MANUAL
The information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a
commitment on the part of Native Instruments GmbH. The software described by this document is subject to a License Agreement and may not be copied to other media. No part of this
publication may be copied, reproduced or otherwise transmitted or recorded, for any purpose,
without prior written permission by Native Instruments GmbH, hereinafter referred to as Native
Instruments.
“Native Instruments”, “NI” and associated logos are (registered) trademarks of Native Instruments GmbH.
Ableton is a trademark of Ableton AG.
Mac, macOS, GarageBand, Logic, iTunes and iPod are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.,
registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Windows, Windows Vista and DirectSound are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation
in the United States and/or other countries.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners and use of them does not imply
any affiliation with or endorsement by them.
Document authored by: Gustav Sto. Tomas, Jan Ola Korte, Nicolas Sidi, David Gover, Christian
Schulz
Disclaimer
Software version: 1.9.1
(10/2017)
Hardware version: KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK2
Special thanks to the Beta Test Team, who were invaluable not just in tracking down bugs, but
in making this a better product.
Contact
NATIVE INSTRUMENTS GmbH
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Germany
www.native-instruments.de
NATIVE INSTRUMENTS K.K.
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Japan
www.native-instruments.co.jp
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75011 Paris
France
www.native-instruments.com
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USA
www.native-instruments.com
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www.native-instruments.co.uk
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Innovative Services
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www.native-instruments.com
© NATIVE INSTRUMENTS GmbH, 2017. All rights reserved.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1 Welcome to KOMPLETE KONTROL ...............................................................................
1.1 Document Conventions ............................................................................................................... 10
1.2 Box Contents .............................................................................................................................. 12
1.3 System Requirements ................................................................................................................. 13
1.4 Accessibility ............................................................................................................................... 14
2 New Features in KOMPLETE KONTROL 1.9 ...................................................................
3 The KOMPLETE KONTROL Workflow ............................................................................
4 Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL ..................................................................................
4.1 Connecting the Keyboard to the Computer .................................................................................. 19
4.2 Setting up the Stand-Alone Application ...................................................................................... 20
4.3 Setting up Host Integration ........................................................................................................ 22
4.4 Connecting Pedals to the Keyboard ............................................................................................ 27
4.5 Connecting External MIDI Equipment to the Keyboard ................................................................ 30
4.3.1 Setting up Apple Logic Pro X and GarageBand .......................................................... 23
4.3.2 Setting up Ableton Live (macOS) ............................................................................... 23
4.3.3 Setting up Ableton Live (Windows) ............................................................................ 25
5 Software Overview .....................................................................................................
10
15
16
18
31
5.1 Header ........................................................................................................................................ 32
5.2 Browser ...................................................................................................................................... 34
5.3 Perform Panel ............................................................................................................................. 40
5.4 Plug-in Panel ..............................................................................................................................41
5.5 MIDI Assignment Editor .............................................................................................................. 41
5.2.1 Library Pane .............................................................................................................. 35
5.2.2 Instrument Selector ................................................................................................... 37
5.2.3 Files Pane .................................................................................................................. 39
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 4
5.6 Instrument Area ..........................................................................................................................43
6 Keyboard Overview ....................................................................................................
6.1 Perform and Edit Section ............................................................................................................ 47
6.2 Transport Section ....................................................................................................................... 48
6.3 Control Section ........................................................................................................................... 49
6.4 Mode Buttons ............................................................................................................................. 50
6.5 The 4-Directional Push Encoder .................................................................................................. 51
6.6 Keybed and Light Guide .............................................................................................................. 52
6.7 Modulation Wheels ..................................................................................................................... 53
6.8 Touch Strip ................................................................................................................................. 54
6.9 Transpose and Fixed Velocity Buttons ......................................................................................... 55
7 Global Controls and Preferences ................................................................................
7.1 Instrument Views ........................................................................................................................ 56
7.2 Switching Instances ................................................................................................................... 60
7.3 Transport and Tempo .................................................................................................................. 62
7.4 Adjusting Master Volume ............................................................................................................ 64
7.5 Preferences .................................................................................................................................64
7.1.1 Default View .............................................................................................................. 57
7.1.2 Additional View .......................................................................................................... 57
7.1.3 Edit View ................................................................................................................... 59
7.3.1 Clock Resetting Commands ....................................................................................... 63
7.3.2 Adjusting Tempo ........................................................................................................ 63
7.5.1 Preferences – Audio Page .......................................................................................... 65
7.5.2 Preferences – MIDI Page ............................................................................................ 68
7.5.3 Preferences – General Page ....................................................................................... 69
7.5.4 Preferences – Library Page ........................................................................................ 71
Table of Contents
44
56
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 5
Table of Contents
7.5.5 Preferences – Plug-ins Page ..................................................................................... 76
8 MIDI Communication .................................................................................................
8.1 Host Automation ......................................................................................................................... 81
8.2 Using the Keyboard in MIDI Mode ............................................................................................... 85
8.3 Using the Keyboard as Stand-Alone MIDI Controller ................................................................... 86
8.4 Using the MIDI Assignment Editor .............................................................................................. 88
8.1.1 Automation IDs for the Perform Panel ........................................................................ 81
8.1.2 Recording Automation ............................................................................................... 82
8.4.1 Assigning MIDI Messages to Control Elements .......................................................... 88
8.4.2 Renaming Control Elements ...................................................................................... 90
8.4.3 The Mapping System ................................................................................................. 91
8.4.4 MIDI Message Types – Type Menu .............................................................................. 92
8.4.5 Assignments for Knobs .............................................................................................. 93
8.4.6 Assignments for Buttons ........................................................................................... 94
8.4.7 Assignments for Pedals (Switch) ............................................................................... 95
8.4.8 Assignments for Pedals (Continuous) ........................................................................ 97
9 Host Integration ........................................................................................................
80
98
9.1 Integration with MASCHINE ........................................................................................................ 98
9.2 Integration with Apple Logic Pro X and GarageBand .................................................................. 109
9.3 Integration with Ableton Live ...................................................................................................... 113
9.1.1 Overview of Basic Control Functions .......................................................................... 99
9.1.2 Using the Arrange buttons ......................................................................................... 102
10 Browsing the Library ..................................................................................................
10.1 Browser Basics ........................................................................................................................... 120
10.1.1 About the Library and Meta-Information .................................................................... 120
10.1.2 Browsing the Library vs. Browsing Your Hard Disks ................................................... 121
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 6
120
10.2 Opening the Browser .................................................................................................................. 122
10.3 Overview of the Browser on the Keyboard ................................................................................... 122
10.4 Choosing Between Factory Content and User Content ................................................................ 123
10.5 Loading an Instrument with its default Preset File ..................................................................... 125
10.6 Filtering Preset Files by Bank ..................................................................................................... 129
10.7 Resetting the Instrument Selection ............................................................................................ 131
10.8 Types and Modes Filters ............................................................................................................. 132
10.9 Working with Favorites ............................................................................................................... 139
10.10 Performing a Text Search ............................................................................................................ 145
10.11 Displaying Preset File Information .............................................................................................. 145
10.12 Auditioning your Preset Files ...................................................................................................... 146
10.8.1 Filtering Preset Files by Types and Modes .................................................................. 135
10.8.2 Selecting Multiple Tags from the Same Level ............................................................ 139
10.9.1 Adding Preset Files to the Favorites ........................................................................... 140
10.9.2 Displaying Favorites in the Results List ..................................................................... 142
10.9.3 Removing Preset Files from the Favorites .................................................................. 143
11 Managing the Library .................................................................................................
Table of Contents
148
11.1 Saving Preset Files to the User Library ....................................................................................... 148
11.2 Deleting User Preset Files from the User Library ......................................................................... 150
11.3 Editing the Tags and Properties of User Preset Files .................................................................. 151
11.4 Working with the Files Pane ........................................................................................................ 154
11.5 Loading VST Plug-ins ................................................................................................................. 159
11.4.1 Additional Features in the Results List in the Files Pane ........................................... 155
11.4.2 Navigating to File Locations with the Location Bar .................................................... 156
11.4.3 Navigating to Recent File Locations .......................................................................... 157
11.4.4 Working with File Location Favorites .......................................................................... 157
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 7
11.6 Installing NKS Instruments ......................................................................................................... 161
11.7 Importing KOMPLETE KONTROL-Compatible User Files ............................................................... 164
12 Controlling Instrument Parameters .............................................................................
12.1 Pre-Mapped Instruments ............................................................................................................ 166
12.2 Adjusting Parameters ................................................................................................................. 166
12.3 Switching Parameter Pages ........................................................................................................ 167
12.4 Customizing Parameter Mappings .............................................................................................. 167
13 Playing and Editing Scales and Chords .......................................................................
13.1 A Note about Music Theory .......................................................................................................... 171
13.2 Playing a Scale ........................................................................................................................... 172
13.3 Playing Chords ........................................................................................................................... 173
13.4 Editing Scales and Chords ......................................................................................................... 173
13.5 Setting the Scale Parameters ..................................................................................................... 174
13.6 Setting the Key Mode Parameter ................................................................................................. 182
13.7 Setting the Chord Parameters .................................................................................................... 184
13.5.1 Scale Root Note ......................................................................................................... 175
13.5.2 Scale Bank and Type ................................................................................................. 176
13.7.1 Chord mode ............................................................................................................... 184
13.7.2 Chord Type ................................................................................................................. 186
13.7.3 Chord Position ........................................................................................................... 189
14 Playing and Editing the Arpeggiator ............................................................................
Table of Contents
166
170
191
14.1 Playing Arpeggiator Sequences .................................................................................................. 192
14.2 Using a Sustain Pedal to Control the Arpeggiator ....................................................................... 193
14.3 Using Arpeggiator Snapshots on the Keyboard ........................................................................... 193
14.4 Editing the Arpeggiator .............................................................................................................. 194
14.5 Setting the Main Parameters ...................................................................................................... 195
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 8
Table of Contents
14.6 Setting the Rhythm Parameters .................................................................................................. 197
14.7 Setting the Other Parameters ..................................................................................................... 200
14.8 Setting the Advanced Parameters .............................................................................................. 202
14.9 Setting the Range Parameters .................................................................................................... 204
14.10 Setting the Hold Parameter ........................................................................................................ 205
14.5.1 Main Mode ................................................................................................................. 196
14.5.2 Main Type .................................................................................................................. 196
14.6.1 Rhythm Rate .............................................................................................................. 197
14.6.2 Rhythm Sequence ...................................................................................................... 198
14.6.3 Rhythm Swing ........................................................................................................... 199
14.7.1 Other Octaves ............................................................................................................ 200
14.7.2 Other Dynamic ........................................................................................................... 201
14.7.3 Other Gate ................................................................................................................. 201
14.8.1 Advanced Retrigger ................................................................................................... 202
14.8.2 Advanced Repeat ....................................................................................................... 203
14.8.3 Advanced Offset ........................................................................................................ 203
14.8.4 Advanced Inversion ................................................................................................... 203
14.9.1 Range Min. Key .......................................................................................................... 204
14.9.2 Range Max. Key ......................................................................................................... 204
15 Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................
