Mattias, I've always wanted a nice mid-sized keyboard controller with weighted keys, have you ever owned/used a controller with weighted keys and how do you feel about them vs. the more common non-weighted but velocity sensitive keys?
Good question Cerebus. Many years back I wanted those weighted versions. But since I always owned a real piano I never saw the point in getting a big bulky keyboard infront of my composing workspace. They are so hard to place for a comfortable work environment. At least for me, since I tend to swap things around from day to day depending on what work I need to do. On weighted it’s not possible to play as fast for leads (at least it’s harder) so when I played with progressive rock bands / rock / metal I went to the EX-5 which I still really like. So I kinda made the choice to go with synth action rather than hammer action midi controllers. You only have so much space on the desk. ;) And Nowdays with these new Maschine Jams, mk3, Digitakt etc. its good to have some space. I mostly have a clean setup with a very small M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 infront of my keyboard then I go over to the stands with the Komplete Kontrol S61 and the Axiom Air when I need to play bigger stuff like leads and piano. Or the real piano when I want hammer action. ;) I might try out the new NI Komplete Kontrol M32 as a front/desk keyboard, but I dunno... the Mini 32 is so small and easy to smack around while making these video tutorials. My production workflow seem to be more editing rather than playing. It's good to have space for the Wacom as it's such a relief for the wrists when doing plenty of editing. A few years back when I was writing daily music cues for Peak Games slot game, Slotto Lotto. And composing for Come2Plays renowned Backgammon Live etc. I had the keyboards placed to the left side of me and I had to turn every time I was going to record something. And I often became lazy and had this really awkward angle with the arm almost to the back left side which was such a pain and strain on the shoulder etc. No good working position at all. So I decided to go for a small front desk key setup to cure that. Never had a problem since. =) I often see composers having this setup (keyboard to the right or left of the computer screen) and it hurts my eyes, since I know if they are going to work like that for many hours and many years...It's eventually going to hurt their shoulders, neck and writs etc. Yeah, enough blabbering about ergonomics. ;) But it's important for the working composer / producer. So that’s my current setup. What does your setup look like?
@@MattiasHolmgren I currently have an old M-Audio Axiom 25 I've had since 2003 or so! It's my trusty bass-line creator, but gives me trouble since it only has a couple octaves when making lead parts, so I definitely need a controller with more keys. I'm thinking 49 key for my next upgrade, or 61 key if I'm feeling like a boss. I think because of price and my current situation I'll drop my preference for weighted keys with the main midi keyboard and get a full sized electric piano down the road. Baby steps to the man-cave music creation battlestation. Thanks for the tips Mattias!
Yeah, full sized hammer action electric piano is highly recommende. U can probably get a used item which is of good quality. Thomann has their own brand el-piano which has really nice feel. Can’t remember the model name. Wow so u have that Axiom. I think I’ve owned all versions of the Axiom series. Really like their action. Gave the first Axiom to my little brother.
@@MattiasHolmgren You made a great note about placement of the keyboard. I'm a hobbyist 1.5 years into music, already in the thousands $ without making penny back and I don't mind I love making music. However It is very tense and complicated journey between which DAW/Plug-in/Keyboard/etc or go full standalone I spent hundreds of hours watching videos and hearing opinions. Eventually I settled for computer production since standalone cost is insane and needs x3 space. I bought MPC renaissance (MPC-X will replace in the future) and Maschine MK3 I got those because controlling DAW with mouse does really annoy me. I bought Ableton 11 suite and that software alone took huge effort to learn and I'm still learning. Back to your note I have 2 mini midi keyboard (NI M32 - Akai mpk mk3) and they never satisfied me even though I'm not a pianist but 25/32 keys felt very limited and small so I hit wrong note, it also impacted my choice of notes, so I bought Launchkey 49 mk3 and wow I was missing out so much. Now I have it in front of me, MPC on the left and Maschine mk3 on the right on a retractable desk arm (in the air to make room). Ergonomics are extremely important and I spent a lot of time previously with keyboard on my left and it was hard to play. placement of device needs a lot of thinking and planing and getting the right stand based on the priority of the device.
I have had the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 for over a year now and I think it's time we do a deep dive and see how it's been holding up. In the video we talk about the various aspects of the Kontrol S61 which makes it one of the top midi controllers. Get the KOMPLETE KONTROL S61 mk2 (affiliate link): amzn.to/2M0Tir9 The Komplete Kontrol S61 comes packed with Komplete Select 12 which is a package with all the sounds you ever need. You get some of Native Instruments most popular synths like Massive and Monark. I'm a piano player so I was very intrigued that the package comes with the critically acclaimed The Gentleman piano. I have most of the other piano vsts on the market but this one really caught my attention. You can get so much variated sounds from The Gentleman. I highly recommend it! I've produced countless tracks with the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 during this past year and some you can hear on my Spotify channel. PS. Native Instruments also released the M32 keyboard, which is a portable version of this keyboard. It doesn't come with all the bells and whistles, but it's a neat affordable solution for the artist on the go. Get the Komplete Kontrol M32 (affiliate link): amzn.to/2FeEUsz Please subscribe and hit the bell icon for notifications when I have new videos out! What's your favourite keyboard? Hope you like the video, thanks, Mattias Holmgren @ morningdewmedia.com
I have a production desk where i used the second level for my iMac and studio monitors and under that rackmounted gear. On the desk surface, I had my main keyboard a Kronos 88 with weighted keys which I used both as a straight audio keyboard for it's sounds but also as a MIDI controller for Cubase and Komplete Kontrol. I also have a Tascam M12 for mixdown and interface coupled with a Scarlet 6i6 which gives me enough ports in/out of my DAW. I also have an older Maschine Studio which was quite large and also a Roland TRS8. All of this was really crowding me in so I opted for a K&M table stand and moved my Kronos off the main desk at a 90 degree angle. About two months later, I am having much the same complaints you are mentioning regarding having to turn right all the time to see my monitor and main computer screen. I am seriously considering an S series keyboard to place atop my production desk and reorganize again. I really dont need the S88 full range keyboard since I can use my weighted keys Kronos, but I am wondering if there are advantages to the S61 vs the S49 if I am to place it back on my production desk. Given your experience, do you see an advantage using the S61 vs a smaller S49?
Hi Ariel, totally feel your concern. Turning your body like that to reach the keys will ultimately result in shoulder / neck / elbow strain. I was there several times until I realized I cant work like that…ever. Ok, the 61 keys is really great for playing piano pieces and large string patches. But if you only record basslines, melodies and satisfied with working in 49 keys thats totally fine. Heck if you watch some of my older videos I was mostly playing at the most shitty small Keystation Mini 32 which is like the smallest unit Ive come across and it suffices for general midi note inputs with decent velocity. That said, to me, the S61 is now in my garage since a few months back because A smaller Arturia Keystep 37 felt nicer and smaller on my desk when shooting videos and I just need to play small phrases when getting the message across for the tutorials. Though I do bring in a larger unit, piano or the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 when I need to play elaborate big piano pieces. Hope the info helps in your decision. So 49 keys for general purpose midi note input. 61 (or more) only if you need to play piano stuff….well, you also have more direct room for keyzones with the lightguide on the larger unit. If you dont want to flip the transpose all the time. ☀️🥳🥁☕️🍿
Hi Mattias, thanks for this review. I have an S49mk1 and really like everything about it, except the keys are extremely noisy. They make a loud thumping sound that disturbs people around me in a way that none of my other keyboards do. The black keys are especially bad, and almost twice as loud. I’m ready to upgrade to an S61 mk2 to get some of the other nice new features like the displays and extra buttons, but I’m concerned about the key noise. I would just go to a store and try it out, but that’s impossible now, and music gear stores might not be reopened for many months. Have you used the mk1? If so, is the mk2 any better? I like the feel and action and aftertouch of the mk1…it’s a very playable keyboard, but it’s obnoxiously noisy and I’m kinda fed up with it.
Hi Stormchild. I have no experience of mk1. But I did compared the thump and key noise of the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 with Axiom Air 61. The Air is as Silent as a keyboard can get and I also think it has the best feel of them all but it is not supported anymore and had issues with the Rotary knob drivers. I think it was among the first with endless Rotary encoders... And They worked eh... Not so good. But the keybed is the best i have played on. Panorama T4 has a bit more noisy Keys, but Komplete Kontrol has the noisiest. T4 has VERY natural aftertouch. I like it a lot. But that thump on KK has never bothered me. But I live in a house. I like the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2. For me its not an issue. But I can confirm the keybed is giving more thump-noise than the others. Cheers
Hello Mate so im about top buy a midi keyboard and pad. Would you recomend to buy the Komplete Knontrol S61 with Mashine? Or should I buy a cheaper set. Great video tho!
Hi, Komplete Kontrol S61 is a great master keyboard controller. But it's a bit big. When using the Maschine mk3 I usually use it in combo with a smaller keyboard which fits under my current Maschine Jam / Maschine mk3 setup. You can see my "live setup" in this live stream: th-cam.com/video/MKkNXrHhnHU/w-d-xo.html But in the studio office I use larger keyboards like the Komplete Kontrol S61 or Nektar Panorama T4 when recording keyboard parts. You can read my gear list at www.morningdewmedia.com/resources-for-music-production-and-video/ Cheers!
Hi I have the S88 but I want to return it to the store, because I find the keybed a little to heavy, the action is slow, it's only good for piano playing and organ, not for faster action instruments like Bass or drums, .I think i am not gonna use the high keys/register of it anyway.. but how about the noise of the keybed of the s61, the S88 is very quiet, maybe due to the fact that they are weighted keys, but how is the noise of the keybed of the S61, is it annoying/loud when pressing the keys, or is it ok? Thanks for your time..all the best!
Hi Pauluz. To me the keybed noise is not annoying. But I can bet if you live in a small appartment with a fiance or family and you work at nights it can be annoying. ;) THanks for writing!
Thanks Christopher, yeah I do like weighted keys. But to me weighted keys it mainly for piano, and when doing pianos I mostly go to the real thing. ;) So for keyboards I often go for a more light setup.
Good morning I have a problem. I connected both kontrol komplete mkII and Maschine plus to the window pc with Maschine software via USB cable. Everything works except that by pressing the kontrol keys the selected sounds do not play while they play regularly by pressing the pads of plus machines. This is how the songs loaded on Maschine 2 sound. Did I get the connections wrong? Do I have to set something special? If so, can you tell me the detailed procedure? I tried to see the midi setting of maschine plus; but in controller mode the parameters are not editable. Can you help me? Thank you. Louis
Ok, so you're running Maschine Software DAW on the PC, right? In Maschine software, check settings (FIle / Preferences / MIDI tab), and see if the Komplete Kontrol is available as input. Why not connect Komplete Kontrol directly into the Maschine plus? It does have a MIDI-A port for that.
@@MattiasHolmgren Ok, so you're running Maschine Software DAW on the PC, right? Thanks for the feedback. Yes right, that's right. In the Maschine software, check the settings (FIle / Preferences / MIDI tab) and see if Komplete Kontrol is available as input. No I looked it is not available. Why not connect Komplete Kontrol directly to Maschine plus? It has a MIDI-A port for that; Yes I tried but it only works if I put Maschine Plus in standalone mode, but at that point PC and Maschine 2 daw are excluded. moreover, if I connect kontrol mk2 to midi port A of mschine plus and put this in controller mode, it doesn't see kontrol mk2 and it doesn't even turn on?. There is a solution? Thank you very much. Louis.
Big hello from Russia, Mattias! Great review! By the way, is it possible to use this MK2 for managing VST synths and effects, that are not supported by NI? For example, Omnisphere, Toontrack, etc. Thank you!
Yes, absolutely, you can download / buy third-party met-tag-files which makes Omnisphere 2 presets appear in the Komplete Kontrol browser so you can browse via your Kontrol S61 mk2 controller or via the KK plugin. It's very convenient and massive! Although you don't get sound previews (who would do that for 6000 presets!?). But it's great to browse via the controller and filter categories to find your sounds. ;D By default Omnisphere 2 is not officially NKS compatible (there are not included meta data files for the Omnisphere 2 content). But as I mention you can buy / download free Omnisphere 2 NKS meta-data files. Can't believe Spectrasonics didn't create these meta-data files themselves to make it compatible. If you sweep the google you can find NKS meta.data files for many third party instruments and plugins which are not officially NKS supported. Good luck.
@@MattiasHolmgren Oh, great thanks for such a detailed answer, Mattias! Gonna try to do as you advise when my MK2 is shipped. Wish you good luck and success! :)
Sir, Please would like to know if it works good with cubase 12 pro.... Or... Arturia keylab 61 mk2 is better... Please do answer..... Love from India 🙏🇮🇳🙏🇮🇳🙏🇮🇳🙏
I dunno I don’t have the Keylab. But I did play it in the music store and wasn’t too fond of the layout and keys. Im also very much invested in Native Instruments software and gear. 🍀💎☕️😄
Thanks for this fine review. I just get a s61 MkII keyboard, unfortunately I have an annoying echo, for example with "The Gentleman" piano ,when I press any one key I got the main sound plus a second sound a moment later. Any idea?
MIDI feedback loop? Or maybe you have your monitoring setup configured so that you BOTH listen to the direct sound AND monitoring from your track while recording. It's a common gotcha! If the latter is the case, then the 'echo' will depend on your buffer setting. You can check that by playing with a small buffer, say 128 or 256 samples, and compare with how it sounds when you increase the buffer to 1024 or 2048 samples. If the length of the 'echo' changes, then you need to disable monitoring from the DAW track while recording and only listen to the direct sound.
@@spitfire31f11 Yes, actually my focusrite interface was creating a feedback loop. settings all softwares and hardwares properly was a bit overwhelming for a noob. But eventually I got my system running.Thx
Hi, no, I have had no quality issues like white screens etc. Probably someone had a "monday issue". No mechanical noise on my device either. I'm happy with it still.
How do you like the keyboard when it comes to control other softsynths/plugins then NI? Does it function well for that or is it better to buy something else if not using mostly NI products with it?
