Korg nanoKONTROL

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4.0 (40)

8 Reviews

Find out who is using KORG nanoKONTROL

5 wishlisted

77 saved

Page last updated Nov 19, 2025

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Description

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The KORG nanoKONTROL effortlessly combines portability with a comprehensive range of controls, making it a must-have for any musician or producer on the go. Designed to fit seamlessly into any workspace, this ultra-compact USB-powered MIDI controller is perfect for those who need versatile control over their DAW, virtual instruments, effects, or DJ software without sacrificing space. Its sleek design allows you to place it anywhere—be it on your desk, next to your laptop, or even on a recording console.

Despite its size, the nanoKONTROL is packed with professional features. It boasts 9 faders, 9 knobs, and 18 switches, offering intuitive control over your sound. The full transport section makes navigating your projects a breeze, and the note input mode is an excellent tool for sketching out your next hit. For newcomers to MIDI control, the nanoKONTROL provides a reassuringly straightforward setup process, ensuring you're connected and ready to create in no time.

Adding to its appeal, the nanoKONTROL includes a discount coupon for Ableton Live LE software, allowing you to dive into music production immediately. With the free downloadable Editor/Librarian, you can customize setups to fit your specific needs, making this controller not just a tool, but an extension of your creative process.

Key Features:

Ultra-compact and USB-powered for ultimate portability
9 faders, 9 knobs, and 18 switches for comprehensive control
Full transport section for easy navigation
Note input mode for quick music creation
Includes discount coupon for Ableton Live LE software
Free downloadable Editor/Librarian for custom setups

Product specs

Supported OS	Microsoft Windows XP SP2 or later, or Microsoft Windows Vista SP1
Supported Computer	Computer with USB port, satisfying the operating requirements of Windows XP/ Vista (Intel USB chipset recommended)

FAQs

What are the main features of the KORG nanoKONTROL?: The KORG nanoKONTROL features 9 knobs, 9 sliders, 18 buttons, transport controls, and 4 scene memories. It connects via mini-USB and is USB bus powered, making it a versatile controller for DAWs.
Is the KORG nanoKONTROL compatible with Windows operating systems?: Yes, the KORG nanoKONTROL is compatible with Microsoft Windows XP SP2 or later, and Windows Vista SP1, requiring a computer with a USB port.
Can the KORG nanoKONTROL be used for wireless control?: The KORG nanoKONTROL does not natively support wireless connectivity; it connects via a mini-USB cable for control.
How does the scene memory feature work on the KORG nanoKONTROL?: The KORG nanoKONTROL offers 4 user scene memories, allowing you to save and recall different control setups easily, enhancing workflow efficiency in a DAW environment.
Does the KORG nanoKONTROL come with any software for customization?: Yes, the KORG nanoKONTROL includes a free downloadable Editor/Librarian software to help customize and control your MIDI needs effectively.

Videos

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John Mike

The Best Control Surface Ever? |Korg NanoKontrol 2 Review|

John Mike

BEST MIDI CONTROLLER UNDER $100 - Korg NanoKontrol 2 Review

Sunday Sounds

Korg NanoKontrol2 - Affordable Midi DAW Controller

Audio Tech TV

Korg nanoKONTROL 2 Jam: How to Write a Whole Song on this Affordable MIDI Controller

AudioHaze

Unboxing and how to setup the Korg NanoKontrol 2 in Logic Pro for full DAW and Midi CC Control

Martin Heidenreich Music

Reviews

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PROS

Slimline design fits well on computer keyboards and piano-type controllers
Useful mute buttons for quick sound control
Versatile compatibility with laptops, Korg Kronos, and iOS devices
Allows real-time mixing with knobs for virtual machines or MIDI devices
Can reflash device software for customized control
Durable and withstands a ton of abuse
Small and portable, enhancing mobility for musicians

CONS

USB operation limits direct MIDI hardware control
Requires additional software or hardware for MIDI translation
Faders are clunky and not meant for precise studio-level mixing
Knobs prone to collecting dirt, difficult to clean
USB jack durability concerns, prone to breaking

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about KORG nanoKONTROL.