206
Index ........................................................................................................................
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 9
208
Welcome to KOMPLETE KONTROL
Document Conventions
1 Welcome to KOMPLETE KONTROL
Thank you for choosing KOMPLETE KONTROL!
The KOMPLETE KONTROL software and its dedicated keyboard—the KOMPLETE KONTROL
S-Series—form a tightly integrated music production and performance system that brings all
the sounds from KOMPLETE and the Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) to the heart of your workflow.
KOMPLETE KONTROL offers advanced integration with a number of hosts and provides full
control of any Instruments supporting NKS, both from Native Instruments and partners. The
keyboard lets you browse your Instruments in an intuitive way and play them creatively with
KOMPLETE KONTROL’s unique Scale engine and Arpeggiator.
We hope you enjoy this fantastic instrument as much as we do.
—The team at Native Instruments
1.1 Document Conventions
This document uses particular formatting to point out special facts and to warn you of potential issues. The icons introducing the following notes let you see what kind of information can
be expected:
The speech bubble icon indicates a useful tip that may often help you to solve a task
more efficiently.
The exclamation mark icon highlights important information that is essential for the given context.
The red cross icon warns you of serious issues and potential risks that require your full
attention.
Furthermore, the following formatting is used:
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 10
Welcome to KOMPLETE KONTROL
Document Conventions
▪ Text appearing in (drop-down) menus (such as Open…, Save as… etc.) in the software and
paths to locations on your hard disk or other storage devices is printed in italics.
▪ Text appearing elsewhere (labels of buttons, controls, text next to checkboxes etc.) in the
software is printed in blue. Whenever you see this formatting applied, you will find the
same text appearing somewhere on the screen.
▪ Text appearing on the displays of the controller is printed in light grey. Whenever you see
this formatting applied, you will find the same text on a controller display.
▪ Text appearing on labels of the hardware controller is printed in orange. Whenever you see
this formatting applied, you will find the same text on the controller.
▪ Important names and concepts are printed in bold.
▪ References to keys on your computer’s keyboard you’ll find put in square brackets (e.g.,
“Press [Shift] + [Enter]”).
Single instructions are introduced by this play button type arrow.
►
Results of actions are introduced by this smaller arrow.
→
Naming Convention
Throughout the documentation we will refer to KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard (or just
keyboard) as the hardware controller and KOMPLETE KONTROL software as the software installed
on your computer.
The term “effect” will sometimes be abbreviated as “FX” when referring to elements in the MASCHINE software and hardware. These terms have the same meaning.
Unlabeled Buttons on the Keyboard
The buttons and knobs above and below the displays on the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series
keyboard do not have labels.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 11
Welcome to KOMPLETE KONTROL
The unlabeled buttons and knobs on the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard.
For better reference, we applied a special formatting here: throughout the document, the elements are capitalized and numbered, so the buttons above the displays are written Button 1 to
Button 8, while the knobs under the displays are written Knob 1 to Knob 8.
Box Contents
1.2 Box Contents
The box contains the following items:
▪ Information flyer providing:
▪ the hardware serial number of the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard
▪ a web link for downloading the KOMPLETE SELECT software bundle (including KOM-
PLETE KONTROL)
▪ KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard
▪ Safety Instructions flyer
▪ USB cable
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 12
Welcome to KOMPLETE KONTROL
System Requirements
1.3 System Requirements
For KOMPLETE KONTROL to fully function as indented, your system needs to meet certain requirements. The latest KOMPLETE KONTROL system requirements and compatibility information is available here:
www.native-instruments.com/products/komplete/keyboards/komplete-kontrol-s-series/specifications/
KOMPLETE
KOMPLETE KONTROL is optimized for use with KOMPLETE 11 SELECT, KOMPLETE 11 and
KOMPLETE 11 ULTIMATE.
The latest KOMPLETE system requirements and compatibility information is available here:
www.native-instruments.com/products/komplete/bundles/komplete-11/specifications/
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 13
1.4 Accessibility
KOMPLETE KONTROL’s accessibility features for visually-impaired users are currently
not available for the new MK2 generation of the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard. They will be added as part of the next software update.
Welcome to KOMPLETE KONTROL
Accessibility
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 14
New Features in KOMPLETE KONTROL 1.9
2 New Features in KOMPLETE KONTROL 1.9
KOMPLETE KONTROL 1.9 adds support for the next generation of KOMPLETE KONTROL S49
and S61 keyboards. Additionally, it introduces the comprehensive Preview function to the
Browser.
▪ Now you can preview sounds when browsing Factory Preset files for all KOMPLETE and
NKS Instruments.
▪ The new KOMPLETE KONTROL S49 or S61 keyboards take advanced integration with MA-
SCHINE, Apple Logic Pro X, GarageBand, and Ableton Live to the next level, with full mixer control and direct access to quantization, writing automation, and tap tempo from the
keyboard.
Advanced integration between the new MK2 generation of the KOMPLETE KONTROL SSeries keyboard and Steinberg Cubase / Nuendo is coming soon.
▪ Arpeggiator snapshots let you quickly recall Arpeggiator settings from the new KOM-
PLETE KONTROL S49 or S61 keyboards.
▪ The MIDI Assignment editor lets you create custom controller mappings for the new KOM-
PLETE KONTROL S49 or S61 keyboards directly in the KOMPLETE KONTROL stand-alone
application.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 15
The KOMPLETE KONTROL Workflow
3 The KOMPLETE KONTROL Workflow
KOMPLETE KONTROL brings all the sounds from KOMPLETE and the Native Kontrol Standard
(NKS) to the heart of your workflow. Its advanced integration in a number of hosts enables you
to quickly capture ideas, with immediate access to the sounds you need—all directly from the
KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard.
The KOMPLETE KONTROL workflow is streamlined to remove any obstacles when sketching
out a new song in a supported host:
1. Select a track that hosts the KOMPLETE KONTROL plug-in with the navigation controls
on the keyboard. This is made possible by KOMPLETE KONTROL’s advanced host integration.
2. Find a Preset file you like from any of the Instruments in your KOMPLETE KONTROL Library by browsing with the keyboard, supported by the Browser’s filters and Preview functions.
3. Use the keyboard’s Control section to adjust the loaded Instrument and create your own
unique sound.
4. Optionally, you can enable KOMPLETE KONTROL’s Smart Play features to enrich your
playing with the Scale engine and the Arpeggiator.
5. Record a new clip in the host, conveniently controlling transport and loop functions directly from the keyboard. Again, made possible by KOMPLETE KONTROL’s advanced host
integration.
6. If you need to start over, undo and redo functions are right at your fingertips. To further
refine your recording, you can apply quantization and automation to a clip by pressing the
corresponding buttons on the keyboard.
You have quickly captured a musical idea, and can continue sketching out a new song by
→
repeating the process and layering more tracks.
Key Features
The following key features facilitate the KOMPLETE KONTROL workflow:
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 16
The KOMPLETE KONTROL Workflow
▪ Host integration: Advanced integration in a number of hosts allows you control core func-
tionality directly from the keyboard. For more information, refer to ↑4.3, Setting up Host
Integration and ↑9, Host Integration.
▪ Browser: The Browser is your interface for finding, loading and organizing Instruments and
Preset files from the KOMPLETE KONTROL Library. For more information, refer to ↑10,
Browsing the Library and ↑11, Managing the Library.
▪ Instrument control: The Touch Strips and knobs on the keyboard are pre-mapped to all
KOMPLETE and NKS Instruments for immediate control. For more information, refer to
↑12, Controlling Instrument Parameters and Configuring the Touch Strips.
▪ Instrument control: The Touch Strip and knobs on the keyboard are pre-mapped to all KOM-
PLETE and NKS Instruments for immediate control. For more information, refer to ↑12,
Controlling Instrument Parameters.
▪ Smart Play: The Scale engine and the Arpeggiator let you play and generate scales, chords,
and arpeggiator sequences. For more information, refer to ↑13, Playing and Editing Scales
and Chords and ↑14, Playing and Editing the Arpeggiator.
See also
2 Controlling Instrument Parameters [➙ 166]
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 17
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
4 Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
This section provides basic setup information and guides you through the process of integrating KOMPLETE KONTROL with supported hosts.
The KOMPLETE KONTROL software is installed both as a stand-alone application as well as a
VST, Audio Unit, and AAX plug-in.