Hi Anders. I think the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 holds up nicely for controlling other software too. Its just that when running Kontrol and loading NKS plugins in Kontrol you get params premapped for the synths / samplers which is awesome. I even got Omnisphere 2 mapped via third party metafiles which is superb. NKS has become like industry standard which is great. I dont see any down side of using KK S61 for other instruments though. You can always switch to normal CC mode and midi learn if some instrument isnt NKS. 🌞
Hello, there already is a question about Bitwig below, but I wondered if you have tried the Nektar Panorama P6, it supposedly works very well with Bitwig. This keyboard seems to have more possibilities than the Nektar (but as you commented is best combined with Komplete Control), so can you give me your opinion please. I originally wanted to use my Roland FA08 as DAW controller (for which it is not really designed, and it is also fully weighted) in combination with a Roli Seaboard (which is good for expression but not for "regular" keyboard playing), so I think I'm better of getting a real DAW controller too. Thank you!
I owned the Panorama P6, I think I have some videos playing that thing: th-cam.com/video/1wUeQHgX2SE/w-d-xo.html I really liked the keys on the P6, even compared to the Komplete Kontrol S61. I also talked about the P6 in this video. Although it was now broken. ;( th-cam.com/video/paV6cLsZ5lY/w-d-xo.html I think the Komplete Kontrol S61 is an excellent keyboard, and keybed too. The NKS integration is awesome and makes it easy to create tracks quickly. Komplete Kontrol S61 (affiliate link to Amazon) amzn.to/2MrWhLi
Yeah, there’s no perfect match to swing all DAWs. But it’s packed with great features and for Logic it’s a beast. It’s good to be able to swap patches and make adjustments in a heartbeat. I think it’s a great product. Was not too sold on the keybed in the beginning, but a new instrument is a new instrument. You have to give them some time and love to get to know. ;)
I loved the sound of The Gentleman piano but ... all of the notes that it produces in my studio using my S61 have a horrible thumping sound in each key. How did you remove the mechanical sounds from The Gentleman? Also, is it possible to edit the velocity curve of The Gentleman?
Hi Alan, yes I use The Gentleman in many of my songs. You can adjust both velocity curve and compression presets in the settings of The Gentleman. In this video With Komplete Kontrol S61 I just loaded up some of the presets / snapshots in The Gentleman Kontakt instrument. Press the "camera icon" in the Kontakt instrument panel and you can select from various presets of the piano. They all sound different but very good starting points. Some have more noise (pedal action) intimate sounds than others. Hope the info helps.
Hi, yes I've played the Arturia Keylab mk2 in the music store. My general viewpoint on the comparison is: 1.Do you work a lot with Native Instruments software (Kontakt, NKS libs etc.) ...and you have a separate device for beat-mashing, ie. Maschine mk3, Jam, Push...whatever...then I would definitely go with the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2. I really like the screens of the KK S61 mk2. It's colorful, very upfront, bright, easy to read. ;D I like the integration and it's just so quick to work with my favourite synths, Massive, Omnisphere etc with the meta tag files to browse etc. I think the keybed isn't the best, but it's Fatar quality and works well for playing basically anything piano, synths, strings etc. You get a better keybed with a dedicated Yamaha el-piano, but then again they don't have the NKS integration and nice screens etc. So I chose to go with a KK S61 mk2 because I do work a lot with NI software / NKS and have other devices for beat-mashing. 2. Do you like the Arturia Analog LABS and Arturia software? I don't personally use any of their software atm. The keybed on the Arturia is less noisy (if that would be a problem for you...or your girlfriend...lol) The Arturia keyboard also gives you 16 pads and alot more buttons...if you want that. It has a small LCD screen which isn't really in par with the NI screen...IMO. If you still think this is ok, then go with the KeyLabs mk2. :D So the questions you should ask yourself: What do you want from your keyboard? What software do you generally use. What kind of keybed do you like? Hope the info is helpful! 🌞
Hi Joseph, no the lights are for showing keyswitch-regions on the keyboard etc. Unfortunately the leds are not for looking what keys are played during playback of a midi sequence. Cheers!
Appreciate the review. Years ago I owned a 88 key Fatar MIDI keyboard. It had a good solid feel. I understand the S series of Native Instruments features a Fatar keybed, which is semi-weighted, and NOT a synth-action keybed as compared to an A61? This is as per the NI website....would really appreciate your comment on this; I don't want to spend $800 for a keyboard with floaty, flighty synth-action keys! 😁 Also, I have been torn between whether to go with an S49 or S69, but today, playing with my Steinway 42" upright console piano, I decided I just love the sounds of the keys that reach 2 octaves below the Middle C, particularly the C which is the first key on the left of a 61 key keybed. I would not have that if I went with an S49. So that has helped me make my decision. But anyway these keyboards are back ordered because of the Covid-19 lockdown and I'm in no hurry either. Just had my piano tuned and will just have fun with it.
Hi Raja, I think the keybed on the S61 feels very nice and rounded. It's indeed a semi-weighted FATAR keybed. My own perspective and recommendation for amount of keys is this: 1. IF you want to go compact, go REALLY compact, like I do for my videos I use this really small Keystation Mini 32. But that is to save maximum amount of desktop real estate. 2. If you are going to play piano, go with a 61-keys (at least). It's the minimum in my opinion for playing decent piano pieces and composing. With 49 keys you will have to push transpose all the time, lol! ;D THanks for writing Raja!
@@MattiasHolmgren Thank you! Have ordered an M-Audio Keystation 61 which will arrive by tonight. Can't wait! If the keys are clickety-clackety and don't have a good feel to them, I plan to return it to Amazon and wait for Novation's latest 61 key unit which is not yet available. Will write back tomorrow what I feel about the M-Audio unit. www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/LaunchK3-61--novation-launchkey-61-mk3-61-key-keyboard-controller
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Great review! Does it have velocity sensitive keys??
Yes absolutely. The Komplete Kontrol S61 has Fatar keybed. Very Nice key feel, velocity, aftertouch, pitchwheel, modwheel and an extra touchstrip for modulation! Thanks, glad to hear you like the review.
I just bought one of these keyboards and "No" is the answer to your question. In fact Native Instruments offer zero global settings for the LED's. When they are off but on standby they are way too bright but there's no way to change it. Apparently NI (Native Instruments) are really stubborn with their customer requests and leave basic functionality like LED Guide control out of the hands of users.
Yes it works with Bitwig. But where the Komplete S61 keyboards really shine is when used in conjunction with the Komplete Kontrol plugin. I have quite the collection of Bitwig Studio videos too. ;) Thanks for writing Gaetan. Happy to hear you like the content.
Hello, I'm a legally blind musician and I just purchased a kk s61 mk2. After a few days I'm really excited and happy with it. Just a thing, could you (or someone else) help me to find out how to setup the accessibility features (like changing the voice volume or how to assigne a different audio output for the speaking voice), please? THNKS A LOT Tom
Hi Tommaso, congrats on that komplete kontrol s61 mk2. It’s a neat keyboard. I have little experience with the accessibility features and voice over. Which OS are you working on? Mac, Pc, linux? ;) On MAC it’s easy to setup audio routing and multi out devices etc. Do you have an external mixer you want to work with since you want to route the speech / voice over to a separate audio out? My guess, for controlling voice over volume in separate fader to the actual music from your DAW. Thanks for reaching out Tommaso!
Thanks for your fast replay! I use a MacBook Pro and Logic Pro X. At the moment my audio configuration is the following: - System audio goes to an USB hub with minijack - logic output device is the USB hub (minijack) or a focusrite scarlett interface - voiceover output is set up to my external display speakers The "strange" thing is that the kk accessibility voice still comes from the macbook pro internal speakers and I don't know where to go to change that setting. I also don't understand why the kk still uses an Italian voice even when I set my mac's voiceover to English. I just need to find the right place in the preferences or somewhere else to change these settings. Hope you can help me even if it's not a thing you use as a sighted musician. ;-)
Tommaso Mainardi ok. If you use komplete kontrol from within Logic, as a insert plugin, it should use the same audio routing as Logic. I’m not sure, but accessibility voice is a osx app, and the audio for that would be what you choose in osx as main desktop output. I will look at it later today when I’m infront of a mac computer.
When i Open fl Studio 21 it olways Show me on the midi Option daw-1 fail Can somebody help me please i have all Updates corretly what it mean by midi -daw
As long as you load up the Kontrol plugin on each track that you want to be able to control with the Komplete you should be good to go. Dunno about Cakewalk...But in Bitwig it works fine. You just don't get as solid DAW control as you get in Logic. But basically what I wanted from the Komplete Kontrol S61 was to be able to access plugin params without thinking and the Kontrol plugin give you exactly that access. ;)
Hi Jonathan, yes Komplete 12 comes with Guitar Rig 5 (to use with a real guitar audio recordings, or as plugin ontop of sampled guitars...use as you wish). Guitar Rig contains many different amps, effects and stompbox emulations. You also get many different sampled guitars and basses in the library if you want to program your parts. I also think there are strummed acoustic guitars in the lib. Cheers!
Can you select a parameter page from the Komplete Kontrol Mk2 S Series, or do you still have to manually scroll back/forth through the incremental pages
Man, great video! Just a question: is it possible to use the light guide, scale and chord mode with an instrument that doesn't belong to the Native Instruments world? I use Ableton as daw and I need to know if must buy the Novation SL MK3 or this Komplete Kontrol Mk2 for those features with every kind of intruments.
Thanks, glad you enjoy my Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 video! I guess the lightguide is programmed to the Komplete Kontrol software and NKS instruments, and I dunno if other developers considered implementing it to their software. Cheers!
Hi Ahmed, I love the NI Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 keyboard but unfortunately I've been forced to work with the smaller Arturia Keystep 37 the past year or so, since it fits better in my TH-cam video production / composing setup. lol, I still play it when I need a bigger keyboard for piano passages.
@@MattiasHolmgren Thank you for replying :) I am asking cause I've seen some reviews where users sometimes complain about screen malfunction or knob malfunctions. I still believe its a great piece of gear but I am curious to know about its quality and durability.
Chiming in... Yes, I believe most people found this video by searching for information about the keyboards long-term reliability. It's a great video, but you really didn't answer the premise of the video title. How reliable is this board in the long-term? 😎 Thanks! I would also like to know how to keep it clean! The matte black plastic looks like it would be a nightmare to clean.
@@MattiasHolmgren Hey, thanks for the quick reply. Appreciate it. And, yes, would love to see a follow up video. The unit is so light and so compact that it's hard to believe that you would not have destroyed it by now.
I have A61 and have some doubts: 1) Can I connect this through USB AND Regular Midi Out at the same time to use it with a sound module and prevent audio latency when recording, yet using kontakt sounds? 2) Do I need the USB and proprietary driver to use the sound selection functionality? Fo I need a wireless USB system to get all of the keyboard's functionality or can I do so via regular midi IN/OUT into my midi interface? I'd like to control my Daw (Cubase) remotedly with no cables. Maybe the only option is to get a longer USB cable. Any ideas?
Yes, 1. You need to use specific software to run both midi via usb and regular ports at the same time. 2. sound selection is used via Komplete plugin software so like I mention in the video you need the software to make full use of it. Integration works very well though. I wouldn’t trust a wireless System. Get a longer USB cable. You need usb connection to get full functionality and use it with Komplete plugin to get sound selection, browsing etc. 🥳☀️
@@MattiasHolmgren What specific Software? Some people say you can't use both the Midi Out and the USB running at the same time. Others argue that you can do it if you activate both ports in the proprietary software. I think I need the D/C charger though. Can someome confirm any of this?
Hi Mattia, thanks for your good review; i have a question for you. i am coming from digital piano and i'd want to buy this keyboard to play in a band with live sessions. is it possible to load the sounds that i need from a computer and store them in its internal memory? or should i always connect the keyboard to the computer? my goal is to play in rehearsal room and in live shows. thanks again!
Hi, this keyboard only acts as a midi controller for the software in your computer. So, yes, you need a laptop connected in order to bring your sounds into the live stage. Komplete Kontrol is more geared towards the studio rather than the stage I guess. Though I think that it’s a very powerful setup to use this keyboard in combination with laptop (loaded with Omnisphere 2, Diva, Phase Plant etc.) in a live setup. ;) Appreciate the kind feedback. Thanks!
Hej Andreas! Om du redan har en 88:a, då skulle jag välja något ”nättare” som tex en 49:a eller varför inte Arturia Keystep 37? 😁🦊 S61 är väldigt lite använd sedan jag flyttat temporärt till studio B tills studio A (övervåningen, se min insta) är klar. I temp studion har jag bara Keystep 37 och synthar, uno Synth Pro, Minilogue XD. S61 är dock skön att spela på. Men jag spelar mest på riktiga pianot. Cant beat the real thing.
@@MattiasHolmgren tack för svar! Jag har ett riktig piano hemma och precis som du säger så finns inget som slår det. Har ingen 88 i min lilla studio men funderar på en enkel studiologic sl88 bara för att kunna köra keyscape som jag gillar. Sedan vill jag ha något mindre för just prodda smidigt. Jag gillar iof att köra iPad som Remote till logic så frågan är om en s61 eller s49 är overkill. Använder du reglarna och rattarna mycket? Såg dessutom att NI M32 reades för bara 890 kronor, så den till soffan eller altanen vore ju ett bra komplement 😊. Vad heter du på insta?
Hi Mattias, thanks for this review. Also, thanks for the Bitwig content - does this keyboard (and I guess the 88 key hammer-action version) work with Bitwig? Thanks again!
Hi Nick. Komplete Kontrol S61 works great in Bitiwg. * As a general midi controller it's totally fine in Bitwig. * If you want the NKS control you have to load up Komplete Kontrol plugin on the channels you want to control, and that gives you the deep NI NKS control to browse instruments, access parameters on the fly etc. Jürgen Moßgraber has a script developed for Bitwig to give more control. but I didn't try it out yet. Out of the box you do not get as good use of the onboard displays in Bitwig though. I get better use of the displays in Logic Pro X where Kontrol can act as mixer control / navigation tool. But as usual you have to add the Komplete Kontrol plugin on each track where you want the deep dedicated NI NKS control. Hope the info helps. Thanks for the kind feedback Nick!
Hi Melo, Komplete Kontrol is not a workstation by regular means. Its an advanced midi controller. An extension of your DAW. 😄 And yes, it is very relevant to speed up workflow in 2020.
