Superbooth 2026: Shik S32 is a new 32 high-resolution knob MIDI controller with MIDI effects and with optional MIDI-to-CV expansion.
Modern MIDI controllers designed for performance are trending. This was evident at last year’s Superbooth. Examples are the Novation Launch Control MK3, Neuzeit Instruments Drop, or the Producely Dialr with AI mappings.
It seems the trend hasn’t leveled off yet. Schik, which was successful with the N32B controller, will show the S32 at Superbooth 2026.
Shik S32
The Shik is a new performance-oriented MIDI controller. It is Shik’s first flagship MIDI controller and can be seen as the superior version of the 32 series. It’s described as a compact device with an all-metal enclosure.
32 high-resolution knobs knobs form the core of S32, and each knob supports MIDI CC with MIDI learn, 14-bit CC, NRPN, program change, SysEx, and more. On top of that, they give you per-message routing, min/max ranges, invert, and pick up.
Like the N32B, the S32 also features a handy macro control, allowing you to map up to 4 parameters to a single knob. This is similar to what you’d find in Synthesizer plugins.
Map four parameters, and you can completely shift a sound in a new direction with a single turn. And if you’ve been doing the math, 128 parameters (hardware/software) can be mapped simultaneously. That should be more than enough for any live setup.
The S32 is not a bread-and-butter MIDI controller, and it’s not simply a repackaged N32B in a more elegant housing with an “S” in front.
MIDI Effects Engine With An Analog Bridge
The highlight of the Shik S32 is its built-in stackable MIDI effects engine, which turns the MIDI controller into a true creative MIDI powerhouse – a premiere for Shik controllers.
In the MIDI effects engine, you can find a harmonizer, scale remap, arpeggiator, Euclidean sequencer, looper, delay, randomizer, MIDI routing tools, and more. It’s designed to create dynamic sequences, generative layers, or custom MIDI paths.
There are also LFOs. Modulate any rack parameter with LFOs. Chain LFOs together to modulate other LFOs, creating evolving, complex wave shapes that develop over time.
Animate CC outputs using LFOs and add movement to any piece of hardware, even gear with no internal modulation or CV options.
The settings can be saved as presets and recalled at any time. The S32 thus becomes a MIDI sequencer, arpeggiator, or more precisely, a MIDI control center.
Shik also thought about the analog world and simultaneously built a bridge to it. The CV16 is an optional MIDI-to-CV expander module for Eurorack that gives you 16 channels of high-resolution (16-bit) MIDI-to-CV output.
The module features 16 CV outputs, four buttons, a MIDI input, a USB host port, and a dedicated “com” port for connection to the S24 controller.
There are plenty of onboard tools that you can transform into CV signals, including effects like the arpeggiator or sequencer, the macros, built-in LFOs, and more. And don’t forget, they are stackable/chainable, giving you freedom for advanced modulation sources.
On the connection side, the Shik S24 has 3.5mm MIDI connectivity (In, Thru, and 2x Out), and MIDI over USB-C. And thanks to the optional CV16 module, you also have analog connectivity.
First Impression
At first glance, an exciting MIDI controller. I think it’s good that they decided to separate the digital from the analog, so people who only need MIDI don’t have to pay for the CVs as well.
This way, you can buy the configuration you need. Sure, it would be nicer if CV were integrated, but I guess 16 CVs wouldn’t have fit.
Shik S32 availability and price are TBA. You can reserve your launch offer via the official website to get an intro discount. Shik will be at Superbooth 2026 at booth B049.
More information here: Shik Tech
Be the first to comment