Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 main image

Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 image 2

Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 image 3

Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88

^# 12

Equipboard's ranking is determined by analyzing factors such as professional artist usage, popularity, user ratings, reviews, and more.

$676.87 to $1,301.63 Price Tier: High-end

4.5 (33)

5 Reviews

Newer option

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 Mk2

$834.71 - $1,099.00

5.0 (12)

Find out who is using Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88

4 community setups

57 wishlisted

123 saved

Page last updated Jul 05, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

4.5 (12)

$1,099.00

View Deal

4.5 (9)

$1,099.00

View Deal

4.4 (633)

$676.87 Used

View Deal

4.0 (6)

$1,301.63 1 available New

$100.00 5 available Used

View Deal

4.7 (143)

$759.00

View Deal

Average Price: $839

High-end/Boutique

$200

$501+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Keyboard Controllers category, Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Edit description

Experience a more holistic and hands-on approach to music-making with the Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88. As the flagship model of the KOMPLETE S-SERIES, this MIDI controller is more than just a keyboard, it's your integrated studio centerpiece. The S88 MK2 upgrade offers a myriad of advanced features, enhancing your workflow and allowing you to focus on what matters most - your music.

This state-of-the-art MIDI controller boasts an industry-leading 88-note weighted, hammer-action keybed. Coupled with advanced control software, it provides a seamless interface for producers, composers, and performers alike. At the heart of the S88 MK2 are the twin high-res color screens, allowing for intuitive browsing, tweaking, mixing, and more.

The S88 MK2 is designed to put everything you need at your fingertips. The Clear View Display showcases critical instrument parameters on the hardware, while the precision Light Guide pinpoints the location of sounds, key zones, switches, scales, and more. With the S88 MK2, you'll have full control of your Komplete and NKS instruments and effects, all pre-mapped by the instrument designers themselves.

Key Features:

Industry-leading 88-note weighted, hammer-action keybed
Twin high-res color screens for intuitive control
Clear View Display for easy viewing of instrument parameters
Light Guide for precise location of sounds, key zones, and more
Pre-mapped controls for Komplete and NKS instruments and effects
Ergonomic pitch and mod wheels for expressive control
Built-in arpeggiator for enhanced musical performances
Easy Mode for beginners, mapping all white keys to a selected scale
Full VSTi support and tag-based preset browsing
Two freely assignable inputs for foot pedals
MIDI in/out and seamless integration with Maschine hardware/software
Intuitive control of Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Pro Tools (2021.10 and later), Cubase and Nuendo
KOMPLETE Select and Ableton Live Lite included

Product specs

Brand	Native Instruments
Model	Komplete Kontrol S88
Finish	Black
Year	2010s
Categories	Keyboard MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Weighted
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys	88 Keys

FAQs

Does the Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 have weighted keys?: Yes, the KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 features fully weighted, hammer-action keys, providing a realistic piano-like feel suitable for expressive playing.
Is the KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 compatible with all major DAWs?: The KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 integrates seamlessly with popular DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Cubase, offering deep control and enhanced workflow.
Does the KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 support aftertouch?: Yes, the KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 supports polyphonic aftertouch, allowing for dynamic expression across its 88 keys.
Can I use the KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 as a standalone MIDI controller?: Yes, the KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 can be used as a standalone MIDI controller by disconnecting from the computer and using a separate power supply.
What are the connectivity options for the KOMPLETE KONTROL S88?: The KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 offers USB MIDI connectivity along with MIDI In and Out ports, providing versatile options for integration with other gear.

