Nektar Instruments - Aura Drum Machine review!

[@MrWoofer]

I use a Panorama P1 with Cubase and just bought the Aura. Setting the MIDI ins and outs for both of them to work correctly was a bit tricky but Justin from Nektar was very helpful. Now they are both running smoothly. I like the Aura. By the way: Nektarine now works with P1 in standalone mode.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Thanks for sharing!

[@the_mr_brandon]

I believe this is the only review of the aura on all of KZbin right now. Thanks!

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Wow, thanks! I have no idea on that.

[@QUESCANADA]

Yea, it is. I had to milk a goat to get to it. Thanks for sharing. I ordered mine today. Can’t wait to explore

[@yotrakzproductions7324]

Agreed Emlyn, Nectarine is for the bold and patient. That said, I use the Aura somewhat uniquely. I produce beats using mobile apps and Aura worked best for me when connected to an ipad/iphone running the Gadget2 app over wireless Bluetooth MIDI. As a mobile beat producer I love portability, compactness and maximum app control. One very cool feature is that during Aura's internal mode playback active pad sequences can be modulated, muted, soloed, sped up/slowed down, truncated/re-elongated all independent of other tracks simultaneously playing. Or when play is initiated in Gadget2, I can manipulate the MIDI assigned Aura encoders to control Gadget2's effects within the app for realtime performance. Obviously, Nectarine does not work in the app but I don't need it.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Wow, that sounds like an awesome setup. How did you run it via Bluetooth?

[@yotrakzproductions7324]

@@EmlynInTheMix I use the Yamaha UDBT-01 USB to MIDI host adapter. It connects to the Gadget2 app on my ipad via bluetooth for MIDI devices. Understand that using it that way however only gives one the features of pad playing and encoder assignment to whatever app you use in your iOS device. HOWEVER, that was months ago. Now that Nektar updated Aura's firmware; the DP1 drum module and Nektarine AND I figured out how to use Nectarine I'm done with the iOS thing. With all the features of Aura and the access to any VST/VST3 plugins I already own (there are also free VST/VSTi's that are compatible with the Aura) the creative possibilities are exponential. Adding to that if you use Reason 12 with the Aura, a majority of the device is premapped to the significant parts of Reason so that you rarely have to touch the computer. The last premapped device I used that even came close to the Aura was the Akai Fire (and I'm an FLS ride-or-die Bro.). In my opinion, the Aura is 10 times better than the Fire.

[@_c_y_p_3]

​@@yotrakzproductions7324 Gadget is not meant to be a giant daw its meant to be minimalistic scratchpad. You must be more patient than I am for being able to get this convoluted half assed mess to work and not feel ripped. I ditched it fast. Sad, cuz the hardware is identical to NI gear, awesome pads, I wish Roland and Akai used this factory cuz my SP404s pads are shit. Me, I will stay with iOS cuz when mastering in the end you don’t need all that 9000000000 synths and giant limitlessness , you just need a few things layered that work well together iOS can do that well and allllllll while riding on a train or buss, TRY THAT with your home studio!

[@_c_y_p_3]

Yes yes I am a Korg fanboy and all though I adore my Massive and Renoise, I prefer portable over stationary. Try picking up groceries with a backpack fulla laptopsand controllers…

[@NeonPLotus]

I disagree. I cannot stand the maschine software. I can’t stand having a crappy mini daw in my full featured, more versatile daw.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Well this might be the perfect solution for you. This is running in the background so you have full access to your DAWs features. There is going to be some fantastic tutorial videos for Nektarine soon!!

[@NeonPLotus]

Emlyn In The Mix i already have a panorama P6, and I’m already planning to get this. I also have a maschine mk2, which is how I came to my previous conclusion. I find it better to have an appliance that can work across all daws, use my own samples, and interface with the drum machines of my daw, as you demonstrated with kong, rather than what I described earlier. In the end, NI wants us stuck in their own expensive eco system, and after having experience with what I consider their bloatware, while I also have both bitwig and logic (bitwig has some issues that I’ve brought up to them multiple times, which logic proved me correct, in how they handle their drum machines), as well as a butt load of third party plugins I feel surpass NI’s, I just don’t see the point in dealing with NI for anything.

