The Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 is a flagship 49-key MIDI controller designed to deliver premium playability, advanced features, and seamless integration with Native Instruments’ Komplete ecosystem.
With its semi-weighted Fatar keybed, dual high-res color displays, touch-sensitive controls, and expanded Smart Play features, it’s built for producers who want maximum control and workflow efficiency in the studio or on stage.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9.2/10)
Playability & Workflow
The S49 Mk2 features a Fatar semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch, giving it a professional feel that’s both expressive and responsive. Whether you’re playing piano passages, synth leads, or layered pads, the keys provide a dynamic and tactile experience.
Smart Play expands your creativity by letting you map scales across the keyboard, trigger chords with single notes, and generate arpeggiated patterns. Combined with aftertouch, this makes the S49 Mk2 a performance powerhouse.
Dual color displays provide real-time feedback on sounds, presets, and parameters, reducing screen-diving and keeping you focused on the music. Eight touch-sensitive knobs, a four-directional encoder, and illuminated function buttons make browsing and tweaking intuitive.
Build and Design
The S49 Mk2 has a premium build with a sleek matte-black chassis, ergonomic pitch and mod wheels, and touch strips for additional expressive control. The light guides above each key (RGB LEDs) make navigating scales, zones, and key switches incredibly clear.
It’s slightly larger and heavier than the A-Series due to its upgraded build and added features, but it feels solid and stage-ready.
Features
- 49-key Fatar semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch
- Dual high-resolution color displays for browsing and parameter control
- Smart Play (scales, chords, arpeggiator) for creative workflows
- RGB Light Guide above each key for scales, zones, and key switches
- Eight touch-sensitive encoders + four-directional push encoder
- Deep NKS integration with Komplete instruments and third-party NKS plugins
- Transport and DAW control (Logic, Ableton, Cubase, Nuendo, Studio One, etc.)
- USB-powered with MIDI in/out and pedal inputs (sustain, expression)
Price & Value
The S49 Mk2 typically retails around $629–$699, placing it firmly in the premium controller category.
While more expensive than the A-Series, the added build quality, Fatar keybed, dual screens, and light guide system make it a worthwhile investment for serious producers, composers, and performers.
Pros
- Premium Fatar keybed with aftertouch
- Dual high-res color displays for hands-on workflow
- Light Guide enhances scales, key switches, and performance visibility
- Deep NKS integration for streamlined browsing and control
- Smart Play features boost creativity instantly
Cons
- Higher price compared to the A-Series and competitors
- Bulkier footprint — less portable
- Works best within the NI/NKS ecosystem
- No drum pads for beat-making workflows
Verdict
The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 is one of the most advanced MIDI keyboards in its class, combining premium hardware with intelligent software integration. Its expressive keybed, dual screens, and light guide system make it ideal for both studio producers and live performers who rely heavily on Komplete or NKS instruments.
While it’s pricier and more specialized than entry-level controllers, the S49 Mk2 offers exceptional workflow benefits and expressive playability that justify the investment.
Rating: 9.2/10 — A premium, feature-rich controller that sets the standard for integration and expressive performance.
FAQ
Is the Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 good for beginners?
It can be, but the price and advanced features make it more suitable for intermediate to professional users. Beginners may find the A-Series more budget-friendly.
Does the S49 Mk2 work with all DAWs?
Yes — it integrates deeply with Komplete and NKS-compatible plugins but also functions as a standard MIDI controller in any major DAW.
What’s the difference between the A49 and the S49 Mk2?
The S49 Mk2 has a Fatar keybed with aftertouch, dual color displays, RGB light guides, and a more premium build. The A49 is more affordable and stripped-down.
Does the S49 Mk2 include software?
Yes — it comes with Komplete Kontrol software, Maschine Essentials, and a selection of instruments and effects from Native Instruments.
Is the S49 Mk2 good for live performance?
Yes — the light guides, Smart Play features, and dual displays make it a strong choice for live use.
Does the S49 Mk2 need external power?
No — it’s USB-powered, though it also includes MIDI in/out and pedal support for expanded setups.
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