Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
3.5 (16)
$1,414.45
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$849.00
Amazon
4.2 (132)
Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$849.00 $839.95 $9.05 · All time low
zZounds
1.0 (1)
$849.00
B&H
3.7 (3)
$839.95
Thomann
4.4 (54)
$659.00 $655.00 $4.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£1,143.80

Average Price: $887

High-end/Boutique

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3 61-key Smart Keyboard Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Welcome to the Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3, a 61-key Smart Keyboard Controller designed to be the central core of your studio. This intelligent MIDI controller integrates seamlessly with a wide range of virtual instruments, offering an immersive and intuitive music creation experience.

With a Fatar keybed providing polyphonic aftertouch, this controller gives you the power to modulate parameters with the subtlest pressure on each key. The high-resolution screen ensures crisp, clear visualization of your tracks while you navigate and tweak your sounds effortlessly.

The Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) technology offers unparalleled integration with NI Komplete instruments as well as third-party software, allowing you to map, play, and adjust thousands of sounds and effects without interrupting your creative flow.

The beautifully redesigned Light Guide, an array of RGB lights above each key, provides visual cues for drum cells, key switches, scales and more, ensuring you stay in key.

Key Features:

  • Fatar keybed with polyphonic aftertouch and 61 semi-weighted keys
  • Pre-configured mapping for all NI Komplete instruments and NKS-compatible third-party instruments
  • Light Guide: RGB lights above each key for visual cues
  • High-resolution color screen for intuitive navigation and tweaking
  • Pitch and mod wheels, 8 rotary controllers, 1 4D controller, and transport keys for versatile control
  • Power supply via USB-C with USB Type-C port
  • Sustain and expression pedal input with 2 freely assignable pedal inputs
  • Comprehensive DAW integration beyond standard transport controls
  • Includes download software: Komplete Select, Komplete Kontrol, Stradivari Cello, Guitar Rig LE, Elements Suite and Hypha.

Owner's manual

Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3 61-key Smart Keyboard Controller User Manual

Product specs

Type Keyboard Controller
Number of Keys 61
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 38.08"
Depth 12.71"
Weight 13.22 lbs.

FAQs

Is the Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3 compatible with Ableton Live?

Yes, the Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3 is compatible with Ableton Live and comes with Ableton Live Lite software, allowing seamless integration and control over your sessions.

Does the Kontrol S61 Mk3 require an external power supply?

No, the Kontrol S61 Mk3 is USB bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from your computer via the USB-C connection, eliminating the need for an external power supply.

What type of keys does the Kontrol S61 Mk3 have?

The Kontrol S61 Mk3 features 61 semi-weighted keys that are velocity-sensitive and include polyphonic aftertouch, providing a responsive and expressive playing experience.

Can I use the Kontrol S61 Mk3 as a standalone MIDI controller?

Yes, the Kontrol S61 Mk3 can function as a standalone MIDI controller. It includes MIDI In and Out ports, allowing you to connect it to other MIDI devices without a computer.

What software is included with the Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3?

The Kontrol S61 Mk3 comes with a comprehensive software package, including Komplete 15 Select, Komplete Kontrol, Hypha, Stradivari Cello, Guitar Rig LE, Elements Suite, and Ableton Live Lite.

Does the Kontrol S61 Mk3 support DAW control?

Yes, the Kontrol S61 Mk3 offers dedicated transport controls and integrates with popular DAWs, allowing you to manage your sessions directly from the keyboard.

What are the connectivity options for the Kontrol S61 Mk3?

The Kontrol S61 Mk3 features USB-C ports for computer connectivity and power, as well as MIDI In and Out ports for connecting to other MIDI devices.

Native Instruments

Native Instruments

What's new in Kontrol S-Series MK3 | Native Instruments

Video thumbnail for What's new in Kontrol S-Series MK3 | Native Instruments by Native Instruments

What's new in Kontrol S-Series MK3 | Native Instruments

Native Instruments

Native Instruments

Video thumbnail for NI Kontrol S Series MK3: The pros and cons of upgrading // S49/S61/S88 MK3 Review & tutorial by loopop

NI Kontrol S Series MK3: The pros and cons of upgrading // S49/S61/S88 MK3 Review & tutorial

loopop

loopop

Video thumbnail for How to use everything in Kontrol S-Series MK3 MIDI keyboard controller | Native Instruments by Native Instruments

How to use everything in Kontrol S-Series MK3 MIDI keyboard controller | Native Instruments

Native Instruments

Native Instruments

Video thumbnail for The New Native Instruments Kontrol S61 MK3 Midi Controller is 🔥 by Bolo Da Producer

The New Native Instruments Kontrol S61 MK3 Midi Controller is 🔥

Bolo Da Producer

Bolo Da Producer

Video thumbnail for Kontrol S-Series MK3: 6 Months Later! by This Is Onesto

Kontrol S-Series MK3: 6 Months Later!

