Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 User Manual

1. Einleitung

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 is an intelligent keyboard controller designed for music production and performance. It integrates seamlessly with virtual instruments and offers advanced control through its high-resolution screen and polyphonic aftertouch keybed. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your S61 MK3 controller.

2. Produktüberschreitungview

The S61 MK3 features a robust industrial design with metal and glass elements, ensuring durability and a professional aesthetic. Key components include a 61-key Fatar keybed with polyphonic aftertouch, a high-resolution full-color screen, and various controls for intuitive interaction with software.

2.1 Hauptmerkmale

• Unparalleled software integration with next-generation NKS technology for direct and immersive connection to Kontakt and partner instruments, effects, and sounds.
• 61 semi-weighted keys set in a Fatar keybed.
• Polyphonic aftertouch as standard, allowing for expressive control of parameters with individual key pressure.
• High-resolution full-color screen for intuitive browsing, tweaking, and mixing.
• Durable industrial design with metal and glass elements, manufactured to high quality standards.

2.2 Komponentenidentifikation

Abbildung 1: Front view of the Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 keyboard controller. This image displays the 61 semi-weighted keys, the central high-resolution screen, eight rotary encoders below the screen, and various control buttons on the left and right sides. The pitch and modulation wheels are located on the far left.

Abbildung 2: Von oben nach unten view of the Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3. This perspective highlights the layout of the control surface, including the large color display, the touch strip above the pitch and mod wheels, and the main navigation encoder with its surrounding buttons.

Abbildung 3: Abgewinkelt view of the Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3, showcasing sein schlankes Profile and the integration of the display and controls into the overall design. The purple backlighting accents are visible along the keybed and around some controls.

Abbildung 4: Rear panel of the Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3, showing the various input and output ports. These include USB-C for power and data, MIDI In/Out, and multiple pedal inputs (Expression, Assignable 1, Assignable 2).

3. Einrichtung

3.1 Auspacken und Inhalt

Carefully unpack your Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3. Ensure all components are present and undamaged.

Im Lieferumfang enthalten:

• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 Keyboard Controller
• USB-C-Kabel

Additional software licenses and download instructions are typically provided digitally upon product registration.

3.2 Systemanforderungen

To operate the S61 MK3, you will need a computer running one of the following operating systems:

• macOS
• Windows

Supported software includes Ableton Live, Avid Pro Tools, and FL Studio, among others compatible with NKS technology.

3.3 Anschließen des Controllers

1. Stromanschluss: Connect the provided USB-C cable to the USB-C port on the rear of the S61 MK3 and to a suitable power source. The S61 MK3 requires external power via USB-C.
2. Datenverbindung: Connect the other end of the USB-C cable to an available USB port on your computer. This connection handles both data transfer and additional power if available from the computer's USB port.
3. MIDI-Anschlüsse (optional): If you are connecting external MIDI hardware, use standard MIDI cables to connect the MIDI OUT port of the S61 MK3 to the MIDI IN port of your external device, and vice-versa if bi-directional communication is required.
4. Pedal Connections (Optional): Connect expression or sustain pedals to the dedicated pedal inputs on the rear panel for additional control.

After connecting, power on your computer and launch the Native Instruments software (e.g., Native Access, Komplete Kontrol) to ensure the controller is recognized and to install any necessary drivers or firmware updates.

4. Operating the Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3

4.1 Grundlegende Bedienung

The S61 MK3 is designed for intuitive control over your virtual instruments and digital audio workstation (DAW).

• Tasten: The 61 semi-weighted keys provide a responsive playing experience.
• Polyphoner Aftertouch: Apply varying pressure to individual keys after initial press to modulate parameters like vibrato, cutoff, or pitch, offering enhanced expressive control.
• Hochauflösender Bildschirm: Use the central screen for browsing sounds, adjusting parameters, and navigating your projects.
• Drehgeber: The eight touch-sensitive rotary encoders below the screen allow for precise adjustment of parameters displayed on the screen.
• Pitch- und Modulationsräder: Located on the left, these wheels provide traditional pitch bend and modulation control.
• Berührungsstreifen: Positioned above the pitch and mod wheels, the touch strip can be assigned to various controls for dynamic performance.

4.2 Software Integration (NKS)

The S61 MK3 leverages Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) technology for deep integration with Native Instruments software and a growing number of third-party NKS-compatible instruments and effects.

• Durchsuchen: Use the controller's screen and navigation controls to browse your sound library directly from the hardware, without needing to look at your computer screen.
• Parameter Control: NKS instruments automatically map key parameters to the S61 MK3's rotary encoders, allowing for immediate and intuitive sound shaping.
• Lichtleiter: The Light Guide above the keys illuminates to show key switches, zones, and scales, enhancing your playing experience.

4.3 MIDI-Funktionalität

Beyond NKS integration, the S61 MK3 functions as a versatile MIDI controller. It can send MIDI messages to control any MIDI-compatible software or hardware. MIDI templates can be configured to control external MIDI devices, such as analog synthesizers.

4.4 Product in Use

5. Wartung

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3.

• Reinigung: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the surface of the controller. For stubborn marks, a slightly damp Ein Tuch mit milder Seife kann verwendet werden, wobei darauf zu achten ist, dass keine Flüssigkeit in das Gerät gelangt. Vermeiden Sie scheuernde Reiniger oder Lösungsmittel.
• Lagerung: Store the controller in a clean, dry environment away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and excessive dust. If transporting, use a padded case to protect it from physical damage.
• Firmware-Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates via Native Access. These updates often include performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features.

6. Fehlerbehebung

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your S61 MK3.

6.1 Controller Not Recognized by Computer/Software

• Verbindungen prüfen: Ensure the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the controller and your computer, and that the controller is receiving power. Try a different USB port or cable.
• Energiequelle: Verify that the USB-C power source is adequate. The S61 MK3 requires sufficient power to operate correctly.
• Treiber und Firmware: Open Native Access and ensure all drivers and firmware for your S61 MK3 are up to date. Outdated firmware is a common cause of recognition issues.
• Neustart: Starten Sie Ihren Computer und den Controller neu.
• USB-Hubs: If using a USB hub, ensure it is a powered hub and try connecting the controller directly to your computer's USB port to rule out hub-related issues.

6.2 Software Integration Issues

• Komplete Kontrol Software: Ensure the Komplete Kontrol software is installed and up to date. The controller relies on this software for NKS integration.
• DAW-Setup: Verify that the S61 MK3 is correctly configured as a MIDI input device and, if applicable, as a control surface within your DAW's preferences.
• NKS Compatibility: Confirm that the virtual instrument or effect you are trying to control is NKS-compatible.

6.3 Pitch Wheel or Other Controls Behaving Erratically

• Firmware Update: Ensure the latest firmware is installed, as some issues may be resolved through updates.
• Kalibrierung: Check the Native Instruments support resources for any calibration procedures for the pitch wheel or other controls.
• Interferenz: Ensure no external factors are physically impeding the controls.

7. Spezifikationen

8. Garantie und Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Native Instruments website. Technical support and additional resources, including FAQs and software downloads, are available through the Native Instruments support portal.

Online-Ressourcen:

• Native Instruments-Unterstützung
• Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK3 Product Page