Native Instruments Kontrol S88 Mk3 Midi Keyboard

Native Instruments’ Kontrol S88 Mk3

Seize Control of Your Sound Like Never Before

Since the introduction of the Kontrol smart keyboard controllers, Native Instruments has been on an unwavering mission to bridge the physical and digital divides, seamlessly integrating their cutting-edge NKS technology with nuanced, tactile control that makes any virtual instrument feel as real as possible. They’ve taken the Kontrol S88 Mk3 controllers to new heights of expressivity, with 49-, 61-, and 88-key options and cutting-edge Fatar keybeds developed in collaboration with Native Instruments to ensure that the highly detailed polyphonic aftertouch captures every nuance of your sound. While the S49 and S61 have semi-weighted keys, the S88 has one of the world’s first widely accessible hammer-action polyphonic aftertouch controllers, which combines sound, form, and function in unprecedented ways.Music producers and keyboardists are blown away by this keyboard’s complete control, not only for expanding the DAW integration of its predecessors to go far beyond simple transport controls but also for its forward-thinking design, which includes MIDI 2.0 compatibility and USB-C MIDI.

Mk3 provides an enhanced expressive experience.

The Kontrol keyboard controllers OF E88 MK3 allow for more nuanced expression than ever before. Onboard polyphonic aftertouch gives you precise control over each note, allowing you to use variations in pressure and velocity across chords to create expressive passages and progressions. A highly adjustable set of modulation-wheel assignment choices allows you to masterfully manipulate pitch, cutoff, vibrato, and nearly any other parameter available within your plug-in of choice. If amazing flexibility with the modulation and pitch wheels isn’t enough, a dedicated Touch Strip is adjacent, allowing for a new level of uninterrupted expression. Furthermore, because each keybed was created in partnership with Fatar, it captures not just the intricacies of each mode of expression but is properly calibrated for the extreme resolution of MIDI 2.0 and the creative possibilities that it provides on any type of instrument or controller.

Complete integration, geared for the future.

The face-lifted Kontrol keyboard’s interface of S88 MK3  optimizes depth of control while optimizing the user experience through great ergonomics. A tough, durable housing is made of CNC-machined anodized aluminum that has been bead blasted, resulting in a frame that is both sturdy and visually appealing. The vibrant, full-color display allows for precise control of any NKS instrument. At the same time, its eight knobs, 4D encoder, and adaptable soft switches can be configured for almost any performance, composition, or arrangement feature accessible in your DAW. The newly revamped Light Guide takes instrumental integration to new heights. Every key, button, encoder, touch strip, and pitch and modulation wheels are backlit in RGB. Use these to stay in key, assign zones and switches, indicate scales, and much more, allowing you to concentrate on the most crucial areas of your performance.

Stay connected on any rig.

Native Instruments has focused integration with each version of the Kontrol S Smart Keyboard Controllers, and the  S88 Mk3 expands this capability with greater customization than ever before. Its USB-C bus-powered architecture enables MIDI communication via USB for smooth integration with your DAW. The onboard 5-pin DIN MIDI I/O extends interoperability far beyond the digital boundaries of your NKS virtual instruments, transferring polyphonic aftertouch data to compatible instruments and devices. There are also four 1/4-inch TRS jacks for versatile pedal usage: one for sustain, one for expression, and two assignable inputs that allow for a variety of supplemental control or expression possibilities.

Native Instruments Kontrol S88 Mk3 Features:

• The redesigned Light Guide delivers real-time and interactive information, including scales, important zones, switches, and more.
• Keybed was built in partnership with Fatar to provide unrivaled expressivity.
• Enhanced connectivity features dedicated 1/4-inch jacks for sustain and expression pedals, as well as two additional assignable jacks for versatile sonic control.
• 5-pin DIN MIDI in/out enables wide interoperability with most arrangements, including polyphonic aftertouch data for compatible instruments.
• Ergonomic pitch and modulation wheels, as well as a bidirectional Touch Strip, provide flexible assignment choices to maximize the capabilities of any supported DAW and NKS instrument.
• The 4-directional push encoder enables one-handed music browsing and project navigation.
• The USB-C bus-powered design allows for MIDI over USB, reducing cable clutter and enhancing data transmission speeds.
• Tag-based unified browsing across all Komplete instruments allows you to easily find the sounds you want directly from the hardware
• Dial in the basic parameters of any Komplete instrument, which will immediately transfer to the touch-sensitive controller knobs
• Create arpeggiated melodies with the touch of a button, play chords with single keys, or map the entire key range to scales.
• The dedicated transport section provides complete access to your DAW’s playback and recording controls, reaching significantly deeper than prior versions for unequaled integration.