Videos

Add video

Native Instruments

KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 – our flagship keyboard controller | Native Instruments

Native Instruments

Native Instruments S88 MkII Review

Sanjay C

See what’s new in KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 | Native Instruments

Native Instruments

First few hours with Native Instrument's Komplete Kontrol S88 and the Komplete 10 bundle

TheThorpester

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 - Demo, Features and Specifications

Musician's Friend

Native Instruments: New Kontrol S 88 MKII & Komplete 12 Ultimate Collector’s Edition

Noisegate

Is This The BEST Midi Keyboard? | KOMPLETE KONTROL S88 Review

Mike Migas

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 *DEMO*

Clayton Andrews

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Hammer-action keyboard offers high-quality, consistent key feel
Comes with NI Komplete Select 13, adding excellent value
Durable build, described as "built like a tank"
User-friendly, with almost zero learning curve for NI software integration
Faders and keys have excellent tactile response and precision
Upgraded feel from previous models, providing a more natural piano feel
Provides comprehensive control over MIDI, enhancing production workflow
Includes valuable software like Massive Synth, Monark, Prism, and West Africa
Native support for NI libraries streamlines the creative process

CONS

Some units may arrive with defects or signs of wear
Initial setup and software installation can be challenging
Primarily benefits users of Native Instruments' ecosystem
Key weight uniform across the range, lacking realistic piano feel
May not be suitable as an "on the road" instrument due to setup issues

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.

Comparisons

0 0

The M-Audio Hammer 88 is cited as a cost-effective alternative with a great keybed but lacks the S88's advanced features.
Source
0 0

While the S88 MK3 has a heavier key action, it is preferred over the S61's semi-weighted keys, which felt more plastic to some users.
Source

Software and compatibility

0 0

The S88 MK1's Ableton integration is described as lacking, with many features non-functional without third-party scripts.
Source
0 0

S88 MK1 lacks native support for Apple Silicon, necessitating downgrades to older Komplete Kontrol versions.
Source
0 0

Full disk access is required on Mac for the S88 MK1, which some find intrusive.
Source
0 0

The S88 MK1 requires Ableton to run under Rosetta on M1 Macs, causing compatibility challenges.
Source
0 0

Users have reported success integrating the MK3 with Reaper using a third-party mod, enhancing DAW interaction.
Source

User experience

0 0

Owners report the S88 MK1's Controller Editor cannot locate the keyboard, leading to setup frustrations.
Source
0 0

Some users report noisy keys developing after a year, with the feel described as a double bounce, which affects playability.
Source
0 0

The S88 MK3's aftertouch requires a deliberate, harder press, resembling key bending rather than intentional travel.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

Navigation buttons in MIDI mode reportedly do not function, even with MIDI snooping software.
Source
0 0

The Kontakt integration within the MK3 is a significant improvement, eliminating the need for Komplete Kontrol software for some users.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

USB 3.0 cables are not supported; users must use USB 2.0 to connect the S88 MK1.
Source
0 0

Replacement units for faulty keyboards are refurbished, not new, and repairs require sending the unit in, leading to a 3-4 week downtime.
Source
0 0

Firmware upgrades for the S88 MK3 can be challenging, with specific support pages needed to resolve "could not reboot into firmware" errors.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

It's suggested that the S88's value is best realized if deeply integrated into the Native Instruments ecosystem; otherwise, other brands may offer better value.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The S88 is not recommended for tasks like programming drum parts or delicate synth solos due to its heavy key action.
Source

Build quality

0 0

The S88 MK3 keybed is described as heavier than the Yamaha P-515, offering a more instrument-like feel rather than a plastic action.
Source
0 0

The S88's keybed action is described as stiff and heavy, potentially leading to discomfort or injury for those accustomed to lighter actions.
Source

Add review

4.5 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 33 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

aikitazz

over 6 years ago

Realistic piano feel and midi control from the keyboard make this a great choice

Bought this after selling some gear. Jumped right into this midi keyboard based on Sanjay C and a host of other reviews. Not disappointed. The software and installation posed quite a challenge but lots of support available via YouTube and the Native Instruments Group on Facebook. Once everything was up and running off my MBP, excellent results and hours of entertainment have been had. If your looking for COMPLETE CONTROL of your midi, any of the Komplete Kontrol keyboards will work but the S88 is the one to go for.

william_fletcher

186

almost 6 years ago

The idea is good but

This is a good controller but does not do everything it says on the tin. Had a lot of issues setting up. For me its not a on the road instrument which is a pitty