This Is Onesto

This Is Onesto

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Kontrol S61 mk3 - Actual music making by Accurate Beats

Native Instruments Kontrol S61 mk3 - Actual music making

Accurate Beats

Accurate Beats

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Kontrol S61 MK3 UNBOXING, TEST, COMPARISON with Komplete Kontrol S49 MK1 by Chimera State

Native Instruments Kontrol S61 MK3 UNBOXING, TEST, COMPARISON with Komplete Kontrol S49 MK1

Chimera State

Chimera State

Video thumbnail for Kontrol S61 Unboxing! New Keyboard From Native Instruments! Kontrol S-Series MK3 by DDS825

Kontrol S61 Unboxing! New Keyboard From Native Instruments! Kontrol S-Series MK3

DDS825

DDS825

Reviews

PROS

  • Superior keybed feel enhances playability

  • Seamless integration with Logic Pro X for comprehensive control

  • Exceptional customer service experience reported

  • High-quality build when intact

  • Efficient workflow with Native Instruments and NKS integration

  • Large, luxurious screen simplifies browsing libraries and plugins

  • Innovative features like Play Assist, scale mode, and arpeggiator

  • Polyphonic aftertouch offers unique expressive capabilities

  • Tight integration with Native Instruments libraries and 3rd party plugins via NKS2

  • Significant firmware updates anticipated, promising ongoing improvements

CONS

  • Initial firmware and shipping issues reported

  • Some units experienced hardware defects (keys, mod wheel) upon arrival

  • Firmware updates can be problematic and stressful

  • Loss of Maschine buttons and pads limits beat-making capability

  • Occasional unexplained crashes noted

  • Browser feature malfunctions after software updates

  • Concerns over product support and responsiveness to inquiries

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3 61-key Smart Keyboard Controller.

Build quality

  • Some users find the Fatar TP9 keybed on the S61 Mk3 spongy, particularly the black keys, affecting playability for those familiar with Yamaha's keybeds.

    Source
  • Some owners report a plastic sound and feel in the S61 keybed, particularly during key action, which detracts from the overall playing experience.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Kontrol S61 Mk3 offers polyphonic aftertouch, which is a highlight for advanced MIDI control not commonly found on all controllers.

    Source
  • Kontakt integration in the S61 Mk3 allows direct access to features without needing Komplete Kontrol, streamlining workflow for some users.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Native Instruments provides Komplete 15 Select, a more extensive software package compared to Arturia's offerings, but at a higher cost.

    Source
  • Third-party NKS packs from Freelance Soundlabs can enhance functionality with non-NKS plugins like Omnisphere and Arturia, though setup can be complex.

    Source
  • The integration of Traktor settings now allows for user-created mappings, though it's a complex process requiring familiarity with MIDI and device manager settings.

    Source

User experience

  • The NKS 2.0 integration on the S61 Mk3 offers seamless parameter mapping, simplifying navigation for users of Native Instruments and Arturia plugins.

    Source
  • Some users report power issues with the S61 Mk3, linked to a broken cable connector, which can cause the device to power down unexpectedly.

    Source
  • Some users report an unpleasantly long duration in transit for repairs, leading to more time spent away from the device than actually using it.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Firmware upgrade for the S88 can be challenging; users mention a hidden support page on NI's website that resolves "could not reboot into firmware" errors.

    Source
  • Owners experience frequent power inconsistencies, noting the S61 Mk3 struggles with various power sources including desktop PC USB, powered USB hubs, and Apple iPad wall plugs.

    Source

Comparisons

  • S61's key action is compared unfavorably to the Yamaha P-515, with users noting the S61 feels more plastic and less responsive.

    Source
  • One user contrasts their flawless experience with the MK1 S61 against significant issues with the MK3, highlighting a decline in reliability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The S88's hammer action is praised for orchestral composition, providing expressive control without sacrificing synth action feel.

    Source
  • The S88 Mk3 receives varied feedback, with some users enjoying the VST packs and playability, while others criticize the mushy key feel, indicating differing experiences based on individual preferences.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jacob Collier uses Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3 61-key Smart Keyboard Controller

Jacob Collier

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Jacob used the Kontrol S61 Mk3 61-key Smart Keyboard Controller while breaking his instrument with native instruments. It's called the Jacob Collier Audience Choir.

See how Christopher Dudley uses Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3 61-key Smart Keyboard Controller

Christopher Dudley

Keyboardist

Underoath

...
Verified via Native Instruments Blog

In the article titled "Chris Dudley of Underoath soundtracks swamps and the apocalypse with KONTAKT" by Vivian Host on the Native Instruments Blog, it is confirmed that Christopher Dudley uses the Native Instruments Kontrol S61 Mk3 61-key Smart Keyboard Controller. The article discusses how Chris utilizes various Native Instruments products, including his Komplete Kontrol S61, Massive, Kontakt, and Super8.

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 Kontrol S61 Mk3 61-key Smart Keyboard Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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