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Description

Elevate your music production with the Native Instruments Maschine MKII, a dynamic MIDI Pad Controller that seamlessly bridges the gap between hardware and software. Designed for producers, beatmakers, and musicians, the Maschine MKII offers an intuitive interface that empowers creativity without boundaries. With its highly responsive RGB-lit pads, you can trigger samples, loops, and effects with precision, making it an essential tool for crafting everything from hip-hop beats to electronic soundscapes.

The Maschine MKII stands out with its full-color displays, providing clear visual feedback and making navigation through your projects a breeze. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of live performances and studio sessions alike. The accompanying software suite expands your sonic possibilities with powerful sampling, sequencing, and synthesis capabilities, allowing you to explore and experiment with a vast array of sounds.

Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting, the Maschine MKII's user-friendly design and professional-grade features make it an indispensable addition to your musical toolkit. Join the community of musicians who rely on this versatile controller to bring their creative visions to life.

Key Features:

  • Highly sensitive RGB-lit pads for responsive performance
  • Dual full-color displays for enhanced workflow
  • Integrated software suite with advanced sampling, sequencing, and synthesis tools
  • Robust and intuitive interface for seamless music production
  • Compatible with most DAWs and plugins for versatile use

Product specs

Brand Native Instruments
Model Maschine MKII
Finish Black, White
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Drum Machines, Samplers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Pads 16 Pads
Polyphony 64 Voices

FAQs

Is the Native Instruments Maschine MKII compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live?

Yes, the Maschine MKII is compatible with major DAWs including Ableton Live. It can be used as a MIDI controller to trigger samples and control various functions within the DAW environment.

What are the connectivity options available on the Native Instruments Maschine MKII?

The Maschine MKII offers USB MIDI connectivity, as well as standard MIDI input and output, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with other MIDI-compatible devices and software.

How many pads does the Native Instruments Maschine MKII have, and are they velocity-sensitive?

The Maschine MKII features 16 velocity-sensitive pads, which are designed to provide dynamic and responsive control for drumming, sampling, and sequencing tasks.

Can the Native Instruments Maschine MKII be used as a standalone device?

No, the Maschine MKII is not a standalone device. It requires connection to a computer and the accompanying Maschine software to function fully.

What is the polyphony of the Native Instruments Maschine MKII?

The Maschine MKII supports up to 64 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex layering and sequencing of multiple sounds simultaneously.

DV247 Music Store UK TV

DV247 Music Store UK TV

Native Instruments Maschine Tutorial Part 1

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Maschine Tutorial Part 1 by DV247 Music Store UK TV

Native Instruments Maschine Tutorial Part 1

DV247 Music Store UK TV

DV247 Music Store UK TV

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Maschine MKII by Kosmic Sound

Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Kosmic Sound

Kosmic Sound

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Maschine MK2 (MKII) - Hands On Tutorial deutsch (german) by Dennis Surace (SimRaceShop)

Native Instruments Maschine MK2 (MKII) - Hands On Tutorial deutsch (german)

Dennis Surace (SimRaceShop)

Dennis Surace (SimRaceShop)

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Maschine MK2 Groove Production by Swee Lee

Native Instruments Maschine MK2 Groove Production

Swee Lee

Swee Lee

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Maschine MK2 MKII Unboxing & First Impressions Video by DJBooth Pro Audio

Native Instruments Maschine MK2 MKII Unboxing & First Impressions Video

DJBooth Pro Audio

DJBooth Pro Audio

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Maschine MkII и Mikro MkII. Основы работы. by Baza Shop

Native Instruments Maschine MkII и Mikro MkII. Основы работы.

Baza Shop

Baza Shop

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments - Maschine MK2 Demo at GAK by GAK

Native Instruments - Maschine MK2 Demo at GAK

GAK

GAK

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Maschine MK2 Groove Production Studio - Native Instruments Maschine MK2 by American Musical Supply

Native Instruments Maschine MK2 Groove Production Studio - Native Instruments Maschine MK2

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Video thumbnail for Native Instruments Maschine MKII: Your Thoughts? by Tasherre Risay

Native Instruments Maschine MKII: Your Thoughts?