The KOMPLETE KONTROL stand-alone application must be opened once before using
the plug-in within your DAW for the first time, and after installing new Instruments.
The KOMPLETE KONTROL stand-alone application directly communicates with your audio and
MIDI interfaces, which you can configure in the KOMPLETE KONTROL Preferences. When
KOMPLETE KONTROL is used as a plug-in within a host, the communication with your audio
and MIDI interfaces is managed by the host.
For details about the audio and MIDI configuration of the host, and how to load plugins, please refer to its documentation.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 18
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Connecting the Keyboard to the Computer
4.1 Connecting the Keyboard to the Computer
To connect the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard to your computer:
1. Attach the ‘device end’ of the included USB cable to the USB socket on the rear panel of
the keyboard.
2. Attach the ‘computer end’ of the USB cable to an available USB 2.0 (or later) port on
your computer.
3. Press the power switch on the rear panel of the keyboard to switch it on.
→ The keyboard is now detected by the operating system.
Non-powered USB hubs are not supported. The keyboard should always be connected
directly to the USB port of the computer, or be used with a powered USB hub.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 19
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Setting up the Stand-Alone Application
4.2 Setting up the Stand-Alone Application
When you launch the KOMPLETE KONTROL software from its installation directory, it starts as
a stand-alone application independently from a host.
By default the application uses the standard audio interface of your computer. In order to use
another audio interface, and receive MIDI notes from the keyboard, you need configure the application in its Preferences.
1. In the Main menu click on Edit > Preferences to open the Preferences.
2. Click on Audio to display the Audio page.
3. Select the hardware driver supported by your audio interface from the Driver drop-down
menu.
4. Select the audio interface from the Device drop-down menu.
5. Select the left and right output channels of your audio interface you want to use for KOMPLETE KONTROL’s master output in the Komplete Kontrol Out 1 L and Komplete Kon-
trol Out 1 R drop-down menus under Routings.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 20
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Setting up the Stand-Alone Application
Preferences panel — Audio page
6. Click on MIDI to display the MIDI page.
7. Click on Input to display the available devices for incoming MIDI signals.
8. Click the Komplete Kontrol checkboxes to activate incoming MIDI signals from the keyboard.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 21
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Setting up Host Integration
Preferences panel — MIDI page (entries may vary on your computer)
→ The software is configured and ready to be controlled with the keyboard.
The MIDI Output settings are required for using KOMPLETE KONTROL’s Smart Play
features with other MIDI instruments.
4.3 Setting up Host Integration
KOMPLETE KONTROL integrates with a number of hosts to facilitate a fluent workflow for performing and recording music with your KOMPLETE KONTROL Library.
Advanced integration of KOMPLETE KONTROL is available in the following hosts:
▪ MASCHINE
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 22
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Setting up Host Integration
▪ Apple Logic Pro X
▪ Apple GarageBand
▪ Ableton Live
Before using the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard to control a supported host, a few
configuration steps are required:
4.3.1 Setting up Apple Logic Pro X and GarageBand
Apple Logic Pro X and GarageBand are automatically configured for advanced integration with
KOMPLETE KONTROL once you launch the respective application for the first time after installing the KOMPLETE KONTROL software. A dialog asks you to confirm this after launching
the application:
When the message OSC app “KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series” wants to connect to Logic
►
Pro X / GarageBand appears on screen, click OK.
The KOMPLETE KONTROL stand-alone application must be opened once before using
the plug-in within your DAW for the first time, and after installing new Instruments.
4.3.2 Setting up Ableton Live (macOS)
Ableton Live needs to be manually configured for advanced integration with KOMPLETE KONTROL.
Installing the MIDI Remote Script
The MIDI Remote Script allows Ableton Live to recognize KOMPLETE KONTROL as a control
surface. It needs to be copied into Live’s MIDI Remote Scripts directory:
1. Ensure that Ableton Live is not running.
2. Navigate to the following folder: Macintosh HD/Library/Application Support/Native Instru-
ments/Host Integration/Ableton Live/
3. Copy the Komplete_Kontrol_Mk2 folder to the clipboard.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 23
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Setting up Host Integration
4. Open your Applications folder and right-click the Ableton Live application symbol. In the
context menu, click Show Package Contents.
5. In the Ableton Live package, navigate to Contents > App-Resources > MIDI Re-
mote Scripts.
6. Paste the folder you have copied to the clipboard into the MIDI Remote Scripts folder.
Installing the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks
KOMPLETE KONTROL is loaded into Ableton Live in the form of an Instrument Rack. In order
to make the required Instrument Rack available in Ableton Live’s browser, it needs to be added
to your Ableton Live User Library:
1. Navigate to the following folder: Macintosh HD/Library/Application Support/Native Instru-
ments/Host Integration/Ableton Live/
2. Copy the Komplete Kontrol VST.adg file to the clipboard.
3. Paste the file you have copied to the clipboard into your Ableton Live Instrument Rack
folder. By default this folder is located here: Macintosh HD/Users/*Username*/Music/
Ableton/User Library/Presets/Instruments/Instrument Rack/
Configuring Ableton Live for KOMPLETE KONTROL
Once the MIDI Remote Script and the Instrument Rack file are installed in the correct location, you need to add KOMPLETE KONTROL as a control surface in Ableton Live's preferences.
1. Start Ableton Live.
2. Open Ableton Live’s Preferences and go to the MIDI / Sync tab.
3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to KOMPLETE KONTROL by selecting Komplete Kontrol
MK2 from the drop-down menu.
4. Leave both the Input and the Output for the Komplete Kontrol control surface set to
None.
Loading KOMPLETE KONTROL in Ableton Live
The KOMPLETE KONTROL stand-alone application must be opened once before using
the plug-in within your DAW for the first time, and after installing new Instruments.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 24
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Setting up Host Integration
To load KOMPLETE KONTROL in Ableton Live, drag the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instru-
►
ment Rack from the browser to an empty MIDI track. You can find it here in the Ableton
Live browser: Instruments/Instrument Rack/Komplete Kontrol VST.adg
You are now ready to use KOMPLETE KONTROL within Ableton Live.
→
You must use the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack (Komplete Kontrol VST.adg)
to ensure a reliable connection with the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard.
4.3.3 Setting up Ableton Live (Windows)
Ableton Live needs to be manually configured for advanced integration with KOMPLETE KONTROL.
Installing the MIDI Remote Script
The MIDI Remote Script allows Ableton Live to recognize KOMPLETE KONTROL as a control
surface. It needs to be copied into Live’s MIDI Remote Scripts directory:
1. Ensure that Ableton Live is not running.
2. Navigate to the following folder: C:\Program Files\Common Files\Native Instruments\Host
Integration\Ableton Live\
3. Copy the Komplete_Kontrol_Mk2 folder to the clipboard.
4. Navigate to the MIDI Remote Scripts folder in Ableton Live’s installation directory: C:\Pro-
gramData\Ableton\Live 9\Resources\MIDI Remote Scripts
5. Paste the folder you have copied to the clipboard into the MIDI Remote Scripts folder.
Installing the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks
KOMPLETE KONTROL is loaded into Ableton Live in the form of an Instrument Rack. In order
to make the required Instrument Rack available in Ableton Live’s browser, it needs to be added
to your Ableton Live User Library:
1. Navigate to the following folder: C:\Program Files\Common Files\Native Instruments\Host
Integration\Ableton Live\
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 25
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Setting up Host Integration
2. Copy the Komplete Kontrol VST.adg file to the clipboard.
3. Paste the file you have copied to the clipboard into your Ableton Live Instrument Rack
folder. By default this folder is located here: C:\Users\*Username*\Documents\Ableton
\User Library\Presets\Instruments\Instrument Rack\
Configuring Ableton Live for KOMPLETE KONTROL
Once the MIDI Remote Script and the Instrument Rack file are installed in the correct location, you need to add KOMPLETE KONTROL as a control surface in Ableton Live's preferences.
1. Start Ableton Live.
2. Open Ableton Live’s Preferences and go to the MIDI / Sync tab.
3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol by selecting it from the drop-down
menu.
4. Leave both the Input and the Output for the Komplete Kontrol control surface set to
None.
Loading KOMPLETE KONTROL in Ableton Live
The KOMPLETE KONTROL stand-alone application must be opened once before using
the plug-in within your DAW for the first time, and after installing new Instruments.
To load KOMPLETE KONTROL in Ableton Live, drag the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instru-
►
ment Rack from the browser to an empty MIDI track. You can find it here in the Ableton
Live browser: Instruments/Instrument Rack/Komplete Kontrol VST.adg
You are now ready to use KOMPLETE KONTROL within Ableton Live.
→
You must use the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack (Komplete Kontrol VST.adg)
to ensure a reliable connection with the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 26
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Connecting Pedals to the Keyboard
4.4 Connecting Pedals to the Keyboard
The KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard provides you two pedal inputs (in the form of
1/4" sockets) on its rear panel: PEDAL A and PEDAL B.
The pedal inputs on the rear panel of the keyboard.
These inputs both allow you to connect either a continuous or a switch pedal in order to further
refine your performance. They can be freely configured for sustain or expression behavior.
Connecting Pedals
Connect a continuous or switch pedal to the PEDAL A or PEDAL B inputs on the rear
►
panel of the keyboard.
Configuring the Pedal Input for a Sustain Pedal
When a switch pedal is connected:
1. Click the MIDI Assignment editor button in the Header to open the MIDI Assignment editor.
2. Select the control element type PEDALS.
3. Select the pedal input you want to configure, either Pedal A or Pedal B.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 27
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Connecting Pedals to the Keyboard
4. Select Switch from the Mode drop-down menu.
5. Depending on inverted tip/ring connectivity of the pedal, select either Tip or Ring.
→ The pedal input is configured for a switch pedal with sustain behavior. If you need to
change the MIDI Control Change message assigned to the pedal input, refer to ↑8.4, Us-
ing the MIDI Assignment Editor.