[@NeonPLotus]

Emlyn In The Mix I should also say I look forward to your nektarine tutorials

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Thanks! Me too, I’m just waiting to hear back directly from the developers on this.

[@NeonPLotus]

Emlyn In The Mix from my experience, they’re usually pretty responsive

[@connormckay9429]

How does this handle sampling? I'm looking at the Mashine MK3 and the MPC Studio MK2 (like the price of the Aura and Studio MK2 alot more) because they both offer really nice features for sampling but the Mashine is expensive and the Studio seems to have a clunky work flow, so if this can chop samples roughly as good and as easily as either of those this seems like its me ticket to getting into hip hop production

[@officialsimonharris]

Hi, Thanks for the video can I please ask how you got Aura to work with the Logic X Drum Machine Designer? Is that just as a Midi controller or did you open it within Nektarine? I am mostly concerned with controlling it with Aura but it still behaving as per normal with each sound on it's own channel in Logic, did you find a way to change the pad colour as well? - thanks! Simon

[@joebrewer4529]

My question about this device. Is that you can scroll through the parameters. So the knobs would actually be more scrolling through the pages. I don't know how many knobs the controller has but safe it had eight and you had four pages you would have 32 controls. So then each pad represents a plug-in that you can control? So then if you set up your own personally defined control over the VST how many pages do you have that can control the VST. So then say if each pad has 10 pages that would give you 80 knobs for plugin? Because I've been looking for something to be able to go in and either have pre-mapped or designate my own personal preference. The one reason I would want this device is because of the form factor. It would just fit neatly in my desktop setup.

[@StefanoPettinelli]

Hi everyone! Did this nice tool receive some updates? How are you using it? With which plugins? Can you also browse drum samles from the hardware itself? I'm currently a Maschine MK3 user, but Maschine in the years developed in a way I feel quite frustrating, being too complex as a drum-machine, too limited as a DAW... Thanks in advance for your attention, have a nice day!

[@sekritskworl-sekrit_studios]

Can Aura trigger Maschine software samples?

[@oddjobzombie]

I just got this controller and yeah, the hardware is excellent. One glaring omission is that there's only the most basic DAW control. My Panorama T-series had track navigation and creation, volume, mute, and solo control in both Logic and Bitwig but Aura seems to only support this functionality in Nektarine. I really hope they change this. The other thing my Panorama had that the Aura lacks was the ability to create Nektarine-independent MIDI control pages for specific plugins. Hopefully the firmware develops further.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Good comparisons. Yes hope there is some firmware updates!!

[@oddjobzombie]

@@EmlynInTheMix You know-the more I'm working with it, the more I'm wondering if this device is in some sort of unofficial beta testing phase. Almost all online retailers have it listed for preorder only still and the firmware experience just feels raw in a lot of ways. I'll be holding on to this one to see how it develops, I'm pretty curious at this point.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

I know the developers are working on some in depth videos on using the Nektarine software. So hopefully I can do an updated video once that info comes out.

[@oddjobzombie]

@@EmlynInTheMix I've created a bunch of support tickets and feature requests with Nektar over the past week and they're super responsive. I'm actually really hopeful that this device will come together. One weird thing I discovered is it has totally undocumented polyphonic aftertouch

[@tsgodman4409]

You said it brother, I've had my Aura for a couple of weeks too and the Nektarine software was almost a deal breaker. After wrestling with the software for a week, I broke through on how I could use it all in my workflow, so I decided to keep my Aura, as it's just such a great feeling controller, sequencer, mixer, it feels so tactile and energetic, I just love it. My advice to others considering it is to try the Aura and persist with the software until the penny drops on how it can work for you. (Fingers crossed that Nektar Instruments realize that the Aura is a fantastic overall controller and by doing a complete overhaul of the Nektarine software they could then steal frustrated Maschine users across to their eco system.)

