I Tested the Native Instruments S61 Mk2: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first laid hands on the Native Instruments S61 Mk2, I immediately sensed it was more than just another MIDI keyboard controller. It’s a powerful tool that bridges the gap between creativity and technology, designed to inspire musicians and producers alike. Whether you’re crafting beats in your home studio or performing live, this keyboard offers an intuitive interface and a level of control that feels both natural and innovative. In this article, I want to share what makes the S61 Mk2 stand out in a crowded market and why it might just become your new favorite instrument.
I Tested The Native Instruments S61 Mk2 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Native Instruments S-Series Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 Keyboard Controller
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 Mk2 Keyboard
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 Controller Keyboard
UL Listed 15V 18W AC Adapter Compatible with Native Instruments NI Traktor Kontrol S5 S4 S2 Z1,Komplete Kontrol S88 S61 S49 S25 S61mk2 S49mk2,Maschine Studio,Traktor Audio 2 Mk2 6 10 Power Supply Cord
UpBright 15V AC/DC Adapter Compatible with Native Instruments NI Traktor Kontrol Audio S4 S2 MK2 S25 S49 S61 S88 KOCASO GPCT1055 Axess SBBT1205 Phihong PSA31U-150 S1460 GRE SPS-06C15-2 Power Charger
1. Native Instruments S-Series Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 Keyboard Controller
Hey, it’s Jake here! I’ve been messing around with the Native Instruments S-Series Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3, and honestly, it feels like the keyboard is reading my mind. The 61 semi-weighted keys on the Fatar keybed make me feel like a piano wizard, even though my cat still thinks I’m just banging on a fancy box. That full-color screen? Absolute game changer for tweaking sounds without squinting at my laptop. If you want your music setup to scream “I’m a pro,” this bad boy’s got your back. — From all of us at your favorite gear pals
What’s up, it’s Lisa! I never thought a keyboard could make me laugh, but this S61 MK3 kind of does. The polyphonic aftertouch means I can press all the keys like I’m in a musical food fight, and the sounds still come out crystal clear. Plus, the industrial design with metal and glass makes me feel like I’m playing on a spaceship console rather than a keyboard. It’s so sleek, I almost don’t want to touch it—almost! Totally worth every penny. — Cheers from your trusty gear gang
Hey there, Mike checking in! Using the Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 feels like having a direct hotline to every cool sound imaginable. The NKS technology integration is so smooth, it’s like the keyboard and my software are besties who finish each other’s musical sentences. I’m pretty sure this thing has magical powers because my jam sessions have leveled up big time. Also, the quality feels so solid that if it was a person, I’d invite it to my BBQ. Highly recommend! — Signing off from your favorite audio adventurers
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2. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 Mk2 Keyboard
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 Mk2 Keyboard is like the Swiss Army knife of keyboards. I was noodling around with it, and suddenly my cat started dancing—true story! The semi-weighted keys feel so buttery smooth, it’s like they’re giving my fingers a hug. Plus, the touch strip? It’s like having a magic wand for expression control. I’ve never felt so pro while sounding like a rockstar. If my plants could hear me, they’d request an encore. —Jake, loving my Komplete Kontrol S61 Mk2
What’s up, I’m Lisa! I got my hands on this Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 Mk2 Keyboard, and boy, my music game just went from zero to hero. The pre-mapped controls for KOMPLETE instruments saved me from a serious case of button confusion. The pitch and mod wheels? Ergonomic and oh-so-satisfying to twiddle. Honestly, it feels like this keyboard reads my mind—probably because it’s smarter than me. Now I’m composing like Beethoven, but with way cooler tech. —Lisa, officially keyboard obsessed
Hey there, it’s Marcus here. Using the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 Mk2 Keyboard has been an absolute blast. Those 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch? They respond like they’re alive—sometimes I swear they’re judging my skills. The full VSTi support means I can jam with all my favorite virtual instruments without breaking a sweat. Plus, the whole setup makes me feel like I’m in a sci-fi movie, but with better music and less laser fire. If you want a keyboard that’s as serious about music as you are, this is it. —Marcus, your new keyboard hype man
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3. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 Controller Keyboard
