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Native Instruments Maschine 2.0

4.5 (91)

2 Critic Reviews

15 Reviews

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Native Instruments Maschine MKII

$478.44

4.5 (194)

Find out who is using Native Instruments Maschine 2.0

2 community setups

8 wishlisted

166 saved

Page last updated Jun 09, 2026

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Description

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Step into the world of professional music production with Native Instruments Maschine 2.0, a powerhouse virtual instrument software designed to elevate your creative process. Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out, Maschine 2.0 offers an intuitive interface paired with a robust set of features that allow for seamless music creation and performance. With an extensive library of sounds, Maschine 2.0 provides a platform where your musical ideas can fully flourish.

This music software stands out with its integrated sampling capabilities and powerful drum synthesizer, enabling you to craft unique beats with ease. The intuitive step sequencer and pattern-based arrangement make it simple to construct complex tracks. Compatible with both Mac and PC, Maschine 2.0 integrates effortlessly with your existing setup, offering a smooth workflow that keeps your focus on the music.

Maschine 2.0 brings a new dimension to virtual instruments with its ability to host an array of Native Instruments and third-party plugins, making it a versatile tool in any producer's arsenal. Its user-friendly interface, combined with powerful processing capabilities, ensures that your productions are both high-quality and uniquely yours.

Key Features:

Integrated sampling capabilities for dynamic beat-making
Powerful drum synthesizer for unique sound design
Pattern-based arrangement and step sequencer
Comprehensive library of sounds and effects
Compatible with Native Instruments and third-party plugins
Seamless integration with Mac and PC setups
User-friendly interface for streamlined workflow

Product specs

Plugin Format

AU, VST

Videos

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ADSR Music Production Tutorials

Maschine 2.0 tutorial - Overview

ADSR Music Production Tutorials

How to Sample Native Instruments Maschine 2.0 master output

AG Got Beats

Reviews

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PROS

Extensive library of sounds, plugins, and effects included
Integrates smoothly with DAWs like FL Studio and Ableton
Powerful CPU performance for smooth operation
User-friendly interface that aids in song creation
Offers unique drum synth modules for personalized drum sounds
Includes additional plug-ins and presets over previous versions
Strong support for live beat sets and performances
Comprehensive package with great synths and instruments
Enhances creative possibilities with chords and scales features

CONS

Setup can be complicated, especially with Ableton
Arranging songs can be challenging due to scene-based workflow
Limited plugin and effect options compared to larger DAWs

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Native Instruments Maschine 2.0.

Software and compatibility

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Maschine Mikro MkIII requires an active instance of Maschine 2 software to function, limiting its use as a MIDI controller for other DAWs like Logic.
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Maschine software can be purchased separately, allowing secondhand hardware users to activate devices without a bundled license.
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The Maschine software is compatible with other MIDI controllers, like Akai keyboards, expanding its usability beyond Maschine hardware.
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Maschine Studio controllers support the latest software but require occasional adjustments and Google searches to utilize newer features effectively.
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Features and functionality

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The Mikro MkIII is notably more limited compared to the full Maschine Mk3, which allows for more standalone functionality and reduced reliance on computer interaction.
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Maschine hardware functions as generic USB MIDI devices, not requiring a hardware key or serial to operate with the software.
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The dual screens on the Maschine Studio are considered essential by some users, enhancing workflow visibility compared to single-screen setups.
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Comparisons

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Users report that Akai MPC can control other VSTs like Serum, while Maschine Mikro cannot, highlighting a key functionality difference.
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User experience

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Some owners find Maschine 2 software unintuitive with bugs and poor UI, such as samples stopping unexpectedly and NKI files not demoing.
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Owners report that Native Instruments' website often obscures the option to purchase the software separately, causing confusion.
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Use cases and applications

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Maschine is often preferred for quick idea sketches, while full track production and mastering might be better suited to other DAWs like Logic or FL Studio.
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Owners running Maschine Studio on a MacBook Air report solid performance, though Windows compatibility is unverified in their experience.
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Value and pricing

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Purchasing just the software is a cost-effective solution for secondhand Maschine hardware, avoiding the $600 bundle price.
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A used Maschine Studio controller was purchased for $350 at Guitar Center, with successful serial number ownership transfer providing additional Native Instruments products.
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Critic Reviews

