One keyboard. Complete studio control.
The award-winning keyboard controller built to unify your studio.
Control any plugin
Kontrol gets you hands-on with every plugin in your session. Everything is automapped, ready to go, so you can play and tweak any instrument or effect, navigate parameters, and shape your sound in your DAW, directly from your keyboard – no mouse required.
[play type="video" url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CItBn0SIt-Y" label="See it in action"]
Control any hardware
Play your other hardware – straight from the keyboard. As the centre of your studio, Kontrol lets you connect and control synths, drum machines, and other MIDI devices. Customize your setup however you like and use the Play Assist tools like arpeggiator, note repeat, scale, and chord mode with any connected gear.
[play type="video" url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rm4D8i5my0Y" label="See it in action"]
Thousands of instruments made real
Find exactly what you’re looking for with a huge choice of integrated instruments, way beyond the NI ecosystem. NKS (Native Kontrol Standard) is our technical standard for virtual instruments and effects used across the industry. It makes even the most complex instrument playable right away with no guesswork or setup hassle. Everything is familiar with a consistent visual display and parameter mapping – so you always know where you are, no matter what you’re playing.
Introducing polyphonic aftertouch
Take expression one step further with the slightest pressure on individual keys. Bring new layers of nuance to your playing with cutoff, pitch, vibrato, and much more, without reaching for an extra encoder or dial.
All three models come complete with polyphonic aftertouch on an industry-leading keybed developed in collaboration with Fatar. Plus, the S88 is the world’s first widely available controller keyboard to combine polyphonic aftertouch with weighted, hammer-action keys.
[play type="video" url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jw1jGjWKIUw" label="Hear polyphonic aftertouch in action"]
Let Play Assist guide you
Find new ways to perform and compose with both software instruments and external hardware. Play Assist features keep you in key, lock melodies to your chosen scales, transform single notes into full chords, and create evolving rhythmic patterns.
[play type="video" url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lp2Ui-AvHns" label="See it in action"]
Deeper into your DAW
Kontrol lets you navigate your entire DAW session directly from the keys, with precise control over plugin chains, mixer views, transport controls, and parameter adjustments. Custom macros let you create your own workflows for effects chains and instrument switching so you can record, mix, and express yourself.
[play type="video" url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CItBn0SIt-Y" label="See it in action"]
Keys that fit you
Choose between 49 or 61 semi-weighted keys with the S49 and S61, or get a full piano feel with 88 hammer-action weighted keys on the S88.
Accessibility
Kontrol makes music production fully accessible for visually impaired and blind users with voice feedback across composition tools, plugins, DAW integration, and external hardware control.
[play type="video" url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ94O5Jkebs" label="Learn more"]
Award-winning
Don’t just take our word for it. Kontrol took home both the MIDI Innovation Award Winner for groundbreaking advancements in MIDI technology and the Sound and Sound Award for Gear of the Year.
Included software
You’ll be ready to go from day one with a load of sought-after virtual instruments and effects, plus post-production tools to finish your final tracks.
The package includes Komplete Select, Komplete Kontrol, and a voucher for any NI Kontakt instrument of your choice. Plus get iZotope Elements Suite, Ableton Live Lite, Hypha, Guitar Rig 7 LE, and more.
[cta label="Discover included software" link="/products/kontrol-s49-s61-s88" title="Discover included software"]
Highly visual
See switches, key zones, scales, and more lit up in front of you with the intelligent Light Guide. Chord Mode lets you create a progression by playing single keys, while Easy Mode maps the white keys to whichever scale you need.
[cta label="Learn more" link="https://www.native-instruments.com/products/komplete/keyboards/kontrol-s49-s61-s88/learn/" title="Learn more"]
Built to last
All three models are built from the same premium materials with a large glass screen, touch-sensitive anodised aluminum encoders and modwheels, and redesigned tactile buttons.
Get inspired
See how producers and composers are using Kontrol to transform their creative process.
Scoring with Simon Franglen
Avatar composer Simon Franglen runs through his favorite Kontrol features for film scoring including layering, sound manipulation, mapping, keybed quality, and much more.