@@MattiasHolmgren I know it's a MIDI controller. What I meant was that our DAW is the workstation that is controlled by this amazing controller using astonishing sound libraries and plugins. So, who needs a hardware workstation like Kronos or Montage? I just bought one 15 mins ago 😁
Lol indeed Melo Keyz. Workstations are obselete. But I still love to Jam around with my good old Yamaha Ex-5. I gave it to my son finally as a practise keyboard. 😋 Those old workstation keyboards mostly gave headache. 😄
@@Katkattarotandparanormal the sounds are all coming from software on the computer. The Komplete Kontrol does not have bluetooth, only midi & USB connection. It's battery powered by USB, but if I remember correctly it can also be powered with adapter for brighter screen light...but it's not necessary. I think they are bright enough. ;)
Hi, I'm only using Macs and OSX for all my music production so I can't really talk for PC anymore. I'm using i5, i7 or i9 CPUs. With tons of RAM, at least 16GB. On my main Mac I have 64 GB. I use .M2 disc as main OS disc on my new computer, but SSDs are a very cheap and good solution for audio / samples these days. I feel that most NI plugins are not that demanding. There are much more demanding alternatives from other developers. Form, Massive, Monark, Reaktor, Kontakt etc. are all very light (depending on what you do of course). When I produce music I always think about the core elements of my tracks. I just don't stack away plugins into infinity because it's not even good production workflow. It's better to keep them to a minimal, and the song with good structure.... Or you will get lost in the mixing. Mixing is uber hard if you have too much stuff going on. And if you look at most hit tracks, they don't contain 100000 sounds or instruments. So go light, and "kill your darlings", you can make superb tracks with just a few sounds. Just make sure the sounds / samples you choose are top notch and quality sounding. A good kick, snare! ;) Solid bass patch. Go light and you will probably finish more tracks in the process. Hope the info helps my friend!
@@MattiasHolmgren Thank you a lot for this very clear and complete answer. I understand. I think to buy on December a Mac mini Intel Core i7 hexacœur de 8e génération à 3,2 GHz (Turbo Boost jusqu’à 4,6 GHz) 32 Go de mémoire DDR4 à 2 666 MHz SSD de 512 Go. I have an external HD of 2 To (I thing it is not a SSD, is this a problem?) with my banks. Is it a good choice? THANK YOU
Unfortunately the mixer view doesn't work very well with Logic. The level meters only display the peak values, which have a long hold time, so they are basically meaningless. And the knobs are not precise enough. It's very difficult to land on a specific value. You have to hold Shift while turning the knobs for more precision, which requires two hands, and even then it tends to jump +/- 0.1 dB just as you release the knob, which is very frustrating. They should have made it possible to click the knobs to reset to default values (both in the mixer and plugins), as it's often very difficult to manually get back to the exact default (even with the Shift button). I realize it's not meant to be a high end control surface, but the features it does offer should at least be usable. When using this with Maschine, the mixer view is much nicer, and the knobs are more precise. It also works better in Ableton Live (though there are some bugs there too, and the controls are again less precise). There's no reason the hardware can't provide a better experience in Logic. They just haven't integrated it that well yet. Another issue with the mk2 is the parameters no longer include a bar graph that shows the relative position. You can only see raw values now. If a parameter goes from -6 to +6 and the current value is "2", you have no idea if that's 2/100 or if negative values are possible. Many plugins report their filter cutoff in Hz rather than 0-127, envelope stages in ms, and so on. It's not the end of the world, but it's something the mk1 did better.
Also, the main encoder knob was extremely loud and annoying on the mk1, and has not improved much on the mk2 (it might be slightly quieter, but it's still obnoxious). I don't understand why it has to make so much noise. I have a Traktor Kontrol S2 mk2, which has 7 encoder knobs that are MUCH quieter and still provide a very satisfying "click" at each step. The KK mk2 buttons are also noticeably louder than the mk1.
Well I would never use the Kontrol mk2 knobs to control final mix levels. Personally I’m glad I can just do rough gain settings to reduce some levels quickly if they are poking out too much. But yes, it can probably be 1000 times more accurate. But for me it’s enough to set rough levels. If I want exact values and mixing properly I do that via mouse / wacom. Regarding macro controls it works the same with all these external midi devices. It’s not as exact as we would want them and not as fast response. In a perfect world. I tend to not look at the values but rather listen and hear (does the filter open / close when I move the knob? Do I get more / less reverb?) And we can see roughly on the screen where we are in values. It’s ok. By no means exact and I bet it can be annoying to some. But from my view The Komplete Kontrol mk2 is as a good ”rough” controller. And for that it does the job very well. Thanks for writing.
@@MattiasHolmgren Yeah I agree, I do like to use the mixer view on Maschine while laying down the initial tracks. I just wish it worked as nicely in Logic/Ableton Live as it does in the Maschine software. And you're right, the lack of knob position is not a dealbreaker…but it can be useful, and it's something the mk1 has that was lost in the mk2. Maybe it's a good thing in the end, since what you hear is more important than what you see.
@@MattiasHolmgren Sorry about that! Most people don't seem to care about or even notice the noises from knobs, buttons, keys, and pads. I wish I was one of them. I'd give you other examples but I don't want to spread my curse.
Hi Wang. I do recommend the Komplete Kontrol, depending on your budget there are many good alternatives. I can also recommend grabbing a second hand synth from Roland, Yamaha or similar with sounds onboard which can be a great addition. And they are still very good. Especially the keybeds. As long as you have a midi interface (midi in /out) on your audio interface. Thanks!
Hi Gianna, what you do is that you add a track template with maybe 8-10 tracks which has the Komplete Kontrol plugin on the track. When KK is on a track you can control that track and browse for sounds within the KK sphere, add effects etc. It's very convenient as most software are NKS compatible these days. You can't add or delete tracks though directly from the keyboard. But just make a template with a few tracks which has KK and you are fine. If you are using Logic, you can jump between mixer mode and KK mode. So you can either control the mixer levels of the tracks or the KK plugin container. Hope that answers your questions Gianna. Thanks for asking, sorry for late reply.
Hi Nico, I prefer drumming on drums. Just kidding, for flashing out midi drum parts and percussion I prefer finger-drumming on Maschine mk3. But it also works on Keys. Its just feels more natural on Maschine mk3 pads. Thanks Nico!
Komplete Kontrol mk2 works decent in Logic, you can control the mixer volumes, transport control. Quantize midi. Move between tracks (track selection). Obviously you are going to be working with Komplete Kontrol so you get more indepth control of the instrument parameters. Just set it to midi mode if you want to control smart-controls like from...Alchemy etc. ;)
Thank you for the intro you gave about the keyboard. I have acquired this instrument recently and cannot set up the metronome function on the keyboard. Can you please tell me how I can do that?
It’s a smooth keyboard and I really like the knobs and screens. The NI software is great! Hope you like it too! Thanks for watching my videos, and for writing! Have a wonderful evening Brian!
do you have to follow the NI software comes with the keyboard to function all the sound or you can function the keyboard with the sound on any platform?
Hi, the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 can be used as a regular midi controller too. But to use all the sweet feature you use the Komplete software plugins which is basically a container to hold you vsts. You can load any NKS compatible plugin in the software. Maybe I should do a video showing exactly how this works. Thanks!
I guess so, as longs as you have the lightning adapter on the iPad it's just a USB connection away.That said you will not have any use for all the deep NKS control you get. So I wouldn't recommend this as a iPad keyboard. Rather look at something like the M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 mk3 or similar. ;)
Thanks for the overview, Mattias! Indeed it's so informative to look at the gear like this after some time of usage) I'm actually a fan of NI for a long time, I fell in love with Reaktor many, many years ago, Komplete was my first set of plugins and I also have several devices from NI. They never fail with build quality and durability - that's right! My oldest one is probably Maschine mk2, which is still like new and feels just great for me. And yes, if I looked for some keyboard, I'd definitely put Kontrol to favourites, it's so decent, especially in terms of software integration and instruments. But for me, I'm afraid, version 2 is a little step down, in quite minor things, but they really stop me from "want" it :) As we used to discuss, we all choose by eyes as well, so for me the biggest loses were touch strips, which was there instead of modulation and pitch bend wheels, and so nice previous generation of those lights above the keys - they used to be so glossy and wide! Much more beautiful, in my opinion) And one more another downside for me (this also corresponds to Maschine mk3) are displays, which aren't OLEDs and don't look particularly contrast. It's so personal, but, I think, today, when many of us have quite modern smartphones with very quality displays, it's a little pity to see those ones on quite expensive gear. But yes, in total, these are so tiny minor moments, which obviously not so noticeable in everyday work. I hope =) So yes, I just wish you to enjoy using it further and create nice melodies and tracks with it :)
Hi Alexey, thanks for your feedback. Ahh yes if you invest time in the NI softwares they are really good. I always say that about the mk3, it's an instrument and you have to learn to play it. With the mk3 and Kontrol you can connect external power source which will further light up the screens. Personally, I don't see any issues with the screens on the mk3 (even without external DC power) for me it's ok. Though I don't DJ, so I don't use the hardwares in a dark environment, like a club. Maybe that would be more demanding of course. It's still far superior screen than on the past workstation keyboards I've worked with anyways. haha I remember that screen from the Yamaha EX-5 (love the keyboard by the way) but those green / yellow screens hahaha. Funny thing! But yeah, as we are accustomed to the phone OLED screens which are VERY hi quality, maybe it should also be applied to these midi controllers too. As they are quite expensive anyways. I've looked at the AKAI MPC-Live, it comes with a touch screen which seems sooo slow and "un-snappy". I mean, I'm accustomed to the iPad Pro 12" screen which is sooo snappy. But I guess the gfx processor of the MPC-Live is not the fastest in the world. Other than that the MPC-Live is very interesting, since it's totally standalone. The first thing I had to do with the Ex-5 was to demount it into pieces to fix the rotary wheel knob and fix a pitch wheel that didn't want to come back into root position. Old synths, need some love from time to time. The good thing about this Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 is that you have both touch strip AND a mod wheel and pitch wheel. As you say, it's good to have that pitch wheel moving back into "root" position after you fiddle with it. That's hard with a touch strip. =) But those touch strips, while mixing and doing automation rides, feel very good. Did you check any videos from the current Thomann event? I'm just watching the Minilogue xd in-depth from BoBeats, I kinda like the sound from that device. But I still use Diva for most analogue (virtual) sounds. It's a beast. But tactile hardware is very nice to play with. Maybe I'll get it for my kids, good tactile synthesis learning device. =) Thanks again for your comment Alexey have a splendid saturday!
@@MattiasHolmgren Yes, absolutely, Mattias, this is just my grunt about mostly impressions of look and feel, nothing more, and overall the keyboard is awesome, especially for newcomers or those who decided to look at it or switch from the hardware instruments world. Oh yes, those "pure" hardware gear from back in the days indeed wants you to go deeper) I think, they mean, you're not just a user, you're the owner of them =) So please grab the soldering iron and "let's go!" :D AKAI MPC-Live is quite interesting, especially in it's autonomous state, but I really don't suffer too much of the need to use computer or turn to its screen from time to time, so this is not absolutely the key thing for me. But I also saw some critics on it in the reviews, but the field is so promising. I think, it fills some space between Elektron and software-based controllers like Maschine or Push, which is good for us, as everyone would be able to choose the proper instrument to their heart's delight. Yes, with those touch strips in the previous version it's again pretty much beauty detail for me, with strips it used to look soo modern) Though my mind definitely tells me, that wheels are a little more functional and easy to use, especially given, that there's still a touch strip as well) This is indeed design vs. functionality thing for me =) Oh, totally failed to notice this event :( Hope to see some follow-ups, thank you for pointing out! Yes, Minilogue XD did look nice on NAMM, if I remember correctly, it's not that too much more expensive, than the original Minilogue, and yes, this is kind of instruments, that I want to buy, as I watch any video about it :) Absolutely agree, Mattias, sometimes it's so needed to touch some nice instrument while working! Probably it's so inspiring in that sense. Though yes, software synths give more facilities at typically lower price. Very nice idea to get it for your kids, I think, they'll surely like to learn to play it! I had a toy synth in my childhood, very liked to play it that time, was my first one, even before the piano) So yes, good luck with it! Thank you very much, Mattias! Have some free time from everything today, so hope to stick with music a little bit :) I also wish you a nice and pleasant weekend, mate!
Had issues with novation impulse 49, bottom row pads went off line. Found that the conductive ribbon and surface conductive paint of very poor quality. Repaired with carbon zero conductive paint. Advised Novation that connector should have hard pads not crush on conductive strip. Very poor for a pro keyboard. Now on a KK c61
Hi Mike. Good tip to the developer. ;) Only keyboard that ever failed on me was the Panorama P6 motorized fader. But they were kind to send me a replacement board even though my warranty was out. But after about a year I manage to break the USB socket while moving the keyboard around and having the cable connected. Maybe not the highest quality USB connector slot.
88 Keys is too big setup, at least for me. And from my point of view its only necessary if you want to play big elaborate piano pieces. Get a tight keyboard setup which give you more space for editing tools and less bulky Studio. 😋
I purchased the AKAI Advance 49, which is a very good controller (I had wanted the 61 version, but didn‘t get it anywhere last year). Soon after purchasing I installed Catalina on my Mac and since then the sound software VIP (obviously 32 bit sw) and other SW don‘t work. After almost a year nothing has changed in that matter. That‘s dissapointing. They still haven‘t adapted VIP (very good SW) to a 64 bit OS and they even don‘t say when they will do that.
Hi Willi, I feel your frustration. Basically every software these days should be 64bit. Its the Future. Cant believe that Akai didn't update their softwares yet to 64bit. I am glad all software I work with is 64bit. 🌞😀 Hope you will find a solution.
It IS strange. It seems like a lot of people don’t know it, but VIP is like Akai’s version of Komplete, in that it is a hub for all of your VST generators, except almost any 3rd party plugin can be used. No fancy LED graphics on your Akai controller like with Komplete and the Maschine / S series stuff, but the functionality is certainly there. I received VIP 3.0 free with purchase of my MPK mini from way way back but I just don’t use it. Seems like Akai may have given up on the software.
