The S61 MK3 Feels Like More Than a MIDI Controller

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 takes the company’s flagship MIDI keyboard concept and pushes it further into the realm of an all-in-one control surface for modern producers.

By pairing a premium 61-key semi-weighted Fatar keybed with polyphonic aftertouch and a redesigned interface, it offers a level of expressiveness and immediacy that makes virtual instruments feel more like physical instruments. The MK3 also refines its integration with Komplete and NKS libraries, making browsing and tweaking sounds less about mousing around and more about staying in a creative flow.

The semi-weighted 61-key Fatar keybed gives each note its own pressure-sensitive expression, opening up nuanced dynamics, vibrato, and modulation per key, something usually reserved for far more expensive controllers.

The high-resolution color display and redesigned control section offer a clear view of parameters and presets as you scroll and edit. You can browse sounds, tweak filters, or adjust mix levels directly on the keyboard, which significantly speeds up workflow.

Seamless Software and Hardware Integration

Connectivity on the Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 has been modernized to suit both studio and live setups.

A single USB-C connection provides bus power and data, while traditional 5-pin MIDI in/out ports allow it to integrate with hardware synths, drum machines, or external sequencers. Multiple pedal inputs—including sustain, expression, and an assignable jack—give players extra performance control, making it versatile enough to serve as the centerpiece of a hybrid setup.

Native Instruments also continues to include their Komplete Select bundle with the S61 MK3, giving users a curated suite of instruments and effects right out of the box.

Combined with deep NKS integration, the keyboard can browse, load, and tweak compatible plug-ins from within its own interface. This tight software integration eliminates much of the back-and-forth between controller and computer, letting producers audition sounds and adjust parameters without breaking their creative flow.

Final Thoughts

The S61 MK3 also offers hands-on transport and parameter control for major DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio and Studio One. Its redesigned controls and screen give clear feedback so you can record, loop, or mix without reaching for the mouse, making it an effective central hub for both software instruments and your recording environment.

Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 combines a premium expressive keybed, a modern display-rich interface, deep plug-in integration, and broad DAW support. It’s designed to keep you focused on playing and creating rather than menu diving, making it one of the most complete MIDI keyboard controllers on the market today.