Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.5 (19)
$245.52
Guitar Center
3.5 (8)
$245.52
Amazon
4.6 (1444)
$279.00 New
$217.68 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
5.0 (5)
$202.66 New
$96.00 Used
Musician's Friend
2.0 (2)
$279.00
zZounds
5.0 (4)
$279.00
B&H
5.0 (1)
$279.00
Thomann
4.5 (214)
$192.00
Gear4Music
£212.50

Average Price: $233

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

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High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience seamless control over your virtual instruments with the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61. This 61-key semi-weighted keybed MIDI controller offers a tactile experience that musicians love, providing just the right amount of resistance for dynamic playability. Whether you're diving into synth-heavy tracks or intricate piano pieces, the A61’s custom keybed won’t disappoint.

Navigate your musical journey with ease using the informative OLED display, which offers at-a-glance details of your setup. The eight touch-sensitive control knobs and ergonomic pitch and modulation wheels allow for expressive performances. With Native Instruments' rich ecosystem, the A61 is your affordable ticket into a world of possibilities, providing pre-mapped control over Komplete and numerous Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) plug-ins.

The Komplete Kontrol A61 doesn’t just stop at great tactile features; it also integrates deeply with popular DAWs like Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, and more. Smart Play lets you stay in key effortlessly, helping you explore over 100 scales and modes, while the 4D push encoder makes sound browsing a breeze. Plus, with a suite of bundled software including iconic synths and pianos, you’re equipped to turn musical ideas into reality without delay.

Key Features:

  • 61-key semi-weighted custom NI keybed
  • Informative OLED display for easy navigation
  • 8 touch-sensitive control knobs
  • Ergonomic pitch and mod wheels
  • Quad-directional push encoder for one-handed sound browsing
  • Pre-mapped control of Komplete instruments and effects
  • Smart Play feature with over 100 scales and modes
  • Full VST and VSTi FX support
  • Deep integration with Maschine software
  • USB 2.0 bus powered; MIDI over USB
  • Includes Komplete Kontrol Software and Maschine Essentials
  • Compatible with Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, GarageBand, Cubase, and Nuendo

Owner's manual

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 User Manual

Product specs

Type Keyboard Controller
Number of Keys 61
Type of Keys Semi-weighted
Other Controllers Pitchbend, Mod Wheel
Encoders/Pots 8 x Touch-sensitive Control Knobs, 4-way Push Encoder
Dedicated Transport Control Yes (DAW dependent)
Pedal Inputs 1 x 1/4" TRS (sustain/expression)
MIDI I/O USB
USB 1 x Type B
Computer Connectivity USB
Software Komplete Kontrol, Maschine Essentials, Komplete Instruments and Effects
Format NKS, VST, VSTi
Hardware Requirements - Mac Intel Core i5 or higher, 6GB RAM or more recommended
Hardware Requirements - PC Intel Core i5 / AMD Quad Core or higher, 6GB RAM or more recommended
OS Requirements - Mac MacOS 10.12 or later
OS Requirements - PC Windows 10 Anniversary Update or later
Power Supply USB bus powered
Height 3.5"
Width 38.7"
Depth 10.1"
Weight 10.4 lbs.

FAQs

Does the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 integrate well with popular DAWs?

Yes, the Komplete Kontrol A61 offers seamless integration with major DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Cubase, providing hands-on control over your projects with its dedicated transport controls.

What type of keys does the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 have?

The Komplete Kontrol A61 features 61 semi-weighted keys, offering a responsive feel suitable for both expressive playing and precise control in a studio setting.

Does the Komplete Kontrol A61 require an external power supply?

No, the Komplete Kontrol A61 is USB bus powered, meaning it draws power directly from your computer via a USB connection, eliminating the need for an external power supply.

What software is included with the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61?

The Komplete Kontrol A61 comes with Komplete Kontrol software, Maschine Essentials, and a selection of Komplete Instruments and Effects, providing a comprehensive suite for music production.

Can the Komplete Kontrol A61 be used to control other VST plugins?

Yes, the Komplete Kontrol A61 supports NKS, VST, and VSTi formats, allowing you to control a wide range of third-party plugins directly from the keyboard.

Low Heat Beats

Low Heat Beats

Komplete Kontrol A49 Review - Is This THE BEST Budget MIDI Keyboard? (Native Instruments A25, A61)

Video thumbnail for Komplete Kontrol A49 Review - Is This THE BEST Budget MIDI Keyboard? (Native Instruments A25, A61) by Low Heat Beats

Komplete Kontrol A49 Review - Is This THE BEST Budget MIDI Keyboard? (Native Instruments A25, A61)

Low Heat Beats

Low Heat Beats

Reviews

PROS

  • Keybed has a great, semi-weighted feel with excellent velocity sensitivity

  • Sturdy build and high-quality construction

  • Seamless integration with Komplete and other NI products

  • Comes with valuable software from Native Instruments at no extra charge

  • Solid, smooth dials and pitch/mod wheels

  • Plug and play functionality, easy setup with DAWs

  • Transport controls useful for DAW and Komplete Kontrol plugin

  • Good value for money, especially for home studios

  • Decent friction on knobs, feels professional

  • Compatible with major DAWs like Logic and Studio One

CONS

  • Knobs can't be reassigned to another MIDI channel; fixed assignments limit flexibility

  • No aftertouch feature, which is expected in modern controllers

  • Heavy and bulky, requiring significant desk space

  • Buttons are loud and clicky, which can be distracting

  • Small data screen that's not very helpful or intuitive

  • Lack of global velocity curve adjustment or global volume control from the keyboard

  • Requires multiple software installations for full functionality, can be cumbersome

  • Some features and purported functionality not fully realized with certain DAWs

  • Hard wired to MIDI channel 1, limiting use as a secondary controller

  • NI support and firmware updates perceived as lacking

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61.

