
Version 1.5 introduces NKS, the Native Kontrol Standard. Perhaps in some ways even more intriguing than the hardware itself is NI’s new version of Kontrol software. With automatic mapping of virtual instrument controls, there’s no need to mouse your way around with MIDI “learn” commands to program a dumb controller. And the wait was worth it, as these are pro-quality instruments compared to the hundreds of cheap controllers that have flooded the market in recent years. Ni’s software truly is just about everywhere.ĭespite the widespread use of NI’s software, it took until 2015 for the company to introduce their S-series keyboards-MIDI controllers designed to be fully integrated with NI software.

NI’s Kontakt Player (which hosts the virtual instruments) is routinely used as a wrapper for third-party plug-ins, too. Now in its tenth version, NI’s Komplete Ultimate package offers a ridiculous quantity of plug-ins covering just about everything you can think of from virtual instrument recreations to new designs and effects.


You’d be hard pressed to find someone in the pro recording world who hasn’t used, or at least heard of, Native Instruments’ plug-ins.