Dunno I always feel the 88keys are too big. And for such big playing I use the regular piano. S61 is excellent middleground size. It works for me. You have to think about what suits your particular setup. 🌞
You can use it through komplete kontrol within FL studio, there's a video from chuki beats where he shows that, I've got mine yesterday and I'm so glad I did 🙏
Hi, sorry for the delay. The Komplete Kontrol keyboard has its own specific instrument vst plugin - Kontrol - which you add to the tracks in any DAW (FL included). I will show this in an upcoming video. With the plugin on the track you can now add instruments and effects from the Komplete Kontrol keyboard. What I usually do is setup a template in FL, Bitwig and Logic which contains - 8 midi tracks with a Komplete Kontrol plugin on each track. This way I can instantly get started composing from the Kontrol keyboard without fiddling too much with the mouse / keyboard. The Kontrol keyboards are created to control the NKS plugins, Maschine software and NI plugins, not the DAWs per se. Thanks for writing Gregor!
Hi Mill, the Komplete Kontrol S61 is a midi controller so it does not contain sounds itself. It only transmits midi data to a computer / sound module etc. It does feature midi in / midi out so you can connect it to any sound module etc. Hope the info helps.
Hello, I'm Alpaslan. I am writing from Turkey. I translated with Google translate. I apologize if there is any mistake. My problem is this. I am using logic pro x 10.4.4, I bought a complete control s61 mk2. As a normal midi keyboard, it's okay but I can't use other features like start, stop, rec mixer. There are no ways I haven't tried, but somehow it didn't. I even formatted and reinstalled the iMac. please help.
Hi Alpaslan,I feel your frustration. You should be able to control Logic (like I did in this video) if you follow along the Logic Pro X install tutorials. Does Logic recognize your Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 keyboard as a controller when you boot up Logic?
@@MattiasHolmgren Nice! Right now, I just use a vintage Yamaha SY77's midi out to control everything. But I'm looking very seriously at the Summer of Sound bundles available through NI. I just sold off some of my synths and I'm trying to choose between Output's full suite bundle and the S61. Thanks for the reply!
Oh cool, the SY77! Yeah it’s always hard these purchases and weighting different products. I like the S61, but as you can see I use this minimal mega cheap Keystation Mini32 in the videos. But its mainly because its more convenient taking up less space on the desk. It does the job but not for playing emotional piano pieces, then I got to the S61 mk2 or the upright piano. Output has some really nice plugs.
@@MattiasHolmgren You're right about saving space! I ended up going with the S61. Super excited about it! You could always look at something like furniture from Omnirax or that new Output Platform for arranging your keys and workstation. Somebody gave me an Omnirax custom built desk and it makes all the difference in my workflow!
Yeah a solid desk really helps. I went for a big solid platform desk just to arrange and do whatever setup I feel like. I also have a hight adjustable table for when I need to be able to stand and work, ergonomics rule. Oh you went with the S61, good choice. It's an excellent feel on the keybed (Fatar keybed). And the screens are very helpful if you work with the NI platform NKS stuff.
Oh yes, the Maschine mk3 has a built in audio interface and so it features all the ins / outs and heaphones jack that you expect from a device with audio interface. Machine JAM on the other hand does not include an audio interface. BUT it still includes 8 very nice smart strips (touch strips) and is also cheaper than the mk3. Hope the info helps. Cheers!
32. :) just kidding I think 61 is nice when you want to play piano / strings. If you are just making certain type of music where you just program most stuff and Maybe play some leads, a 32 is ok. :) I am old school piano player so for me 61 is ok.
Thanks, yeah it's a really nice keybed and great integration if you are used to the NI ecosystem. I think you get what you pay for. But it's a bit sad if you already own the ULTIMATE collection. I also have Komplete software since before and it's a bit of a headache buying all the NI hardware stuff and getting the same software package over and over. ;)
I mainly use it in the studio. But it feels as sturdy as the other midi controllers I own: Panorama P6, Axiom Air, Novation etc. The Komplete Kontrol has a Fatar keybed and they are very durable from what I've experienced through the years. So it should work fine! The dual screens are big and very good light so you can see what you are doing when adjusting parameters etc. Thanks!
Hi Inawayy, I don’t know but it’s a Fatar keybed and it feels sturdy. It’s mk2 so it’s not first edition. Has a great feel to it and mine still holds up. Hope it will last longer than my Panorama P6. What kind of keyboard controller are you using Inawayy? Thanks for writing!
@@MattiasHolmgren Is it true that the sound of a MIDI keyboard will always be much worse than a synthesizer and even worse than a digital piano? Rumor has it that sampled sounds for each key on a synthesizer sound better. And digital pianos not only have high-quality sounds, but also simulate string resonance and other effects like an acoustic piano - they have a sound engine. But a MIDI keyboard cannot get the same high-quality sound through a wire, since it does not have a sound engine.
My little experience (S49 MK2). --------- LIKE: 1 - Fatar mechanics, 2 - Pleasant to the touch keys, 3 - The keys quiet (do not creak and not knock, unlike cheap midi clas, that it was important to me), 4 - Aftertouch --------- DISLIKE: 1 - Square design with sharp corners, like stump .. It looks very primitive. It is not comfortable to put a hand in the Pitch area - corners put on hand .. put physically and psychologically. Before that, I had a budget Midi keyboard of another manufacturer - the design was cool, streamlined, futuristic. 2 - Unreasonably cumbersome - it takes a lot of space on the table, and half of the space walks nothing busy .. Uzhos. And these two displays, I almost do not use. It would be better if the panel above the keys was two or three times less. 3 - Despite the fact that the keyboard is cumbersome, for some reason they have not placed at least a few faders for control ... It is not clear to me when these controls are even in cheap midi keyboards of other manufacturers. 4 - Pitch and modulation wheels are too cumbersome. Under them unsuccessfully placed the belt controller. When you turn the Pitch - in any case, you touch the ribbon controller and change its parameters. 5 - The backlight of the keys does not turn off, and also does not regulate its brightness, which is not very convenient .. Sometimes it interferes and puts on the eyes ... especially with dim light in the room. 6 - I did not find how to switch the presets in the usual midi mode through the Program Chang parameter. It is possible to assign only to the knob, which is not very convenient. Usually presets are switched by buttons by one value, and not spin. And it is spinning so fast that they slip through three. 7 - Even their native sampler Kontakt in DAW without a Komplete Kontrol does not support all this powerful backlight with zones .. native Kontakt !!! Very much damp and not convenient. (It works only with the running of Kontakt through the plug-in Komplete Kontrol, but it is not convenient, and there are no obvious problems there, as well as with such a use of a higher load on the processor.) 8 - Komplete Kontrol not convenient and not practical. Everything is loaded for a very long time, it sounds not as normal professional synthesizers ... the idea is good, the implementation is a complete garbage. It does not work as it should, and does not sound as it should. (I have many real synthesizers from 80-90, there is something to compare with ... everything works fast, clearly and beautiful ... I have a good idea of ??how professional instrument should work correctly 9 - I did not understand why the TS MODE function is needed, which should be activated via Shift on the Fixed Vel button. In the manual did not bother to describe her appointment. ---- Despite the many shortcomings, first of all, I was important to have a pleasant and quiet Fatar mechanics - I received it .... It remains to hope for the durability of German quality. A normal arpeggiator would not hurt, which would simply work with the keyboard in any DAW and in the midi mode with external equipment - without of Komplete Kontrol. Also did not hinder several controllers in the form of faders. If keyboard was more compact and licked without sharp corners - it would be generally wonderful. Well, it would be possible to add control of the brightness of the backlight of the keys, as well as the normal switching of presets of external synthesizer through Program Change.
Concerning (2) - actually these Fatar keys are quite long underneath the enclosure. It is required to move the key axis away so that you can press a key even near its farther end. On cheaper keyboards you just can't. Or it requires too much strength.
I know it stands for "mark 2" = second Edition. I use the shortest term to describe the name. I can say this however I like though. I'm swedish and my english is what it is too but the message probably get across just fine. Very odd thing that you choose to complain about such a little detail Alan... "Mmmm kay 2" for the win my friend. :) Have a splendid day you too.
Haha, you are welcome Alan. No worries it takes a million more to offend me and my swenglish. It's Hard to teach an 41 year old horse to speak swahili. 😋 Glad you enjoy the video. Which Keybeds do you play?
@@MattiasHolmgren ... An Acuna73 hammer action, a Roland V-Synth V2, an FA6 which I don't really like. And 2 digital pianos. Yes I know that's ridiculous and I need to pare that down, but it happened over many years 🙂
Hi Peter, it's indeed the pro-grade Fatar keybed. It's semi weighted keys. They feel very smooth and has a great response curve. No hammer action piano keys though. Hope the info helps. Thanks for watching Peter!
Why do they systematically ignore such a powerful and convenient sequencer as FL Studio? This is outrageous! Let them make the same convenient integration as for Cubase. They try to link the user to their ecosystem. This is wrong, let them integrate their capabilities with other products. They will not get any worse, their libraries are unique in any case (Komplete 13), but the user will immediately notice.
Yes it's indeed a wrapper. To its advantages and dis-advantages. I think it's a clever "workaround" though, because if we pre-setup our song template with 10-16 tracks with the Komplete Kontrol plugin. We can basically work directly from the keyboard making a song. Without touching the mouse. It's fun to be able to browse presets and sounds via the interface. A more tactile experience. Not garbage, just gives you an alternative way of working. All good!
@@MattiasHolmgren one of the worst VST interfaces ever created, full of bugs and unreadable on 4K monitors. Technology which remembers Windows-XP era ! Simply crap!
Mattias, I've always wanted a nice mid-sized keyboard controller with weighted keys, have you ever owned/used a controller with weighted keys and how do you feel about them vs. the more common non-weighted but velocity sensitive keys?
Good question Cerebus. Many years back I wanted those weighted versions. But since I always owned a real piano I never saw the point in getting a big bulky keyboard infront of my composing workspace. They are so hard to place for a comfortable work environment. At least for me, since I tend to swap things around from day to day depending on what work I need to do.
On weighted it’s not possible to play as fast for leads (at least it’s harder) so when I played with progressive rock bands / rock / metal I went to the EX-5 which I still really like. So I kinda made the choice to go with synth action rather than hammer action midi controllers.
You only have so much space on the desk. ;)
And Nowdays with these new Maschine Jams, mk3, Digitakt etc. its good to have some space. I mostly have a clean setup with a very small M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 infront of my keyboard then I go over to the stands with the Komplete Kontrol S61 and the Axiom Air when I need to play bigger stuff like leads and piano. Or the real piano when I want hammer action. ;)
I might try out the new NI Komplete Kontrol M32 as a front/desk keyboard, but I dunno... the Mini 32 is so small and easy to smack around while making these video tutorials. My production workflow seem to be more editing rather than playing. It's good to have space for the Wacom as it's such a relief for the wrists when doing plenty of editing.
A few years back when I was writing daily music cues for Peak Games slot game, Slotto Lotto. And composing for Come2Plays renowned Backgammon Live etc. I had the keyboards placed to the left side of me and I had to turn every time I was going to record something. And I often became lazy and had this really awkward angle with the arm almost to the back left side which was such a pain and strain on the shoulder etc. No good working position at all.
So I decided to go for a small front desk key setup to cure that. Never had a problem since. =) I often see composers having this setup (keyboard to the right or left of the computer screen) and it hurts my eyes, since I know if they are going to work like that for many hours and many years...It's eventually going to hurt their shoulders, neck and writs etc.
Yeah, enough blabbering about ergonomics. ;) But it's important for the working composer / producer.
So that’s my current setup. What does your setup look like?
@@MattiasHolmgren I currently have an old M-Audio Axiom 25 I've had since 2003 or so! It's my trusty bass-line creator, but gives me trouble since it only has a couple octaves when making lead parts, so I definitely need a controller with more keys. I'm thinking 49 key for my next upgrade, or 61 key if I'm feeling like a boss. I think because of price and my current situation I'll drop my preference for weighted keys with the main midi keyboard and get a full sized electric piano down the road. Baby steps to the man-cave music creation battlestation. Thanks for the tips Mattias!
Yeah, full sized hammer action electric piano is highly recommende. U can probably get a used item which is of good quality. Thomann has their own brand el-piano which has really nice feel. Can’t remember the model name. Wow so u have that Axiom. I think I’ve owned all versions of the Axiom series. Really like their action. Gave the first Axiom to my little brother.
@@MattiasHolmgren You made a great note about placement of the keyboard. I'm a hobbyist 1.5 years into music, already in the thousands $ without making penny back and I don't mind I love making music. However It is very tense and complicated journey between which DAW/Plug-in/Keyboard/etc or go full standalone I spent hundreds of hours watching videos and hearing opinions. Eventually I settled for computer production since standalone cost is insane and needs x3 space. I bought MPC renaissance (MPC-X will replace in the future) and Maschine MK3 I got those because controlling DAW with mouse does really annoy me. I bought Ableton 11 suite and that software alone took huge effort to learn and I'm still learning. Back to your note I have 2 mini midi keyboard (NI M32 - Akai mpk mk3) and they never satisfied me even though I'm not a pianist but 25/32 keys felt very limited and small so I hit wrong note, it also impacted my choice of notes, so I bought Launchkey 49 mk3 and wow I was missing out so much. Now I have it in front of me, MPC on the left and Maschine mk3 on the right on a retractable desk arm (in the air to make room). Ergonomics are extremely important and I spent a lot of time previously with keyboard on my left and it was hard to play.
placement of device needs a lot of thinking and planing and getting the right stand based on the priority of the device.
I have had the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 for over a year now and I think it's time we do a deep dive and see how it's been holding up. In the video we talk about the various aspects of the Kontrol S61 which makes it one of the top midi controllers.
Get the KOMPLETE KONTROL S61 mk2 (affiliate link):
amzn.to/2M0Tir9
The Komplete Kontrol S61 comes packed with Komplete Select 12 which is a package with all the sounds you ever need. You get some of Native Instruments most popular synths like Massive and Monark.
I'm a piano player so I was very intrigued that the package comes with the critically acclaimed The Gentleman piano. I have most of the other piano vsts on the market but this one really caught my attention. You can get so much variated sounds from The Gentleman. I highly recommend it!
I've produced countless tracks with the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 during this past year and some you can hear on my Spotify channel.
PS. Native Instruments also released the M32 keyboard, which is a portable version of this keyboard. It doesn't come with all the bells and whistles, but it's a neat affordable solution for the artist on the go.
Get the Komplete Kontrol M32 (affiliate link):
amzn.to/2FeEUsz
Please subscribe and hit the bell icon for notifications when I have new videos out!
What's your favourite keyboard?
