way mate you actually you told about everything properly

[@RealBreakBreadFilms]

He didn't... Mine is still just as good as new and I've had mine longer than he's had his 😂

[@abhishekrao6017]

@@RealBreakBreadFilms oohk thanks for your side brother it could be a quality issue then in his one i guess

[@RealBreakBreadFilms]

@@abhishekrao6017 has to be because I bought mine, used

[@FrancescaBettiMusic]

Thank you for the video. Which keyboard are you using now? What do you think about Arturia mKII88?

[@samhorizon3909]

Thanks a lot ! I have bought a S88 and changed it 5 times. 4 were dirty (coffee, finger print etc) and one had a screen default. It is just crazy !

[@lennardvillasenor5151]

I really appreciate these very REAL and thorough reviews. I was interested in this brand but, I think you brought up several issues which made me decide that I am still happy with my Yamaha KX88 MIDI Controller which I have had since the 80s and it feels just like a piano. The programming is hexadecimal, but the keyboard still feels great. I saw your M Audio Code review some time ago as well. Thank you for your insightful reviews. Have you tried the Arturia 88 keyboard options? Probably too heavy for gigging? I brought my Yamaha KX88 from Seattle to Stockholm, but it is like 70 pounds and way too heavy to be moving from place to place.

[@JakeBorg]

Thank you very much! Haven't tried the Arturia 88 yet :/

[@aristotle_4532]

@@JakeBorg There are not many options really: Kawai VPC1 at about 1300 euro Studiologic SL88 Grand at 800 euro Studiologic SL88 Studio at 400 euro. Manufacturers that have no digital piano manufacturing history, generally use Fatar, either the Grand or the Studio model keys. You will find the Grand model keys in the more expensive models, think 3000-4,000 euro. The Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII feels like it has the keys of the Studiologic SL88 Studio. The Native Instruments S88 must also use the Studio model since the list price is too low to justify the more expensive model. If one of the small manufacturers does not use Fatar, the keys are probably of even lower quality. Since you play piano, you should try the Kawai VPC1. The only problem is that it's not a fully featured controller, it doesn't even have aftertouch.

[@jayadevadasthevoiceoftheso6585]

Hmm. Haven't had any of those problems yet. I like the clear review. You might have gotten this already, but did you contact NI, because that sounds like you got a random bad one. Mine has had literally none of those problems, though I have definitely had consistency issues with their 8 encoder knobs on Maschine, which are the same.

[@TadasMelody]

have you tried S88? s88 keybed, as far as I know is a lot better compared to s61, but I don't know about everything else. I wonder if the quality is the same in s61 and s88

[@moviemakerd]

I bought that keyboard used, and before it I had an Arturia Essential 61, so I can only say that the difference is very visible. This is a much better quality keyboard, and I believe your problems were due to a random factory error combined with heavy use. When I connected the keyboard to the PC for the first time, I had a problem with freezing and it stopped working occasionally, so I contacted support. Very quickly I got advice and found that it was the fault of the USB on the PC and not the keyboard. When I plugged it into another USB port, everything worked as it should. For now, I'm very satisfied, and I think that complaining about the black keyboard showing the dust more strongly is not really something unusual :)

[@RealTDragon]

agreed had all the same problems. ended up trading for a novation keyboard

[@JakeBorg]

Sorry to hear that it didn't hold up for you. Nice to hear that there are more people than me that have experienced these issues, confirms my suspicions that the problem is the quality and not us users ;)

[@mikemans2348]

Novation pads gave up on me, found to be inferior plastic painted connector. For price should have been metal edge connectors. Fixed with conductive paint. But poor on expensive Keys.

[@PikeBishop1]

Yep.. I have an EM-U X49 board I got in 2004. Thousands of hours of hard use and it's still going strong. Has very nice and sturdy keys, encoders and modweel etc. Can't say the same will be said for a lot of these modern controllers in 16 years.

