Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3

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USB Keyboard Controller

Fatar keyboard with polyphonic aftertouch and 49 semi-weighted keys
Pre-configured mapping for all NI virtual instruments as well as thousands of Kontakt 7 and NKS-compatible instruments from leading third-party vendors such as Arturia, Heavyocity, Korg, Output, Spitfire Audio and u-he
Operation via 8 touch-sensitive rotary controls and a high-resolution colour screen (1280 x 480 pixels), as well as a 4D controller
Tag-based preset browsing: find sounds quickly and preview them instantly
DAW Integration für Ableton live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, Digital Performer, Bitwig and Studio One
Direct integration with Kontakt 7 and Komplete Kontrol
Light Guide: RGB lights above each key highlight drum cells, key switches, chords, scales, and more
MIDI templates can be created, managed and switched directly on the keyboard
Standalone mode for direct control of synthesizers, drum machines and other MIDI devices
Pitch and Mod wheel
Transport button
Power supply via USB-C
USB-C MIDI interface, MIDI In/Out
Sustain and expression pedal input
2 Additional freely assignable pedal inputs
Dimensions (W x D x H): 802.2 x 323 x 86 mm
Weight: 5.5 kg
Included download software: Komplete Select, Komplete Kontrol, Stradivari Cello, Guitar Rig LE, Izotope Elements Suite, Ableton Live Lite and Hypha
Includes a Kontakt instrument of your choice after registration
Includes USB-C to USB-C cable

Note: Use via USB-A only possible with optional cable Art. 491488 and USB power supply Art. 543021 with at least 1.5 A

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

3-Year Thomann Warranty

Available since September 2023
Item number 570925
Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
Aftertouch Yes
Split Zones 16
Layer function No
Pitch Bend / Modulation Yes
Rotary Encoder 9
Fader 0
Pads 0
Display Yes
MIDI Interface 1x In, 1x Out
Sustain Pedal Connection Yes
USB-port Yes
Mains Operation Yes
Battery Operation No
Bus-Powered Yes
Dimensions 840 x 297 x 84
Weight in kg 5,5 kg
Special Features NI Komplete Integration

B-Stock available from 6.999 kr

7.599 kr

All prices incl. VAT

Sales Rank

in Master Keyboards (up to 49 Keys)

Bundles & offers

Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 Komplete 15

10.590 kr

Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 Kompl. 15 Ult.

14.390 kr

Create your own bundle

starting from 7.599 kr

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The third generation of the KONTROL S series

The third generation of Native Instruments' Kontrol S series redefines the control centre for any DAW-based studio, combining powerful functionality with an unmatched user experience. Bundled with the most extensive software package on the market and featuring full Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) support, it offers seamless integration not only with NI products but also with a wide range of third-party instruments and effects, unlocking an extraordinary palette of sounds. Enhanced visual feedback through the redesigned colour display and the innovative Light Guide elevates the creative process, making navigation and performance more intuitive than ever. Paired with a premium, semi-weighted 49-key Fatar keyboard that feels as good as it sounds, the Kontrol S series transforms working with software instruments into a smooth, immersive experience.

Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 Controller

Every detail at a glance

The Komplete Kontrol S49 MKIII is seamlessly tailored to the instruments and effects within the Native Instruments Komplete Suite, allowing effortless control over software instruments without the need for manual parameter assignments. Presets from both Komplete and NKS plugins are previewed and selected directly on the keyboard, streamlining the creative process. With the addition of polyphonic aftertouch, expressive sound shaping is taken to a new level, offering individual control over each note. A larger, refined colour display keeps essential parameters clearly visible and easily adjustable via responsive, touch-sensitive encoders, while the repositioned touch strip – placed above newly enhanced pitch and mod wheels now fitted with built-in LEDs – makes real-time control of multiple parameters more intuitive and fluid than ever.

Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 Keyboard Controller display

Seamless integration

The Komplete Kontrol S49 MKIII isn't just an intuitive control hub for the instruments and effects within the Komplete package – the controller also supports the widely adopted Native Kontrol Standard (NKS), enabling seamless access to a vast array of third-party software instruments without the need for manual mapping. Its deep integration with all major DAWs lets users control transport, mixing, and editing functions directly from the keyboard, minimising the need to grab a mouse or even glance at the screen. Fully compatible with Native Instruments' MASCHINE software as well, the S49 MKIII adapts effortlessly to any workflow, offering total control independent of the DAW or creative approach.

Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 connections

About Native Instruments

Native Instruments is a Berlin-based company, founded in 1996, which specialises in products for computer-assisted music production. The company develops a wide variety of products: software solutions such as Komplete, which hosts a huge range of virtual instruments that emulate both acoustic and electronic instruments in hi-fi quality, and Reaktor, which lets you create your own virtual instruments – through to hardware products such as beat-making and DJ controllers. Native Instruments' goal is to inspire and encourage musicians with its innovative products. To this end, more than 500 people are employed at the company's headquarters in Berlin and at other locations including Los Angeles, Toronto, Tokyo, London, Paris, and Shenzhen. Since 2023, the manufacturers Plugin Alliance, iZotope, and Brainworx have also been part of Native Instruments.

Unlimited configuration options

When used with Native Instruments Komplete or Maschine, as well as DAWs like Logic Pro, GarageBand, Studio One, Cubase, and Nuendo, the Komplete Kontrol S49 MKIII unlocks the full potential of deep hardware and software integration – yet it remains just as effective for controlling other software instruments and MIDI devices. Every control can be freely assigned and labelled, making it simple to create tailored presets for different setups. A new USB-C connection with MIDI 2.0 support allows direct connection to a laptop without needing an external power supply, streamlining the setup even further. With four pedal inputs, pitch and mod wheels, a responsive touch strip, and a total of 16 assignable buttons and dials, the S49 MKIII delivers comprehensive control for even the most demanding creative workflows.

In the spotlight

Light Guide

The Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MKIII is equipped with an innovative Light Guide. This consists of a chain of multicoloured LEDs located above each key on the keyboard, which display a variety of information depending on the status of the keyboard, thus improving overall clarity. As an example, the Light Guide shows where key switches and key ranges are located in the selected preset. In conjunction with the Smart Play functions, it can also display useful tips and tricks such as chords and notes that match the key.

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17 Customer ratings

5 13 Customers 4 2 Customers 3 0 Customers 2 0 Customers 1 2 Customers

4.4 / 5

handling

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quality

Review guidelines

14 Reviews

Producer’s Review: Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3 (2025 Update)

RalphDD 19.04.2025

I’ve been using the Kontrol S series since the original MK1, and after years with the MK2, I recently upgraded to the MK3 and I’m seriously glad I did. This isn’t just a refresh...it’s a full-on evolution. The MK3 feels more expressive, more flexible, and more connected to how I actually create music today.

Why the MK3 Was Worth the Upgrade

The Fatar keybed with polyphonic aftertouch is phenomenal. Whether I’m sketching chords or playing in layered string parts, the responsiveness and expressiveness are next level. The premium build, high-res display, and streamlined layout make everything feel smooth and deliberate.

Workflow That Keeps You in the Creative Flow

The biggest win for me? The standalone features. The on-device arpeggiator, Note Repeat, and Scale/Chord modes let me capture ideas and jam without even opening my DAW. Paired with advanced MIDI routing, the MK3 easily slots into my hybrid setup, handling both hardware and software instruments at once with zero fuss.

Kontakt & NKS Integration

If you work with Kontakt or NKS-compatible plugins, the integration here is second to none. Browsing patches, tweaking macros, and getting instant visual feedback through the display and Light Guide make it super intuitive and keep me in the zone when producing or writing.

One Minor Quibble

At this price, Komplete Select is solid, but I do think the full Komplete bundle should be standard.

Final Thoughts

If you’re coming from the MK2 like I did, the S49 MK3 is absolutely worth the upgrade. It’s not just a controller—it’s a creative centerpiece. Between the expressive keybed, smart integration, and flexible standalone tools, this thing has quickly become essential in my studio.

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Good Piece of kit, with the Komplete package

Otis Eden 13.01.2024

I was dubious at first, as I was worried about the Komplete integration being a bit laggy, as I have found in the past. Im glad to say that it seems to be a lot faster than previous versions. the integration with the my daw/vsts is good. The third party integration is good, but not as pretty as the nks integrated synths. Overall it's a good buy.
Bought this to replace my Akai advanced which is a great keyboard. With very similar functionality. But it started throwing out random midi messages. It served me well though. So it's on to the Next Chapter with S49 Mk3. Hopefully there will be a few more updates, with more tricks up there sleeves. To add to a very Komplete keyboard Already. 🙂

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Awesome midi controller

P100D 21.06.2025

So first of all I don't understand all the negative reviews...
-The firmware update went flawlessly on a MACbook Pro computer M1
-The software package install went fine w/o any issues
-The keybed feels very good, I hear much better than Arturia keylab. It is supposed to be soft, it is a semi weighted keybed
-The features are just amazing, build quality, polyphony, etc etc Woudl have been nicer to have an aluminum body, but the plastic is solid and feels premium

I decided to get this instead of the Arturia keylab49 because it has polyphony, midi 2.0, better keybed, much better screen etc AND all Arturia instruments/plugins work with it!

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İs

Harika

İlhan saran 24.08.2025

ÇOk güzel ürün kesinlikle tavsiye ederim …

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Native Instruments Kontrol S49 MK3

USB Keyboard Controller