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Thanks for the great comment. I’m in much agreement with you!! I’m excited about this hardware a lot!

[@mazor13]

God it's that tough to use? :/

[@99MUZIK]

I have the aura as well but the only thing is frustrating is the Nektarine software I scan all my plugs it already installed its show when I call my vst on the plugin view but it’s doesn’t show my presets on the browser view. I’m following the instructions how to import my presets the blue tab icon doesn’t click . Don’t get me wrong I want to keep my aura the software is a pain in the ass.

[@MrWoofer]

@@mazor13 No, of course it’s not. Like every new software out there, one needs to invest a bit of time learning it.

[@thegoony]

I tried the Aura and Nektarine when it first came out, perservered patiently for 2 weeks, nektarine was buggy as hell, promptly sent the unit back, great unit, but for me letdown by the software at that time, was unworkable for me, just seen @namm 22 its getting a big OS update, so may try it out again.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Yes Nektar Tech recently reached out to me to let me know they've done a massive update to Nektarine. I've been playing with the update and I have to say it's a massive improvement. I'll have to do a video for this soon!

[@teshy2]

As someone who has been scouring the net for information on this device and Nektarine, I just have to say - thank you so much for making this video! There's really a shortage of solid info on the Aura (and Nektarine) especially updated stuff. If you get around to making a new video about the new Nektarine versions and/or how the Aura works with it, that'd be greatly appreciated.

[@zanza_the_rewolverine]

Very cool i have been thinking about opting for this, my workflow is Logic Pro x 10.5 and serato sample, can nektar aura completely control Logic x and serato sample?

[@BlessbyGBeats]

I would have loved to see more of the screen vs hardware use. I would have loved to see the transport buttons used and things like that. Good overview! I hope maybe you can do a review after some more time with the Aura. But, it sounds like you may send it back. I'm a Maschine user also, but I want something to use more with Logic Pro X.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Sure I understand that, sorry I didn’t cover the transport. The transport works seamlessly and perfectly with Logic Pro X. Hardware wise it’s solid! Love the Drum Pads. If you can get around the user interface for this thing then it’s a keeper!!

[@JBlongz]

Is the note repeat and switching of time divisions as tight with the DAW's native drum Maschine?

[@EmlynInTheMix]

It’s pretty tight man! Very good in Reason!!

[@SpeakNowHoldYourPeace]

Can this be use for spoken word clips. For example a sound clip of a person screaming or a sound clip of a person saying "Welcome!!!!"

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Yes totally. Any sample back software player will allow you to do this and you can control the Aura via Midi.

[@deepthings4311]

Does it integrate better than maschine in Logic Pro x? I’ve got the maschine mk3 and have had a lot of challenges incorporating it into my workflow, have been looking for another controller and this looks like a good possibility

[@tinentdan]

Great video!! I would like to know if the inbuilt sequencer had any kind of off the grid programming capabilities any swing or groove functionalities. Thank you.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

It does have swing and groove. Not sure what you mean by grid programming. Think of it more like an 808 sequencer.

[@brunolacerda4611]

I'm having problem in daw integration with Ableton, could you help me? The blue Daw botton is not lithing

[@rashaunrobinson8103]

I can not git that's aura I have to make a sound how did u do it

[@r.williams8725]

Is it a standalone

[@EmlynInTheMix]

With the new update it is now! I’m getting a video done soon on it

[@carmelhelene]

Thank you! I can't find much info on this Aura anywhere on KZbin! How do you load sounds into the hardware to begin with?? And what is the sequence of steps to actually get the sequencer to work? I've been stuck for dayyyys!! :))

[@SeniorSandoz]

As i understand u cant load samples in Controller. U need a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation. As Ableton eg) Its a controller and not a standalone-machine.

