Gearank

Gearank High Notes

• 2020.05: Highest Rated MIDI Keyboard Controller from $500 to $1000

Gearank Recommendation

The Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2 earned a place on our recommended list for 61 Key MIDI Controller Keyboards in May 2018 where it remained until August 2022 when it was out-ranked by other controllers.

It was also featured on our Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers when we published the first edition in May 2018 until June 2021 when it was out-ranked by the Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII and Yamaha MX61 V2.

Overview

Native Instruments is well known in DJ circles because for the quality of their Traktor software, they also expanded into music hardware which includes the Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2, a 61-key MIDI keyboard controller.

While it does not have many DJ friendly functions, it does retain the company's standard for quality, as evidenced by its many good ratings.

To achieve its success, NI equipped this controller with a semi-weighted Fatar keybed, and paired it with essential controls that include pitch bend and mod wheels, 8 touch-sensitive knobs, a touch strip and a 4-directional push encoder.

It doesn't have much else in terms of design features, but the keys themselves are more then enough to make it a viable top rated instrument.

If you're using Native Instruments software, or if you're looking for a more streamlined 61-Key MIDI keyboard controller then check this out.

Specifications

• Keys: 61-Key
• Pads: Fatar Keybed Semi-Weighted
• Controls: Pitch Bend Wheel, Mod Wheel, 8 Touch-Sensitive knobs, 4-Directional Push Encoder, Touch Strip
• Octave: 2 Octaves (+/- )
• Zones: Up to two (Split)
• Automap: Yes (Via Software)
• Connectivity: 5-Pin MIDI, USB
• Control Hardware Directly: Yes
• Compatibility: OSX 10.11 (Up), Windows 7 SP1 (Up)
• Power: USB Bus powered / 15V DC Power Supply (sold separately)
• Dimensions: 39.6" x 11.7" x 3.3"
• Weight: 14.4 lbs.
• Bundled Software: Komplete 11 Select Software Bundle