Terms & conditions
The included software is provided as download after hardware registration. Once installed, all products can be used offline. The offer requires a qualifying base product to remain registered to your account. Should the base product no longer be registered, additional costs may apply.
|
|
|
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|---|---|---|---|
| S-Series | A-Series | M32 | |
| Number of keys | 49, 61 or 88 | 25, 49 or 61 | 32 |
| Why would it suit me? | Stay in the flow with an unmatched connection to instruments and effects, next-gen NKS, polyphonic aftertouch, Light Guide, DAW control, high-res color screen, and more. | Get a smart and streamlined keyboard controller with custom NI keybed, NKS integration, Smart Play features, DAW control, OLED display, and more. | Plug in and play anywhere you go with a portable, micro-keyboard controller. Get a custom NI keybed, NKS integration, Smart Play features, DAW control, OLED display, and more. |
| Keybed | Pro-grade Fatar keybed with polyphonic aftertouch, available with semi-weighted keys (S49, S61), or fully weighted hammer-action keys (S88) | Semi-weighted custom NI keybed | Synth-action, custom NI keybed |
| Browse sounds from the hardware | ✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Parameter names on display | ✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| NKS integration | ✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Parameter mapping | Next-generation NKS | NKS | NKS |
| Advanced DAW control | Ableton Live, Bitwig, Cubase, Digital Performer, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and Studio One. | Logic Pro X, GarageBand, Ableton Live, Cubase, Nuendo, and Studio One. | Logic Pro X, GarageBand, Ableton Live, Cubase, Nuendo, and Studio One. |
| Display | Glass high-res color screen | Graphic OLED display for at-a-glance navigation | Graphic OLED display for at-a-glance navigation |
| Light guide (RGB lights above each key) |
✓ |
— |
— |
| Ergonomic pitch and mod wheels |
✓ |
✓ |
— |
| Touch strip | ✓ |
— |
✓ |
| Foot pedal support | 4 x assignable TRS pedal inputs including a default sustain and default expression | 1 TRS pedal input, assignable to sustain | 1 TRS pedal input, assignable to sustain |
| Bus powered | USB-C |
USB 2.0 |
USB 2.0 |
| Transport buttons | ✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| 4-directional push encoder | ✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| 8 touch-sensitive control knobs | ✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Smart play features | ✓ (Scale/Chord/Arp) |
✓ (Scale/Chord/Arp) |
✓ (Scale/Chord/Arp) |
| Included software | Komplete Kontrol software Komplete Select Available in three curated editions: Beats, Band, and Electronic – each designed to perfectly suit specific genres and workflows. After product registration you will receive a voucher for the edition of your choice. Hypha Guitar Rig 7 LE Stradivari Cello iZotope Elements Suite Ableton Live Lite |
(A-Series Collection) Komplete Kontrol software Komplete Select Available in three curated editions: Beats, Band, and Electronic – each designed to perfectly suit specific genres and workflows. After product registration you will receive a voucher for the edition of your choice. e-voucher to spend in the NI Online Shop Ableton Live Lite |
(M32 Collection) Komplete Kontrol software Komplete Select Available in three curated editions: Beats, Band, and Electronic – each designed to perfectly suit specific genres and workflows. After product registration you will receive a voucher for the edition of your choice. e-voucher to spend in the NI Online Shop Ableton Live Lite |
| Accessibility for visually Impaired users | ✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
S-Series model comparison
| Kontrol S49 | Kontrol S61 | Kontrol S88 |
|---|---|---|
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Download the manual
Read the Komplete Kontrol S-Series user manual to understand the full capabilities of your new keyboard.
Kontrol S-Series MK3
[cta label="Online manual" link="https://docs.native-instruments.com/online-guides/kontrol-s-mk3-manual/en/welcome-to-kontrol-mk3" title="Online manual"]
Komplete Kontrol 3
[cta label="Online manual" link="https://docs.native-instruments.com/online-guides/komplete-kontrol-manual/en/welcome-to-komplete-kontrol" title="Online manual"]
Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK2
Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK1
Driver and Controller Editor
Download Windows driver
IMPORTANT: Please install this driver BEFORE connecting your Komplete Kontrol S-Series keyboard.
Download Windows driver for Komplete Kontrol MK1
No driver required for Mac OS X.
Download Controller Editor
Controller Editor lets you configure your Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK1 keyboard as a custom MIDI controller.
Download Controller Editor for Mac
Komplete Kontrol S-Series software bundle
If you already have a Komplete Kontrol S-Series keyboard, you can download the software bundle here.
Learn Kontrol S-Series
Explore videos, manuals, and content to help you get the most from Kontrol.
Walkthrough video
Get a quick overview of what’s new in the latest generation of our Kontrol keyboards, including Kontakt and NKS integration, DAW controls, using polyphonic aftertouch, and the hardware controls.
