Since the inception of the Kontrol smart keyboard controllers, Native Instruments has pursued a mission to bridge the physical and digital divides, integrating their advanced NKS technology with tactile control that makes any virtual instrument feel incredibly real. With the Kontrol S Mk3 series, they have taken expressivity to new heights, offering 49-, 61-, and 88-key options equipped with cutting-edge Fatar keybeds, developed in collaboration with Native Instruments. This ensures that the highly detailed polyphonic aftertouch captures every nuance of your sound. The S49 and S61 feature semi-weighted keys, while the S88 boasts one of the first widely available hammer-action polyphonic aftertouch controllers, merging sound, form, and function like never before. Additionally, NKS 2 (Native Kontrol Standard 2) provides an unparalleled level of software integration. Producers and keyboardists are impressed by this keyboard’s comprehensive control, expanding DAW integration beyond simple transport controls and embracing the future with MIDI 2.0 compatibility and USB-C MIDI connectivity.

With the Kontrol keyboard controllers, expressivity has never been more refined. The onboard polyphonic aftertouch allows for detailed control of each note, enabling changes in pressure and velocity across chords to create evocative musical passages. The customizable modulation-wheel assignment options let you manipulate pitch, cutoff, vibrato, and virtually any parameter found in your chosen plug-in. The inclusion of a dedicated Touch Strip further enhances this expressive capability, providing a new dimension of control. Each keybed, developed in collaboration with Fatar, not only captures the nuances of expression but is fully calibrated for the extreme resolution of MIDI 2.0, opening up creative possibilities for any instrument or controller.

The interface of the Kontrol keyboard maximizes depth of control while streamlining the user experience. Its durable housing, made from CNC-machined anodized aluminum, is both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing. A vivid, high-resolution full-color display enables detailed control over any NKS instrument. The eight knobs, 4D encoder, and versatile soft switches can be tailored for nearly any performance, composition, or arrangement functionality your DAW supports. Instrument integration is enhanced by the newly reimagined Light Guide, featuring RGB backlighting that accompanies every key, button, and encoder, as well as the touch strip and modulation wheels. This system allows you to stay in key, assign zones and switches, indicate scales, and more, keeping your focus on the most crucial aspects of your performance.

Native Instruments has prioritized connectivity with each iteration of the Kontrol S Smart Keyboard Controllers, and the Mk3 continues this tradition with an impressive range of customization options. Its USB-C bus-powered architecture supports MIDI connectivity over USB, allowing seamless integration with your DAW. The onboard 5-pin DIN MIDI I/O expands interconnectivity possibilities, transmitting polyphonic aftertouch data for compatible instruments and devices. Furthermore, the quartet of 1/4-inch TRS jacks accommodates flexible pedal usage: one for sustain, one for expression, and two assignable inputs that can facilitate additional control or expression options.

Your purchase of the Kontrol S Mk3 grants you access to an expansive software suite that enhances the controller’s functionality. The software bundle includes Native Instruments’ acclaimed Kontakt 7, Komplete, and more. Thanks to the NKS 2 standard, your new Kontrol S keyboard controller integrates seamlessly with every piece of software in the bundle. With this impressive software collection and deep integration capabilities, the Kontrol S keyboard controller stands out as a top choice for musicians and producers alike.

Key features of the Native Instruments Kontrol S88 Mk3 include:

• Onboard polyphonic aftertouch, allowing deep and customizable expression with your virtual instruments.
• MIDI 2.0 compatibility, ensuring detailed control over your sounds.
• A high-resolution full-color display for precision browsing and tweaking.
• CNC-machined aluminum housing designed for durability and aesthetics.
• RGB-backlit encoders, buttons, keys, and touch strips to support the versatile Light Guide.
• A redesigned Light Guide that provides real-time interactive information, including scales and key zones.
• Expanded connectivity with dedicated jacks for sustain and expression pedals, plus two assignable jacks for further sonic control.
• 5-pin DIN MIDI I/O for extensive interoperability with a variety of setups, including polyphonic aftertouch data.
• Ergonomic pitch and modulation wheels, alongside a bidirectional Touch Strip, to maximize the potential of every supported DAW and NKS instrument.
• USB-C bus-powered design facilitating MIDI over USB to reduce cable clutter while enhancing data transmission speeds.
• Unified browsing across Komplete instruments, allowing quick sound searches directly from the hardware.

In summary, the Kontrol S88 Mk3 is a powerful tool for music production, providing exceptional expressivity and seamless integration with both hardware and software, making it an invaluable addition to any studio setup.