Configuring the Pedal Input for an Expression Pedal
When a continuous pedal is connected:
1. Click the MIDI Assignment editor button in the Header to open the MIDI Assignment editor.
2. Select the control element type PEDALS.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 28
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Connecting Pedals to the Keyboard
3. Select the pedal input you want to configure, either Pedal A or Pedal B.
4. Select Continuous from the Mode drop-down menu.
→ The pedal input is configured for a continuous pedal with expression behavior. If you need
to change the MIDI Control Change message assigned to the pedal input, refer to ↑8.4,
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor.
Depending on the type of pedal, you need to make further adjustments by using the provided
options. The following table gives you an overview of these options:
Option
Description
Invert toggle switch Some continuous pedals internally support the inverted pedal
range but cannot be configured on the pedal directly. The
Invert Range function allows you to invert the range of the
pedal connected to the keyboard.
Swap T/R toggle switch Allows you to use pedals with inverted tip/ring connectivity.
Recalibrate button Allows you to recalibrate the input.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 29
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL
Connecting External MIDI Equipment to the Keyboard
When using the MIDI Assignment editor, all keyboard controls (i.e. navigation, transport,
etc.) are blocked.
4.5 Connecting External MIDI Equipment to the Keyboard
The KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard has dedicated MIDI sockets that allow you to directly connect other MIDI devices using a 5-pin DIN MIDI cable and integrate the keyboard
into your MIDI setup.
The MIDI sockets on the rear panel of the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard.
To connect your external MIDI equipment:
1. Connect the device receiving MIDI signals to the MIDI OUT socket on the rear panel of
the keyboard using a 5-pin DIN MIDI cable.
2. Connect the device sending MIDI signals to the MIDI IN socket on the rear panel of the
keyboard using a 5-pin DIN MIDI cable.
→ The MIDI equipment is connected.
Depending on your use case, additional configuration is required in the software:
▪ If KOMPLETE KONTROL is running as a stand-alone application, you need to activate the
corresponding MIDI inputs and outputs of the keyboard on the MIDI page of the Preferen-
ces.
▪ If KOMPLETE KONTROL is running as a plug-in in a host, the MIDI configuration is man-
aged by the host.
▪ If you are using the keyboard as MIDI controller without a USB connection, MIDI data is
directly sent and received via the keyboard’s MIDI IN and MIDI OUT sockets.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 30
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Software Overview
5 Software Overview
This section gives an overview of the areas and controls of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software.
Overview of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software.
(1) Header: Provides access to general functions like the Main menu, the Preset display, the
Transport and Master Volume controls, as well as options to show and hide user interface
areas. For more information, refer to ↑5.1, Header.
(2) Instrument area: Shows your loaded Instrument and lets you control it directly in the software. For more information, refer to ↑5.6, Instrument Area.
(3) Browser: Lets you browse and manage all your Preset files. For more information, refer to
↑5.2, Browser.
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Software Overview
5.1 Header
The header is where you find general settings that affect KOMPLETE KONTROL globally. It also lets you access additional user interface areas.
The header.
(1) KOMPLETE KONTROL logo: Opens the About screen, which shows the version number of the
KOMPLETE KONTROL software.
(2) Browser button: Shows or hides the Browser.
(3) Main menu: Opens the Main menu, which contains a number of general functions and settings, including the Preferences.
Header
(4) Preset display: Displays the name of the loaded Preset file or KONTAKT key switch. The arrow buttons on the right skip to the next Preset file in the Browser’s result list.
(5) Perform panel button: Shows or hides the Perform panel, which gives you access to the parameters of the Scale engine and the Arpeggiator. The Perform panel button lights up blue
when the Scale engine and/or the Arpeggiator are enabled.
(6) Plug-in panel button: Shows or hides the Plug-in Panel, which allows you to customize the
parameter mapping for the Control section on the keyboard for every Preset file.
(7) View button: Switches between Default view and Additional view of the loaded Instrument.
(8) Keyboard button: Shows the currently connected keyboard, S25, S49, S61, or S88. If multiple instances of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software are running (for example in a host), clicking the button connects the keyboard to this instance.
(9) Transport controls: Lets you start, stop, and reset the internal clock. When KOMPLETE KONTROL is loaded as a plug-in in a host, the transport automatically follows the host
transport and this feature is greyed out.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 32
Software Overview
(10) Tempo control: Lets you adjust the tempo in BPM (beats per minute).
(11) Master Volume control: Lets you adjust the overall output volume of KOMPLETE KONTROL. The meter shows the current peak level of the output signal.
(12) CPU meter: Represents the current load on your computer’s processor; it should not go
above 70% to avoid clicks and interruptions.
(13) Panic button: Stops all active MIDI notes (only available in the KOMPLETE KONTROL
plug-in).
In the KOMPLETE KONTROL stand-alone software, the Panic button and CPU meter are
replaced by the MIDI Assignment editor button. This button lets you to access all the
settings related to the keyboard’s MIDI mode, as well as pedals.
(14) NI logo: The NI logo opens the About screen, which shows the version number of the
KOMPLETE KONTROL software.
Header
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 33
Software Overview
5.2 Browser
The Browser gives you access to your KOMPLETE KONTROL Library and lets you add, edit,
and organize Preset files. In the Browser’s Library pane, you can browse for all the Instruments
and Preset files contained in your Library. In the Files pane, you can find and load compatible
files from your hard drive, or add them to the Library. Both the Library pane and the Files pane
are detailed in the following overviews.
Browser
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 34
5.2.1 Library Pane
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
The Library pane contains the following elements:
Software Overview
Browser
The Library pane.
(1) Library: Displays the Library pane.
(2) Content selector: The Globe icon selects factory content and the User icon selects user content. Only Preset files of the selected content type are displayed in the results list (7).
(3) Instrument selector: Selects a particular Instrument, Instrument category, and bank of the
selected Instrument. Only Preset files matching your selection are displayed in the results list
(7).
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 35
Software Overview
(4) TYPES: Lets you browse for Preset files based on Type and Sub-Type tags that have been
applied to them. You can collapse or expand this section by clicking on the little arrow next to
TYPES.
(5) MODES: Lets you browse for Preset files based on Mode tags that have been applied to
them. You can collapse or expand this section by clicking on the little arrow next to MODES.
(6) Favorites: Lets you filter the search results by Favorites. When enabled, only favorite Preset
files are displayed in the results list (7).
(7) Results list: Displays all Preset files that match your entered search criteria.
(8) Control bar: Provides useful tools when browsing and editing the KOMPLETE KONTROL Library:
▪ The Information button (i) displays additional information for the selected Preset files.
▪ The EDIT button opens the Attribute editor for displaying and editing the tags and properties
of the selected Preset files.
(9) Prehear controls: Lets you audition Preset Files.
(10) Search field: Lets you perform a text search.
Browser
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 36
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Software Overview
5.2.2 Instrument Selector
The Instrument selector allows you to limit your search to a certain Instrument category, a particular Instrument, or a specific Bank of the Instrument. You can also load an Instrument along
with its default Preset file directly from the Instrument selector.
Browser
The Instrument selector.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 37
Software Overview
(1) Instrument selector header: The header shows the selected Instrument—if there is no selection it shows a generic label (All Instruments). Click on the header to open or close the Instrument selector.
(2) Category / Vendor selector: Allows you to sort the Instrument list by Category or by Vendor.
(3) Instrument list: Shows all Instruments that are available in your KOMPLETE KONTROL Library.
If Category is selected in the Category / Vendor selector, the Instrument list is sorted by the following categories:
▪ DRUMS & PERCUSSION
▪ SAMPLED INSTRUMENTS
▪ SYNTHESIZERS
If Vendor is selected in the Category / Vendor selector, the Instrument list is sorted by the
names of the vendors.
Browser
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 38
5.2.3 Files Pane
2
3
5
6
1
4
The Files pane contains following elements:
Software Overview
Browser
The Files pane in the Browser.
(1) Files tab: Displays the Files pane.
(2) Favorite bar: Displays all your favorite folders. A click on any favorite folder lets you jump
directly to that particular path and display its content in the Result list (5).
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 39
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Software Overview
(3) Location bar: Displays the selected path. The Location bar provides various tools to quickly
navigate your file system.
(4) Recent Locations button: Opens a list of the last visited locations for quickly jumping to any
of them.
(5) Results list: Displays the content (files and folders) of the folder shown in the Location bar.
Only files compatible with KOMPLETE KONTROL are displayed.
(6) Control bar: Provides useful tools when browsing your file system:
▪ The Information button (i) displays additional information for the selected files.
▪ The IMPORT button lets you import the content of the selected folder to the KOM-
PLETE KONTROL Library. Before any files are imported, you can choose which tags will be
assigned to the files in the Attribute editor.
5.3 Perform Panel
The Perform panel lets you access all the parameters related to the Scale engine, the Arpeggiator, and the Touch Strips.
Perform Panel
The Perform panel.
(1) SCALE: Clicking the round button left of SCALE switches the Scale engine on or off. Clicking the SCALE label displays the Scale engine’s parameters. See ↑13, Playing and Editing
Scales and Chords for details.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 40
Software Overview
(2) ARP: Clicking the round button left of ARP switches the Arpeggiator on or off. Clicking the
ARP label displays the Arpeggiator’s parameters. See ↑14, Playing and Editing the Arpeggiator
for details.
(3) TOUCHSTRIP: Clicking the TOUCHSTRIP label displays the Touch Strips’ parameters. See
Configuring the Touch Strips for details.
(4) Parameter pages: If multiple pages of parameters are available, you can switch between
them here.
