The New Era of MIDI Controllers: Exploring the Kontrol S-series MK3 by Native Instruments

Welcome to our in-depth look at the latest innovation in MIDI controllers - the Kontrol S-Series MK3 from Native Instruments. In this video, we’re breaking down the key updates that make this MIDI keyboard a game changer in music production.
First, we delve into the enhanced expressiveness brought by the polyphonic aftertouch feature, offering unprecedented control over musical nuances directly from the keyboard. We then explore the direct Kontakt integration, which simplifies and speeds up the workflow, allowing you to access a world of sounds with ease.
We also discuss deeper integration with DAWs, which empowers you to perform various production tasks directly from the controller, keeping your focus on the music rather than the computer screen. The video also highlights the intelligent Light Guide system, which visually aids your performance with switches, key zones, and scales.
The Kontrol S MK3 comes in three sizes, each tailored to different needs and preferences: the S49 and S61 come with semi-weighted keys, and the S88 has fully weighted hammer-action keys, providing a true piano feel. The keyboard’s connectivity options are vast, including USB-C, MIDI in/out, and four pedal inputs enhancing its versatility in studio setups.
Lastly, we showcase the premium design of the MK3, which features a large glass screen, touch-sensitive encoders and mod wheels, and redesigned tactile buttons, all built with high-quality materials for a superior experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned producer or you’re just starting out, this video will give you all the information you need to understand why the Kontrol S-Series MK3 is a significant addition to any studio. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content like this. Your support means a lot to us!
00:45 - Design Update
02:04 - Ins and Outs
02:34 - User Interface
03:42 - Polyphonic Aftertouch
04:32 - Settings Overview
06:58 - Software Hardware Intergration
10:00 - DAW Integration
12:20 - Play Assist
15:10 - Kontakt 7 Update
15:40 - Conclusion
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#NativeInstruments #KontrolSMK3 #MIDIController #MusicTech #StudioGear #MusicProduction #DAWIntegration #MusicCreation  #CreativeDWill

[@sweetwater]

Hey, everyone! 👋 We’re excited about the new Kontrol S MK3 and want to hear from you. What feature do you find most impressive? Also, let us know what other gear reviews or tutorials you’d like us to cover. Your input is valuable to us! 💡🎹 Don’t forget to drop by Sweetwater for a closer look at each of the Native Instruments Kontrol S-Series MK3 controllers 👉 sweetwater.sjv.io/Native_Instruments_Komplete_Kontrol

[@DozaVybz]

need this right away to get me back making music again, my inspiration to cook has dwindled a lot..

[@carolinastringband]

Outstanding presentation, my friend!

[@itainteasy]

everyone mentioning all the issues, but i just love how this man don't gaf about libary and auterier

[@brandonwilliams966]

You forgot quanti-tization.

[@gori_maheswari8994]

Very nice

[@TeleporterM11]

I am waiting for the Novation SL MK 4.

[@jebeavers74]

Question. With the 49key would have to scroll over when using one of the sessions instruments.

[@jacobclare58]

the day NI has a pop-up LED screen which raises to a 180 degree angle and the screen display size is 14" diagonally, with touch control, I will splurge on the 88 key...I've had NI Kontakt 25 & 49 keybeds also currently installed on the computer is the Collectors edition software...but until the day NI installs the above mentioned screen component, I'll stick with the simple M-Audio Hammer 88 (which by the way, I bought years ago from Sweetwater)...anyway, good video share

[@scottcollins4456]

I have heard NI talk about the new premium build. Using premium parts and having a solid unit. So what were they selling us before? I always felt my MK I was built poorly, and it sounds like NI is finally owning up to that.

[@MojoPapiFPV]

Turn the background lights and laptop brightness to about half of wherever they're at right now and it will look way better.

[@artarealmblazer8452]

The 2.0 iteration of this will be great. Sorry I need my drum pads.

[@smokey5100]

BRING MASCHINE SUPPORT BACK ASAP NI!!!!

[@timothylawsnyder3609]

Some nice features, but my current Version 1 of the NI 88-key, $1000 controller will be my last from NI. Reason: They no longer support it, and it is not even 8 years old. When one buys a controller (especially at this kind of price), we are in it for the long haul. Unfortunately, and sadly, Native Instruments is not.

[@brandonaikin5445]

I have never seen a person demonstrate polyphonic aftertouch by pressing single keys. I guess it demonstrates aftertouch in a way?

[@geekmastermind]

On top of all the other issues others mentioned (and there are a lot), I'll add no sliders as an additional deal-breaker. I don't know what NI was thinking with this junk.

[@youtubevideos415]

Exactly. And if that isn't enough, they even removed multiple buttons they had on MK2.

[@scottcollins4456]

Yeah, I was really anticipating sliders on this new model. Very disappointing. NIs response in other threads is that their users prefer a clean design rather than additional things like sliders. Based on comments I see in a lot of posts, I would have to disagree with NI on that. Start listening to all your users Native Instruments.

[@park171]

This controller has had a big launch but to the bloggers that have the release, please come clean and do an 8 months later re cap. It’s been very quiet. Is this a flop? Hmmm.

[@KandMe1]

Seems like this is released quickly to get ahead of the curve as far as midi2 integration goes. I am guessing but it seems obvious. Guessing it is made in such a way that new upgrades of midi 2 can be uploaded, new firmware and all. I am guessing because little to nothing is said about that part of it only those with mk2 complaining about one thing and another so that makes it obvious to me they are phasing out Kontrol software because midi 2 makes it unnecessary but this is me guessing not even an opinion. Midi2, midi2, midi2. Why not tell us more? Well the answer to that is that it is not known, the possibilities of what will be possible or how it can be exploited are unknown so all they can do is make something and release it that can be upgraded with necessary software patches at post release of the final release of midi 2.0+.

[@HornieCow]

waay to expensive for what it does... it's very nice and looks good though.

[@StephanieSante]

What about all the features removed? Why not tell the whole truth?

[@youtubevideos415]

Everyone should be aware, that this thing is a huge downgrade for all MK2 users. This has got no Maschine support, it has got no Midi templates, the macro controls are limited and the DAW control is worse than on MK2. I think NI really has done a terrible job with this product.

[@EvansCrayton]

Its funny how you read all these reviews but when you do a google search you find out all the problems this thing has just getting it setup. But you won't find. a youtube video telling you that part. Shame on you content providers.

[@sadarahurh8794]

Komplete Kontrol software sucks. Especially the GUI screen on a computer.