[@manikchandwadia4372]

@@JakeBorg you could have gone for Arturia. Their quality is amazing

[@Renaxelo]

does novation give you any good ?

[@beatnickPL]

Great review man!

[@JakeBorg]

Thank you :D

[@RodieOsc]

Thank you for this review! I bought the S88 version. And i wanted to make sure i dndt have to send it back 😂

[@guitarstreet]

How is it?

[@SeanRaine]

I felt it was too big after I got it haha kinda wanna just gets the 61 but idk

[@simongross3122]

Thanks for the honest review. Could you tell me what keyboard you really do like? Thanks.

[@jordanrazowskymusician8178]

Thanks for the vid. I was considering buying the SS88. But now I'm having 2nd thoughts. Any thoughts on the Arturia Keylab 88MKii? That would be my 2nd choice.

[@pauljohnson4590]

Sadly, while Jake's experience is his view, I was very surprised. I've had mine for a similar time, with none of these issues at all. Mine doesn't rattle, the mod wheel is very responsive and as I use it to control stuff in the studio with sample libraries, it's simply the best keyboard I've had. The placing of the touch sensitive bar in front of the mid wheel and pitch bend does mean you sometimes accidentally touch it, but it also lets you adjust volume, pitchbend and mod at the same time by winging your hand in a rotary movement. My displays are solid, and all the buttons work as designed. I crashed on me once where the displays froze. A power off and on fixed it. I dropped a heavy item on the keyboard and broke a key off - totally my fault but a bit of careful gluing worked and no reliability issues. Everything works. I don't think I have ever used the play and stop buttons - I use something else for those functions. I'm probably going to buy an extra one - the 88 note one so that can go in the van for live stuff and I'll just use the 61 note version in the studio. I posted this just for balance. Clearly Jake has a bad experience, but mine had a three year warranty and I have had no need to even consider sending it back - nothing has gone wrong. the two screens are used with the Kontakt system every day - and all knobs and buttons are solid and trouble free. Just my own experience on the exact same product. Maybe you just had a bad one? None of your clearly frustrating things have happened to me - so I'll soon be the owner of two.

[@gosampeinturemusique]

Great review . Why do you have a 61 keys ? 88 keys is not good for playing synths sounds for example ?

[@proteus1]

Have the issues been resolved now it's been on the market for some years? What midi keyboard would you recommend?

[@damiengreen28]

After my s61 mark 1 died for no apparent reason after only light studio use I dont think I'll ever buy NI hardware again. People can scoff and say how badly they need to be treated to die like that all they like. I know how well looked after it was, Mine also had different resistance on each knob, and three times during its life I had to have dead keys fixed on the keybed. Shite. In the mean time the 100 quid maudio piece of shit it replaced still works perfect.

[@JakeBorg]

Thank you for your comment, very informative and I feel the same way :)

[@ArchWorld0829]

Great review and I don't see the reason why people are trying to defend this keyboard... It's a keyboard... That's it, regardless of how you use it... It's suppose to work, not guess when it's going to breakdown... If that was you guys and you guys ended up with a bummed keyboard, you would be making a review just as Jake Borg did... So, don't complain... it's not you... Jake is having problem just like the others and these keyboards should be working at all times if they want their company to stand out above the rest... Don't cheat the people, please them... Go ahead Jake... Do your thing.

[@combofriend4461]

Just, curious when you have the power dropping issue is it connected to usb only, or are you using ac adapter too? Do you have any recommendation for a midi keyboard that has some daw control, but trades the big screens and lights for higher quality keybed (and just general quality so it's not breaking down all the time lol). I'm just looking for a 61 key w good quality, at least close to full-size keys, works with usb only. The smaller form factor the better, but I know there's tradeoffs there

[@HoldMyBeerFam]

Best way you could go is arturia keylab 61 mk2

[@missbeaude]

Thanks. You’ve saved me! What is a better one?

