Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 10 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (12)
$1,299.00
Guitar Center
3.5 (7)
$1,299.00
Amazon
4.2 (132)
$1,299.00 New
$795.62 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
$989.33 New
$780.00 Used
Musician's Friend
2.0 (2)
$1,299.00
zZounds
$1,299.00
B&H
$1,299.00
Thomann
4.4 (37)
$959.00 $958.00 $1.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£1,079.00
Vintage King
$1,299.00

Average Price: $1,182

High-end/Boutique

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 is a game-changer for musicians looking to bridge the gap between virtual and physical instruments. Powered by a Fatar-designed, hammer-action keybed, this MIDI keyboard controller offers polyphonic aftertouch, allowing for nuanced expression with every keystroke. Whether you're manipulating cutoff, pitch, or vibrato, the Kontrol S88 MK3 ensures each note is as expressive as a live performance.

The integration with Native Instruments' advanced NKS technology provides seamless control over your virtual arsenal. Its high-resolution color display and eight touch-sensitive knobs offer intuitive browsing, tweaking, and mixing capabilities, making it a powerful centerpiece for any studio setup. The redesigned Light Guide, featuring RGB lights, enhances your workflow by visually indicating scales, key switches, and more, ensuring you stay in tune with your creativity.

Built for the future, the Kontrol S88 MK3 is equipped with a rugged anodized aluminum frame, USB-C connectivity, MIDI 2.0 compatibility, and comprehensive DAW integration, allowing you to dive deeper into your projects without distraction. The versatile pedal inputs and intuitive transport controls further extend its functionality, making it a versatile tool for both studio and live performances. Plus, with the included Komplete 15 Select software suite, your sound palette is as vast as your imagination.

Key Features:

  • 88 fully weighted, hammer-action keys with Fatar-designed keybed
  • Polyphonic aftertouch for detailed expression
  • High-resolution full-color display and touch-sensitive knobs
  • Advanced NKS technology for seamless virtual instrument control
  • Redesigned Light Guide with RGB backlighting for visual cues
  • USB-C bus-powered design with MIDI 2.0 compatibility
  • DAW integration with transport controls and versatile pedal inputs
  • Includes Komplete 15 Select software suite with thousands of sounds and effects

Product specs

Type Keyboard Controller
Number of Keys 88
Type of Keys Fully Weighted, Hammer-action
Velocity Sensitive Yes
Aftertouch Yes, Polyphonic
Other Controllers Pitchbend, Mod Wheel, Ribbon Controller
Encoders/Pots 8 x Encoders, 1 x 4D Encoders
Dedicated Transport Control Yes
Zones Yes
Pedal Inputs 1 x 1/4" (sustain) 1 x 1/4" (expression), 2 x 1/4" (assign 1, 2)
MIDI I/O In, Out, USB ; MIDI 2.0
USB 2 x USB-C (host, power)
Computer Connectivity USB
Software Komplete 15 Select, Komplete Kontrol, Hypha, Stradivari Cello, Guitar Rig LE, Elements Suite, Ableton Live Lite
Format AAX, AU, VST, VST3, Standalone, NKS
Hardware Requirements - Mac Intel Core i5 / Apple M1 or higher, 8GB RAM minimum
Hardware Requirements - PC Intel Core i5 or higher, 8GB RAM minimum
OS Requirements - Mac macOS 13 or higher (macOS 12 in MIDI 1.0 mode)
OS Requirements - PC Windows 10 or higher
Power Supply USB bus powered
Height 4.72"
Width 53.26"
Depth 13.66"
Weight 29.76 lbs

FAQs

What type of keys does the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 have?

The S88 MK3 features 88 fully weighted, hammer-action keys, providing a realistic piano feel ideal for expressive playing.

Does the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 support aftertouch?

Yes, the S88 MK3 supports polyphonic aftertouch, allowing for nuanced control and expression across individual notes.

What are the main connectivity options for the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3?

The S88 MK3 offers USB MIDI, USB-C for power, and traditional MIDI I/O, ensuring compatibility with various setups.

Is the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 compatible with major DAWs?

Yes, the S88 MK3 integrates seamlessly with all major DAWs, offering enhanced control beyond standard transport functions.

What software comes bundled with the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3?

The S88 MK3 includes Komplete 15 Select, Komplete Kontrol, Hypha, Stradivari Cello, Guitar Rig LE, Elements Suite, and Ableton Live Lite.

Sanjay C

Sanjay C

Native Instruments S88 MK3: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments S88 MK3: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW by Sanjay C

Native Instruments S88 MK3: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Sanjay C

Sanjay C

Video thumbnail for Is this the BEST Controller for Film Composers and producers? S88MK3 by Dom Sigalas

Is this the BEST Controller for Film Composers and producers? S88MK3

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Dom Sigalas

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Kontrol MK3 S88 - Different from the MK2? by Producer Hat

Native Instruments Kontrol MK3 S88 - Different from the MK2?