How to use everything in Kontrol
Go in-depth with everything you need to use Kontrol – from setting up, to using pedals, advanced DAW integration, using the Light Guide and Play Assist, as well as using the keyboard with Kontakt and Komplete Kontrol.
Play Assist
Learn how you can select a scale and play all the right keys, set a chord mode and control your external MIDI compatible synths, or record the notes from any chord mode back into your DAW.
Everything else
Looking for something specific? Find our collected resources for setting up and enjoying the Kontrol S-Series below.
Setting up
Everything you need to use Kontrol for the first time.
[cta label="Setup guide" link="/pages/kontrol-setup" title="Setup guide"]
DAW Setup
See DAW-specific guides for setting up and using Kontrol.
[cta label="DAW setup" link="https://support.native-instruments.com/hc/articles/4406832231441" title="DAW setup"]
DAW Cheat Sheets
All the controls you need to know for the most popular DAWs.
[cta label="Explore" link="/fileadmin/ni_media/downloads/manuals/komplete_kontrol/Kontrol_S_Series_MK3_Shortcut_Sheets.pdf" title="Explore"]
Using direct Kontakt integration
Our complete guide to using Kontakt seamlessly with Kontrol MK3.
[cta label="Read more" link="https://blog.native-instruments.com/kontrol-kontakt-integration/" title="Read more"]
Manual
The in-depth guide to Kontrol MK3, from setting up, to integration, troubleshooting, and more.
[cta label="See the manual" link="https://docs.native-instruments.com/online-guides/kontrol-s-mk3-manual/en/welcome-to-kontrol-mk3" title="See the manual"]
The Knowledge Base
Troubleshoot issues, get detailed guides on setting up or using Kontrol with your DAW, or get in touch.
[cta label="Visit Knowledge Base" link="https://support.native-instruments.com/hc/articles/14229273602077" title="Visit Knowledge Base"]
Using polyphonic aftertouch
Explore how polyphonic aftertouch can be used for new kinds of expression in your playing.
[cta label="Read more" link="https://blog.native-instruments.com/polyphonic-aftertouch/" title="Read more"]
Kontrol S49
49-key keyboard controller with deep software integration, a high-res screen, and polyphonic aftertouch.
System Requirements
Inputs and outputs
- Bus-powered USB-C
- USB MIDI
- USB-C port
- 4 x assignable TRS pedal inputs including a default sustain and default expression
- MIDI in and out
DAW integration
Kontrol has advanced integration with the following programs, with further integrations currently in development:
- Ableton Live (11.3.11 or higher)
- Bitwig (5.0.10 or higher)
- Cubase
- Digital Performer (11.22 or higher)
- FL Studio (21.2.3 or higher)
- Logic Pro (11 or higher)
- Pro Tools (2023.12 or higher)
- Studio One (6.5 or higher)
Compatible plug-in formats
<platform mac/> macOS (64-bit only): Stand-alone, VST3, AU, AAX
<platform win/> Windows (64-bit only): Stand-alone, VST3, AAX
What’s included?
- USB-C cable
- Komplete Kontrol and Komplete Select software, plus a load of instruments and effects
- Setup guide and documentation as downloads
Kontrol comes with a USB-C cable. It is bus-powered meaning the USB cable draws power directly from your computer, so there’s no need for an additional power supply. If your computer does not have a USB-C port, you can use your own USB adapter and power supply.
Use the adapter to connect the provided USB-C cable from the keyboard’s HOST port to your computer’s USB-A port. Then connect a USB-C power supply (5V, 7.5W or higher, 1.5A or higher) to the keyboard’s USB-C power supply port.
Check the manual for more information.