[@SeniorSandoz]

If u want a standalone beatmaking machine Look for drummachines like Roland TR8s, Octatrack, Korg Volca Sample or Volca Beat ;-) For a standalone check out Native Instruments new Maschine

[@jivexero]

curious how well this integrates with ableton drum racks.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Yea it's really good, obviously not as well integrated as something like the push but works well from my experience in drum racks.

[@samson7842]

Wow, I literaly just Googled Nektar Aura vs Maschine and your video came up. Had I searched 10 minutes earlier, I'd have missed your video. Are the pads as good as the old Korg Padkontrol (white version)?

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Haha that’s awesome! I haven’t played with the Padkontrol before so I I’m not sure. But I’m pretty sure these are the best feeling drum pads around, I’d be pretty surprised if Korg Padkontrol is better.

[@brunolacerda4611]

@@EmlynInTheMix What about Native instruments Maschine MIKRO Mk3? Do you think this pads are better?

[@BlessbyGBeats]

Hey, favor. Do you still have firmware v010004 still? V010008 on the website Is faulty and throws the aura into test mode and it will not restore. If you still have it can you email it?

[@EmlynInTheMix]

I don't think so man, I can't find it.

[@BlessbyGBeats]

@@EmlynInTheMix thanks anyway, nektar is sending me a new one. Mine is defective.

[@Pauluz_The_Web_Gnome]

You can achieve better and great response on the MK3 by lower the vol% per pad.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Nice 👍

[@Pauluz_The_Web_Gnome]

@@EmlynInTheMix No problem bro!

[@pierrefitch]

Is this standalone

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Yep!!

[@pierrefitch]

@@EmlynInTheMix is it worth getting for finger drumming I already own MPC one and Mk3

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Definitely for finger drumming and the ability to control your various plugins with it. It’s up to you though as sounds like you’ve already got some of the best midi drum controllers on the market.

[@HurveyJones]

Great review! I have Native Instruments also, and I just got my Aura 2 weeks ago too. Looks like we are in the same boat. I'm struggling with the chord mode. It seems like you have to make your own progression, versus choosing a key and everything works. I'm going to keep mine, but the software is my challenge too. I will not be defeated!! haha

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Haha so funny, I feel the same way. I'm challenged to get this thing working with the software and want to keep the hardware as a result! What would be amazing is if I can get this working in the Maschine 2.0 software. Which I don't think is possible :(

[@HurveyJones]

Emlyn In The Mix yes you can, search PoohBear for nektar nektarine, he’s using it in Reason

[@HurveyJones]

I’m also using it in Native Instruments. Save the file under native instruments default file Ni 64 bit, then rescan, and it will be in the drop down menu. If you need help, I’m here for you

[@HurveyJones]

@@EmlynInTheMix this is the video I was referring to. This helped me a lot. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGe1e3RpjJqegrM

[@pjpthepostman1953]

Great review, thank you. I tried the Aura, for its sequencer. But since it does not sequence melodies, it was not for me. Anyway, I really like the Panorama T keyboard and Nektarine integration. I recently found a way to import NKS data (for Maschine and Komplete Kontrol) into Nektarine. This might help getting your third party plug-ins into Nektarine. See kzbin.info/www/bejne/qXebXoepbZiKac0 for more info. There you also find links to ready made soundlibraries and mapping files that you can import into Nektarine, so you don’t have to do the mapping yourself.

[@brunolacerda4611]

How do i config the pads sensitivy in Aura?

[@mikeware-lane1347]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/r5DSl5iEp7SHra8

[@sea-saw2654]

I really want to buy one of these as I have Nektar keyboard but there still doesn’t seem to be hardly any KZbin videos other than namm which I’m rightly or wrongly assuming means no one of real extent is buying it... so unless nektar do something to deal with any a perceived software issues users may have I’m holding off which is possibly what others are doing ....there’s not even an official Nektar launch video that I’m aware of.. edit..there’s a 1 min 24 second Nektar video... is this the extent of effort to expect from Nektar........

