Native Instruments M32 Review: 4 Years Later!

[@ThisIsOnesto]

Thanks for watching! Check out the Komplete Kontrol M32 here: bit.ly/46tRqyT

[@ontrada]

I've had the Komplete Kontrol M32 for a few years, too. For me, one of the big bonuses was all of the free software that came with it. If someone is really just getting started, they can save a lot by getting Komplete Kontrol keyboards.

[@ThisIsOnesto]

You're totally right! This tiny keyboard comes with a big bundle of free software, and even gets you discounts on more NI software/bundles. I guess I failed to mention that it's not only a great "travel" keyboard, but also a great keyboard for someone who's just getting started/ Thanks for watching!

[@icarusz000]

Thank you for the Bitwig DAW Integration example. Exactly what I was looking for!

[@ThisIsOnesto]

Nice! You're a BW user. Whenever I can show them some love, I go for it. Glad it could help you out.

[@icarusz000]

Best DAW in my opinion!

[@qwe1231]

I think the Arturia KeyStep 37 would be a step up for hardly more money. For just $60 more the KeyStep gives you more keys (*with* aftertouch, unlike the M32), USB, MIDI, CV, and clock connectivity, 8-mode arp, chord mode, strum mode, scale mode, and a 64-note sequencer built in. If you live inside the NI ecosystem get the M32, otherwise check out the KeyStep.

[@ThisIsOnesto]

I totally agree with you. If you live in the NI ecosystem (like me) then the M32 is probably your keyboard of choice. But if you aren’t a NI user then I would recommend the KeyStep. That’s such a great way to describe it. And all those features the KeyStep has, especially aftertouch is a big win. Thanks for watching and offering that solid advice.

[@korthaxl]

Some keys on my M32 are not working. I'd like to know if Native Instruments supports it as I'm not sure if it's a software or hardware issue.

[@HumanBeingWithFeelings]

Great review! I'm happy with my Korg Microkey Air (wireless) but when it stops working I'd like to get one of those. They are really high quality. Cheers Onesto!

[@ThisIsOnesto]

Thanks for the feedback, I'm so happy you think it's a good review! This channel is going to have a lot more hardware reviews, so I'm hoping that these reviews offer a lot of value. And I just checked out the Korg Microkey, and I had no idea they have 49 and 61 key versions. I always thought it just had 25 keys!

[@anzatzi]

Great channei!

[@ThisIsOnesto]

Thanks for watching!

[@song23ministries]

Thanks Onesto. I own an A61 from NI with Komplete 14. I can get all the knobs to work in Komplete Kontrol but when pulling up Kontact, or Kontact 7 I lose all knob control. So the 8 knobs are usless. That's my only complaint. Love your vids. Thanks again.

[@ThisIsOnesto]

That's a solid setup, the A61 is very similar in layout and workflow with the M32. I also had the same issue that you did with Kontakt. The "work around" is to use Kontakt libraries inside Komplete Kontrol. Not sure if you're trying that, but this is how you can get the knob control back. Another thing is that the S-Series MK3 finally has integration with Kontakt. So you won't have that problem with the newest products. I don't think that's a big reason enough to upgrade your keyboard, but a solution exists! Thanks again for watching, it means a lot!

[@DjRavix]

About the Controls ... for those who remember the Original Komplete Kontrol S25/49/61 (MK1) The way NI did the controls on those would be a good option in my opinion without turning it into a expensive unit

[@ThisIsOnesto]

I just looked up the MK1 and wow, I think you’re right. That would have been such a great way to label the controls. I’m guessing that even then it would have driven up the price too much?? But I would have preferred that design over the current one. Thanks for watching!

[@quantum_m3chan1c]

How much of a big deal is it to lack the aftertouch or velocity sensitivity? Is it a must have thing if you're serious about having a quality piece of gear?

[@JeffyG]

I’ve had mine for 3 years. Good Logic Pro integration. Great Komplete Kontrol integration. Fits in a backpack for me. I take it everywhere. Unfortunately, the ‘Browse’ button top right, no longer brings up KK Library, like it used to - a feature NI dropped and I don’t get it. Same with Kontakt 7 - M32 does more with Kontakt 6 than 7. As KK adds groups and other S Series enhancements, I see support for the M32 and MK2 keyboards dropping.

[@ThisIsOnesto]

Nice! Glad the M32 could be such a loyal companion. As for the updates to Kontakt and KK, yeah I feel ya. There’s been a ton of great update to both products but unfortunately the old hardware doesn’t seem to be supported. I have both Kontakt 6 and 7 on my computers so that’s been my work around. Thanks again for watching!

[@spokansas]

I would really be interested in a 49 or 62 key version. One with the same very slim profile and low weight. An integrated LCD screen would be great but I imagine it would become much thicker. I have the M32, and use it for the preconfigured knobs and as a 'keyswitch keyboard' extention for my 61 midi keyboard. I actually like the response of the keys on the M32,

[@ThisIsOnesto]

I wish NI had slimmer keyboards too! The S-Series is a beast, and so is the A-Series. And that's a great way to use the M32. Thanks for watching!

[@akosh_hardtechno]

Which one should I buy Komplete Kontrol M32 or Arturia minilab 3? I'm hard techno DJ and producer, which one is better for my production.

[@ThisIsOnesto]

In your case, the Minilab 3 is better for you since there are faders and pads. You can use the pads for samples or launching clips/scenes.

[@akosh_hardtechno]

@@ThisIsOnesto Thanks man for replying.. now I'm going to buy minilab3

[@joshua42777]

Thank you for sharing! if I may ask ... I have limited space and eye issues, but I want better hardware/software integration, I was going to get the m32 but I need to be able to read the screen, what would you recommend?

[@ThisIsOnesto]

Great question, the screen really is tiny, so if you have eye issues, it may bother you. A lot of keyboards at this size have tiny screens or no screen at all. Fortunately, you can get by without referring to a screen. The hardware software integration still works great as long as you're looking at your computer screen. The screen on the keyboard is meant to keep your eyes off your computer screen, but it's more an ideal than an essential. So my recommendation is to wait until the Fall to see if there's any new keyboard releases, which there always are, or you buy the M32 from a place that allows you to easily return it like Guitar Center or Sweet Water.

[@joshua42777]

@@ThisIsOnesto Thank you!

[@feiloubeats]

Hi, I can't seem to get used to the touch strips, especially the pitch bend. Anyone got tips?

[@robertacevedo5601]

Thanks

[@ThisIsOnesto]

Thanks for watching, hope the video could help!

[@rtgstackz]

What's the record for if u can record anyways In the daw

[@ThisIsOnesto]

Good question, the record button is nice shortcut. So instead of moving your hands over to your keyboard and mouse, you can simply press the record button on the midi keyboard. It helps speed up the workflow a little. Not essential, just a nice to have.

[@rtgstackz]

@@ThisIsOnesto okay

[@ShadowSpactorAkathefallenP]

On what ever cost, do not get the Alesis piano keabord. It’s so hard to play on and it’s not that good at translating.

[@ThisIsOnesto]

I haven’t tried the Alesis Keyboard you’re talking about, but I’ll keep that in mind, thanks!

[@tanhchien]

I use studio one 6 error

[@olivierjumarie9366]

Time to redesign it a bit or release a 37 keys

[@ThisIsOnesto]

I agree. I think we’re due for a new model. Hopefully it’s in the works.

[@martinkinch]

@@ThisIsOnesto hey NI, dont forget about aftertouch 😭[😃]

[@user-qc7jr7tm1f]

😂