System requirements
Intel Core i5, Apple M1 (and equivalent or higher)
- MIDI 2.0 (requires MacOS 13.5 or higher)
- MIDI 1.0 (with MacOS 12 or higher)
- macOS 13, 14, and 15 (latest update)
- Windows 10 or 11 (latest service pack) or higher
- 8 GB RAM
An internet connection and a graphics card that supports OpenGL 2.1 or higher Direct 3D 11.1 (feature level 11_0) or higher are required to download and activate this product and associated content. Once installed and activated, the product can be used offline
Hardware specifications
- A high-resolution 1280 x 480 color screen with glass surface
- CNC machined, bead blasted and anodized aluminum, 8 x encoder caps, 1 x 4D encoder cap, 2 x wheels (pitch and mod)
- RGB illuminated pitch and mod wheels
- New button-islands that form a continuous dustproof control surface and are grouped by function
Kontrol S49
Height: 86 mm
Width: 802.2 mm
Depth: 323 mm
Weight: 5.5kg
Kontrol S61
Height: 86 mm
Width: 967.4 mm
Depth: 323 mm
Weight: 6kg
Kontrol S88
Height: 120 mm
Width: 1353 mm
Depth: 347mm
Weight: 13.5 kg
Features
- Unparalleled software integration with next-generation NKS technology for a direct and immersive connection to NI and partner instruments, effects, and sounds
- Choose between 49 or 61 semi-weighted keys, or 88 fully weighted hammer-action keys, all in an industry-leading Fatar keybed
- All three models come with polyphonic aftertouch as standard, plus Kontrol S88 is the first widely available hammer-action polyphonic aftertouch keyboard controller
- High-resolution full-color display screen for intuitive browsing, tweaking, and mixing
- Light Guide: RGB lights above each key highlight drum cells, key switches, chords, scales, and more
- Smart Play: See scales and modes on the Light Guide, play chord progressions and arpeggios with single keys, or map any scale to white keys only
- Anodized aluminum knobs and pitch and modulation wheels
Safety instructions
[cta label="Download Safety Instructions" link="https://www.native-instruments.com/fileadmin/ni_media/downloads/legal/31165-Safety-Instructions-V5-20260701.pdf" title="Download Safety Instructions"]
California Proposition 65 Warning
Due to legislation in the State of California, the following message must be displayed to Californian residents:
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including styrene, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Kontrol S49 FAQ
What does direct connection to Kontakt mean?
For the first time ever, Kontrol S-Series MK3 keyboards have their own embedded processing power. Unlike previous generations, which relied on Komplete Kontrol desktop software to process and render images and parameter mapping, MK3 does this internally.
This means you no longer need to use Komplete Kontrol with Kontakt instruments. The NKS experience is directly connected to Kontakt instruments, so thousands of virtual instruments and effects feel “real”, as if they are embedded on the keyboard.
For more information on direct Kontakt connection and plans for the future, check out this Knowledge Base article.
What is next-generation NKS?
NKS (Native Kontrol Standard) brings all your software instruments, effects, loops, and samples into one intuitive workflow, whether they’re NI products or those from other leading developers. It gives you streamlined browsing, consistent tagging, instant sound previews, pre-mapped parameters, and Smart Play features. The new NKS takes this integration much further with advanced parameter mapping, fluid browsing and navigation, and an immersive visual experience on the Kontrol’s high-res screen.
Which DAWs are supported?
Ableton Live (11.3.11 or higher)
Bitwig (5.0.10 or higher)
Cubase
Digital Performer (11.22 or higher)
FL Studio (21.2.3 or higher)
Logic Pro (10.6 or higher)
Pro Tools (2023.12 or higher)
Studio One (6.5 or higher)
Is the Kontrol S-Series MK3 compatible with MIDI 2.0?
Kontrol S-Series MK3 is compatible with MIDI 2.0, and prepared for the future when more operating systems, DAWs and plugins will support and use MIDI 2.0.
MIDI 2.0 requires MacOS 13.5 or higher.
Which Fatar keybeds are in the Kontrol S-Series keyboards?
The Fatar keybeds are unique polyphonic aftertouch models, specially designed for the S-Series keyboards.
Fatar models
Kontrol S49/61 MK3:
- TP/90 + polyphonic aftertouch
Kontrol S88 MK3:
- TP100 + polyphonic aftertouch
What is polyphonic aftertouch?
Polyphonic aftertouch lets you apply extra pressure to individual keys in order to send a MIDI signal that can be used to control different parameters like cutoff, pitch, vibrato, and much more. Unlike monophonic aftertouch, the signal is sent per-key so you can use aftertouch in a more expressive way.
Are Kontrol S-Series keyboards compatible with MPE?
MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) is an industry-wide extension to the MIDI protocol that allows additional signals to be sent on individual keys. Some plugins can receive multiple different MPE messages. Because Kontrol keyboards feature polyphonic aftertouch, they are compatible with MPE plugins that are able to receive polyphonic aftertouch signals.
What accessibility features are planned?
We are committed to making our products as accessible as possible. The team is currently implementing Accessibility for the Control S MK3, via Native Instruments' Accessibility Helper App, and aims to release in the first half of 2024.
How can I use my S-Series keyboard with another computer?
Download the Hardware Connection Service on the computer you want to use the keyboard with. Please note that the keyboard must be already registered.
Still have questions?
Seek advice from fellow producers and get product updates over in our online community.


