What’s new in Kontrol S-Series MK3 keyboards? August 2024 update

The Kontrol S-Series MK3 is a cutting-edge keyboard controller designed to bring your virtual instruments to life. Coming in three sizes and now including our best-ever playing experience, a new polyphonic aftertouch keybed, and unparalleled software integration with Kontakt and NKS technology, there’s never been a better time to enhance your workflow with a keyboard made for your instruments and FX.

Get Kontrol S-Series MK3

Why upgrade to Kontrol S-Series MK3? Check out these new features:

1. NEW: Control external devices or your DAW with MIDI templates 
2. NEW: Elevate your expression with polyphonic aftertouch
3. NEW: Bring your music to life with a direct connection to Kontakt
4. NEW: Get more control with deeper DAW integration
5. NEW: Chart a sonic path with the new intelligent Light Guide
6. Additional enhancements

1. Control external MIDI devices or your DAW with MIDI templates

New as of August 2024, you can now create, manage, and switch between MIDI templates directly from your Kontrol S-series MK3 keyboard. Standalone mode also now allows control of external synthesizers, drum machines and other MIDI devices, or you can use a computer to control any DAW or plugins. Additionally, you can export and share your MIDI templates, or import templates made by others.

Watch the video below to see Kontrol’s MIDI templates in action with UDO’s Super 6 Binaural Synthesizer, and check out our Community thread to share, browse, and download MIDI templates of interest to you (for example, for a specific piece of hardware or software).

2. Elevate your expression with polyphonic aftertouch

Take your expression to the next level with the gentlest touch. Polyphonic aftertouch lets you effortlessly adjust cutoff, pitch, vibrato, and more, all without the need to reach for an additional encoder or dial.

Monophonic aftertouch registers a single pressure value for the entire keyboard, regardless of the specific key(s) being pressed, whereas polyphonic aftertouch generates a distinct signal for each individual key. This allows you to truly finesse your notes and expression when performing.

All three Kontrol S-Series models include polyphonic aftertouch on an exceptional keybed created in partnership with Fatar. Additionally, the S88 stands out as the first widely accessible controller keyboard in the world to merge polyphonic aftertouch with fully weighted hammer-action keys.

3. Bring your music to life with a direct connection to Kontakt

Effortlessly access all of your virtual instruments with direct Kontakt integration and next-generation NKS technology. No need to use Komplete Kontrol software anymore with Kontakt instruments—you can discover sounds through simple on-screen navigation, then tweak and perform with ease, thanks to intelligent auto-mapping that intuitively understands the parameters.

This direct connection ensures uninterrupted workflow, not only with NI instruments but also with thousands of partner sounds.

4. Get more control with deeper DAW integration

Intuitive integration with all major DAWs means you can keep your eyes on your keyboard and away from your computer screen. See all of your project’s channels on the display while you mix and edit your music as well as hit record, stop, and rewind on the keys.

5. Chart a sonic path with the new intelligent Light Guide

See your switches, key zones, scales, and more light up in front of you with the intelligent Light Guide.

Easy Mode maps the white keys to whichever scale you need, while Chord Mode lets you create a progression by playing single keys.

Additional Enhancements

Three different sizes built for your workflow

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.

New connectivity options

Get connected to whatever you need with USB-C power and connectivity, MIDI in and out, and four assignable pedal inputs—one sustain, one expression, and two additional assignable pedal inputs.

World-class industrial design with premium materials

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.

Powerful synths, studio-grade effects, and more at your fingertips

Kontrol comes with Komplete 14 Select and Komplete Kontrol software, including powerful synths, drums, percussion, studio-grade effects, and a load of customizable sounds. Komplete Kontrol unites and organizes all your instruments, effects, loops, and samples, mapping everything to the keyboard controller.

Utilize the new polyphonic aftertouch presets in Hypha, a Kontakt instrument with an array of sounds inspired by nature.

Plus, get iZotope Elements Suite, Ableton Live Lite, Guitar Rig 7 LE, and more.

Spark your creativity with Kontrol S-Series MK3

The Kontrol S-Series MK3 keyboards offer an array of powerful features that can truly breathe life into your music. With their cutting-edge capabilities, such as polyphonic aftertouch, deep Kontakt integration, and next-generation NKS technology, these keyboards provide an immersive and intuitive experience for musicians and producers alike.

Now that you know all of the powerful Kontrol features that can bring your music to life, it’s time to get started on using Kontrol in your next creative process.

 
Get Kontrol S-Series MK3