5.4 Plug-in Panel
The Plug-in Panel lets you view and customize the parameters mapped to the Control section
on the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard for individual Preset files. The amount of pages and parameters vary depending on the loaded Instrument.
Plug-in Panel
The Plug-in Panel.
5.5 MIDI Assignment Editor
The MIDI Assignment editor allows you to define what kind of MIDI messages are assigned to
the controls on the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard in MIDI mode. This way you can
use the keyboard with MIDI applications or MIDI devices that require specific MIDI messages
to be sent in order to control certain parameters or functions. Multiple templates can be configured for quick recall, allowing you to prepare controller assignments for different applications and/or devices. The MIDI Assignment editor lets you change the assignments for the
knobs and buttons in the keyboard’s Control section, as well as for connected pedals.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 41
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5
6
Software Overview
MIDI Assignment Editor
Overview of the MIDI Assignment editor.
(1) Templates Pane: Allows you to create and manage your Templates for MIDI assignments.
(2) Templates Pane button: Shows/ hides the Templates pane.
(3) KNOBS, BUTTONS, PEDALS: Here you can select the type of control element to which you
can make MIDI assignments.
(4) Pages / Pedal A and Pedal B: For the Knobs and Buttons you can have multiple assignments, organized in pages. Here you can select and manage up to four pages. Pedal Assignments are global and not distinct per Template. Pedals A and B can be independently configured.
For the pedals it is not possible to have multiple assignments.
(5) Control elements: Here you can select the control element for a MIDI assignment.
(6) Definition area: Defines the MIDI assignment properties for the selected control element.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 42
Software Overview
Instrument Area
5.6 Instrument Area
The Instrument area of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software is where your Instruments are displayed once you have loaded them from the Browser. Each Instrument offers a different set of
controls and parameters that are all easily controlled directly on the computer screen or from
the keyboard. Parameter changes are mutually reflected by both the displays on the keyboard
and the Instrument’s user interface in the Instrument area.
For most Instruments, additional views are available that give you access to another set
of controls. See ↑7.1, Instrument Views for details.
The Instrument area displaying the Instrument Form.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 43
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Keyboard Overview
6 Keyboard Overview
The KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard is tightly integrated in the software and can be
used to browse, control and play your Instruments as well as to control supported hosts.
The keyboard is available in two sizes: The S49, and S61 are equipped with the same topquality semi-weighted Fatar keybed with aftertouch. Beyond the keybed, all keyboards come
with identical features.
The keyboard is equipped with the following sections:
Top View
KOMPLETE KONTROL S49
(1) Transport section: Controls the transport of supported hosts when KOMPLETE KONTROL is
used as a plug-in.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 44
Keyboard Overview
(2) Perform and Edit section: Lets you edit and control the Smart Play features, i.e. playing
scales, chords, and arpeggiator sequences. The settings made in the Perform and Edit section
are displayed in the Control section (5) and are reflected by the Light Guide and keybed (7).
(3) Solo and Mute buttons: Let you instantly solo and mute any Sound or Group in supported
hosts.
(4) Arrange buttons: Let you switch between the different arrangement views and modes in supported hosts.
(5) Control section: The knobs and displays are automatically assigned to parameters of the
loaded Instrument or selected mode.
(6) Navigation and Mode buttons: Lets you browse your KOMPLETE KONTROL Library and navigate in your DAW with the 4-D encoder, as well as directly access functions like the Mixer and
MIDI mode.
(7) Keybed and Light Guide: Reflect the Smart Play functions by switching LEDs on or off to
indicate active and inactive keys. The Light Guide also reflects the settings of the loaded Instrument and can be very helpful to illustrate e.g. BATTERY or KONTAKT mappings.
(8)Touch Strip: The Touch Strip can be assigned to parameters via the MIDI learn function of
the loaded Instrument.
(9) Pitch & Modulation Wheels: The Pitch Wheel and the Modulation Wheel are automatically
assigned to corresponding controls of the loaded Instrument.
(10) Transpose and Fixed Velocity buttons: The FIXED VEL button sets the note velocity for all
keys to a fixed value of 127. The OCTAVE buttons transpose the entire keybed one octave
down / up. Pressing SHIFT + OCTAVE transposes the entire keybed a semitone down / up.
(11) Preset and Page buttons: The PRESET up / down buttons let you skip to the next or previous Preset file of the loaded Instrument. The Page left / right buttons let you skip to the next
page and thus remap the Knobs and displays to another set of parameters.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 45
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Keyboard Overview
Rear View
Keyboard Interface rear view.
(1) Kensington Lock: Attaches a Kensington lock for protecting the keyboard against theft.
(2) MIDI IN/OUT socket: Connect devices for MIDI control.
(3) Pedal A and Pedal B sockets: Connects sustain and expression pedals.
(4) PSU socket (15V - 1.2A): Connects the power supply which can be purchased separately in
the Native Instruments online shop.
(5) USB connector: Connects the keyboard to your computer with the supplied USB cable.
(6) Power button: Switches the keyboard on and off.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 46
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6
Keyboard Overview
Perform and Edit Section
6.1 Perform and Edit Section
The buttons in the Perform and Edit section on the far left of the KOMPLETE KONTROL SSeries keyboard let you switch the Scale engine and the Arpeggiator on or off and access their
parameter for editing. The parameters ware visible and editable via the displays and knobs in
the Control section.
The Perform and Edit section.
(1) SHIFT: Lets you access the secondary functions of modes and of controls labeled as such,
for example the EDIT functions of the SCALE / Edit (2) and ARP / Edit (3) buttons.
(2) SCALE / Edit: Switches the Scale engine on or off, and lets you edit the Scale engine parameters.
(3) ARP / Edit: Switches the Arpeggiator on or off, and lets you edit the Arp parameters.
(4) AUTO: Lets you activate or deactivate automation in supported hosts.
(5) QUANTIZE: Lets you quantize events to the step grid in supported hosts.
(6) UNDO / Redo: Lets you undo or redo your last action in supported hosts.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 47
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6
Keyboard Overview
Transport Section
6.2 Transport Section
The TRANSPORT section at the far left on the keyboard gives you quick and easy access to
functions like play, record, loop, etc. in supported hosts.
The Transport section.
(1) LOOP: Switches between standard and loop playback.
(2) METRO: Switches the metronome on or off.
(3) TEMPO: Lets you tap in the tempo.
(4) STOP: Stops playback.
(5) REC / Count-in: REC switches record on or off. Count-in (SHIFT + REC) switches the countin on or off.
(6) PLAY / Restart: PLAY starts playback. Restart (SHIFT + PLAY) starts playback from the beginning.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 48
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3
Keyboard Overview
Control Section
6.3 Control Section
The Control section is located at the center of the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard.
The knobs, buttons, and displays are automatically assigned to parameters of the loaded Instrument or selected mode. They provide immediate control and allow for deep editing of various aspects of KOMPLETE KONTROL.
The controls of the Control section.
(1) Buttons 1-8: The eight buttons dynamically adapt their assignment to the selected mode,
allowing for direct access to the most important functions and sub-sections. The displays show
the current assignment below each button.
(2) Displays: The displays give you information related to the loaded Instrument or selected
mode, and show the functions and parameters assigned to the buttons and knobs.
(3) Knobs 1-8: The eight knobs dynamically adapt their assignment to the selected mode, allowing for direct access to the available parameters. The displays show the current assignment
above each Knob. As the knobs are touch-sensitive, you can tap them to see additional information.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 49
6.4 Mode Buttons
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Keyboard Overview
Mode Buttons
Mode Buttons.
(1) BROWSER: Displays the Browser in the Control section.
(2) PLUG-IN: Displays the loaded Instrument in the Control section.
(3) MIXER: Displays the mixer of supported hosts in the Control section.
(4) SETUP: Displays the hardware serial number and the firmware version, and lets you change
the display brightness.
(5) MIDI: Accesses MIDI mode that allows you to use the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard as a MIDI controller.
(6) INSTANCE: When using KOMPLETE KONTROL as a plug-in in a host without advanced integration, this button lets you switch between KOMPLETE KONTROL instances and MIDI
Mode.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 50
Keyboard Overview
The 4-Directional Push Encoder
6.5 The 4-Directional Push Encoder
The 4-Directional Push Encoder (referred to as the 4-D encoder) combines the functionalities
of a conventional joystick, of a button, and of a continuous encoder. These aspects make it a
multi-functional control element that can be used for navigation, for adjusting values of parameters, and for controlling Instruments. Hence, it can be moved to the four directions: up, down,
left, and right, as well as being pushed and rotated.
The 4D Encoder situated below the Mode buttons.
Depending on the menu or context, the available actions differ:
▪ The displays are navigated by pushing the 4-D encoder in a direction indicated by the four
LEDs.
▪ Entries in a list are browsed by turning the 4-D encoder.
▪ The value of a highlighted parameter is adjusted by turning the 4-D encoder.
▪ A selection is confirmed by pushing the 4-D encoder.
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Keyboard Overview
Keybed and Light Guide
6.6 Keybed and Light Guide
The Light Guide visualizes the key mapping of loaded Instruments and sample mapping. By
color coding sample based Instruments and indicating active and inactive keys in scales using
the LEDs above the keybed. The Smart Play settings are also reflected by the Light Guide. This
means that when you select e.g. a scale or chord, the LEDs corresponding to the keys contained in that scale or chord will light up, whereas inactive keys remain unlit. The Light Guide
also gives you visual feedback when you play back incoming MIDI note patterns from the host.
The Light Guide
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Keyboard Overview
Modulation Wheels
6.7 Modulation Wheels
The two Modulation Wheels to the left of the keybed let you control pitch and modulation parameters of the loaded Instrument.