Hope you like the video, thanks,
Mattias Holmgren @ morningdewmedia.com
I just got the s61 key its maddness..
Yeah love it! Did you watch the trailer for the new mk3??? 💎🥁🎉
I have a production desk where i used the second level for my iMac and studio monitors and under that rackmounted gear. On the desk surface, I had my main keyboard a Kronos 88 with weighted keys which I used both as a straight audio keyboard for it's sounds but also as a MIDI controller for Cubase and Komplete Kontrol. I also have a Tascam M12 for mixdown and interface coupled with a Scarlet 6i6 which gives me enough ports in/out of my DAW. I also have an older Maschine Studio which was quite large and also a Roland TRS8. All of this was really crowding me in so I opted for a K&M table stand and moved my Kronos off the main desk at a 90 degree angle. About two months later, I am having much the same complaints you are mentioning regarding having to turn right all the time to see my monitor and main computer screen. I am seriously considering an S series keyboard to place atop my production desk and reorganize again. I really dont need the S88 full range keyboard since I can use my weighted keys Kronos, but I am wondering if there are advantages to the S61 vs the S49 if I am to place it back on my production desk. Given your experience, do you see an advantage using the S61 vs a smaller S49?
Hi Ariel, totally feel your concern. Turning your body like that to reach the keys will ultimately result in shoulder / neck / elbow strain. I was there several times until I realized I cant work like that…ever. Ok, the 61 keys is really great for playing piano pieces and large string patches. But if you only record basslines, melodies and satisfied with working in 49 keys thats totally fine. Heck if you watch some of my older videos I was mostly playing at the most shitty small Keystation Mini 32 which is like the smallest unit Ive come across and it suffices for general midi note inputs with decent velocity. That said, to me, the S61 is now in my garage since a few months back because A smaller Arturia Keystep 37 felt nicer and smaller on my desk when shooting videos and I just need to play small phrases when getting the message across for the tutorials. Though I do bring in a larger unit, piano or the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 when I need to play elaborate big piano pieces. Hope the info helps in your decision.
So 49 keys for general purpose midi note input. 61 (or more) only if you need to play piano stuff….well, you also have more direct room for keyzones with the lightguide on the larger unit. If you dont want to flip the transpose all the time. ☀️🥳🥁☕️🍿
Great review, especially the key bed. Tak.
Varsegod Bob. Glad you enjoy this showcase video of Komplete Kontrol. I think its a nice keybed to play.
Hi Mattias, thanks for this review. I have an S49mk1 and really like everything about it, except the keys are extremely noisy. They make a loud thumping sound that disturbs people around me in a way that none of my other keyboards do. The black keys are especially bad, and almost twice as loud. I’m ready to upgrade to an S61 mk2 to get some of the other nice new features like the displays and extra buttons, but I’m concerned about the key noise. I would just go to a store and try it out, but that’s impossible now, and music gear stores might not be reopened for many months. Have you used the mk1? If so, is the mk2 any better? I like the feel and action and aftertouch of the mk1…it’s a very playable keyboard, but it’s obnoxiously noisy and I’m kinda fed up with it.
Hi Stormchild. I have no experience of mk1. But I did compared the thump and key noise of the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 with Axiom Air 61. The Air is as Silent as a keyboard can get and I also think it has the best feel of them all but it is not supported anymore and had issues with the Rotary knob drivers. I think it was among the first with endless Rotary encoders... And They worked eh... Not so good. But the keybed is the best i have played on.
Panorama T4 has a bit more noisy Keys, but Komplete Kontrol has the noisiest. T4 has VERY natural aftertouch. I like it a lot.
But that thump on KK has never bothered me. But I live in a house. I like the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2. For me its not an issue. But I can confirm the keybed is giving more thump-noise than the others. Cheers
Hello Mate so im about top buy a midi keyboard and pad. Would you recomend to buy the Komplete Knontrol S61 with Mashine? Or should I buy a cheaper set. Great video tho!
Hi, Komplete Kontrol S61 is a great master keyboard controller. But it's a bit big. When using the Maschine mk3 I usually use it in combo with a smaller keyboard which fits under my current Maschine Jam / Maschine mk3 setup. You can see my "live setup" in this live stream:
th-cam.com/video/MKkNXrHhnHU/w-d-xo.html
But in the studio office I use larger keyboards like the Komplete Kontrol S61 or Nektar Panorama T4 when recording keyboard parts.
You can read my gear list at www.morningdewmedia.com/resources-for-music-production-and-video/
Cheers!
Hi I have the S88 but I want to return it to the store, because I find the keybed a little to heavy, the action is slow, it's only good for piano playing and organ, not for faster action instruments like Bass or drums, .I think i am not gonna use the high keys/register of it anyway.. but how about the noise of the keybed of the s61, the S88 is very quiet, maybe due to the fact that they are weighted keys, but how is the noise of the keybed of the S61, is it annoying/loud when pressing the keys, or is it ok? Thanks for your time..all the best!
Hi Pauluz. To me the keybed noise is not annoying. But I can bet if you live in a small appartment with a fiance or family and you work at nights it can be annoying. ;) THanks for writing!
nice review...as a player what made you decide to get this one over the weighted board?
haha ok i just realized you give a good answer up above...thanks
Thanks Christopher, yeah I do like weighted keys. But to me weighted keys it mainly for piano, and when doing pianos I mostly go to the real thing. ;) So for keyboards I often go for a more light setup.
is it easy to split the keyboard via key range and velocity via Komplete ?
Yes its very easy to work with and adjust Komplete Kontrol software and instruments.
thanks for a great review ....going for it
Hey, yeah I think the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 is a great piece of midi controller. I didn't have any problems with it as of yet. ;) Thanks!
Good morning I have a problem.
I connected both kontrol komplete mkII and Maschine plus to the window pc with Maschine software via USB cable.
Everything works except that by pressing the kontrol keys the selected sounds do not play while they play regularly by pressing the pads of plus machines. This is how the songs loaded on Maschine 2 sound. Did I get the connections wrong? Do I have to set something special? If so, can you tell me the detailed procedure?
I tried to see the midi setting of maschine plus; but in controller mode the parameters are not editable.
Can you help me? Thank you. Louis
Ok, so you're running Maschine Software DAW on the PC, right? In Maschine software, check settings (FIle / Preferences / MIDI tab), and see if the Komplete Kontrol is available as input. Why not connect Komplete Kontrol directly into the Maschine plus? It does have a MIDI-A port for that.
@@MattiasHolmgren Ok, so you're running Maschine Software DAW on the PC, right? Thanks for the feedback. Yes right, that's right.
In the Maschine software, check the settings (FIle / Preferences / MIDI tab) and see if Komplete Kontrol is available as input. No I looked it is not available.
Why not connect Komplete Kontrol directly to Maschine plus? It has a MIDI-A port for that; Yes I tried but it only works if I put Maschine Plus in standalone mode, but at that point PC and Maschine 2 daw are excluded. moreover, if I connect kontrol mk2 to midi port A of mschine plus and put this in controller mode, it doesn't see kontrol mk2 and it doesn't even turn on?. There is a solution? Thank you very much. Louis.
How to use a generic 3rd Party Midi Keyboard with NI Pianos? thourgh Komplete Kontrol Software?
You can just load up the regular NI samples pianos via Kontakt Sampler. Uou don’t need to do it via Komplete Kontrol. But you can do either 👌😄🥁
Big hello from Russia, Mattias! Great review! By the way, is it possible to use this MK2 for managing VST synths and effects, that are not supported by NI? For example, Omnisphere, Toontrack, etc. Thank you!
Yes, absolutely, you can download / buy third-party met-tag-files which makes Omnisphere 2 presets appear in the Komplete Kontrol browser so you can browse via your Kontrol S61 mk2 controller or via the KK plugin.
It's very convenient and massive! Although you don't get sound previews (who would do that for 6000 presets!?).
But it's great to browse via the controller and filter categories to find your sounds. ;D
By default Omnisphere 2 is not officially NKS compatible (there are not included meta data files for the Omnisphere 2 content). But as I mention you can buy / download free Omnisphere 2 NKS meta-data files.
Can't believe Spectrasonics didn't create these meta-data files themselves to make it compatible.
If you sweep the google you can find NKS meta.data files for many third party instruments and plugins which are not officially NKS supported. Good luck.
@@MattiasHolmgren Oh, great thanks for such a detailed answer, Mattias! Gonna try to do as you advise when my MK2 is shipped. Wish you good luck and success! :)
Sir,
Please would like to know if it works good with cubase 12 pro....
Or...
Arturia keylab 61 mk2 is better...
Please do answer.....
Love from India
🙏🇮🇳🙏🇮🇳🙏🇮🇳🙏
I dunno I don’t have the Keylab. But I did play it in the music store and wasn’t too fond of the layout and keys. Im also very much invested in Native Instruments software and gear. 🍀💎☕️😄
Thanks for this fine review.
I just get a s61 MkII keyboard, unfortunately I have an annoying echo, for example with "The Gentleman" piano ,when I press any one key I got the main sound plus a second sound a moment later. Any idea?
MIDI feedback loop? Or maybe you have your monitoring setup configured so that you BOTH listen to the direct sound AND monitoring from your track while recording. It's a common gotcha!
If the latter is the case, then the 'echo' will depend on your buffer setting. You can check that by playing with a small buffer, say 128 or 256 samples, and compare with how it sounds when you increase the buffer to 1024 or 2048 samples.
If the length of the 'echo' changes, then you need to disable monitoring from the DAW track while recording and only listen to the direct sound.
@@spitfire31f11 Yes, actually my focusrite interface was creating a feedback loop.
settings all softwares and hardwares properly was a bit overwhelming for a noob. But eventually I got my system running.Thx
Thanks for the video, have you seen any quality issues, others have had issues with white screen, strange mechanical noise, and keys. ?
Hi, no, I have had no quality issues like white screens etc. Probably someone had a "monday issue". No mechanical noise on my device either. I'm happy with it still.
@@MattiasHolmgren thanks, good to hear
How do you like the keyboard when it comes to control other softsynths/plugins then NI?
Does it function well for that or is it better to buy something else if not using mostly NI products with it?
Hi Anders. I think the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 holds up nicely for controlling other software too. Its just that when running Kontrol and loading NKS plugins in Kontrol you get params premapped for the synths / samplers which is awesome. I even got Omnisphere 2 mapped via third party metafiles which is superb. NKS has become like industry standard which is great. I dont see any down side of using KK S61 for other instruments though. You can always switch to normal CC mode and midi learn if some instrument isnt NKS. 🌞
@@MattiasHolmgren Thanks for information and help
Hello, there already is a question about Bitwig below, but I wondered if you have tried the Nektar Panorama P6, it supposedly works very well with Bitwig. This keyboard seems to have more possibilities than the Nektar (but as you commented is best combined with Komplete Control), so can you give me your opinion please. I originally wanted to use my Roland FA08 as DAW controller (for which it is not really designed, and it is also fully weighted) in combination with a Roli Seaboard (which is good for expression but not for "regular" keyboard playing), so I think I'm better of getting a real DAW controller too. Thank you!
I owned the Panorama P6, I think I have some videos playing that thing:
th-cam.com/video/1wUeQHgX2SE/w-d-xo.html
I really liked the keys on the P6, even compared to the Komplete Kontrol S61.
I also talked about the P6 in this video. Although it was now broken. ;(
th-cam.com/video/paV6cLsZ5lY/w-d-xo.html
I think the Komplete Kontrol S61 is an excellent keyboard, and keybed too. The NKS integration is awesome and makes it easy to create tracks quickly.
Komplete Kontrol S61 (affiliate link to Amazon) amzn.to/2MrWhLi
I have the previous version of it and I love it! The odd thing is that some daws don't support it, even though it's one of the most popular. Hmm...
Yeah, there’s no perfect match to swing all DAWs. But it’s packed with great features and for Logic it’s a beast. It’s good to be able to swap patches and make adjustments in a heartbeat. I think it’s a great product. Was not too sold on the keybed in the beginning, but a new instrument is a new instrument. You have to give them some time and love to get to know. ;)
Great Video! Kontakt 6 inculded with the keyboard?
No it was not. It comes with Komplete Select (Essentials) . Kontalt 6 fullversion is not included. Only Player. Thanks Jason.
I loved the sound of The Gentleman piano but ... all of the notes that it produces in my studio using my S61 have a horrible thumping sound in each key. How did you remove the mechanical sounds from The Gentleman? Also, is it possible to edit the velocity curve of The Gentleman?
Hi Alan, yes I use The Gentleman in many of my songs. You can adjust both velocity curve and compression presets in the settings of The Gentleman. In this video With Komplete Kontrol S61 I just loaded up some of the presets / snapshots in The Gentleman Kontakt instrument. Press the "camera icon" in the Kontakt instrument panel and you can select from various presets of the piano. They all sound different but very good starting points. Some have more noise (pedal action) intimate sounds than others. Hope the info helps.
Tja Mattias! Har du testat Arturia Keylab mk2? Sitter med beslutsångest mellan s61 och Arturian..
Hi, yes I've played the Arturia Keylab mk2 in the music store. My general viewpoint on the comparison is: 1.Do you work a lot with Native Instruments software (Kontakt, NKS libs etc.) ...and you have a separate device for beat-mashing, ie. Maschine mk3, Jam, Push...whatever...then I would definitely go with the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2.
I really like the screens of the KK S61 mk2. It's colorful, very upfront, bright, easy to read. ;D
I like the integration and it's just so quick to work with my favourite synths, Massive, Omnisphere etc with the meta tag files to browse etc. I think the keybed isn't the best, but it's Fatar quality and works well for playing basically anything piano, synths, strings etc. You get a better keybed with a dedicated Yamaha el-piano, but then again they don't have the NKS integration and nice screens etc. So I chose to go with a KK S61 mk2 because I do work a lot with NI software / NKS and have other devices for beat-mashing.
2. Do you like the Arturia Analog LABS and Arturia software? I don't personally use any of their software atm.
The keybed on the Arturia is less noisy (if that would be a problem for you...or your girlfriend...lol)
The Arturia keyboard also gives you 16 pads and alot more buttons...if you want that. It has a small LCD screen which isn't really in par with the NI screen...IMO.
If you still think this is ok, then go with the KeyLabs mk2. :D
So the questions you should ask yourself:
What do you want from your keyboard? What software do you generally use. What kind of keybed do you like?