[@1redgate8]

Great honest review, saved me from buying. Was already so-so on it given it is pretty much driven to use NI software, which in itself is on the pointy end cost wise - though the acoustic drums sound awesome. And I would definitely want quality for the cost of the keyboard. I might look at the Arturia keylab ultimate MK2.

[@marklholloway]

Appreciate the honest review. I went with a Doepfer LMK-2 88 midi controller. By far the best I’ve experienced. You see most of the Spitfire folks using it as well in their videos.

[@manuelvicente9614]

Ok, thanks, and what keyboard do you have now?

[@edrumsense]

Very good review. Had you tried Nektar or Arturia Keyboards? They seem to be better at quality.

[@edrumsense]

On the other hand... I would recommend a better brand like roland. www.roland.com/global/products/a-800pro/

[@evenaicantfigurethisout]

Please review the arturia keylab mkii 88. Thanks!

[@bjorn980]

Thanks for your review I want to learn to play piano but I also want to use it with my DAW. Would you recommend a Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII or a better a E-Piano like a Yamaha P125 or a Kawai ES110?

[@miguelvarela]

From what I've just watch, the Kawai ES-110 is incredible, a quality piano for everyday use, and an excellent Bluetooth MIDI controller for using the sounds of the DAW without attaching a USB cable to the computer. Thank you!

[@unknown75332]

Thank you for an honest review. I wanted to kindly ask you, im an amateur and still wanted to learn the chords and scales, and i think that light guide would help me a lot(kontakt komplete instruments)Would you recommend it to me? Especially for music production. Thank you in advance

[@reuberhotzenplotz3930]

thanks for the honest review !

[@daviddechamps8840]

Wow! Not good! Thanks for sharing. Maybe they have fixed some issues by now... Any idea which alternative you would select if you would buy a keyboard today? (I'm currently looking for one)

[@HEATHfromOZ]

Honesty rules. Thank you!

[@MateValtr]

Came for the keyboard review, stayed for the dope view out of the window, wondering where the hell it is - Amsterdam? Anyway, great review, Jake - love you are getting into the nitty-gritty of all the aspects you as a player can encounter. Certainly one of the most helpful review videos out there. Kudos.

[@JakeBorg]

Thank you very much! I hope you find the keyboard you are looking for. It's filmed in Stockholm but I totally see the resemblence to Amsterdam. We have quite a lot of water surrounding the city here too! All the best to you.

[@chris96dobrev]

I just saw your videos about this keyboard and the M-Audio Code. I’m doubting which one to chose, I got a lot of recommendations for the NI S61 from well-known artists, music store consultants etc, but now as I saw that video - in your opinion which one is better ?

[@rosewurkz]

Thanks, very useful 🤗

[@josephhall2698]

Which MIDI would you recommend for pianists?

[@soeren72]

finally someone honest, and not paid, do you have any suggestions for a midi keyboard with piano feel

[@dmackiii5534]

Keylab 88 MK2

[@soeren72]

@@dmackiii5534 Thanks

[@iRon_242]

It rather seems to be a revenge video and not a really honest one, IMHO :-(

[@jh8691]

THANK YOU FOR THIS I LOVE THE VIDEO!!!! :)

[@blissiband3370]

I have had one for two years and I think the integration sucks. For example, the integration relies on loading sounds into the KOMPLETE KONTROL plug in, which does not regcognize any sustain pedal. If I use other plugins or Kontakt sustain works but then I loose the intigration features. Every few months I take another try at NI's trouble shooting for this issue but no success.

[@101Licious]

You need to setup your SP in KK. Google it, easy.

[@GeoffHassing]

Hi Jake, what's the song at the end of the video, it's cool.

