We think it’s fair to be slightly disappointed in this area. The pedal inputs can be assigned to sustain or expression. Unfortunately, when it comes to connectivity, we’d have liked to see some additional connections in the S61 and more in the S88.Įach model provides USB, MIDI In/Out, and two pedal inputs. The three models in this range share the same functionality (for the most part), and that’s a good thing at times.
The advanced controls include Tempo, Mute/Solo, Loop, Metronome, and Quantize. These controllers go beyond basic transport controls and provide advanced control over the most popular DAWs. It might be a simple feature, but being able to press play, stop, record, and so on directly from your controller is ideal. Transport controls are something that we wish every controller had. To make them even more appealing, they auto-map to any Native Instruments sound you use, giving you the feel of a hardware instrument without a lengthy setup. Auto-mappingĪs we mentioned, the included rotary knobs and push encoder are fantastic for browsing, selecting, and tweaking sounds. It’s a time saver, but more importantly, it helps you to focus on creativity rather than your computer screen. So, having such a visual/intuitive way to browse instruments, presets, and parameters is an absolute pleasure. Generally, the less time you spend with your mouse/trackpad, the easier it is to stay in your creative zone.
Native instruments komplete kontrol s88 review series#
The S series smart controllers provide a tactile, hands-on workflow that many others can’t match. The high-resolution screens not only look fantastic, but they are also incredibly useful. Workflow 4.7Ī speedy and intuitive workflow is a must for music production, and it’s an area where these controllers shine. It’s not the most common feature in 88-key controllers with hammer-action keys, so it’s particularly nice to see on the S88. We love that aftertouch is included in all models it’s one of the most intuitive ways to add a new dimension to your performance. The built-in arpeggiator is one of the best features because it opens up a world of melodic lines that can provide the desired result quickly and often deliver unexpected results when you need an inspiration boost. Scale mode allows you to map the keyboard to a particular scale, making it easier (especially for less experienced players) to use exotic scales.Ĭhord mode allows you to trigger complex chords with a single key, which can be a massive timesaver for producers of all levels. The S series smart keyboard controllers offer Scale, Chord, and Arpeggiator modes. Touch strips often replace pitch/mod wheels on many controllers, and we generally don’t like to see that, but in this case, you get the best of both worlds! Production tools 4.5 They provide enough range, and smooth action, without being too sensitive. The pitch/mod wheels feel great and somewhat compensate for the lack of faders. The included controls are fantastic a few faders would have been a welcome addition. When playing synth/electronic sounds, tweaking parameters with the assignable knobs is perfect it will feel like a hardware synth.īut, as many media composers will tell you, robust faders are the best tools for adjusting/automating expression in orchestral instruments. But, the lack of faders will bother some users, especially fans of orchestral sounds. You can do a lot with these controls, and the push encoder makes browsing sounds/settings a simple task, as we’ll discuss further below. Rotary knobs and push encoderĮach model has the same set of assignable controls, including eight touch-sensitive rotary knobs and a four-way push encoder. Native Instruments are known to favour a speedy, intuitive workflow, so let’s see what these controllers have to offer. So, it’s very unlikely that you’d have any complaints, but you’ll pay a premium for the experience.Īvailable at: Sweetwater Amazon Assignable controls 4.6Īssignable controls often make or break a MIDI controller. We love them, but they come at a price beyond what we could reasonably call value for money. The S series provides fantastic controllers designed with a smooth workflow in mind, especially when using Native Instruments software. Image credit: Native Instruments Our verdict on the Komplete Kontrol S 4.7
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