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Need help plan on buying Kontrol

Discussion in 'General Chat' started by William Patrick, Jul 12, 2018.

  1. William Patrick

    William Patrick New Member

    Messages:
    8
    So I have already preordered Kontrol MK2 61 (paid off half) with Ultimate, but I am not sure if it is better to go for MK1 88 Keys (I can still switch), I am a bit of a piano player but not very good, used to play a lot when I was younger, used Logic a few years back and I remember using a 61 keys electric keyboard (it only had keys only, no knobs or anything that worked with the DAW) and being limited in my two hands thanks to lesser keys, though that only happened rarely in the years I was using it, I don't think it much of a problem, I managed to make it work anyways on screen.

    My setup is 6 screens for programming use and tools, so I am not sure if the little screens on the keyboard will help, if I should worry about them and need them, I have no experience with Maschine.
    And I will soon include MK3 and Jam, I am mostly learning this for fun, but I will also use it in a game I am making, something simple like a melody of angry birds.
    not breaking any records here, but I think the workflow is the most important to me which is why I chose Maschine, and obviously that NI Kontrol keyboard is the most beautiful keyboard out there by far.

    I really want the easiest to learn and quickest to learn (not master) I think Maschine is it and yes it extremely advance and can take me forever to learn more things. (Win + Win)

    so what do you guys think of this? or should I be going a cheap route like FL Studio, as I said this is mostly for fun (and part serious), if I was only wanting commercial application of in game I would go FL Studio as it is cheap.

    but my time is limited (after hours and weekends free time) and really want the quickest workflow and easiest to learn.

    so with the above situation the question in the end are:
    1. MK1 88 keys vs 61 MK2.
    2. Would I make use of the dual screen on the hardware since I already have 6 x 22" screens.
    3. Is it quicker workflow in Maschine then FL Studio (I think it is and more fun from what I have read and heard)
    4. Or do you guys think I am wasting my time and money for what I should be doing.

    I have a 6 months $5000 over time pay coming on the 18th of the 8th, so half was going into the MK3 + Jam + Ultimate, and the other half into my credit card... damn that credit card.
     
    Last edited: Jul 12, 2018
  2. coopercecil

    coopercecil New Member

    Messages:
    15
    I’m waiting for the S88 2 myself, if that ever even happens.
     
  3. Stephen Bish

    Stephen Bish NI Product Owner

    Messages:
    170
    1) I had an S61 (mk1) for a month or so years ago while waiting for the KU 10 hard drive which was on back order. Loved it but returned it and cancelled order after getting stuffed around by retailer over back order. ( nothing to do with NI and purely a retailer issue)
    Some time later the S88 was released and I tried a different retailer who had the hard drive in stock. ( Both times when NI had the 1/2 price upgrade from K select when buying the controller.) I am no keyboard player but the difference was astounding. The actual playability I mean. The keybed, for a non professional keyboard player like myself, is perfect. very much the feel of a real piano.
    2) I have a Maschine Mk3 and find the screens very useful. Largely because in my set up (due to room restrictions) I have to turn around to see my laptop. I at times put it on the S88 for access but can only do so when using a seperate audio interface. SO yes I would LOVE to have the screens on the S88 but in an either/or situation would go for the weighted 88 keys myself. If I could see my screens from the keyboard position then it would be a no brainer. I have thought of using the S88 into the midi in/out on the Mk3 but have not tried it yet. Have also thought about a S25 mk2. as an add on.
    3) Can't help you on FL Studio as I have never used it but most people with Maschine also use a seperate DAW as well. I find Maschine great for an ideas sketch pad but Live or Studio One much better for arranging.
    4) For me personally music gear, and here I include not only computer based tech but a collection of high end guitars, amps etc, is a total waste of $$$$$. One I LOVE. It is a passion, an addiction and far less damaging than drugs and alcohol.
    PS: I also have the Maschine Jam and the work flow with the MK3 and Jam is far greater than the sum of the parts. A bit like 1+1=3.
    PPS: I think that if and when the S88mk2 comes out I will not upgrade. I would however buy a S25mk, largely for portability. The S88 is more a stand alone at home keyboard for me.