Modulation Wheels
The left Modulation Wheel, called Pitch Wheel, lets you adjust the pitch of the loaded Instrument. The right Modulation Wheel, called Modulation Wheel, lets you adjust the default modulation parameter of the loaded Instrument.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 53
Keyboard Overview
6.8 Touch Strip
The Touch Strip is an intuitive control element that gives you immediate control over Instrument parameters. It sends MIDI Control Change message CC11 (Expression), which you can
assign to Instrument parameters via MIDI learn.
The Touch Strip.
Touch Strip
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Keyboard Overview
Transpose and Fixed Velocity Buttons
6.9 Transpose and Fixed Velocity Buttons
Transpose and Fixed Velocity Buttons.
(1) FIXED VEL: Sets the note velocity for all keys to a fixed value of 127.
(2 - 3) OCTAVE down / Semi and Octave up / Semi: Transpose the entire keybed one octave
down / up. Pressing SHIFT + OCTAVE down / up transposes the entire keybed a semitone
down / up. Pressing both buttons simultaneously resets the keybed to the central octave.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Instrument Views
7 Global Controls and Preferences
This sections introduces the global controls and the Preferences you can access via the Header
of KOMPLETE KONTROL.
7.1 Instrument Views
Once you have loaded an Instrument from the Browser, it appears in the Instrument area of the
KOMPLETE KONTROL software. Most KOMPLETE Instruments come equipped with more than
one view, giving you access to another set of controls or letting you edit certain features in finer detail. The three possible Instrument views are Default View, Additional View, and Edit View
which can be selected directly in the KOMPLETE KONTROL menu.
Instrument views in the KOMPLETE KONTROL menu.
All Instrument parameters can be controlled at all time from the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard, regardless of the selected Instrument view in the KOMPLETE KONTROL software.
The available views may vary with the loaded Instrument.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Instrument Views
7.1.1 Default View
The Default View is the view that first appears when you load an Instrument from the Browser.
It gives you access to some of the most important features of each KOMPLETE Instrument with
an easy-to-use interface.
POLYPLEX in Default View.
7.1.2 Additional View
Most KOMPLETE Instruments have more parameters than can be displayed at once in small
surface and therefore come with a second, Additional View. The Additional View can give you
access to detailed edit controls or to a completely different set of controls altogether depending on the loaded Instrument.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Instrument Views
POLYPLEX in additional view.
Besides of selecting Additional View via the KOMPLETE KONTROL Menu and the application
menu, you can also do this by clicking the + button in the KOMPLETE KONTROL header.
Clicking it again will return to the Default View.
The + button opens and closes the Additional View.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Instrument Views
7.1.3 Edit View
Edit view is only available for Instruments powered by KONTAKT or REAKTOR.
In the Edit View you have also the possibility to open any KOMPLETE Instrument that can be
loaded or played by either the KONTAKT PLAYER or REAKTOR PLAYER. This gives you access
to all the flexible controls and features you would normally have when using KONTAKT or REAKTOR in stand-alone mode.
POLYPLEX in edit view.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Switching Instances
Edit view enables you to access files that cannot be loaded from the KOMPLETE KONTROL Browser, e.g. KONTAKT Multis which can be loaded from the KONTAKT Browser
in edit view.
7.2 Switching Instances
When two or more instances of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software are running (e.g. as a plugin on different tracks of the host), you must choose which instance you want to control from
the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard.
Switching to an Instance from the Software
To switch the keyboard to a particular instance of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software,
►
click the Connect button (keyboard icon) in the header of that instance.
Automatic Switching in a Host
When using KOMPLETE KONTROL as a plug-in in a host with advanced integration, the keyboard automatically switches between controlling the KOMPLETE KONTROL software and
MIDI mode, depending on the content of the selected track.
▪ If you select a track that hosts the KOMPLETE KONTROL plug-in, the keyboard automati-
cally switches to this instance of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software. This allows you to
immediately control all of your Instrument’s parameters from the keyboard.
▪ If you select a track that does not host the KOMPLETE KONTROL plug-in, the keyboard
automatically switches to MIDI mode. This allows you to assign the available controls on
the keyboard to parameters in the host or in an inserted plug-in via MIDI learn (if supported).
To select a track in a supported host from the keyboard, move the 4-D encoder up or
►
down until the track is highlighted.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Switching Instances
Switching to an Instance from the Keyboard
If you are using KOMPLETE KONTROL as a plug-in in a host without advanced integration, you
cannot rely on automatic switching between instances. However, you can still select a particular instance of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software from the keyboard using its displays and 4D encoder.
To display and switch between KOMPLETE KONTROL instances from the keyboard, follow the
instructions below:
1. Press the INSTANCE button to show all active instances of the KOMPLETE KONTROL
software on the keyboard displays.
2. Use the 4-D encoder to select an instance.
3. Press the 4-D encoder to switch to the selected instance.
You can now control the selected instance of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software from
→
the keyboard.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 61
2 3
1
Global Controls and Preferences
Transport and Tempo
7.3 Transport and Tempo
If KOMPLETE KONTROL is used in stand-alone mode, it features its own transport and tempo
settings. They are used by sequenced KONTAKT and REAKTOR Instruments as well as the Arpeggiator. Additionally, the tempo setting is used by all Instruments and effects that allow you
to set timing parameters in relation to the musical tempo (e.g. rhythmic modulation, delay effects).
You can find the transport and tempo settings in the header:
Transport and tempo in KOMPLETE KONTROL.
(1) Play button: The Play button starts and stops the internal clock. This can be used to control
the playback of sequenced KONTAKT and REAKTOR Instruments.
(2) Reset button: The reset button resets the internal clock to its start position. Consequently,
sequencers in KONTAKT and REAKTOR Instruments will start their playback from the beginning. The same applies to the Arpeggiator.
(3) Global Tempo: The tempo is set globally in BPM (beats per minute). You can either click
and drag up /down to set the tempo or double-click the display to enter a value numerically.
When using KOMPLETE KONTROL as a plug-in, it is automatically synchronized to the
host tempo. Therefore the transport and tempo functions are grayed out and inactive in
the KOMPLETE KONTROL header.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Transport and Tempo
7.3.1 Clock Resetting Commands
Clock Resetting Commands from the Software
▪ When the internal clock is stopped, clicking the Reset button allows you to start playback
from the beginning by pressing the Play button.
▪ When the internal clock is running, clicking the Reset button allows you to resume play-
back from the beginning.
Clock Resetting Commands from the Keyboard
▪ When the internal clock is stopped, pressing STOP allows you to reset the internal clock.
▪ When the internal clock is stopped, pressing SHIFT + PLAY allows you to reset and start
the internal clock.
▪ When the internal clock is running, pressing SHIFT + PLAY allows you to reset the internal
clock.
7.3.2 Adjusting Tempo
Adjusting Tempo from the Software
The tempo (3) is set globally in BPM (beats per minute).
To set the tempo from:
1. Double-click the display.
2. Enter a value numerically. Alternatively, you can click and drag up or down
→ The tempo adjusts in increments of one.
Adjusting Tempo from the Keyboard
To set the tempo from the keyboard:
1. Press and hold SHIFT.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Adjusting Master Volume
2. While holding SHIFT push and turn the Control encoder.
→ The tempo adjusts in increments of one.
7.4 Adjusting Master Volume
The Master Volume slider lets you adjust the overall output volume of KOMPLETE KONTROL.
The Volume meter shows the current peak level of the output signal.
Master Volume controls.
In order to adjust the output volume:
1. Click and drag the slider to the left or to the right.
→ This will adjust the output volume in 0.5dB increments from -30dB to +10dB. Below
-30dB, the keyboard’s volume control is exponentially scaled and quickly lowers the output signal to complete silence.
Adjusting Master Volume with the Keyboard
In order to adjust the output volume on the keyboard:
1. Press and hold SHIFT.
2. While holding SHIFT turn the 4-D encoder.
7.5 Preferences
In the Preferences you can specify various settings for KOMPLETE KONTROL.
To open the Preferences:
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 64
Global Controls and Preferences
Click Edit > Preferences in the KOMPLETE KONTROL menu:
►
7.5.1 Preferences – Audio Page
The Audio page holds settings related to your audio interface when KOMPLETE KONTROL is
running as a stand-alone application.
When using KOMPLETE KONTROL as a plug-in, the audio configuration is managed by
the host, and the Audio page is not available.
Preferences
The Routings section allows you to configure the connections between the virtual outputs of
KOMPLETE KONTROL and the physical outputs of your audio interface.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Preferences
Preferences panel — Audio page
Setting Description
Driver Here you can select the audio driver.
Device This allows you to choose from the available devices if you have
connected more than one audio interface.
Status This shows you whether your audio interface is currently
running.
Sample Rate This displays the selected sample rate of your audio interface.
Please restart KOMPLETE KONTROL after changing the sample
rate.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Setting Description
Buffer Size macOS: This slider allows you to adjust the buffer size of your
audio interface in samples. Lower values result in a more
immediate playing response but increase the CPU load, and
may result in audible clicks and pops. Larger values decrease
the CPU load, but introduce a larger latency (a small delay
between hitting a pad and hearing it). It is recommended to find
the lowest value that does not cause clicks and pops even when
playing more demanding Instruments.
Windows: When using an ASIO driver, the Audio page shows an
ASIO Config button instead of the Buffer Size slider. Click this
button to open the settings window of the selected ASIO driver.
Preferences
Latency
This shows the delays introduced by the current Buffer Size
setting.
Routings Under Routings, you will be presented with a list of the 16
stereo outputs from KOMPLETE KONTROL: In the right column,
you can assign them to the outputs of your audio interface.
Click the fields in the right column to select the desired outputs
via a drop-down menu.