Features and functionality

  • The A61 integrates seamlessly with Kontakt and works effectively in both Logic and Pro Tools on new MacBook Pro M2 models without driver issues.

    Source
  • Users find the small screen on the A61 less practical, leading to more reliance on the computer, unlike the S61's screens which allow direct instrument selection.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The software bundle included with the A61 provides a solid starting point with Komplete Start, The Gentleman, Monark, Reaktor Prism, and Scarbee Mark I.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the A61 as a versatile controller, especially given its cost-effectiveness compared to the higher-priced S61 MK2.

    Source
  • After owning the A61 for a month, a user reports it as a significant improvement over an older M-Audio 49 key model in terms of feel and build quality.

    Source
  • Some users prefer the key action of the Arturia MiniLab II to that of the A49, suggesting a difference in tactile feedback between these models.

    Source
  • While some users find semi-weighted keys uninspiring over time, others, particularly non-pianists, might find the A61 sufficient for their needs.

    Source
  • Owners note that the A61 might help beginners focus more on music creation rather than being distracted by advanced tech features found in the S61.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Purchasing the A61 as a B-stock item from Reverb at $213 is viewed positively due to the extensive software package included.

    Source
  • In certain regions, the price gap between the A61 and S61 is substantial, with the A61 being $500 and the S61 reaching $1,600, impacting purchasing decisions.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users note that while the S-series keyboards offer superior software bundles, the A61 remains a highly valued entry-level choice for its price.

    Source
  • The S-series keybeds are reported to be more responsive and solid than the A-series, highlighting a difference in feel and build quality.

    Source
  • A user reports that the M Audio Hammer 88 Pro offers a good hammer action keybed with excellent MIDI functionality compared to semi-weighted alternatives.

    Source
  • It's noted that the S61's semi-weighted keybed allows for better velocity control compared to the A49, significant for users focused on expressive playing.

    Source

Build quality

  • The A61 keybed is described as having a "synth-like" feel, and some users note it can feel a bit plastic compared to higher-end models.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For users intending to primarily work outside of Native Instruments' ecosystem, other MIDI controllers may offer more comprehensive DAW integration.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 [Exciting, Deep] Review | Reviewer's Revival

reviewrevival.ca

A solid choice for budget-conscious musicians, the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 boasts an impressive keybed that rivals higher-end models, delivering a satisfying playing experience. With an appealing build quality and a user-friendly interface, it offers great value, especially with the bundled software. However, it falls short with a tiny OLED screen and lacks essential MIDI functionalities like channel selection and semi-tone transposition. Additionally, its advanced features are tethered to Komplete Kontrol software, limiting its standalone utility. While it shines in many areas, the A61’s shortcomings may deter serious DAW users seeking extensive compatibility.

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Based on 2 Reviews and 9 Ratings

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insert

solid budget keyboard

easily the best feeling keyboard for 250$ (cad off amazon) from my experience. fairly no thrills, but it's easily some of the best feeling keys from what i've experienced. not quite good enough to replace a fully weighted for me, wish they coulda snuck a few sliders and or drum pads on this even if it bumped the price up like 50$ so that way i use it basically as my workhorse, but good enough overall. just get a lunchpad mini on the side if you want the drumpad i guess. included software is eh, the only thing i really feel like is worth is the gentleman, being a very solid piano synth sample thingy. add a 20$ sustain pedal off of amazon and it really helps the experiance.

From Gear Setup
earthquake_drums

Amazing value for money

It's key feel and integration work amazingly, and for the price it cant be beaten if you use Native Instruments.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kevin Penkin uses Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61

Kevin Penkin

Composer

...
Verified via Twitter

Used for Composing OSTS, as well was used in Album with Ikurru. Can be seen in the photo of his studio as well.

See how Parannoul uses Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61

Parannoul

Singer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

During a live performance of the unreleased track "Sky Hundred," Parannoul is seen using the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61

See how Ariza uses Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61

Ariza

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Ariza is seen using the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 MIDI Keyboard Controller while performing a Christmas cover with Grace Weber.

See how Emi Okazaki uses Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61

Emi Okazaki

Singer, Keyboardist

Sakanaction

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video for Sakanaction's "SAKANAQUARIUM 2024 'turn'" concert, published by the official Sakanaction YouTube channel, the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61, positioned beneath the Access Virus Indigo 2, can be seen at approximately the 0:43 mark.

See how kuroyuki ayeda. uses Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61

kuroyuki ayeda.

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Kuroyuki Ayeda uses the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 for music production, cosplay photoshoots, and live performances, as evidenced by a user-uploaded photo.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

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Community setups

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Gear IQ 128

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spiteislost

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Gear IQ 73

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Gear IQ 73

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Gear IQ 108

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