[@Fatal_Inertia]

Just received the 25th anniv. ltd edition purple version (2021 model), I'll let you know if they've addressed these issues when I open it. I'll definitely be using a dust cover. Good review btw

[@zmmmzmmmz]

How quickly do issues surface? I'm wondering if they have done revisions and am considering a refurbished with only 90 days warranty

[@HJPhilippi]

You bought the wrong keyboard for the wrong purpose, obviously. In my 30 years of home studio work, I have never owned something so perfectly crafted for what I needed. The integration into my workflow astonishes me over and over again. No problems with the hardware quality either, it appears rock solid at an affordable price.

[@olivierroquelle8007]

I got a lot of NI hardware (2 maschine and a maschine+ that I adore) and software but I had to admit I bought a S49 Mk2 two months ago, not using it everyday and stored into a specific hard case and since 2 weeks my middle C# begins to make a lot of noise and loose resistance! 😔 I have to admit I’m disappointed by this product!! Does key quality improve on Mk3? 🙄

[@heythere6983]

Thanks for this Iv heard About the keyboard not being great . But not all the other possible issues . I’m looking for something to use with synthesis and kontakt and some piano sounds aswell. What then do you suggest can deliver and be reliable? I’d like 88 keys. Iv also considered why people think the integration is so important. I have used a free kontakt sampler with a cheap 88 keyboard and I didn’t have any issues with it. I didn’t really have to map anything. So idk how massive the difference really is with mapping. But for an 88 key midi controller that is reliable and has good responsiveness , what is your recommendation?

[@djcompetition1]

Love your videos man, I’ve seen that you hadn’t had a “good” experience with the M-Audio Code nor the NI KKontrol S, so just a humble personal recommendation from me, you should try the Akai Advance, either the 49 or the 61 keys, man I’ve owned the Komplete Kontrol, the Arturia Keylab, the Nektar Impact and the Akai Advance, and this last one is probably my favorite, the software it come with organizes all your vsts into one (REALLY useful for me) and you have complete control from the keyboard. The pads, the knobs, and the keys they all feel pretty good quality, and overall is always my go to of them all, if you ever have time to try one you should, keep the good content man, cheers 🔥

[@JakeBorg]

I will try it! The Arturia and the Akai has been peaking my interest lately so after your comment I'll be sure to check it out! Thank you for your comment!

[@SpikeColgate]

@@JakeBorg Just a heads up, i've owned an MPK249 Mk2 for just over 2 years now and then, boom, the pitch bend has failed. Checked the forums for suggestions and then found it's a common problem for the MPK series. Hoping your Advance works out ok, but for me i'm looking elsewhere now. Was maybe looking at the S49, but after this honest review i think i'm gonna look at the Arturia MK2.

[@damiengreen28]

VIP is shit compared to komplete kontrol, thats not subjective, it just is. Not even a close second. The software I mean, I have both, the integration from komplete kontrol is infinitely better. Unfortunately the keyboards die :/

[@DaveDG]

I have had a different experience.. I own the Advance 61, but I really hate the keybed response.. tried to set it in many different ways but no one satisfied me, so I'm keeping using my Yamaha P85 piano as a master keyboard via MIDI cable. Also, 2 keys of the Advance started showing a wrong behavior, giving a high velocity response even if touched very lightly. I was looking into the S61 cause I hoped it could be a good change in terms of keybed and software (VIP has not been improved anymore since years), now I am very disappointed after watching this video :(( I am starting to suspect that the best thing to do is using a good old sturdy keyboard (like my P85 for example) and then separate controllers for other midi features. Main thing I miss is modulation and pitch bend wheels, which P85 does not have. I wonder if there are any 2-wheel external modules! What a bummer however! I liked the light guide and integration with Kontakt and Ableton on the KK S61 mk2.

[@rayderrich]

You saved me from buying the even more expensive S88, thanks for the talk!

[@JakeBorg]

Hope you find something you're happy with!