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Global Controls and Preferences
7.5.2 Preferences – MIDI Page
The MIDI page allows you to set up the MIDI input and output ports that you want to use when
KOMPLETE KONTROL is running as a stand-alone application.
When using KOMPLETE KONTROL as a plug-in, the MIDI configuration is managed by
the host, and the MIDI page is not available.
Preferences
Preferences panel — MIDI page (entries may vary on your computer)
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Global Controls and Preferences
Element Description
Input Clicking Input displays a list of all the available MIDI inputs of
your system. You can activate/deactivate each input by clicking
the checkbox next to its name.
Output Clicking Output displays a list of all the available MIDI outputs
of your system. You can activate/deactivate each input by
clicking the checkbox next to its name.
The MIDI Output settings are required for using KOMPLETE KONTROL’s Smart Play features
with other MIDI instruments.
7.5.3 Preferences – General Page
The General page holds Usage Data Tracking settings. Usage Data Tracking technology enables
KOMPLETE KONTROL to automatically track anonymous usage data that you can choose to
share with us.
Usage Data Tracking can be enabled or disabled in the General page of the Preferences in the
KOMPLETE KONTROL software. However, we encourage all users to keep Data Tracking enabled as it provides a valuable tool for understanding the performance of Native Instruments applications when they are used in real life situations. The data sent to Native Instruments is one
hundred percent anonymous and will not affect performance.
Preferences
For more detailed information about Usage Data Tracking, please refer to the following Knowledge Base article on the Native Instruments website:
https://support.native-instruments.com/hc/en-us/articles/209545029
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Global Controls and Preferences
Preferences
Usage Data Tracking in the KOMPLETE KONTROL Preferences.
To enable or disable Usage Tracking:
1. Open the General page of the Preferences by clicking Preferences… in the MASCHINE
menu.
2. Click the Allow usage data tracking checkbox to enable or disable user data tracking.
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Global Controls and Preferences
7.5.4 Preferences – Library Page
The Library page allows you to edit the locations of all KOMPLETE KONTROL Library files
(both Factory and User) that appear in the Library pane of the Browser.
At the top of the page, the Factory and User buttons allow you to switch between the Factory
pane and the User pane.
Factory Pane
The Factory pane shows all factory libraries available. These libraries will appear in the Factory
view of the Browser’s Library pane.
Preferences
Preferences panel – the Library page’s Factory pane.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Element Description
Location column Shows the path of each library. If you have moved any library
to another location on your computer, click the folder icon on
the left of that library and select its new path.
Product column Shows the name of each product. These names cannot be
edited.
Rescan button If you have made any change to a library (e.g., changed its
location), select it in the list and click the Rescan button to
rescan that library.
Preferences
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Global Controls and Preferences
User Pane
The User pane shows all user libraries currently used. These include KOMPLETE KONTROL’s
standard user directory as well as any other user directory you might have defined. These libraries will appear in the User view of the Browser’s Library pane.
Preferences
Preferences panel – the Library page’s User pane.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Element Description
Location column Shows the path of each library. If you have moved any library
to another location on your computer, click the folder icon on
the left of that library and select its new path.
Alias column Shows the alias stored for each library. Click an alias to edit it.
Defining aliases for your user folders is not mandatory, but it
can be of great help when working on different computers (see
description below). After adding a location (see Add below),
click the field in the new row and in the Alias column to set
the alias for that new location. The alias of the default user
folder, Native Instruments User Directory, cannot be edited —
this is the location where all your user files will be stored by
default.
Preferences
Scan user content
for changes at start-
Enabled by default, this option automatically detects any new
added user content when starting KOMPLETE KONTROL.
up
Add button Click Add to manually add directories to the user library. See
below for more details.
Remove button Click Remove to remove the selected user library. Files will
only be removed from the KOMPLETE KONTROL Browser, not
from your hard disk.
Rescan button If you have made any change to a library (e.g., added/removed
files), select it in the list and click the Rescan button to
rescan that library.
You can resize the Preferences panel at your convenience using the usual method on
your operating system. You can also resize each column by clicking and dragging the
limit between both column headers.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Adding Folders to the User Library
In the User pane of the Library page, you can add other folders to the user content of your
KOMPLETE KONTROL Library. To do this:
1. Click Add at the bottom of the pane.
A folder selection dialog opens up.
2. In the dialog, navigate to the desired folder on your computer and click OK (Choose on
macOS).
All KOMPLETE KONTROL-compatible files found in the selected folder are added to your
→
user content in KOMPLETE KONTROL.
KOMPLETE KONTROL-compatible files include ens, rkplr, nrkt, nksn, nfm8, nabs, nki,
nmsv, nbkt, nis.
Furthermore, the attributes (Instrument/Bank/Sub-Bank, Type/Sub-Type/Mode tags, as well as
properties) of all imported files will be retained.
By adding a folder to the user content of your KOMPLETE KONTROL Library, you make their
files available in the Browser’s Library pane for quick searching and loading.
Preferences
Paths to folders added via the IMPORT button in the Browser’s Files pane will also show
up here. The only difference between adding folders via the Add button in Preferences
panel, described here, and via the IMPORT button in the Files pane of the Browser is
that the latter allows you to directly tag the files as they are imported.
Please note that the selected folder cannot contain, or be contained within, a folder already
listed in the User or Factory pane. If KOMPLETE KONTROL detects such a folder as you press
OK (Choose on macOS) in the folder selection dialog, a Duplicate Location message appears:
Click OK to return to the folder selection dialog and select another folder on your computer.
Removing Folders from the User Library
You can also remove any user folder from your library—except the default user content directory Native Instruments User Content.
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Global Controls and Preferences
7.5.5 Preferences – Plug-ins Page
The Plug-ins page allows you to manage your VST plug-ins in KOMPLETE KONTROL.
At the top of the page, the Manager and Locations buttons allow you to switch between the
Manager pane and the Locations pane.
Manager Pane
The Manager Pane allows you to view and manage all VST plug-ins available in KOMPLETE
KONTROL. By default, all available plug-ins are activated for use in KOMPLETE KONTROL.
To deactivate a plug-in for use in KOMPLETE KONTROL, click on the checkbox icon next
►
to its name so it is unchecked.
The option to Always use latest version of NI Plug-ins selects whether or not your Library content is always loaded with the latest version of the associated plug-in. If this option is disabled,
your Library content is loaded with the lowest required version of the associated plug-in found
on the computer.
For example, this option is required if you have installed both the full version of REAKTOR 5 as well as a KOMPLETE Instrument that came with REAKTOR 6 Player. By disabling the option, the REAKTOR 5 Factory Library will be loaded with the full version of
REAKTOR 5, while the KOMPLETE Instrument will be loaded with REAKTOR 6 Player.
This is necessary since the REAKTOR 5 Factory Library is not authorized for use with
REAKTOR 6 Player.
Preferences
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Global Controls and Preferences
Preferences
Preferences panel — the Plug-ins page's Manager pane.
Element Description
Checkbox column Activates or deactivates a plug-in for use in KOMPLETE
KONTROL.
Plug-in column Lists all available VST plug-ins in KOMPLETE KONTROL.
Always use latest
version of NI Plugins
If this option in enabled (default), Library content is loaded
with the latest version of the associated plug-in.
If this option is disabled, Library content is loaded with the
lowest required version of the associated plug-in.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Locations Pane
The Locations pane allows you manage the folders containing your plug-ins on the hard drive.
KOMPLETE KONTROL scans these folders for VST plug-ins and adds them to the Manager
pane. You can Add and Remove folders from the list, as well as use the Rescan function to
update the available plug-ins in KOMPLETE KONTROL according to any changes made to the
folders or their contents.
To display the Locations pane, click the Locations button at the top of the Plug-ins page.
►
Preferences
Preferences panel — the Plug-ins page's Locations pane.
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Global Controls and Preferences
Setting Description
Plug-in column Lists all folders that KOMPLETE KONTROL scans for VST
plug-ins.
Add Opens a file dialogue that lets you add another folder to the
list.
Remove Removes the currently selected folder from the list.
Rescan Scans all folders in the list for compatible plug-ins and
updates the Manager pane accordingly.
Preferences
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MIDI Communication
8 MIDI Communication
KOMPLETE KONTROL provides you with flexible MIDI control and host automation capabilities for easy integration with your MIDI environment.
Incoming MIDI
KOMPLETE KONTROL and the Instruments you load inside it can be controlled via MIDI and
the host (when KOMPLETE KONTROL is loaded as a plug-in):
▪ Triggering Instruments via MIDI notes: By default, incoming MIDI notes trigger the loaded In-
strument and will also be visually reflected by the Light Guide.
▪ Controlling parameters via host automation: You can control parameters of both KOM-
PLETE KONTROL and your loaded Instruments via host automation (when KOMPLETE KONTROL is loaded as a plug-in).
Receiving MIDI Clock
KOMPLETE KONTROL does not receive MIDI Clock. However, when using KOMPLETE KONTROL as a plug-in, it is automatically synchronized to the host tempo. The tempo display in
KOMPLETE KONTROL’s header is grayed out and tempo is adjusted in the host.
Outgoing MIDI
You can also send MIDI data from KOMPLETE KONTROL:
▪ Triggering MIDI instruments and Recording MIDI notes: KOMPLETE KONTROL sends MIDI
Note, Pitch Bend, and Channel Pressure (aftertouch) messages to the host and to any MIDI
application or device.
▪ Controlling MIDI applications and devices: KOMPLETE KONTROL’s MIDI mode allows you to
send Control Change and Program Change messages to any MIDI application or device.
▪ Routing and recording processed MIDI notes: KOMPLETE KONTROL outputs the MIDI notes
generated by the Scale engine and the Arpeggiator through the MIDI outputs of the standalone application as well as the plug-in. You can route the MIDI notes to other MIDI instruments or record them as a MIDI pattern in the host.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 80
MIDI Communication
Host Automation
MIDI output is only supported by the stand-alone application as well as the VST and
AAX versions of the plug-in. The AU (Audio Unit) version of the plug-in does not support
MIDI output.
