Q: What is the difference between KONTAKT PLAYER and KONTAKT 4?
A: KONTAKT 4 and the new KONTAKT PLAYER are now the same application. The main differences being that KONTAKT PLAYER has most instrument editing features disabled and demo limitations for non-KONTAKT PLAYER compatible content such as samples or 3rd party sample libraries in KONTAKT format.

Q: Can I load any 3rd party sample library into the KONTAKT PLAYER?
A: No, you can't. Only 3rd party libraries which have been produced for KONTAKT PLAYER may be loaded. Non-licensed libraries can be used for 30 minutes at a time in demo mode and without the ability to save your work.

Most compatible libraries can be found 3rd party KONTAKT PLAYER libraries.

Q: I use my sample libraries in the KONTAKT PLAYER. What is the benefit of purchasing the full-version KONTAKT 4?
A: Besides the 43 GB premium sound library (including Vienna Symphonic Library orchestra) and the new Authentic Expression Technology, you can access virtualy limitless editing possibilities at the Instrument level, add insert effects, expand script functionality, reprogram MIDI controller assignments and much more. Furthermore, there are no demo limitations such as the 15 minutes time out.

Please take a look at the KONTAKT PLAYER and KONTAKT 4 comparison chart for more information.

Q: What is the difference between KONTAKT PLAYER 3 and KONTAKT PLAYER 4? What's new?
A: In the past KONTAKT PLAYER and KONTAKT were different programs and plug-ins. Starting with KONTAKT 4 the Player functionality is integrated as a mode so that only one application is necessary. The immediate benefit is that engine improvements or features are automatically part of KONTAKT PLAYER.

Note that all application and documentation references are to KONTAKT 4.

Q: Is the KONTAKT PLAYER available for Mac and PC?
A: Yes, you can download both versions here.

Q: I already have KONTAKT 4 running on my computer, do I also need to install the new KONTAKT PLAYER?
A: This is not necessary since this would not add any extra functionality. In fact, if KONTAKT 4 is installed, then the KONTAKT PLAYER installer will not run.

Q: What is a "Powered by KONTAKT" Instrument?
A: A KONTAKT Instrument can be best described as a collection of sounds running within the free KONTAKT PLAYER or the full version KONTAKT 4 Both KONTAKT PLAYER and KONTAKT 4 can be used as a stand-alone instrument or as a plug-in (VST/ AU/RTAS) in your favorite host sequencer/DAW.

Q: I have the KONTAKT Instrument installed and registered, but I can't figure out how to start the application.
A: To use the KONTAKT Instrument you need to have either KONTAKT PLAYER or the full-featured KONTAKT 4 software installed. If neither of these are installed on your computer please visit the NI website and download the free KONTAKT PLAYER, install and launch it and your KONTAKT Instrument will immediately appear in the browser of the software. Please note that certain libraries only run in the new version of the KONTAKT PLAYER (Version 4).

Q: Can I load my KONTAKT Instrument sounds into other NI programs I have running on my computer?
A: You can load the Powered by KONTAKT instruments from Native Instruments in KORE 2 or the free KORE PLAYER. Please keep in mind that certain KONTAKT-specific functionalities won't be available.

Q: Can I re-download a KONTAKT Instrument that I purchased online earlier?
A: To prevent the loss of a KONTAKT Instrument, please keep a backup copy of the downloaded installer files. In case you don't have access to a backup and need to re-download, please contact NI Order Support.

Q: Do I need to activate Kontakt Player?
A: No, only library content needs to be activated. Kontakt Player 3 itself does not provide a serial number and therefore requires no activation. Every content library comes with its own serial number which needs be activated with Service Center.