Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller

Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller

The Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller is the 88-key flagship of Native Instruments’ third-generation Kontrol S series, and it is the model behind the sheet shorthand 88MK3. The Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller pairs a fully weighted, hammer-action Fatar keybed with polyphonic aftertouch, a high-resolution colour screen and deep integration with Kontakt, Komplete Kontrol and thousands of NKS-compatible instruments, so virtual instruments feel like real instruments under the hands. Its Light Guide, touch-sensitive encoders, 4D controller and DAW integration put browsing, tweaking, mixing and performing on the hardware itself, reducing the need to reach for a mouse. For composers, producers and keyboard players who want a piano-like action with modern software control, the Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller is built to sit at the centre of the studio.

Why Choose Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller?

Producers choose the Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller because its keybed and its software integration are both best-in-class rather than a compromise between the two. The Fatar keybed was developed in collaboration with Native Instruments, and the S88 is the first widely available hammer-action controller to combine that weighted action with polyphonic aftertouch, so every note in a chord can carry its own expressive pressure. The redesigned NKS integration maps Komplete and partner instruments directly to the eight touch-sensitive rotary controls, and tag-based browsing with instant preview lets sounds be found by character rather than by folder. The high-resolution colour display, Light Guide and 4D encoder make navigation, parameter paging, mixer views and plugin-chain control fast and visual, while MIDI 2.0 and USB-C keep the connection modern and simple. In short, the Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller plays like a piano and controls like a purpose-built studio surface.

Key Features

• 88 weighted hammer-action keys:: a Fatar keybed with fully weighted, hammer-action keys for a piano-like playing feel.
• Polyphonic aftertouch:: individual pressure control per note for expressive chords, swells and articulation.
• High-resolution colour screen:: a 1280 x 480 pixel colour display for browsing, tweaking and mixing directly on the keyboard.
• NKS and Komplete integration:: preconfigured mapping for NI instruments and thousands of Kontakt and NKS-compatible third-party instruments.
• Light Guide and 4D control:: RGB lights above each key show drum cells, key switches, chords and zones, with a 4D encoder for navigation.
• Modern connectivity:: USB-C with MIDI 2.0, 5-pin DIN MIDI in and out, and four pedal inputs including sustain, expression and two assignable inputs.

Best Suited For

The Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller is best suited for composers and producers working in Kontakt and Komplete, for pianists and keyboard players who need a weighted 88-key action for virtual pianos and orchestral libraries, for studio owners building a central controller for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, Pro Tools, FL Studio, Bitwig, Studio One or Digital Performer, and for performers who want standalone MIDI control of hardware synthesizers and drum machines. It is a substantial instrument at 13.5 kg, so it suits a fixed studio desk or a properly rated keyboard stand rather than a lightweight travel rig.

Setup and Connection Guide

Setting up the Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller starts with placing it on a sturdy desk or stand and connecting it to the computer over USB-C, which also carries MIDI. Install the Komplete Kontrol software and the bundled instruments, register the product to claim the included Kontakt instrument of choice, and let the keyboard’s preconfigured mapping take over supported instruments. Connect sustain and expression pedals to their dedicated inputs, and use the two additional assignable pedal inputs for extra control. For hardware control without a computer, use standalone mode with the 5-pin DIN MIDI output to drive synthesizers and drum machines directly, and create and switch MIDI templates on the keyboard itself for different setups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the sheet item 88MK3 the same as the Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller?

Yes. Multiple retailers list the 88-key third-generation Kontrol model as the S88 MK3, with 88 weighted hammer-action keys, polyphonic aftertouch and the same dimensions and feature set used here.

Does the Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller work with DAWs other than Komplete?

Yes. It offers DAW integration for Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, Digital Performer, Bitwig and Studio One, including transport, mixer views, track colour synchronisation and parameter paging, and it works as a standalone MIDI controller for hardware.

What software is included with the Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 MK3 88-Key Smart Keyboard Controller?

The bundle includes Komplete Kontrol and Komplete Select, plus Stradivari Cello, Guitar Rig LE, the iZotope Elements Suite, Ableton Live Lite and Hypha, together with a Kontakt instrument of the buyer’s choice after registration.

Technical Specifications

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