[@Vlad-zn2sz]

Hey, let me comment on this guys. Just hired s88, having it 2.5 months and have to say I’m quite happy, keys are fully hammered, feels like normal piano, knobs and screens works well, no rattling sounds at all. On the other hand have to agree with the fact the needle bar is quite useless... Anyway I think the particular device in the video was probably just faulty. If no I’ll be very disappointed🤔

[@MarcoPolux]

The S88 I believe is a different build, a Fully Weighted FAtar Keyb.... but the compomnents, the rest might be the same. . . . . I was Aiming at the S88.... Now I might at the Arturia KeyLab 88 or, the very austere but I've heard it is super good one: Doepfer LMK4+ 88-key Master Keyboard Controller with Case

[@livingproof9927]

The mk2 S88 is newer more improved and better quality plus if he liked those keys the S88 are better weighted etc- so idk you should look directly on reviews for the model and type you want

[@epicon6]

@@livingproof9927 I have both the S61 mk2 and S88 mk2 and they both have the same built quality. The only difference is the S88 has a heavier bottom metal plate and it's larger in size so it might seem like it's built different. He musta have got a bad copy of the S61 mk2. I also had the s49 mk2 and a second hand s61 mk2 before i got my new one and i haven't gotten any of these issues.

[@kralkrauterblach414]

is it really so bad??? it was my Favorite to buy :-( can anyone recommend a comparable better keyboard? What I really need and find cool are the lightkeys learning function , because im beginner with keyboards

[@misiowaskocha]

They are always black sheeps in the production, some of his qulity points i can not confirm.

[@youtubevideos415]

Great. Finally an honest review. I already suspected that this keyboard was not living up to it's hype. You saved me a lot of bucks. I just wish you would test the Novation SL MK3 if that would be a better alternative. But anyways, thanks for the honest review.

[@MissionControlBand]

Not sure if you’re still looking at the mk3 but I’ll save you the trouble. Absolutely trash piece of hardware with more issues than this video had with his komplete. I don’t have a single nice thing to say about the mk3 it is an utter embarrassment compared to the sl mk2

[@youtubevideos415]

@@MissionControlBand Thanks for the insight. Meanwhile i've bought a Komplete Kontrol Mk2 and i'm totally happy with it. Have no issues at all and the keybed is great.

[@MissionControlBand]

@@youtubevideos415 I picked one up yesterday after selling my SL MK3. So happy with the Komplete right now. The keybed is definitely amazing!

[@joeljohansson6097]

Swedish? Any chance of selling it for a reasonable price? :)

[@silverdustwind7964]

Thanks brother for the info

[@mikemans2348]

About time KK sold an S49 Mk 2 with weighted keys like the S88 Mk 2. Some people dont have the space for an 88 but would like to play with the weighted key option.

[@prodbygunter]

Can I plug this into a wall outlet and play it or is it simply only midi? I have an acoustic upright piano which is good and sounds good but it is old and I want to switch to a digital/stage. This looked really good and I like native instruments but I don't want to buy it if I can't play it as a regular piano. Just as reference can I play the Komplete Kontrol s88 like I can play a Casio CDPS160? Or is it you can only use the Komplete s88 if you plug it into a computer? Thank you for the help!

[@grolux12]

Oups ! I bought one 3 months ago. I hope that I won't enconter all the negative points you mention. I have a 88 keys, and I had no problems yet.

[@JakeBorg]

Hope so too mate!

[@grolux12]

After 5 months now some notes makes noise (kind of rattle). I think that you can't play with the same force as you play on an acoustic piano or a Yamaha P-200. The software and integration with Cubase is perfect for me. Don't forget to run komplete kontrol as administrator.

[@JakeBorg]

@@grolux12 I'm sorry to hear that! I really hope the problems stop there for you.

[@funkyjones]

This was helpful and I've eliminated this one from my list. But complaining about dust on the black surface and in between the keys? Wouldn't that happen with any black controller?

[@JakeBorg]

Oh, it sure would! Just tried to point out everything I saw from using the keyboard! ;)

[@misiowaskocha]

Ofcourse it does, this one is a poor point. Therefore every device has mostly an protection overlay.