Build quality

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The nanoKONTROL2 faders can be knocked off if not secured in a tight space, but are easily reattached, enhancing portability.
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The micro USB connector is fragile and directly soldered to the motherboard, which can easily break, affecting long-term durability.
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Features and functionality

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The nanoKONTROL2 offers 35 mappable buttons, while the Launch Control XL provides 24, but compensates with 24 chunky, comfortable knobs.
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The controller is useful for wireless recording and initial mix level balancing, especially when distant from the computer.
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Software and compatibility

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Korg's USB Mini port is less sturdy compared to Novation's USB B, which is preferred for stage use due to its robustness.
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On Windows 11, advanced Bluetooth settings are needed to detect the Korg nanoKONTROL Studio; registry modifications may be required for functionality.
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Korg nanoKONTROL Studio requires switching to "Pro Tools" mode for compatibility with Logic on M2 Macs; hold "Scene" and "Rewind" buttons when powering on.
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Running Logic using Rosetta can resolve issues with Korg nanoKONTROL Studio, indicating a workaround for compatibility problems on M2 Macs.
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A Control Surface Plug-In installation may be necessary for full functionality on newer macOS versions, enhancing the device's performance in Logic.
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User experience

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Users report that the nanoKONTROL2's buttons consistently light up and perform reliably, even in complex setups with multiple units.
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Some owners experience issues with Novation Launch Control XL's preset switching during performances, requiring potential MIDI routing adjustments.
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Owners find the device's responsiveness superior to Reaper's web remote, making it a preferred choice for real-time recording and playback adjustments.
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Use cases and applications

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The nanoKONTROL Studio allows for efficient setup changes and MIDI mapping via Reaper stash, enhancing its flexibility in recording environments.
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4.0 out of 5

Based on 8 Reviews and 40 Ratings

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jp_belanger

619

about 4 years ago

Unbeatable value, that comes at a price

It's a very, very useful tool for anyone either getting into production, looking for a cheap way to control any virtual mixer, DAW, or plugins. It's very well built for its price, the only thing I was worried about was the fader knobs which I thought would just get lost but their design makes it so that they stay in place.

Its slimline design sits very well on top of a computer keyboard and it's small enough to fit on top of some piano-type keyboard controllers with free estate on their surface: I used double faced velcro tape to stick it to my Yamaha KX-61. Mute buttons are very useful too.

I guess its shortcomings are easily pinpointed: USB operation makes it harder to control MIDI hardware, you either need a computer with BOME MIDI translator software or something like the BOME box that will act as a relay. Faders are clunky, but nobody expects studio-level mixing experience on this, and it's meant for setting up a level and leave it there. But that's about it, the nanoKONTROL is exactly what you would expect from a product priced such at this one.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

USB is on side. Buy angled micro-USB adapter or cable so the cable faces backwards the unit and not lying on the side for 5-6".

john_withers

815

over 7 years ago

Not bad!

Pretty much does what it says and is useful with a laptop setup and also works with a Korg Kronos and can get working with iOS too if you need to which I haven't hehe.

sole_technician

140

over 9 years ago

Wonderful Little Controller

This controller is great, stands up to a ton of abuse, and is awesome for on-the-fly sessions. The knobs get dirty easily though, and it's difficult to clean.

szczepaxn

207

over 8 years ago

Little Helper

Basic controller, basic made, but it gives great opportunity to mix in any changes assigned to his knobs from any virtual machine or MIDI device and all in realtime. Also available, to reflash device softwarely to change behavior of used switches. All Ya have to get is an miniUSB. And it's cheap, so its great!

Roles:

Keyboardist Rapper Composer

Genres:

Electronic Hip Hop Funk / Soul