Hope the info is helpful! 🌞
Do the lights on the keys light up during MIDi playback, showing you what keys are playing?
Hi Joseph, no the lights are for showing keyswitch-regions on the keyboard etc. Unfortunately the leds are not for looking what keys are played during playback of a midi sequence. Cheers!
@@MattiasHolmgren It does with Synthesia, but songes are limited and cost money
Appreciate the review. Years ago I owned a 88 key Fatar MIDI keyboard. It had a good solid feel. I understand the S series of Native Instruments features a Fatar keybed, which is semi-weighted, and NOT a synth-action keybed as compared to an A61? This is as per the NI website....would really appreciate your comment on this; I don't want to spend $800 for a keyboard with floaty, flighty synth-action keys! 😁
Also, I have been torn between whether to go with an S49 or S69, but today, playing with my Steinway 42" upright console piano, I decided I just love the sounds of the keys that reach 2 octaves below the Middle C, particularly the C which is the first key on the left of a 61 key keybed. I would not have that if I went with an S49. So that has helped me make my decision. But anyway these keyboards are back ordered because of the Covid-19 lockdown and I'm in no hurry either. Just had my piano tuned and will just have fun with it.
Hi Raja,
I think the keybed on the S61 feels very nice and rounded. It's indeed a semi-weighted FATAR keybed. My own perspective and recommendation for amount of keys is this:
1. IF you want to go compact, go REALLY compact, like I do for my videos I use this really small Keystation Mini 32. But that is to save maximum amount of desktop real estate.
2. If you are going to play piano, go with a 61-keys (at least). It's the minimum in my opinion for playing decent piano pieces and composing. With 49 keys you will have to push transpose all the time, lol! ;D
THanks for writing Raja!
@@MattiasHolmgren Thank you! Have ordered an M-Audio Keystation 61 which will arrive by tonight. Can't wait! If the keys are clickety-clackety and don't have a good feel to them, I plan to return it to Amazon and wait for Novation's latest 61 key unit which is not yet available. Will write back tomorrow what I feel about the M-Audio unit. www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/LaunchK3-61--novation-launchkey-61-mk3-61-key-keyboard-controller
Great review! Does it have velocity sensitive keys??
Yes absolutely. The Komplete Kontrol S61 has Fatar keybed. Very Nice key feel, velocity, aftertouch, pitchwheel, modwheel and an extra touchstrip for modulation! Thanks, glad to hear you like the review.
Hi Matthias! Is it possible to dim or turn off the leds?
I just bought one of these keyboards and "No" is the answer to your question. In fact Native Instruments offer zero global settings for the LED's. When they are off but on standby they are way too bright but there's no way to change it. Apparently NI (Native Instruments) are really stubborn with their customer requests and leave basic functionality like LED Guide control out of the hands of users.
Hey ! Thanks for your review, I really liked it. I'm using the software "Bitwig". Do you know if it works with this midi controller ? Thanksss !
Yes it works with Bitwig. But where the Komplete S61 keyboards really shine is when used in conjunction with the Komplete Kontrol plugin. I have quite the collection of Bitwig Studio videos too. ;) Thanks for writing Gaetan. Happy to hear you like the content.
Hello, I'm a legally blind musician and I just purchased a kk s61 mk2. After a few days I'm really excited and happy with it. Just a thing, could you (or someone else) help me to find out how to setup the accessibility features (like changing the voice volume or how to assigne a different audio output for the speaking voice), please?
THNKS A LOT
Tom
Hi Tommaso, congrats on that komplete kontrol s61 mk2. It’s a neat keyboard. I have little experience with the accessibility features and voice over. Which OS are you working on? Mac, Pc, linux? ;)
On MAC it’s easy to setup audio routing and multi out devices etc. Do you have an external mixer you want to work with since you want to route the speech / voice over to a separate audio out? My guess, for controlling voice over volume in separate fader to the actual music from your DAW.
Thanks for reaching out Tommaso!
Thanks for your fast replay!
I use a MacBook Pro and Logic Pro X.
At the moment my audio configuration is the following:
- System audio goes to an USB hub with minijack
- logic output device is the USB hub (minijack) or a focusrite scarlett interface
- voiceover output is set up to my external display speakers
The "strange" thing is that the kk accessibility voice still comes from the macbook pro internal speakers and I don't know where to go to change that setting. I also don't understand why the kk still uses an Italian voice even when I set my mac's voiceover to English.
I just need to find the right place in the preferences or somewhere else to change these settings.
Hope you can help me even if it's not a thing you use as a sighted musician. ;-)
Tommaso Mainardi ok. If you use komplete kontrol from within Logic, as a insert plugin, it should use the same audio routing as Logic. I’m not sure, but accessibility voice is a osx app, and the audio for that would be what you choose in osx as main desktop output. I will look at it later today when I’m infront of a mac computer.
When i Open fl Studio 21 it olways Show me on the midi Option daw-1 fail Can somebody help me please i have all Updates corretly what it mean by midi -daw
DOPE REVIEW!
Thanks! 🌞
Hey man, I just wanted to ask that does the exact same model has any vel-sensitivy pads with it or we have to purchase that separately .
Hi Nila, Komplete Kontrol S61 does not come with any pads. I use the Maschine mk3 for pad mashing.
@@MattiasHolmgren ok so I wanted to buy that , as it doesn't have any pads can I buy a roll block drum pad with it , thanks for replying
Sure I think a Roli Blocks would work with any type of setup. Its a separate piece of controller gear. Good luck.
Will this work with other DAWS (Bitwig/Cakewalk) they way it does for you in Logic would you say?
As long as you load up the Kontrol plugin on each track that you want to be able to control with the Komplete you should be good to go. Dunno about Cakewalk...But in Bitwig it works fine. You just don't get as solid DAW control as you get in Logic.
But basically what I wanted from the Komplete Kontrol S61 was to be able to access plugin params without thinking and the Kontrol plugin give you exactly that access. ;)
Hello Mattias can you please tell me if the komplete 12 software comes with different types of guitar sounds and effects thanks.
Hi Jonathan, yes Komplete 12 comes with Guitar Rig 5 (to use with a real guitar audio recordings, or as plugin ontop of sampled guitars...use as you wish). Guitar Rig contains many different amps, effects and stompbox emulations. You also get many different sampled guitars and basses in the library if you want to program your parts. I also think there are strummed acoustic guitars in the lib.
Cheers!
@@MattiasHolmgren Awesome much thanks
Can you select a parameter page from the Komplete Kontrol Mk2 S Series, or do you still have to manually scroll back/forth through the incremental pages
Man, great video! Just a question: is it possible to use the light guide, scale and chord mode with an instrument that doesn't belong to the Native Instruments world? I use Ableton as daw and I need to know if must buy the Novation SL MK3 or this Komplete Kontrol Mk2 for those features with every kind of intruments.
Thanks, glad you enjoy my Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 video! I guess the lightguide is programmed to the Komplete Kontrol software and NKS instruments, and I dunno if other developers considered implementing it to their software. Cheers!
Hi Mattias, thank you for making this review.
I am curious to hear about your experience with the keyboard since you made this video. :)
Hi Ahmed, I love the NI Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 keyboard but unfortunately I've been forced to work with the smaller Arturia Keystep 37 the past year or so, since it fits better in my TH-cam video production / composing setup. lol, I still play it when I need a bigger keyboard for piano passages.
@@MattiasHolmgren Thank you for replying :)
I am asking cause I've seen some reviews where users sometimes complain about screen malfunction or knob malfunctions. I still believe its a great piece of gear but I am curious to know about its quality and durability.
Chiming in... Yes, I believe most people found this video by searching for information about the keyboards long-term reliability. It's a great video, but you really didn't answer the premise of the video title. How reliable is this board in the long-term? 😎 Thanks!
I would also like to know how to keep it clean! The matte black plastic looks like it would be a nightmare to clean.
Ill make a ”two year after” video on it. Held up well for me 🥁👌
@@MattiasHolmgren Hey, thanks for the quick reply. Appreciate it. And, yes, would love to see a follow up video. The unit is so light and so compact that it's hard to believe that you would not have destroyed it by now.
I have A61 and have some doubts: 1) Can I connect this through USB AND Regular Midi Out at the same time to use it with a sound module and prevent audio latency when recording, yet using kontakt sounds? 2) Do I need the USB and proprietary driver to use the sound selection functionality? Fo I need a wireless USB system to get all of the keyboard's functionality or can I do so via regular midi IN/OUT into my midi interface? I'd like to control my Daw (Cubase) remotedly with no cables. Maybe the only option is to get a longer USB cable. Any ideas?
Yes, 1. You need to use specific software to run both midi via usb and regular ports at the same time.
2. sound selection is used via Komplete plugin software so like I mention in the video you need the software to make full use of it. Integration works very well though.
I wouldn’t trust a wireless System. Get a longer USB cable. You need usb connection to get full functionality and use it with Komplete plugin to get sound selection, browsing etc.
🥳☀️
@@MattiasHolmgren What specific Software? Some people say you can't use both the Midi Out and the USB running at the same time. Others argue that you can do it if you activate both ports in the proprietary software. I think I need the D/C charger though. Can someome confirm any of this?
Google: ”Komplete Kontrol Sending MIDI from USB and 5-Pin Port Simultaneously” ☺️ the app: midi patchbay. ☀️
@@MattiasHolmgren Thanks. You made my day 😀. No longer having any audio latency is the dream with these controllers.
Absolutely. You are welcome Juan. Happy to guide. 🥳🍿🦊
Hi Mattia, thanks for your good review; i have a question for you. i am coming from digital piano and i'd want to buy this keyboard to play in a band with live sessions. is it possible to load the sounds that i need from a computer and store them in its internal memory? or should i always connect the keyboard to the computer? my goal is to play in rehearsal room and in live shows.
thanks again!
Hi, this keyboard only acts as a midi controller for the software in your computer. So, yes, you need a laptop connected in order to bring your sounds into the live stage. Komplete Kontrol is more geared towards the studio rather than the stage I guess. Though I think that it’s a very powerful setup to use this keyboard in combination with laptop (loaded with Omnisphere 2, Diva, Phase Plant etc.) in a live setup. ;) Appreciate the kind feedback. Thanks!
@@MattiasHolmgren I'm using my S61 and Komplete Kontrol with MainStage and it looks like a good setup for live performances.
Hej Mattias, är du fortfarande nöjd med s61? Jag funderar på denna s61 eller s49 och ha en 88:a vid sidan av. Frågan är om 49 är för liten
Hej Andreas! Om du redan har en 88:a, då skulle jag välja något ”nättare” som tex en 49:a eller varför inte Arturia Keystep 37? 😁🦊 S61 är väldigt lite använd sedan jag flyttat temporärt till studio B tills studio A (övervåningen, se min insta) är klar. I temp studion har jag bara Keystep 37 och synthar, uno Synth Pro, Minilogue XD. S61 är dock skön att spela på. Men jag spelar mest på riktiga pianot. Cant beat the real thing.
@@MattiasHolmgren tack för svar! Jag har ett riktig piano hemma och precis som du säger så finns inget som slår det. Har ingen 88 i min lilla studio men funderar på en enkel studiologic sl88 bara för att kunna köra keyscape som jag gillar. Sedan vill jag ha något mindre för just prodda smidigt. Jag gillar iof att köra iPad som Remote till logic så frågan är om en s61 eller s49 är overkill. Använder du reglarna och rattarna mycket? Såg dessutom att NI M32 reades för bara 890 kronor, så den till soffan eller altanen vore ju ett bra komplement 😊. Vad heter du på insta?
890är billig peng, jag har user: morningdewmedia på insta. 🥳🍿
Hi Mattias, thanks for this review. Also, thanks for the Bitwig content - does this keyboard (and I guess the 88 key hammer-action version) work with Bitwig? Thanks again!
Hi Nick. Komplete Kontrol S61 works great in Bitiwg.
* As a general midi controller it's totally fine in Bitwig.
* If you want the NKS control you have to load up Komplete Kontrol plugin on the channels you want to control, and that gives you the deep NI NKS control to browse instruments, access parameters on the fly etc.
Jürgen Moßgraber has a script developed for Bitwig to give more control. but I didn't try it out yet.
Out of the box you do not get as good use of the onboard displays in Bitwig though. I get better use of the displays in Logic Pro X where Kontrol can act as mixer control / navigation tool.
But as usual you have to add the Komplete Kontrol plugin on each track where you want the deep dedicated NI NKS control. Hope the info helps. Thanks for the kind feedback Nick!
Who needs arranger or workstation keyboards in 2020?
Hi Melo, Komplete Kontrol is not a workstation by regular means. Its an advanced midi controller. An extension of your DAW. 😄 And yes, it is very relevant to speed up workflow in 2020.
@@MattiasHolmgren I know it's a MIDI controller. What I meant was that our DAW is the workstation that is controlled by this amazing controller using astonishing sound libraries and plugins.
So, who needs a hardware workstation like Kronos or Montage?
I just bought one 15 mins ago 😁
Lol indeed Melo Keyz. Workstations are obselete. But I still love to Jam around with my good old Yamaha Ex-5. I gave it to my son finally as a practise keyboard. 😋 Those old workstation keyboards mostly gave headache. 😄
Is there a way to connect this to an iPad instead of a computer?
Yes I think so, if you have the usb adapter for the ipad (camera connection kit) you can connect basically any usb compliant keyboard. ☀️☕️
Does it have its own speakers?
No it does not. Its purely a midi keyboard controller…but with screens. ;)
so are you using separate speakers? Does it have blue tooth can I play it through my karaoke box?
@@Katkattarotandparanormal the sounds are all coming from software on the computer. The Komplete Kontrol does not have bluetooth, only midi & USB connection. It's battery powered by USB, but if I remember correctly it can also be powered with adapter for brighter screen light...but it's not necessary. I think they are bright enough. ;)
Hello, What computer configuration do you recommend to be able to use many NI plugin instruments? Thank you.
Hi, I'm only using Macs and OSX for all my music production so I can't really talk for PC anymore.
I'm using i5, i7 or i9 CPUs. With tons of RAM, at least 16GB. On my main Mac I have 64 GB.
I use .M2 disc as main OS disc on my new computer, but SSDs are a very cheap and good solution for audio / samples these days.