Tasherre Risay

Tasherre Risay

Reviews

PROS

  • Intuitive software and hardware integration boosts workflow efficiency

  • Comes with a variety of popular instrument plugins and software

  • Less screen looking, more hands-on control

  • Excellent for live performances and integrates well with DAWs like Ableton

  • Pads are highly responsive and feel great

  • Facilitates quick laying down of ideas and chopping samples

  • Massive library of presets and sounds, expandable with NI Massive, Prism, and more

  • Useful as a MIDI controller for a wide range of applications

  • Frequent updates and new expansion packs available

  • Solid build quality and sleek design

CONS

  • Not standalone; requires a computer to fully utilize

  • Software can be limiting for complex musical notes or chords

  • Some users find the Maschine software lacking compared to other DAWs

  • Can be difficult to integrate into certain workflows, especially linear songwriting

  • Automation capabilities are somewhat restricted

  • Consumes significant computer space and can be heavy on CPU load

  • The size may be cumbersome for those with limited desk space

  • Learning curve can be steep for new users

  • Issues with app stability and hardware (e.g., loose display connections) reported by some

  • Some find the built-in plugins unsatisfactory

Owner Insights

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

Software and compatibility

  • Ensure Maschine MK2 includes the Maschine 2.0 software or a license for version 1, as it originally shipped with this software.

    Source
  • Native Instruments often supports old hardware well, so the MK2 still integrates effectively within the NI ecosystem.

    Source
  • Some users prefer using the MK2 with Groove Agent over Native Instruments' software to avoid relicensing and upgrade costs.

    Source
  • Maschine MK2 is considered nearly useless without the accompanying software, with limited functionality when used solely in MIDI mode.

    Source
  • Users advise creating a Native Access account and downloading Komplete Start, a free software package from Native Instruments, to enhance functionality.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • If purchasing an MK2, verify that it comes with the necessary software licenses to avoid additional costs for upgrades.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the seamless integration of the MK2 as a MIDI controller, especially with Groove Agent, due to its transport controls and customizable knobs.

    Source
  • While the MK3's touch strip is praised, many users still rely on the MK2 for its robust and straightforward workflow despite its age.

    Source
  • Owners mention the steep learning curve but highlight abundant online resources, including YouTube playlists and Native Instruments tutorials, as essential for mastering the device.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The ability to hard set pad velocity and create templates with varied velocity ranges is highlighted as a key advantage for dynamic drumming.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MK3 is noted for having a more responsive pad sensitivity, akin to Akai products, but the MK2's affordability remains a strong point for many.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Native Instruments Maschine MkII

soundonsound.com

The Native Instruments Maschine MKII impresses with its vibrant color integration, making music production visually intuitive and engaging. Upgrades like the inclusion of NI Massive synth and new effects such as Transient Master and time-stretching enhance its already robust functionality. However, the time-stretch and pitch-shift remain non-real-time processes, and the software evolution seems modest amidst rising competition. Yet, for those looking to blend hands-on control with digital production, the Maschine MKII remains a top choice, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Existing users will appreciate the software updates, even if unable to partake in the new color fest.

positive

Native Instruments Maschine mkII review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Native Instruments Maschine MKII dazzles with its RGB pads and refined workflow, marking a significant upgrade from its predecessor. Its integration of the Massive synth and offline timestretching enhances its creative scope. However, it misses a few pitchshifting features and doesn't offer enough new elements to justify a switch for existing users. Despite these shortcomings, it's a stellar choice for newcomers or those seeking to elevate their beat-making tools.

positive

macProVideo.com

macprovideo.com
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 36 Reviews and 194 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
junelopez215

Crash Maschine

I was a fast learner to really hate this device, bad loose display connections and the app was a crash disaster - sat in my studio collecting dust

blindyz

Love It

I have always Wanted a mashine for the live beat making and then i got it! (did not buy it got it from a friend) Its a Bit pricy but man Its Great!