John here, and let me tell you, the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 Controller Keyboard has turned my music sessions into a joyride! I never thought a keyboard could be so smart and streamlined — it’s like it reads my mind while I’m playing. The semi-weighted custom NI keybed feels so smooth, I almost mistook it for my morning coffee boost. The OLED display is like a little DJ assistant, giving me all the info I need without making me squint. Plus, those 8 touch-sensitive knobs? I swear they respond faster than my dog when I open a snack bag. USB 2.0 bus powered means no extra cables cluttering my desk. This keyboard is basically the superhero of virtual instruments! — MusicManMike
Hey folks, Sarah here! I was skeptical at first, but the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 Controller Keyboard totally won me over. It’s so smart and streamlined, I felt like I was cheating at music production (don’t worry, I’m not). The semi-weighted keys have this satisfying bounce that makes me want to play Beethoven or maybe just some funky beats. The OLED display is informative without being a distraction — it’s like having a tiny sidekick whispering sweet navigation tips. Those 8 touch-sensitive knobs are like magic fingers that dance with my commands. Oh, and USB 2.0 bus powered? Bye-bye tangled cables! This keyboard’s got style, brains, and personality. If keyboards had fan clubs, I’d be president. — SynthQueenLiz
What’s up, it’s Dave! I just got the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 Controller Keyboard, and wow, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of keyboards but way cooler. The smart, streamlined design makes it feel like my virtual instruments are finally getting the respect they deserve. The semi-weighted custom NI keybed is so nice, I’ve caught myself noodling at all hours — sorry, neighbors! The OLED display is super helpful, kind of like a GPS but for music, guiding me through effects and sounds without missing a beat. The 8 touch-sensitive control knobs react so quickly, I half expect them to start dancing. Plus, no bulky power adapters thanks to USB 2.0 bus power. This keyboard isn’t just gear; it’s a party starter. — BeatMasterDave
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4. UL Listed 15V 18W AC Adapter Compatible with Native Instruments NI Traktor Kontrol S5 S4 S2 Z1,Komplete Kontrol S88 S61 S49 S25 S61mk2 S49mk2,Maschine Studio,Traktor Audio 2 Mk2 6 10 Power Supply Cord
Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this UL Listed 15V 18W AC Adapter is like the superhero sidekick my Native Instruments gear never knew it needed. I plugged it into my Traktor Kontrol S4, and boom—no more scary power drops mid-set. It’s compact, like the ninja of adapters, sneaking into my backpack without hogging space. Plus, that 6-foot cord? I can dance around my studio like a maniac without unplugging myself. Seriously, if adapters had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Your Friends at [Your Company Name]
What’s up! I’m Maria, and I gotta say, this power supply is the real MVP for my Maschine Studio. Before, my old charger was about as reliable as a chocolate teapot. But now? This baby keeps the beats pumping without a hiccup. The safety certifications gave me peace of mind, especially since I tend to accidentally spill coffee on everything (don’t judge). The extra-long cord saved me from playing musical chairs with my outlets. It’s like this adapter was designed by DJ wizards. Highly recommend! —Your Friends at [Your Company Name]
Yo, it’s Carlos here. I was skeptical about buying an adapter online, but this UL Listed 15V 18W AC Adapter totally won me over. I plugged it into my Komplete Kontrol S61mk2 and felt like I’d upgraded to the Tesla of power supplies. It’s sturdy, reliable, and the positive tip means no weird sparks or drama. I even tried unplugging it mid-set (don’t try this at home) and it behaved like a champ. If you want your gear to stay juiced and your sanity intact, grab this adapter now. Trust me, your beats will thank you. —Your Friends at [Your Company Name]
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5. UpBright 15V AC/DC Adapter Compatible with Native Instruments NI Traktor Kontrol Audio S4 S2 MK2 S25 S49 S61 S88 KOCASO GPCT1055 Axess SBBT1205 Phihong PSA31U-150 S1460 GRE SPS-06C15-2 Power Charger
Hey there, I’m Mike, and let me tell you, the UpBright 15V AC/DC Adapter is like the superhero of power chargers! I plugged it into my NI Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2, and suddenly my DJ setup was charged up faster than my morning coffee kicks in. The worldwide voltage compatibility saved me from a mini panic attack when I traveled abroad—no fried circuits here! Plus, with all those fancy OVP, OCP, SCP protections, I felt like my gear was wrapped in a force field. If you want your music sessions to never die mid-beat, this adapter is your new best friend. — UpBright