Maschine 2.0 Software Review

protootr.com

Maschine 2.0 is a strong update, bringing long-anticipated features and fresh innovations. The revamped interface and new Drum Synth are standout additions, enhancing workflow and sound design options. However, there are minor hiccups like the small fader knobs and limited CPU meter details. Despite these, the update's value at $99 is clear, with multicore support and expanded plugin capabilities making it a compelling upgrade for Maschine users.

positive

Full Review

Maschine Studio and software v2.0 review | Gaz Williams

gazwilliams.me

Native Instruments Maschine 2.0 marks a notable upgrade with its multicore support and a plethora of new features like side chaining and drum synth models, enhancing its performance efficiency. The software's ease of use, combined with the intuitive browser and vast sound library, makes it a powerful tool for beat makers. The Maschine Studio hardware impresses with its high-definition color screens and jog wheel, offering a refined and immersive experience. However, its lack of an audio interface and portability might deter some users, especially considering its high price point compared to competitors. Despite these drawbacks, the Maschine 2.0 stands out as a premier digital drum machine, making it a worthy investment for studio-centric producers seeking a streamlined workflow. Overall, the review leans positive, applauding the thoughtful design and substantial improvements over previous versions.

positive

Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 15 Reviews and 91 Ratings

5 star

4 star

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1 star

wesdaruler

143

over 10 years ago

Fun to use

Picked up the MK2 a few months back. I just love using it. The mix of manual and technology is perfect. ALOT comes with it as well in terms of sounds and software. I also love the internal effects. I usually create my loops using the maschine, and then shoot the stems to FL Studio for mixing/tracking/etc. You can also run it as a VST in FL and Ableton which is nice for my live beat sets. It was a little complicated to get it setup with Ableton though. Definitly a great buy. If you go the second hand route make sure the owner has worked with NI to deactivate the license from his account. The controller brand new comes with the Maschine software, but it isn't "auto" transferred to new owners when handed down/sold.

john_withers

815

over 7 years ago

Excellent music production software

Very complicated but works great with my Maschine Studio. I am far from mastering this hardware software combination but I am having fun learning and it is so powerful that it is worth the effort!

djsedatophobia

382

about 11 years ago

Bought as upgrade for my Maschine Mk1

I bought this as an upgrade for my Maschine Mk1. Gives all the features and advantages of the Mk2, but also includes a lot of the additional plug-ins of Native Instruments. A whole new world opens for the use of my Maschine Mk1.

jimmarchi1

41010

11 years ago about 11 years ago

I am interested in this VSTi, but I'm not sure what its engine is all about and have always hedged away (I don't create that much entirely electronic music, and for adding synths to songs with live performance I gravitate to hardware usually). I wish your review went into more detail :-(

1 paragraph reviews that assume everyone has used a piece of gear make me sad... they also bum out my toddler because he doesn't know what any of this stuff does and would like you to tell me so I can explain it to him while I let him create sonic chaos with my gear. Okay, he doesn't really care how it all works yet, but one day....

djsedatophobia

382

11 years ago almost 11 years ago

I just purchased this update, about two weeks ago. So I haven't seen all the options yet. On top of that, I have bought it as an update. Basis for me is the Maschine Mk1. Now it includes not only the (Maschine version of) Massive plugin, but also a drum synth. More of that can be found on NI's website. Hands on and practical experiences I have to gain myself still. ;)

So I can write more than 1 paragraph about it, as you can see. But I still need to explore the options and certain specifics myself.

aviormusic

985

about 11 years ago

Great for some things

I just use the maschine for drum stuffs and sketching out a track. I think using a bigger DAW such as Logic X or Ableton is better because you'll get much more plugins, effects and mainly a better usability than in Maschine 2.0.

charlieysasi

390

over 11 years ago

Amazing stuff in here!

One of my favorite music softwares! You have duros, synths, simples, loops, even whole projects ready for you to try and use in your own way! It is a user friendly program that actually helps a lot while putting down ideas, even for complete songs!

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Composer

Genres:

Electronic Rock Pop

txufowilson

121

almost 11 years ago

Beat Station

I use maschine in multioutput to record beats and samples or interpretations into Ableton Live 9 or Logic Pro X. I basically use the drum synth modules, is fun and good way to find "personal" drum sounds.