Producer Hat

Producer Hat

Video thumbnail for my FRUSTRATING experience with Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 | Honest 2 year review by Sarah2ill

my FRUSTRATING experience with Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 | Honest 2 year review

Sarah2ill

Sarah2ill

Video thumbnail for BRAND NEW Native Instruments Kontrol S88 MK3 - Lofi Beats - Gnarly by gnarly.music

BRAND NEW Native Instruments Kontrol S88 MK3 - Lofi Beats - Gnarly

gnarly.music

gnarly.music

Video thumbnail for Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 | The best MIDI keybaord so far? by Polo Tremolo

Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 | The best MIDI keybaord so far?

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Polo Tremolo

Video thumbnail for The Sad UNBOXING of the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 Smart Keyboard Controller by Native Instruments by Cre8iv Keyboards

The Sad UNBOXING of the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 Smart Keyboard Controller by Native Instruments

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Cre8iv Keyboards

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments S88 MK3 | My Dream Keyboard?? by Cre8iv Keyboards

Native Instruments S88 MK3 | My Dream Keyboard??

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Cre8iv Keyboards

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional keybed offers a superior playing experience, especially for weighted keys lovers

  • Seamless integration with Native Instruments software enhances workflow

  • High-resolution display improves navigation and usability

  • DAW integration has improved significantly, making it more user-friendly

  • Build quality is solid despite initial impressions; sturdy case

  • Intuitive control layout and interface enhance overall user experience

CONS

  • Limited functionality outside of Native Instruments' Komplete Kontrol VST host

  • Some hardware materials feel cheaper than marketed, affecting perceived build quality

  • The aftertouch is overly sensitive, complicating normal play

  • Software instability with certain DAWs, especially on Apple systems

  • Key noise and assembly issues noted by some users

  • Lack of standard MIDI features, like ARP and chord assist, without specific software

  • Marketing perceived as misleading regarding features and material quality

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3.

Build quality

  • The S88 MK3 keybed is heavier and more responsive than the Yamaha P-515, providing precise and nuanced playability that feels like a genuine instrument.

    Source
  • The foam under the keybed may wear out after a year or two, leading to a "klacky" sound, though it might be replaceable.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Kontakt integration within the MK3 eliminates the need for Komplete Kontrol software, allowing direct access to features and improving workflow efficiency.

    Source
  • The display panel is considered less useful outside of NI plugins, particularly when used with DAWs like Cubase.

    Source
  • The MK3 model includes a motherboard for internal processing, enabling chord functions and potentially arpeggiator use outside of Komplete Kontrol.

    Source
  • Polyphonic aftertouch on the MK3 is highlighted as a rare feature that allows for unique expressive possibilities not achievable with other methods.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Firmware upgrades can be challenging; there’s a specific NI support page to resolve the "could not reboot into firmware" error.

    Source
  • Some users experience issues with sustain pedal polarity after firmware updates, requiring periodic resets.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Third-party NKS packs from Freelance Soundlabs enhance compatibility with non-NKS plugins like Omnisphere and Arturia, providing previews and improved mapping.

    Source
  • Light guide functionality is limited with non-NI libraries like those from Sine or Spitfire, reducing its utility for users of those libraries.

    Source
  • The MK3 is ready for MIDI 2.0, with a hardware setting to switch between MIDI 1.0 and 2.0, providing future-proofing for upcoming software developments.

    Source

User experience

  • Adjusting velocity curves on the S88 can make it feel more like a Bosendorfer, enhancing the playing experience for concert pianists.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The S88 MK3 is considered superior to the S61 for orchestral composition due to its hammer action keys, enhancing expressiveness and control.

    Source
  • The MK3 offers a larger, more legible screen compared to the MK2, which is beneficial for users with vision impairments.

    Source

Other

  • Using a dedicated USB-C power supply instead of bus power is recommended for stability, with some users successfully using an old MacBook power adapter.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users transitioning from smaller models like the S61 notice significant improvements in accessing articulation and modifier keys on the 88-key layout.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mike Shinoda uses Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3

Mike Shinoda

Singer, Guitarist

Linkin Park

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled by Premier Guitar, Mike Shinoda showcases his keyboard setup, which includes the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3. This is verified at the 24:44 mark of the video, where Shinoda discusses his equipment and its role in his performances.

See how Chris Avantgarde uses Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3

Chris Avantgarde

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo of Chris Avantgarde in his studio, his Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 keyboard controller can be seen on the desk behind him.

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 Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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