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Average Price: $722
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$200
$501+
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Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 Mk3 49-key Smart Keyboard Controller - a remarkable fusion of the virtual and tangible realms of music production. This intelligent keyboard controller is crafted to be the nucleus of your studio, offering in-depth control and seamless integration with Kontakt and other NKS-compatible instruments.
The Kontrol S49 Mk3 will astound you with its high-resolution screen that brings thousands of virtual instruments to life, transforming your playing experience into a genuinely immersive one. The keyboard's state-of-the-art design, coupled with the robustness of its build, ensures it's not just visually appealing but also designed to last.
One of its standout features is the polyphonic aftertouch, a remarkable capability that allows you to control parameters with the softest touch on each key. From modulating cutoff, pitch, vibrato, and much more - you can do it all without having to reach for an extra control.
This keyboard is a result of a collaborative effort with Fatar, designed to provide the best polyphonic aftertouch experience in the industry. The semi-weighted, hammer-action keys offer an unparalleled level of expressivity, making the Kontrol S49 Mk3 a must-have for any serious musician or producer.
Key Features:
- Fatar keyboard with polyphonic aftertouch and 49 semi-weighted keys
- Seamless integration with Kontakt and NKS-compatible instruments
- High-resolution color screen for intuitive browsing, tweaking, and mixing
- 8 Rotary controllers, 1 4D Controller, and Transport keys
- Power supply via USB-C, with USB-C connection
- Sustain and expression pedal input
- Includes download software Komplete Select, Komplete Kontrol, Stradivari Cello, Guitar Rig LE, Elements Suite, and Hypha
Owner's manual
Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Keyboard Controller |
| Number of Keys | 49 |
| Type of Keys | Semi-weighted |
| 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 |
| 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 | 3.38" |
| Width | 31.58" |
| Depth | 12.71" |
| Weight | 12.12 lbs. |
FAQs
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What are the standout features of the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3's sound engine?
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The Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 features a semi-weighted 49-key keyboard with polyphonic aftertouch, offering dynamic expression. It integrates seamlessly with Komplete Kontrol software, providing smart mapping for instruments and effects, enhancing workflow efficiency.
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Is the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 compatible with Ableton Live?
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Yes, the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 is compatible with Ableton Live Lite, which is included with the controller. This allows for smooth integration and control over your Ableton Live sessions.
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Does the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 require an external power supply?
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No, the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 is USB bus-powered, meaning it can operate directly from your computer's USB connection without needing an external power supply.
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How does the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 connect to a computer?
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The Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 connects to a computer via USB-C, providing fast and reliable data transfer for seamless integration with your DAW and software instruments.
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Does the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 support MIDI 2.0?
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Yes, the Kontrol S49 MK3 supports MIDI 2.0, offering enhanced communication capabilities for more expressive and precise control over your music production setup.
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What software comes bundled with the Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3?
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The Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 includes Komplete 15 Select, Komplete Kontrol, Hypha, Stradivari Cello, Guitar Rig LE, Elements Suite, and Ableton Live Lite, providing a comprehensive suite of tools for music creation.
Videos
loopop
NI Kontrol S Series MK3: The pros and cons of upgrading // S49/S61/S88 MK3 Review & tutorial
Reviews
PROS
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Seamless Ableton and NI software integration
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High-quality, rigid plastic build with top-notch keybed
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Polyphonic aftertouch enhances expressiveness
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Bright, crisp display for easy navigation
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Improved sound control over previous models
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Elegant design with robust metal dials and improved plastic keys
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Excellent Fatar keybed offering superior tactile feedback
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Comprehensive DAW integration, including with third-party VSTs
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Includes valuable software plugins as extras
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Supports NKS for easy management of NI and third-party plugins
CONS
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Maschine integration removed, disappointing some users
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Larger size compared to previous models may be cumbersome
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High price point may deter some potential buyers
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Some users experienced laggy Komplete integration initially
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Customer service for hardware issues reported as poor
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3.
Features and functionality
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The S49 MK3 boasts polyphonic aftertouch, but it's currently not functional within Maschine, limiting its expressiveness in that environment.
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Changing the MIDI version from 2.0 to 1.0 on the S49 MK3 can resolve key registration issues, suggesting a workaround for some users experiencing this problem.
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The S49 MK3 lacks onboard arp/key MIDI output, which limits its standalone functionality despite having a more powerful microcontroller.
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Software and compatibility
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Maschine integration is missing in the S49 MK3, affecting workflow for Maschine users who rely on this feature.
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Users report persistent issues with Cubase and Ableton, including crashes and technical disruptions, despite having high-performance computers.
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Users are frustrated by the lack of high DPI scaling in the Komplete Kontrol software, making it difficult to use on modern high-resolution displays.
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User experience
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Owners note that the S49 MK3's onboard play assist features are incomplete, impacting its effectiveness as a controller.
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Some users report returning the S49 MK3 due to its unfinished feature set and lack of integration with existing NI software.
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Despite technical frustrations, users acknowledge the S49 MK3's potential to elevate music production quality significantly when functioning correctly.
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Some users find the browsing and filtering of instruments and presets more intuitive on the S49 MK3 compared to the MK2, improving workflow.
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Comparisons
Other
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A major internal component issue led to a recall of the initial units, affecting the S88 more than the S49 and S61, which explains early availability discrepancies.
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Use cases and applications
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The MK3's capabilities shine on rare occasions when all systems align, significantly boosting users' production levels beyond prior capabilities.
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Build quality
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The S49 MK3's keybed is the Fatar TP100, shared with the S88 MK2, but with a new polyphonic aftertouch strip, potentially leading to a different feel.
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