I feel that most NI plugins are not that demanding. There are much more demanding alternatives from other developers. Form, Massive, Monark, Reaktor, Kontakt etc. are all very light (depending on what you do of course).
When I produce music I always think about the core elements of my tracks. I just don't stack away plugins into infinity because it's not even good production workflow. It's better to keep them to a minimal, and the song with good structure.... Or you will get lost in the mixing.
Mixing is uber hard if you have too much stuff going on. And if you look at most hit tracks, they don't contain 100000 sounds or instruments. So go light, and "kill your darlings", you can make superb tracks with just a few sounds.
Just make sure the sounds / samples you choose are top notch and quality sounding. A good kick, snare! ;)
Solid bass patch. Go light and you will probably finish more tracks in the process.
Hope the info helps my friend!
@@MattiasHolmgren Thank you a lot for this very clear and complete answer. I understand. I think to buy on December a Mac mini Intel Core i7 hexacœur de 8e génération à 3,2 GHz (Turbo Boost jusqu’à 4,6 GHz) 32 Go de mémoire DDR4 à 2 666 MHz SSD de 512 Go. I have an external HD of 2 To (I thing it is not a SSD, is this a problem?) with my banks. Is it a good choice? THANK YOU
Unfortunately the mixer view doesn't work very well with Logic. The level meters only display the peak values, which have a long hold time, so they are basically meaningless. And the knobs are not precise enough. It's very difficult to land on a specific value. You have to hold Shift while turning the knobs for more precision, which requires two hands, and even then it tends to jump +/- 0.1 dB just as you release the knob, which is very frustrating. They should have made it possible to click the knobs to reset to default values (both in the mixer and plugins), as it's often very difficult to manually get back to the exact default (even with the Shift button).
I realize it's not meant to be a high end control surface, but the features it does offer should at least be usable. When using this with Maschine, the mixer view is much nicer, and the knobs are more precise. It also works better in Ableton Live (though there are some bugs there too, and the controls are again less precise). There's no reason the hardware can't provide a better experience in Logic. They just haven't integrated it that well yet.
Another issue with the mk2 is the parameters no longer include a bar graph that shows the relative position. You can only see raw values now. If a parameter goes from -6 to +6 and the current value is "2", you have no idea if that's 2/100 or if negative values are possible. Many plugins report their filter cutoff in Hz rather than 0-127, envelope stages in ms, and so on. It's not the end of the world, but it's something the mk1 did better.
Also, the main encoder knob was extremely loud and annoying on the mk1, and has not improved much on the mk2 (it might be slightly quieter, but it's still obnoxious). I don't understand why it has to make so much noise. I have a Traktor Kontrol S2 mk2, which has 7 encoder knobs that are MUCH quieter and still provide a very satisfying "click" at each step. The KK mk2 buttons are also noticeably louder than the mk1.
Well I would never use the Kontrol mk2 knobs to control final mix levels. Personally I’m glad I can just do rough gain settings to reduce some levels quickly if they are poking out too much. But yes, it can probably be 1000 times more accurate. But for me it’s enough to set rough levels. If I want exact values and mixing properly I do that via mouse / wacom. Regarding macro controls it works the same with all these external midi devices. It’s not as exact as we would want them and not as fast response. In a perfect world. I tend to not look at the values but rather listen and hear (does the filter open / close when I move the knob? Do I get more / less reverb?) And we can see roughly on the screen where we are in values. It’s ok. By no means exact and I bet it can be annoying to some. But from my view The Komplete Kontrol mk2 is as a good ”rough” controller. And for that it does the job very well. Thanks for writing.
I never got annoyed by that wheel noise but now that you mention it I will probably hear it the next time I work with the Komplete Kontrol. Haha.
@@MattiasHolmgren Yeah I agree, I do like to use the mixer view on Maschine while laying down the initial tracks. I just wish it worked as nicely in Logic/Ableton Live as it does in the Maschine software. And you're right, the lack of knob position is not a dealbreaker…but it can be useful, and it's something the mk1 has that was lost in the mk2. Maybe it's a good thing in the end, since what you hear is more important than what you see.
@@MattiasHolmgren Sorry about that! Most people don't seem to care about or even notice the noises from knobs, buttons, keys, and pads. I wish I was one of them. I'd give you other examples but I don't want to spread my curse.
hey, I`m trying to learn how to make EDM as 0 musical foundation, which keyboard do you recommend?
Hi Wang. I do recommend the Komplete Kontrol, depending on your budget there are many good alternatives. I can also recommend grabbing a second hand synth from Roland, Yamaha or similar with sounds onboard which can be a great addition. And they are still very good. Especially the keybeds. As long as you have a midi interface (midi in /out) on your audio interface. Thanks!
@@MattiasHolmgren Thank you sir :)
can you add a mixer track (add assign sound) or delete one from the keyboard?
Hi Gianna, what you do is that you add a track template with maybe 8-10 tracks which has the Komplete Kontrol plugin on the track. When KK is on a track you can control that track and browse for sounds within the KK sphere, add effects etc. It's very convenient as most software are NKS compatible these days. You can't add or delete tracks though directly from the keyboard. But just make a template with a few tracks which has KK and you are fine.
If you are using Logic, you can jump between mixer mode and KK mode. So you can either control the mixer levels of the tracks or the KK plugin container. Hope that answers your questions Gianna. Thanks for asking, sorry for late reply.
Thanks for this review, I get my s61 today! I downgraded from an S88
Congrats! Its a fine keyboard. 🥳🌞
Dang, I want this now... S61 is a bit expensive and A61 is very cheap. Bummer. Let me know when yours is for sale :)
Hehe, I will Joel!
do you prefer drumming on the keys or the pads?
Hi Nico, I prefer drumming on drums. Just kidding, for flashing out midi drum parts and percussion I prefer finger-drumming on Maschine mk3. But it also works on Keys. Its just feels more natural on Maschine mk3 pads. Thanks Nico!
@@MattiasHolmgren Thanks for answering Mattias! I guess both the kk keyboard and maschine mk3 comes in handy.
I'm between this and the Novation SL MKIII, can't decide...
Tino are you a die hard NI plugin user the choice is simple. 😋
@@MattiasHolmgren I use them, but I'm not a die hard user.
Komplete Kontrol S has a very Nice Fatar keybed. Go to a music store and give it a feel. 😃
Is it pre mapped for Logic instruments?
Komplete Kontrol mk2 works decent in Logic, you can control the mixer volumes, transport control. Quantize midi. Move between tracks (track selection). Obviously you are going to be working with Komplete Kontrol so you get more indepth control of the instrument parameters. Just set it to midi mode if you want to control smart-controls like from...Alchemy etc. ;)
Thank you for the intro you gave about the keyboard. I have acquired this instrument recently and cannot set up the metronome function on the keyboard. Can you please tell me how I can do that?
Thanks for doing this review. I just bought the S61 and I am looking forward to putting it to the test.
It’s a smooth keyboard and I really like the knobs and screens. The NI software is great! Hope you like it too! Thanks for watching my videos, and for writing! Have a wonderful evening Brian!
do you have to follow the NI software comes with the keyboard to function all the sound or you can function the keyboard with the sound on any platform?
Hi, the Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 can be used as a regular midi controller too. But to use all the sweet feature you use the Komplete software plugins which is basically a container to hold you vsts. You can load any NKS compatible plugin in the software. Maybe I should do a video showing exactly how this works. Thanks!
@@MattiasHolmgren Do you recommend the komplete kontrol controller for use with protools and mainstage? Or should I buy a keylab mk2 61? regards
Can you use this with an iPad also ?
I guess so, as longs as you have the lightning adapter on the iPad it's just a USB connection away.That said you will not have any use for all the deep NKS control you get. So I wouldn't recommend this as a iPad keyboard. Rather look at something like the M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 mk3 or similar. ;)
Thanks for the overview, Mattias! Indeed it's so informative to look at the gear like this after some time of usage)
I'm actually a fan of NI for a long time, I fell in love with Reaktor many, many years ago, Komplete was my first set of plugins and I also have several devices from NI. They never fail with build quality and durability - that's right! My oldest one is probably Maschine mk2, which is still like new and feels just great for me.
And yes, if I looked for some keyboard, I'd definitely put Kontrol to favourites, it's so decent, especially in terms of software integration and instruments. But for me, I'm afraid, version 2 is a little step down, in quite minor things, but they really stop me from "want" it :) As we used to discuss, we all choose by eyes as well, so for me the biggest loses were touch strips, which was there instead of modulation and pitch bend wheels, and so nice previous generation of those lights above the keys - they used to be so glossy and wide! Much more beautiful, in my opinion) And one more another downside for me (this also corresponds to Maschine mk3) are displays, which aren't OLEDs and don't look particularly contrast. It's so personal, but, I think, today, when many of us have quite modern smartphones with very quality displays, it's a little pity to see those ones on quite expensive gear. But yes, in total, these are so tiny minor moments, which obviously not so noticeable in everyday work. I hope =)
So yes, I just wish you to enjoy using it further and create nice melodies and tracks with it :)
Hi Alexey, thanks for your feedback. Ahh yes if you invest time in the NI softwares they are really good. I always say that about the mk3, it's an instrument and you have to learn to play it. With the mk3 and Kontrol you can connect external power source which will further light up the screens.
Personally, I don't see any issues with the screens on the mk3 (even without external DC power) for me it's ok. Though I don't DJ, so I don't use the hardwares in a dark environment, like a club. Maybe that would be more demanding of course.
It's still far superior screen than on the past workstation keyboards I've worked with anyways. haha I remember that screen from the Yamaha EX-5 (love the keyboard by the way) but those green / yellow screens hahaha. Funny thing!
But yeah, as we are accustomed to the phone OLED screens which are VERY hi quality, maybe it should also be applied to these midi controllers too. As they are quite expensive anyways.
I've looked at the AKAI MPC-Live, it comes with a touch screen which seems sooo slow and "un-snappy". I mean, I'm accustomed to the iPad Pro 12" screen which is sooo snappy. But I guess the gfx processor of the MPC-Live is not the fastest in the world. Other than that the MPC-Live is very interesting, since it's totally standalone.
The first thing I had to do with the Ex-5 was to demount it into pieces to fix the rotary wheel knob and fix a pitch wheel that didn't want to come back into root position. Old synths, need some love from time to time.
The good thing about this Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 is that you have both touch strip AND a mod wheel and pitch wheel. As you say, it's good to have that pitch wheel moving back into "root" position after you fiddle with it.
That's hard with a touch strip. =)
But those touch strips, while mixing and doing automation rides, feel very good.
Did you check any videos from the current Thomann event?
I'm just watching the Minilogue xd in-depth from BoBeats, I kinda like the sound from that device. But I still use Diva for most analogue (virtual) sounds. It's a beast. But tactile hardware is very nice to play with. Maybe I'll get it for my kids, good tactile synthesis learning device. =)
Thanks again for your comment Alexey have a splendid saturday!
@@MattiasHolmgren Yes, absolutely, Mattias, this is just my grunt about mostly impressions of look and feel, nothing more, and overall the keyboard is awesome, especially for newcomers or those who decided to look at it or switch from the hardware instruments world. Oh yes, those "pure" hardware gear from back in the days indeed wants you to go deeper) I think, they mean, you're not just a user, you're the owner of them =) So please grab the soldering iron and "let's go!" :D
AKAI MPC-Live is quite interesting, especially in it's autonomous state, but I really don't suffer too much of the need to use computer or turn to its screen from time to time, so this is not absolutely the key thing for me. But I also saw some critics on it in the reviews, but the field is so promising. I think, it fills some space between Elektron and software-based controllers like Maschine or Push, which is good for us, as everyone would be able to choose the proper instrument to their heart's delight.
Yes, with those touch strips in the previous version it's again pretty much beauty detail for me, with strips it used to look soo modern) Though my mind definitely tells me, that wheels are a little more functional and easy to use, especially given, that there's still a touch strip as well) This is indeed design vs. functionality thing for me =)
Oh, totally failed to notice this event :( Hope to see some follow-ups, thank you for pointing out! Yes, Minilogue XD did look nice on NAMM, if I remember correctly, it's not that too much more expensive, than the original Minilogue, and yes, this is kind of instruments, that I want to buy, as I watch any video about it :) Absolutely agree, Mattias, sometimes it's so needed to touch some nice instrument while working! Probably it's so inspiring in that sense. Though yes, software synths give more facilities at typically lower price. Very nice idea to get it for your kids, I think, they'll surely like to learn to play it! I had a toy synth in my childhood, very liked to play it that time, was my first one, even before the piano) So yes, good luck with it!
Thank you very much, Mattias! Have some free time from everything today, so hope to stick with music a little bit :) I also wish you a nice and pleasant weekend, mate!
Had issues with novation impulse 49, bottom row pads went off line. Found that the conductive ribbon and surface conductive paint of very poor quality. Repaired with carbon zero conductive paint. Advised Novation that connector should have hard pads not crush on conductive strip. Very poor for a pro keyboard. Now on a KK c61
Hi Mike. Good tip to the developer. ;) Only keyboard that ever failed on me was the Panorama P6 motorized fader. But they were kind to send me a replacement board even though my warranty was out. But after about a year I manage to break the USB socket while moving the keyboard around and having the cable connected. Maybe not the highest quality USB connector slot.
Any dif between this and the 88-key-version?
88 Keys is too big setup, at least for me. And from my point of view its only necessary if you want to play big elaborate piano pieces. Get a tight keyboard setup which give you more space for editing tools and less bulky Studio. 😋
From what I´ve seen: besides the two octaves more, the 88 key version has hammer-action keys
I purchased the AKAI Advance 49, which is a very good controller (I had wanted the 61 version, but didn‘t get it anywhere last year). Soon after purchasing I installed Catalina on my Mac and since then the sound software VIP (obviously 32 bit sw) and other SW don‘t work. After almost a year nothing has changed in that matter. That‘s dissapointing. They still haven‘t adapted VIP (very good SW) to a 64 bit OS and they even don‘t say when they will do that.
Hi Willi, I feel your frustration. Basically every software these days should be 64bit. Its the Future. Cant believe that Akai didn't update their softwares yet to 64bit. I am glad all software I work with is 64bit. 🌞😀 Hope you will find a solution.