[@artunucci]

Thanks for your honest review. I just bought an S88 and I hope I have a better experience than you did. I'm also a pianist (I have a master's degree in piano) and keys were a major concern for me. Too bad I didn't find your video before buying. I'm waiting for it to be delivered, let's see. They give 14 days for a full refund.

[@JakeBorg]

Best of luck!

[@ronnie8722]

@alan, any word on the quality of your S88?

[@HopperDragon]

How did it work out for you?

[@TheFlipsterGoodfella]

Did you buy something else now to replace this or have any other recommendations?

[@Nicoladen1]

What keyboard do you have now? And is it better? And can you make a review? Or just leave me the name so I can check it out

[@mcsweet1966]

Hello Jack, I`m a real BAD piano layer looking for something better to replace my M-audio keystation 88. I don`t do live Cause I suck and I use my keyboard under my DAW desk so I don`t need all the display and stuff only a Good touch and feel and basic integration to Cubase. In your opinion, what would be a Good 61 or 88 keys controller at a good price

[@DopamineOverload]

Fantastic review. As others pointed out, there's a lot of wild hyperbole with reviews-- "this is the BEST EVER! Game-changer! Best controller ever made!" I hate that horseshit. Thanks for being real, among a sea of phonies.

[@babar141]

What keyboard are you gonna get next? I heard akai mpk261 are good

[@JakeBorg]

Don't know yet! At the moment I can't switch because there are other upgrades I need to put money in before :)

[@marianmusic7221]

Hi! I own Akai MPK261 and my overall impression about it is not very good. Even though i do not consider it a premium/very good midi controller, it doesn't fall into the lowest class neither! The overall build quality is good! It is heavy and very steardy, but the buttons have a noisy and cheap sound (that's not a big deal). It feels and it looks much better than the M-Audio and Novation counterparts. The midi keyboards from Novation and M-Audio feel and look like cheap and plasticky toys when compared to MPK261! The MPK261 does have 16 pads (4 virtual banks = 64 pads) which, again, are not the highest quality (although they are referred as "MPC-class pads"), but they aren't bad neither. One more positive thing about Akai MPK261 is that it has 8 knobs, 8 faders and 8 switches (3 virtual banks for each = 24 knobs, 24 faders and 24 switches), which are very handy. As you can see i am very picky when i say that i do not have a good impression about it. My biggest complain about MPK261 is that the key-bed doesn't feel natural. The keys are ... springy (they have springs beneath them). No hammer-action -> they do not have that piano feel... But the Komplete Kontrol S61 doesn't have that neither. Only KK S88 has it, which is what i was looking for. I wished MPK261 would have hammer-action keys... The Komplete Kontrol S88 MK 2 key-bed feel is probably the closest one to a natural piano-feel. Too bad that it falls behind on all the other areas. Edit: I watched a lot of reviews lately and Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII seems to be on the top of the list. Beside having a great build and a lot of features (9 faders, 9 knobs, 9 switches and 16 pads + DAW function keys), it has hammer-action keys.

[@joaonuno439]

Thanks!

[@robertruiz9]

What piano are you currently using?

[@RogerToye]

thanks good review. i have passed over this because of the quality and i prefer the weighted keys

[@JakeBorg]

Good choice!

[@joshhiary7060]

for a 14 year old i cant keep buying 1000$ keyboards, i really want the s88, but im scared it is gonna last me a little over a year, i need a good 4 years out of it, any advise for a keyboard, midi, synth (all need 88keys) for me?

[@jh8691]

Is there anything else you would recommend for people who wants to do live looping performance?

[@BYFOREVER]

So what Midi Controller would you recommend?

[@JakeBorg]

The honest answer is that I don't know. I haven't tried anything that is really great yet!

[@christophertodman8254]

l@@JakeBorg what about the SL 73 ? only one screen to crap out...or, like someone mentioned, the novation

[@iRon_242]

@@JakeBorg Maybe You are the problem and not the keyboards, bro.