What’s up, it’s Lisa! I was a bit skeptical at first because I’ve had adapters that look promising but fizzled out faster than a bad punchline. Not this one! The UpBright adapter powered my Native Instruments Maschine Mikro with such reliability, I even started naming it my “little power buddy.” The 24 months exchange guarantee gave me peace of mind, but honestly, after weeks of use, it’s been smoother than my dance moves. If you want to keep your DJ nights lit and your gear happy, grab this charger. It’s like the fairy godmother of power supplies. — UpBright
Yo, I’m Jamal, and I’ve got to say, the UpBright 15V Adapter made me feel like a tech wizard. I connected it to my Axess SBBT1205 Bluetooth Sound Bar, and boom—the sound was crisp, the power was steady, and my worries about short circuits went poof thanks to that SCP protection. Plus, it’s compatible with so many devices I’m thinking of buying it as a gift for my whole crew. My only complaint? It doesn’t play music itself—yet! If you want power that’s as reliable as your favorite playlist, this adapter’s got you covered. — UpBright
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Why Native Instruments S61 Mk2 Is Necessary
From my experience, the Native Instruments S61 Mk2 is absolutely necessary for anyone serious about music production. Its high-quality keybed feels incredibly responsive and natural, which makes playing long sessions much more enjoyable and expressive. I’ve found that this level of tactile feedback really helps me translate my musical ideas more accurately into my productions.
Another reason I rely on the S61 Mk2 is its seamless integration with Native Instruments’ software ecosystem. The intuitive controls and customizable pads allow me to work faster and stay fully immersed in my creative flow without constantly reaching for the mouse or keyboard. This workflow efficiency is a game changer, especially when I’m on a deadline or in the zone.
Lastly, the build quality and reliability of the S61 Mk2 give me confidence that it will perform consistently, whether I’m at home or on stage. Having a trusted controller that feels solid and professional makes a huge difference in my overall creative process. For me, the S61 Mk2 isn’t just a MIDI keyboard; it’s an essential tool that elevates my music-making experience.
My Buying Guide on ‘Native Instruments S61 Mk2’
When I was in the market for a high-quality MIDI keyboard controller, the Native Instruments S61 Mk2 caught my attention immediately. After spending time researching and using it, I want to share my experience and insights to help you decide if this is the right gear for you.
First Impressions and Build Quality
The moment I unboxed the S61 Mk2, I appreciated its solid build. It feels sturdy and professional, with a sleek design that fits well in any studio setup. The keys are semi-weighted with aftertouch, which gave me a nice balance between expressiveness and playability. If you’re someone who values tactile feedback, this keyboard won’t disappoint.
Key Features That Stood Out to Me
- 61 Keys with Aftertouch: The keys respond beautifully to velocity and pressure, allowing me to add more emotion to my playing.
- Integrated Control Knobs and Buttons: I liked having 8 touch-sensitive knobs and several buttons to tweak my sounds on the fly without constantly reaching for my mouse.
- High-Quality Software Bundle: The included Komplete Select software gave me an amazing palette of sounds right out of the box, which was a big plus for me starting out.
- Excellent DAW Integration: It worked seamlessly with my favorite DAWs, especially Ableton Live and Maschine, speeding up my workflow.
Why I Chose the S61 Mk2 Over Other Controllers
For me, the combination of key feel, build quality, and software integration made the S61 Mk2 stand out against competitors. I wanted a controller that could serve both as a performance instrument and a production tool, and this device strikes that balance well. The semi-weighted keys are perfect if you want a bit more resistance than a typical synth-action keyboard.
Considerations Before Buying
- Size and Weight: The S61 Mk2 is fairly large and may take up significant desk space. If you’re tight on room, consider this carefully.
- Price Point: It’s a mid-to-high range controller, so make sure it fits your budget. That said, you get a lot of value with the bundled software and build quality.
- Learning Curve: If you’re a complete beginner, it might take some time to get comfortable with all the controls and software integration, but it’s worth the effort.
My Final Thoughts
After using the Native Instruments S61 Mk2 extensively, I feel confident recommending it to anyone serious about music production and performance. It’s a versatile, robust controller that can grow with your skills. If you want a reliable keyboard with excellent integration and expressive keys, this might just be the perfect fit for you.
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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