[@MrWoofer]

Yes, I don’t understand why they are not promoting it a bit better. I find Nektarine very powerful, not the most pleasing in the eye GUI but it does it’s job perfectly. The controller itself is no less than amazing. I took the plunge without knowing much about it but I’m more than happy with it.

[@maramé.r]

I bought one of these. After having it for a month now I can say that as a drum pad it is every good but in terms of the sequencer it has, so far, been almost unusable. The process for creating a sequence seems very dysfunctional. Allocating pitch to the sequence steps, or changing it during play, is almost impossible and it often plays additional random notes that are not in the sequence (and not displayed on the screen). I have since obtained an Arturia Beatstep costing a fraction of the price and it's functionality and efficiency of use is far greater. When compared to the functionality, organisation and capability of a device such as the Novation Circuit, the Aura doesn't even come close. I see it as an excellent device for the quality of it's pads but beyond that it has been an expensive purchase for limited functionality and almost no standalone capability nor ability to load samples or sequence effectively. The Nektarine software it comes with also is of very limited use and is largely incomprehensible (I'd actually say poorly implemented) and has no integration with or control over the step sequencer

[@EmlynInTheMix]

I do agree and all those points are valid. I do have to say the integration with Reason is unbelievable almost click and play and it's part of the reason (no pun intended) I held onto mine, But if you're not a Reason user then your correct Ir's really only good for having these fabulous pads.

[@sea-saw2654]

I think he likes the pads...🤷‍♂️

[@_c_y_p_3]

Man I loved the build but I absolutely hate the company , those pads are love, but they really ruined this, it is massively limited and under developed, It pisses me off knowing Akai and Roland chose to use garbage they use over this and it sorta makes me agro this company ruined this so bad. I don’t mess with laptops, I want standalone dawless and mobile #1 all else is #10 for me.

[@howdareyousaymyname]

says has and used a maschine for years...then says maschine doesnt have a step sequencer...

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Yea, that's what I says alll the time. I just says it!

[@ProAudioLessons]

I couldn’t disagree more on your comparison to Maschine… Maschine is far more complex and I feel the aura is way more intuitive. But, everyone’s different and different workflows lend themselves to certain controllers.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

You obviously didn't watch this video. I said that the Aura falls short in the software compartment compared to Maschine, The Drum pads were being compared to the Maschine Studio not an MK3. The Nektar Aura is a simple and nice piece of hardware with a complex and horrible user interface experience. The hardware is great the software is not.

[@ProAudioLessons]

@@EmlynInTheMix you obviously didn’t comprehend my statement. You close the video by saying you prefer Maschine. I could quote you but that would require me to waste my time watching this video again. You state that Maschine is more intuitive. I disagree. That’s it. Just an opinion. No need to get your feelings hurt. I claim that The Nektar is not complicated and actually very intuitive but see, I actually understand how MIDI works.

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Holy shit I misunderstood your comment. My bad. Ok great you did get my message. Feelings not hurt now 💪😂 totally everyone is entitled to their own opinions. And I’m glad there are people out there actually getting something out of the Aura. Actually the hardware is on point, I really want to drive this message home for those reading these comments. And for Reason users it’s a dream.

[@GASH_one]

Heah

[@fromfilmtocode]

That camera fps flickering.

[@BOOMBAPXL]

Short answer is no. Heeeeeellll NO

[@putoparri]

is not a drum machine...

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Nah. You're wrong! The fact it can run standalone and transmit or modify midi signal whilst using the onboard sequencer to perform or alter a device makes this a machine. And considering it was designed for controlling drums then lets call it a drum machine shall we? Or perhaps you have a better definition??

[@putoparri]

​@@EmlynInTheMix A drum machine does make sounds, but this doesn't that's why I though your intro was misleading . Cheers!

[@itsrelativ3967]

It's not standalone....

[@EmlynInTheMix]

Nah actually it is, but not very good as a standalone. Nothing like Maschine.