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Description
Unleash your musical creativity with the Korg KONTROL49, a 49-key MIDI/USB Controller that seamlessly integrates into any digital setup. Crafted for the modern musician, its intuitive design combines full-sized, responsive keys with a powerhouse of assignable controls, ensuring every note and modulation feels just right. Whether you're a studio producer or a live performer, the KONTROL49's versatility makes it an essential tool in your arsenal.
The standout feature is its Vector Joystick, offering a tactile experience unlike any other, allowing simultaneous manipulation of two parameters for dynamic sound shaping. Alongside this are 40 assignable control elements, including eight sliders, eight rotary knobs, and 16 velocity-sensitive trigger pads, perfect for everything from drum programming to launching loops. Each control is complemented by a backlit LCD, providing immediate visual feedback and fostering an effortless workflow.
Connectivity is a breeze with built-in USB MIDI interface capabilities, which means you can plug directly into your computer and start playing without external power. Plus, the included editor/librarian software empowers you to tailor the KONTROL49 to your specific needs, offering a customizable interface for every application.
Whether you're layering synths, mixing tracks, or triggering samples, the KONTROL49 adapts to your style. It's more than just a controller; it's your creative partner.
Key Features:
- 49 full-sized keys with eight velocity curves
- Vector Joystick for dual-parameter control
- 40 assignable elements: 8 sliders, 8 knobs, 16 trigger pads
- Backlit LCD displays for real-time feedback
- USB MIDI interface for direct computer connectivity
- Includes editor/librarian software for custom scene management
- Compatible with popular software via Korg Native Mode
Product specs
| Brand | Korg |
| Model | Kontrol 49 |
| Finish | Silver |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI |
| Number of Keys | 49 Keys |
| Number of Pads | 16 Pads |
FAQs
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How does the Korg KONTROL49 integrate with popular DAWs like Ableton Live or Logic Pro?
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The Korg KONTROL49 easily integrates with popular DAWs through its USB MIDI connectivity, allowing you to control software instruments and parameters seamlessly. It is compatible with most major DAWs, offering plug-and-play functionality for efficient music production.
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What are the standout features of the Korg KONTROL49's sound engine?
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The Korg KONTROL49 does not have a built-in sound engine, as it is a MIDI controller designed to trigger sounds in connected software instruments. Its standout features include 49 full-size synth-action keys and 16 velocity-sensitive pads for dynamic performance control.
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Are the keys on the Korg KONTROL49 velocity-sensitive?
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Yes, the Korg KONTROL49 features velocity-sensitive keys, allowing for expressive playing with dynamic response, which is essential for nuanced musical performances.
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Can the Korg KONTROL49 be used with both Mac and Windows systems?
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Yes, the Korg KONTROL49 is compatible with both Mac and Windows systems, providing flexibility for users across different platforms through its USB MIDI connection.
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What is the primary use of the 16 pads on the Korg KONTROL49?
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The 16 velocity-sensitive pads on the Korg KONTROL49 are primarily used for triggering samples, loops, or drum sounds, offering tactile control for beat-making and live performance.
Videos
Mark Somoso Music
Epic Synthesizer sound On Masive kontakt VST - Korg K49 Midi Controllers Korg kontrol Kronos
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg KONTROL49 49-Key MIDI/USB Controller.
Software and compatibility
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Some users find that mapping control changes in Ableton can be problematic; setting pads to NOTE values works but Control Change values often fail to map.
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Rolling back USB drivers or using beta drivers can occasionally resolve MIDI connectivity issues on legacy products like the Kontrol49.
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The Korg KONTROL49 is not fully class compliant, requiring specific drivers for functionality rather than relying on universal compatibility.
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If the KONTROL49 isn't recognized, try different USB ports and cables to resolve potential connection issues, a common troubleshooting step advised by owners.
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Setup and maintenance
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Issues were resolved by using a MOTU 5 MIDI interface and ensuring Ableton's Remote preference was activated.
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Ensuring that Ableton preferences are correctly configured is crucial for resolving MIDI mapping problems, particularly with older controllers.
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Users suggest checking the Device Manager in Windows to confirm driver issues; a red exclamation indicates a missing or faulty driver.
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Installing the device driver as an administrator can prevent installation pitfalls and ensure proper setup, especially when following the manufacturer's precise instructions.
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Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In this tweet, Deadmau5 shows a photo of his first studio. Among his gear is a Korg Kontrol 49, which is the silver keyboard to the right.
The Korg Kontrol49, Knife Party's MIDI controller of choice, can be seen in their studio setup.
In this photo Chris can be seen playing Korg KONTROL49. Coldplay used these MIDI controllers extensively throughout the Viva la Vida and Mylo Xyloto tours. The same keyboard can be seen in detail here: http://lucylovesya.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/012-Another-lovely-keyboard1.jpg
Adam Young lists the Kontrol49 as a control surface in the equipment list for his personal studio, Sky Harbor Studios.
Liam Howlett, the driving force behind The Prodigy, utilizes the Korg KONTROL49 49-Key MIDI/USB Controller, as detailed on Theprodigy.info. This advanced MIDI keyboard controller is known for its intuitive design and versatility, featuring 40 assignable control elements, including a Vector Joystick and velocity-sensitive trigger pads. These features allow for dynamic interaction with softsynths, MIDI modules, and digital audio workstations, making it an essential tool in Howlett's music production setup.
During a Japan tour with J.Rocc, Knxwledge is seen using the Korg KONTROL49 49-Key MIDI/USB Controller in a video. The controller is visible in the fourth post by Kota, with another device placed beside it.
Craig Jones has been using the Korg KONTROL49 49-Key MIDI/USB Controller since the "All Hope Is Gone" era of Slipknot. This is evidenced by a user-uploaded photo on Flickr, showcasing the equipment list from that period.
Rob Swire is frequently seen using the Korg KONTROL49 49-Key MIDI/USB Controller in his setups, notably in front of his computer monitors. This can be observed in the YouTube video "Sooner - Pendulum 17/03/10" by Zane Lowe, as well as in the Future Music 2013 interview and various Twitter posts.
Album Usage
The Korg KONTROL49 49-Key MIDI/USB Controller has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Korg KONTROL49 49-Key MIDI/USB Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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