It IS strange. It seems like a lot of people don’t know it, but VIP is like Akai’s version of Komplete, in that it is a hub for all of your VST generators, except almost any 3rd party plugin can be used. No fancy LED graphics on your Akai controller like with Komplete and the Maschine / S series stuff, but the functionality is certainly there. I received VIP 3.0 free with purchase of my MPK mini from way way back but I just don’t use it. Seems like Akai may have given up on the software.
hi, could u pls suggest me any good strings for kontakt library, specially which has pizzicato strings
I totally recommend Cinematic Strings, or Albion One.
@@MattiasHolmgren ok thanks a lot
Hi
Which one is better S88 or S61
Dunno I always feel the 88keys are too big. And for such big playing I use the regular piano. S61 is excellent middleground size. It works for me. You have to think about what suits your particular setup. 🌞
@@MattiasHolmgren many thx buddy
You just solved a confusion for a gift for my brother. 👍👍
Awesome!
Is it hard to get to work with Logic?
Nope, super easy to get it up and running with Logic Pro.
Very helpful!!!!😊
Glad it was helpful Marlon!
Does it works with FL Studio too?
You can use it through komplete kontrol within FL studio, there's a video from chuki beats where he shows that, I've got mine yesterday and I'm so glad I did 🙏
@@Lovndabeats Thank you.
Hi, sorry for the delay. The Komplete Kontrol keyboard has its own specific instrument vst plugin - Kontrol - which you add to the tracks in any DAW (FL included). I will show this in an upcoming video. With the plugin on the track you can now add instruments and effects from the Komplete Kontrol keyboard. What I usually do is setup a template in FL, Bitwig and Logic which contains - 8 midi tracks with a Komplete Kontrol plugin on each track. This way I can instantly get started composing from the Kontrol keyboard without fiddling too much with the mouse / keyboard. The Kontrol keyboards are created to control the NKS plugins, Maschine software and NI plugins, not the DAWs per se. Thanks for writing Gregor!
i prefer the S25 for traveling over the M32
Cool
Can I play this as a keyboard without needing to connect to a computer?
Hi Mill, the Komplete Kontrol S61 is a midi controller so it does not contain sounds itself. It only transmits midi data to a computer / sound module etc. It does feature midi in / midi out so you can connect it to any sound module etc. Hope the info helps.
I’ll buy it!
Thank you !
Hope you enjoy it Yellow Glad you appreciate my video on Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2!
Hello, I'm Alpaslan. I am writing from Turkey. I translated with Google translate. I apologize if there is any mistake. My problem is this. I am using logic pro x 10.4.4, I bought a complete control s61 mk2. As a normal midi keyboard, it's okay but I can't use other features like start, stop, rec mixer. There are no ways I haven't tried, but somehow it didn't. I even formatted and reinstalled the iMac. please help.
Hi Alpaslan,I feel your frustration. You should be able to control Logic (like I did in this video) if you follow along the Logic Pro X install tutorials. Does Logic recognize your Komplete Kontrol S61 mk2 keyboard as a controller when you boot up Logic?
@@MattiasHolmgren yes logic pro x recognizes it at boot.
The cat was searching for something 😂 1:20
Indeed, Sigge is really a stalker when I am shooting videos. 😋🌞
Nice review! I'm secretly only here for the cameo cat appearances though.
Haha you made my day. I’ll try to feature the cameo studio cat some more in future episodes Nick. ;) What kind of keys are you using? Cheers, Matt
@@MattiasHolmgren Nice! Right now, I just use a vintage Yamaha SY77's midi out to control everything. But I'm looking very seriously at the Summer of Sound bundles available through NI. I just sold off some of my synths and I'm trying to choose between Output's full suite bundle and the S61. Thanks for the reply!
Oh cool, the SY77! Yeah it’s always hard these purchases and weighting different products. I like the S61, but as you can see I use this minimal mega cheap Keystation Mini32 in the videos. But its mainly because its more convenient taking up less space on the desk. It does the job but not for playing emotional piano pieces, then I got to the S61 mk2 or the upright piano. Output has some really nice plugs.
@@MattiasHolmgren You're right about saving space! I ended up going with the S61. Super excited about it! You could always look at something like furniture from Omnirax or that new Output Platform for arranging your keys and workstation. Somebody gave me an Omnirax custom built desk and it makes all the difference in my workflow!
Yeah a solid desk really helps. I went for a big solid platform desk just to arrange and do whatever setup I feel like. I also have a hight adjustable table for when I need to be able to stand and work, ergonomics rule. Oh you went with the S61, good choice. It's an excellent feel on the keybed (Fatar keybed). And the screens are very helpful if you work with the NI platform NKS stuff.
Are the Keys weighted?
It's a Pro Grade Fatar keybed with Semi-weighted keys, so there's no piano action feel. But rather a VERY nice synth keyboard action. I like it. =)
Does it come with a cat?
Oh, yes some packages include a 🦊🥳🌞
Thank you! If it wasn't for your reviews, I'd still be making music with bananas and copper pans.
Bananas and copper pans are underrated. ☀️🥳
So, is there no headphone output jack on this?
Nope, this is a midi controller. It does not make any sound itself. Headphones goes to you audio interface. ;)
@@MattiasHolmgren ah OK thanks, the Maschine has an output jack 🤔
Oh yes, the Maschine mk3 has a built in audio interface and so it features all the ins / outs and heaphones jack that you expect from a device with audio interface.
Machine JAM on the other hand does not include an audio interface. BUT it still includes 8 very nice smart strips (touch strips) and is also cheaper than the mk3.
Hope the info helps. Cheers!
@@MattiasHolmgren Thanks for the reply
I published a new video on setting up Komplete Kontrol S61 with your DAW, like Studio One 4.5 - th-cam.com/video/MFDIKfV5Fxg/w-d-xo.html 🔥
Which country is it made in?
dunno
49 or 61?
32. :) just kidding I think 61 is nice when you want to play piano / strings. If you are just making certain type of music where you just program most stuff and Maybe play some leads, a 32 is ok. :) I am old school piano player so for me 61 is ok.
Nice review! I have KOMPLETE 12 ULTIMATE! It Would be a dream having one of this! :O But...$$$$$$
Thanks, yeah it's a really nice keybed and great integration if you are used to the NI ecosystem. I think you get what you pay for. But it's a bit sad if you already own the ULTIMATE collection. I also have Komplete software since before and it's a bit of a headache buying all the NI hardware stuff and getting the same software package over and over. ;)
THANKS!
You're welcome Gertz!
You sound like Count Dracular on Sesame street. Nontheless awesome review
Haha wicked comparison. Thanks anyway. 😋👻🎪
@@MattiasHolmgren 🤣 I gain knowledge and had a great laugh while watching.
Awesome that's all u need. Have a superb new years eve!!
Came for the keyboard…stayed for the awake cat
Haha that’s lovely. That cat photobombing is the best! 🎉😄🥁
Danke für den Untertitel 👍
You are welcome friend! 🌞
1:19 - fanclub has arrived :)
Absolutely, the golden fellow is called Sigge. ;)
Hei .. Thank for your infos .. can you tell me how good this thing works on a live GIG with a Band .. Drumms, Bass and Guitar ???
I mainly use it in the studio. But it feels as sturdy as the other midi controllers I own: Panorama P6, Axiom Air, Novation etc. The Komplete Kontrol has a Fatar keybed and they are very durable from what I've experienced through the years. So it should work fine! The dual screens are big and very good light so you can see what you are doing when adjusting parameters etc. Thanks!
Join The Discord :) discord.gg/fkDw4uu
How long does this piano last
Hi Inawayy, I don’t know but it’s a Fatar keybed and it feels sturdy. It’s mk2 so it’s not first edition. Has a great feel to it and mine still holds up. Hope it will last longer than my Panorama P6. What kind of keyboard controller are you using Inawayy? Thanks for writing!
Wish it had pads. NI is so stingy.
Yeah NI kept the pads for the Maschine. But you do have awesome screens and knobs on the KK for browsing and automation.
This thing has the Fatar keybed, the best in the business. But it wastes real estate with no sliders, for Hammond Organ drawbars.
Indeed, would have been great with some extra sliders too!
Or ANY sliders...@@MattiasHolmgren
@@MattiasHolmgren Is it true that the sound of a MIDI keyboard will always be much worse than a synthesizer and even worse than a digital piano? Rumor has it that sampled sounds for each key on a synthesizer sound better. And digital pianos not only have high-quality sounds, but also simulate string resonance and other effects like an acoustic piano - they have a sound engine.
But a MIDI keyboard cannot get the same high-quality sound through a wire, since it does not have a sound engine.
My little experience (S49 MK2).
---------
LIKE:
1 - Fatar mechanics,
2 - Pleasant to the touch keys,
3 - The keys quiet (do not creak and not knock, unlike cheap midi clas, that it was important to me),
4 - Aftertouch
---------
DISLIKE:
1 - Square design with sharp corners, like stump .. It looks very primitive. It is not comfortable to put a hand in the Pitch area - corners put on hand .. put physically and psychologically. Before that, I had a budget Midi keyboard of another manufacturer - the design was cool, streamlined, futuristic.
2 - Unreasonably cumbersome - it takes a lot of space on the table, and half of the space walks nothing busy .. Uzhos. And these two displays, I almost do not use. It would be better if the panel above the keys was two or three times less.
3 - Despite the fact that the keyboard is cumbersome, for some reason they have not placed at least a few faders for control ... It is not clear to me when these controls are even in cheap midi keyboards of other manufacturers.
4 - Pitch and modulation wheels are too cumbersome. Under them unsuccessfully placed the belt controller. When you turn the Pitch - in any case, you touch the ribbon controller and change its parameters.
5 - The backlight of the keys does not turn off, and also does not regulate its brightness, which is not very convenient .. Sometimes it interferes and puts on the eyes ... especially with dim light in the room.
6 - I did not find how to switch the presets in the usual midi mode through the Program Chang parameter. It is possible to assign only to the knob, which is not very convenient. Usually presets are switched by buttons by one value, and not spin. And it is spinning so fast that they slip through three.
7 - Even their native sampler Kontakt in DAW without a Komplete Kontrol does not support all this powerful backlight with zones .. native Kontakt !!! Very much damp and not convenient. (It works only with the running of Kontakt through the plug-in Komplete Kontrol, but it is not convenient, and there are no obvious problems there, as well as with such a use of a higher load on the processor.)
8 - Komplete Kontrol not convenient and not practical. Everything is loaded for a very long time, it sounds not as normal professional synthesizers ... the idea is good, the implementation is a complete garbage. It does not work as it should, and does not sound as it should. (I have many real synthesizers from 80-90, there is something to compare with ... everything works fast, clearly and beautiful ... I have a good idea of ??how professional instrument should work correctly
9 - I did not understand why the TS MODE function is needed, which should be activated via Shift on the Fixed Vel button. In the manual did not bother to describe her appointment.
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Despite the many shortcomings, first of all, I was important to have a pleasant and quiet Fatar mechanics - I received it .... It remains to hope for the durability of German quality. A normal arpeggiator would not hurt, which would simply work with the keyboard in any DAW and in the midi mode with external equipment - without of Komplete Kontrol. Also did not hinder several controllers in the form of faders. If keyboard was more compact and licked without sharp corners - it would be generally wonderful. Well, it would be possible to add control of the brightness of the backlight of the keys, as well as the normal switching of presets of external synthesizer through Program Change.
Concerning (2) - actually these Fatar keys are quite long underneath the enclosure. It is required to move the key axis away so that you can press a key even near its farther end. On cheaper keyboards you just can't. Or it requires too much strength.
Cheers. btw, mk2 is pronounce "mark 2" for the second iteration of this hardware, (not "emm kay 2")
I know it stands for "mark 2" = second Edition. I use the shortest term to describe the name. I can say this however I like though. I'm swedish and my english is what it is too but the message probably get across just fine. Very odd thing that you choose to complain about such a little detail Alan... "Mmmm kay 2" for the win my friend. :) Have a splendid day you too.
@@MattiasHolmgren ... sorry mate, sounded more critical than I meant it to, and thanks for all the effort that went into the video - much appreciated!
Haha, you are welcome Alan. No worries it takes a million more to offend me and my swenglish. It's Hard to teach an 41 year old horse to speak swahili. 😋 Glad you enjoy the video. Which Keybeds do you play?
@@MattiasHolmgren ... An Acuna73 hammer action, a Roland V-Synth V2, an FA6 which I don't really like. And 2 digital pianos. Yes I know that's ridiculous and I need to pare that down, but it happened over many years 🙂
I thought it had a weighted Fatar keybed, though?
Hi Peter, it's indeed the pro-grade Fatar keybed. It's semi weighted keys. They feel very smooth and has a great response curve. No hammer action piano keys though. Hope the info helps. Thanks for watching Peter!
If you consider buying it just know that it's hard to return because they consider it software and also the company has bad customer service.
Why do they systematically ignore such a powerful and convenient sequencer as FL Studio? This is outrageous! Let them make the same convenient integration as for Cubase.
They try to link the user to their ecosystem. This is wrong, let them integrate their capabilities with other products. They will not get any worse, their libraries are unique in any case (Komplete 13), but the user will immediately notice.
Yeah FL Studio is indeed powerful.
Good review and video, not so good choice of style at the end.
Thanks for your feedback.
6:30 😀😃😄🤣
😂👌😄🥁
"olofmeister"
Olaf
Great! Can you tell me more detailed editing on for example the key colors? I wanna do the rainbow when it starts to remain like so.
Hugolanın klavyesi
Keyboard of...?
POS lasted just over a year then died. I'll never buy NI again.
Komplete Kontrol software (better call it KONTAKT wrapper) is total piece of garbage. PERIOD !
Yes it's indeed a wrapper. To its advantages and dis-advantages. I think it's a clever "workaround" though, because if we pre-setup our song template with 10-16 tracks with the Komplete Kontrol plugin. We can basically work directly from the keyboard making a song. Without touching the mouse. It's fun to be able to browse presets and sounds via the interface. A more tactile experience. Not garbage, just gives you an alternative way of working. All good!
@@MattiasHolmgren one of the worst VST interfaces ever created, full of bugs and unreadable on 4K monitors. Technology which remembers Windows-XP era ! Simply crap!
yet another unsubstantial affiliate "review" ugh... so tired of this stuff.
How are the keys, are they noisy?
Yeah a bit damp soft clickey, but it has a very good warm feel to the keys. To me it sounds like most midi keyboards.