Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 Keyboard

1. Introduction

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 is a smart keyboard controller designed to provide an intuitive, hands-on experience for music production. It integrates seamlessly with virtual instruments, effects, and digital audio workstations (DAWs), offering expressive performance capabilities and streamlined workflow.

Figure 1: Top-down view of the Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 Keyboard.

2. Setup

To begin using your Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2, follow these steps:

1. Connect to Power: Connect the included power adapter to the '15V 1.2A' port on the rear panel and plug it into a power outlet.
2. Connect to Computer: Use the supplied USB cable to connect the keyboard's USB port to an available USB port on your computer (PC or Mac).
3. Software Installation: Install the Komplete Kontrol software and any associated drivers from the Native Instruments website. Ensure your DAW (e.g., Ableton Live, Logic Pro X) is updated to the latest version for optimal integration.
4. MIDI Connections (Optional): If you plan to use external MIDI hardware, connect MIDI IN/OUT cables to the respective ports on the rear panel.
5. Pedal Connections (Optional): Connect sustain or expression pedals to the 'PEDAL A' and 'PEDAL B' inputs as needed.

Figure 2: Rear panel connections of the Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2.

3. Features Overview

The Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 boasts a range of features designed to enhance your music production workflow:

• Pro-Grade Fatar Keybed: Features 49 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch for a responsive and expressive playing experience.
• Ergonomic Pitch and Mod Wheels: Large, tactile wheels for adding pitch bends and modulation to your performances.
• Touch Strip: A dynamic touch strip for additional expression control, allowing for creative sound manipulation.
• Dual High-Res Color Screens: Two vibrant displays provide visual feedback for browsing sounds, tweaking parameters, and navigating your project.
• Pre-mapped Control (NKS): Seamless integration with KOMPLETE instruments and hundreds of Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) instruments from leading manufacturers, with essential parameters pre-mapped.
• Full VSTi Support: Compatible with all VST instruments, allowing you to control your favorite plugins directly from the keyboard.
• Integrated Transport Controls: Dedicated buttons for play, record, loop, metro, tempo, and stop, along with Undo/Redo, Quantize, and Auto functions.
• DAW Integration: Deep integration with popular DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, GarageBand, Cubase, and Nuendo for intuitive project navigation and mixing.
• Maschine Integration: Enhanced integration with Maschine hardware and software, allowing for synchronized control and visual feedback across devices.

Figure 3: Angled top view highlighting the keybed and control surface.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Browsing and Loading Sounds

The dual color screens and dedicated browser knob make finding sounds fast and efficient. You can browse through your Komplete and NKS instrument libraries, with visual feedback and instant sound previews.

• Use the BROWSER button to enter the sound browser.
• Turn the large 4-directional push encoder to navigate through categories, vendors, and instruments.
• The screens will display visual representations of instruments and presets.
• Sound Previews: As you scroll, a short audio example of each preset will play, allowing you to audition sounds without fully loading them.
• Press the LOAD button or push the encoder to load the selected instrument or preset.

Figure 4: Sound browsing interface on the dual color screens.

4.2. Expressive Performance Controls

Enhance your playing with the dedicated performance controls:

• Pitch Wheel: Use the left wheel to bend the pitch of notes up or down.
• Modulation Wheel: Use the right wheel to apply modulation effects (e.g., vibrato, filter sweeps) to your sound.
• Touch Strip: The illuminated touch strip below the wheels can be assigned to various parameters for dynamic real-time control.

Figure 5: Pitch and modulation wheels with the touch strip.

4.3. DAW Integration and Transport Controls

The Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 offers deep integration with major DAWs, allowing you to control your project directly from the keyboard.

• Project Navigation: Use the 4-directional push encoder to navigate through your DAW's timeline and tracks.
• Transport Controls: Use the dedicated PLAY, REC, LOOP, METRO, TEMPO, and STOP buttons for playback and recording.
• Undo/Redo: The UNDO and REDO buttons allow you to quickly revert or reapply changes.
• Quantize: Use the QUANTIZE button to correct timing issues in your recorded MIDI notes.
• Automation: The AUTO button enables automation recording, allowing you to record parameter changes over time.
• DAW Mixer: Access your DAW's mixer directly from the keyboard. The screens will display track volumes and panning, which can be adjusted using the knobs. You can also mute and solo individual tracks.

Figure 6: Transport and control buttons for DAW integration.

4.4. Maschine Integration

When used with Maschine hardware, the Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 provides a unified workflow:

• Synchronized Displays: Set up the screens on both the S49 Mk2 and Maschine hardware to display different aspects of your project (e.g., mixer on S49, arranger on Maschine).
• Key Mode: Use the KEY MODE button to trigger all sounds of a Maschine group directly from the S49 Mk2's keybed, offering an alternative to using Maschine's pads.
• Scene/Pattern Switching: Easily switch between different scenes and patterns in Maschine's Ideas View using the S49 Mk2's controls.

4.5. Official Product Video Overview

For a visual demonstration of the Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2's features and operation, please watch the official overview video:

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the surface of the keyboard. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes.
• Dust Protection: When not in use, cover the keyboard with a dust cover to prevent dust and debris from accumulating on the keys and controls.
• Storage: Store the keyboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
• Handle with Care: Avoid dropping or subjecting the keyboard to strong impacts. Do not place heavy objects on top of it.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2, try the following:

• No Power: Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the keyboard and a working power outlet.
• Not Recognized by Computer/DAW:
  • Check USB cable connection. Try a different USB port or cable.
  • Restart your computer and DAW.
  • Verify that the latest drivers and Komplete Kontrol software are installed.
  • Check your DAW's MIDI settings to ensure the S49 Mk2 is enabled as a control surface and MIDI input device.
• Keys/Controls Not Responding:
  • Ensure the keyboard is powered on and connected.
  • Check if the Komplete Kontrol software is running and the instrument is loaded correctly.
  • Perform a factory reset (refer to the full online manual for specific instructions).
• Sound Issues:
  • Check audio output connections from your computer.
  • Verify volume levels on the keyboard, in your DAW, and on your audio interface/speakers.
  • Ensure the correct instrument/preset is loaded and active.

For more detailed troubleshooting, please visit the Native Instruments support website.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty & Support

Native Instruments products come with a limited warranty. For detailed information regarding your product's warranty, registration, and technical support, please visit the official Native Instruments website:

www.native-instruments.com

You can find FAQs, knowledge base articles, and contact support directly through their website.