Native Instruments has released the 1.7.6 update for its Kontrol S MK3, adding standalone MIDI templates to its poly aftertouch keyboards.
NI is one of the few to have classic MIDI controllers with polyphonic aftertouch in its portfolio. I’m currently testing one of these more in-depth. My interim conclusion so far is that these are very high-quality keyboards, but they are still very tied to software rather than to hardware peripherals.
However, a new update advances this. The keyboards now have embedded standalone MIDI templates. A functionality that has been long awaited.
Kontrol S MK3 1.7.6
The update with the unspectacular name 1.7.6 brings this major new feature to all three Kontrol S MK3 keyboards. It allows you to use MIDI templates in standalone mode without connecting them to your computer.
With this, you can now remotely control hardware synthesizers, drum machines, effects, etc. The official NI video shows how to do this with the UDO Super 6 desktop, a Synthesizer with polyphonic aftertouch support.
The new editor in the hardware is the control center for the MIDI templates. Here, you can map the encoders and buttons of the Kontrol S MK3 to the parameters of your hardware device. It can be MIDI CCs, control/program changes, and more.
Then, you can customize the CC names, adjust the layout, and more. It’s nice that you are not limited to one c ntroller page, you can have several. Also, the update brings the ability to change the color of each “screen” button.
Not only encoders (knobs) and buttons can be customized. The editor also gives you the freedom to personalize the pedals you have connected on the back with the same functions: control change and program change…
Further, you can now use the left-side touch strip of the controller with hardware devices. Another highlight is the possibility of creating your own key zones in your template. For example, if a synth has two layers, you can split them on the keyboard.
This also opens the door for exciting hardware and software instrument combinations. A nice addition is a little, allowing you to import and export your MIDI templates. I hope Native Instruments opens a database on the website where users can share the MIDI templates with the community.
First Impression
A welcome update, 1.7.6, that brings the Kontrol S MK3 controller more into the hardware world. I’m glad that you can now fully use the keyboard with your polyAT hardware synths.
The new Kontrol S MK3 1.7.6 update is available now as a free download from Native Access. The keyboards are available now. You get Kontakt 5 for free by purchasing a new MK3 keyboard in August 2024.
There is an even better deal at Thomann. Here, you get the keyboards cheaper, plus Komplete 14 standard as a gift.
More information here: Native Instruments
Available at my partners
Beware, whole procedure is slow. It took me about two hours. Don’t turn it off!
Lack of external MIDI control was the deal breaker. Glad to see they’ve rectified it.
The videos shows once again how terrible the controls are on these controllers.
That row of buttons should’ve been on the bottom of the screen as well.
Overpriced and missing half of the features that most controllers at that price range have.
At least they updated it I guess.Took them a long time though.
Its mind boggling to me how NI brought up this controller to be the future and yet be so much stuck in the past. NI killed KKMK1 support for… same thing with poly at and a bigger screen? Why kill MK1 S series when the A series are the same thing? Nah, spending over $1k on one of these things that lies in a very well established window of planned obsolesce is simply the main reason to not go in NI ecosystem. If for some reason you want to get NI sound and you do not do movie scores just get Komplete Standard, otherwise just stay away.