D

great maschine

i was using a mpc1000 and let me tell you that the learning curve is way easier with the machine. i am using my usb output on my rane 62 for machine and it work flawlessly with my setup.

iamjaybeatsofficial

I love Maschine !!!!!

This is an absolute beast at making beats with... amazing!!! one of the best studio equipment's I've ever purchased. The quality and sampling options on this maschine is absolutely amazing.

kangarousuzuki

Fantastic workstation

Its really Fantastic workstation!! We can enjoy so nice feeling of verocity on the pad. Easy to make the track.

buddycephalus

This is the center of mu studio

This is where everything starts and where i build my tracks. This system is so fast and easy to work with and is definitely killing the need for hardware.

R

Just got it, still learning how to use it.

boissinova

Best creative tool I own

Gets you going, expandable, fun to use, cool/futuristic sounds, cool lights, a tad expensive but worth it!

datamotion

Make drums

Make a good groove drums, slicing samples and controler

From Gear Setup
X

AWESOME

Awesome bit of kit, havent stopped using it since i got it...

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Flume uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Flume

Music Producer, DJ

What So Not

...
Verified via Musicradar

From his featured article in MusicRader: 'It's no surprise to see Maschine in Flume's studio but, as yet, he hasn't really got the most out of it, he tells us.

“I’ve never really learnt it properly so I don’t tend to use it that much,” he explains.'

This model of Maschine must be the MKII because it has one large knob on the left side, while the MKI has three smaller knobs in that location.

See how Fedde le Grand uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Fedde le Grand

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Fedde le Grand showcases the Native Instruments Maschine MKII in an Instagram post captioned "NEW Christmas toys!"

See how Alan Walker uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Alan Walker

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

Alan Walker in the studio the Maschine Mikro MKII and it shows in the 00:22 time

See how Metro Boomin uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Metro Boomin

Music Producer

So Icey Boyz

...
Verified via YouTube

In the first episode of "Boomin Vlog," Metro Boomin is seen receiving and using the Native Instruments Maschine MKII, highlighting its role in his music production process.

See how Mike Shinoda uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Mike Shinoda

Singer, Guitarist

Linkin Park

...
Verified via YouTube

At 2.34 you can see a Maschine MKII on his studio desk

See how Kendrick Lamar uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Kendrick Lamar

Rapper

Black Hippy

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video, Dow Jones and Henny (Tha Bizness) rely on MASCHINE, describing their process:

"[We] basically went in Maschine, started going through the samples. If you listen to the track stock, it would sound completely different. But we used Maschine's internal effects to… just to really beef everything up and kinda make our own sound. We load in our own drums. Did a simple arrangement with nothing added, no effects or whatever."

"People always ask, when I get Maschine what sounds does it come with? It comes with a lot of sounds but the greatest part of Maschine to us is that you can record whatever you want in it. Then we add effects. This was the first time that we recorded live instruments into Maschine, instead of how some people might take live instruments and record them straight into Pro Tools."

See how Brendon Urie uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Brendon Urie

Singer, Guitarist

Panic! at the Disco

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video brendon shows the maschine MKII at 7:16

See how FKJ uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

FKJ

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Native-instruments

In a video on YouTube, FKJ can be seen using the Native Instruments Maschine MKII, showcasing its role in his music production setup.

See how Suga (Agust D) uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Suga (Agust D)

Rapper, Composer

BTS

...
Verified via YouTube

Suga uses the NI Maschine MKII in his review to create a beat using samples.

See how Chris Liebing uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Chris Liebing

Music Producer

Speedy J & Chris Liebing

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Point Blank Music School's "Performance Masterclass: U.S. CNTRL Tour 2015" video, Chris Liebing uses the Native Instruments Maschine MKII.

See how 9th Wonder uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

9th Wonder

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In his rythm roullette episode you can see from about 1:30 a black maschine mk2 wich you can see him use during the whole video

See how Max Vangeli uses Native Instruments Maschine MKII

Max Vangeli

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Instagram

We can see a Maschine MKII in his studio setup

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 Maschine MKII, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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