8.1 Host Automation
When you load KOMPLETE KONTROL as a plug-in in a host, the parameters of the loaded Instrument, the Scale engine, and the Arpeggiator become available for automation from the
host.
Available Parameters for Host Automation
All parameters available for automation are found in the Perform panel and the Plug-in panel.
Browser controls cannot be automated.
8.1.1 Automation IDs for the Perform Panel
The following automation IDs are reserved for parameters in KOMPLETE KONTROL’s Perform
panel:
Automation ID Parameter
000 Reserved for Instance Recognition
and Automatic Focus Follow
001 Scale On / Off
002 Root Note (Scale)
003 Scale Type (Scale)
004 Key Mode (Scale)
006 Chord Mode (Scale)
007 Chord Type (Scale)
026 Arp On / Off
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 81
Automation ID Parameter
027 Mode (Arp)
028 Type (Arp)
029 Rate (Arp)
030 Sequence (Arp)
031 Swing (Arp)
032 Octaves (Arp)
033 Dynamic (Arp)
034 Gate (Arp)
035 Retrigger (Arp)
036 Repeat (Arp)
037 Offset (Arp)
038 Inversion (Arp)
MIDI Communication
Host Automation
039 Min. Key (Arp)
040 Max. Key (Arp)
041 Hold (Arp)
8.1.2 Recording Automation
Many hosts require that you have enabled transport record in order to record automation, while
others make use of dedicated automation controls. Once the host is ready to record automation, you can start playback and adjust parameters on the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard in order to record them.
For detailed information regarding automation recording in the host, refer to its documentation.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 82
Changing the State of an On/Off Switch
To change the state of an on/off switch:
1. Click the corresponding button with your computer mouse.
2. Turn the knob on the keyboard currently assigned to the corresponding parameter.
MIDI Communication
Host Automation
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 83
Selecting Another Entry from a Drop-Down Menu
To select another entry from a drop-down menu:
1. Click the corresponding menu with your computer mouse and select an entry.
MIDI Communication
Host Automation
2. Turn the knob on the keyboard currently assigned to the corresponding parameter.
Changing the Value of a Drag Control
To change the value of a drag control:
1. Click and drag the corresponding drag control with your computer mouse.
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MIDI Communication
Using the Keyboard in MIDI Mode
2. Turn the knob on the keyboard currently assigned to the corresponding parameter.
Some hosts let you handle automation by using automation IDs that are mapped to specific
parameters of the plug-in. KOMPLETE KONTROL comes with a predefined list of automation
IDs that lets the host find them automatically.
8.2 Using the Keyboard in MIDI Mode
Besides using the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard in combination with the KOMPLETE KONTROL software, you can also use it in MIDI mode as a versatile MIDI controller to
pilot MIDI applications or devices, both via USB or via 5-pin DIN MIDI connections.
KOMPLETE KONTROL sends MIDI Note, Pitch Bend, and Channel Pressure (aftertouch) messages to trigger MIDI instruments, as well as Control Change and Program Change messages to
control any MIDI application or device.
▪ When you switch on the keyboard and the displays show the message PRESS BROWSE,
you are controlling an instance of the KOMPLETE KONTROL software.
▪ When you switch on the keyboard and the displays show various MIDI CC numbers, the
keyboard is in MIDI mode. The keyboard directly launches into MIDI mode when the KOMPLETE KONTROL software is not running.
Switching to MIDI Mode
To switch the keyboard between controlling the KOMPLETE KONTROL software and MIDI
mode:
Press MIDI on the keyboard.
►
To leave MIDI mode, press any button switching to another mode.
►
When using the KOMPLETE KONTROL plug-in in a supported host, the keyboard automatically switches between controlling the KOMPLETE KONTROL software and MIDI
mode, depending on the content of the selected track.
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MIDI Communication
Using the Keyboard as Stand-Alone MIDI Controller
MIDI Assignment
The MIDI mode’s versatility is made possible by the MIDI Assignment editor, which allows you
to freely define MIDI assignments for the controls on the keyboard. For more information, refer
to ↑8.4, Using the MIDI Assignment Editor.
Use the Page left / right buttons on the keyboard to switch between Pages you created in
►
the MIDI Assignment editor.
Use the PRESET up / down buttons on the keyboard to switch between Templates you
►
created in the MIDI Assignment editor.
8.3 Using the Keyboard as Stand-Alone MIDI Controller
If you power up the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard without an USB connection
(while the power supply is connected), you can use it as a stand-alone MIDI controller by connecting MIDI devices to the 5-pin DIN MIDI sockets on the keyboard’s rear panel.
The keybed and the controls on the keyboard send out the following MIDI messages:
Control Element
Pedal A Controller Tip 64
Message
Type
CC# Mode / Type Range /
Values
Gate 0-127 Damper Pedal On /
Ring
Control Function
Off (Sustain)
65
Pedal B Controller 11 - 0-127 Expression
Controller
Pitch
Wheel
Modulatio
n Wheel
Pitch
- - 0-127 Pitch Bend
Bend
Controller 1 - 0-127 Modulation Wheel
or Leaver
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MIDI Communication
Using the Keyboard as Stand-Alone MIDI Controller
Control Element
Touch
Strip
Message
CC# Mode / Type Range /
Type
Controller 11 Mode: Standard
Display: Unipolar
Control Function
Values
0-127 Expression
Controller
LED Mode: Bar
Encoder 1 Controller 14 Absolute 0-127 Undefined
Encoder 2 Controller 15 Absolute 0-127 Undefined
Encoder 3 Controller 16 Absolute 0-127 General Purpose
Controller 1
Encoder 4 Controller 17 Absolute 0-127 General Purpose
Controller 2
Encoder 5 Controller 18 Absolute 0-127 General Purpose
Controller 3
Encoder 6 Controller 19 Absolute 0-127 General Purpose
Controller 4
Encoder 7 Controller 20 Absolute 0-127 Undefined
Encoder 8 Controller 21 Absolute 0-127 Undefined
Button 1 Controller 112 Toggle (Action on
Down)
Button 2 Controller 113 Toggle (Action on
Down)
Button 3 Controller 114 Toggle (Action on
Down)
Button 4 Controller 115 Toggle (Action on
Down)
Button 5 Controller 116 Toggle (Action on
Down)
Off 0 / On 127 Undefined
Off 0 / On 127 Undefined
Off 0 / On 127 Undefined
Off 0 / On 127 Undefined
Off 0 / On 127 Undefined
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MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
Control Element
Button 6 Controller 117 Toggle (Action on
Message
Type
CC# Mode / Type Range /
Values
Off 0 / On 127 Undefined
Control Function
Down)
Button 7 Controller 118 Toggle (Action on
Off 0 / On 127 Undefined
Down)
Button 8 Controller 119 Toggle (Action on
Off 0 / On 127 Undefined
Down)
8.4 Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
This section guides you through the process of assigning MIDI messages to control elements
using the MIDI Assignment editor. In the KOMPLETE KONTROL stand-alone application with
the keyboard connected, the Panic button is replaced with the MIDI Assignment editor button
that lets you to access the MIDI Assignment editor with all the settings related to the keyboard’s MIDI mode.
When using the MIDI Assignment editor, all keyboard controls (i.e. navigation, transport,
etc.) are blocked.
MIDI Assignment editor button.
8.4.1 Assigning MIDI Messages to Control Elements
The workflow of assigning MIDI messages applies to all types of control elements and is as follows:
1. Click on the MIDI Assignment editor button to open the MIDI Assignment editor.
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 88
2. Select or create a Template in the Templates pane.
3. Select the type of control element.
4. Select the control element you want to assign a MIDI message to.
MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
5. Define the MIDI message using the several drop-down menus and options in the Definition area.
⇨ The available drop-down menus and options in the Definition area vary depending on the
selected type of control element as well as from the selections in the Definition area itself.
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MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
6. If required select or create another page for making multiple assignments.
7. When you finished assigning MIDI messages, close the MIDI Assignment editor.
→ Your edits are saved to the Template(s).
8.4.2 Renaming Control Elements
Apart from assigning MIDI messages you can also rename the control element to your liking.
1. Double-click on current name of the control element.
2. Enter the desired name with a maximum length of seven characters.
3. Press the enter key to confirm.
→ The name of the control element has been changed.
Renaming Templates and Pages is not possible.
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MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
8.4.3 The Mapping System
Whatever you do on the keyboard, the MIDI Assignment editor translates it into a MIDI message that is then sent to the desired MIDI port — this is what the MIDI Assignment editor is all
about: mapping human actions to MIDI events.
The MIDI Assignment editor’s mapping system is structured in a way that allows you to efficiently organize your assignments. This makes the whole mapping process a lot easier and informs you about what will happen whenever you actuate a control element on the keyboard.
The next paragraphs will introduce you to some basic concepts.
Assignments
An assignment defines which MIDI event is triggered by a particular control element. Available
MIDI event types are “MIDI Note,” “MIDI CC,” etc. Every action on a control element is translated into one MIDI event, the corresponding assignment defines the rules of that translation.
Depending on the type of control element (button, knob, pedal input…), the available assignments differ.
Pages
You can have multiple assignments, organized in Pages. A Page is a set of assignments for all
control elements in this Page area. One Page can be selected (and loaded) at a time. You can
switch the available Pages via the Page list in the Inspector. You can do it as well from the
keyboard.
When you select another Page, all assignments for the control elements in the Page area are
updated accordingly.
Templates
A Template holds a mapping configuration for all control elements on the keyboard, including
all Pages that might exist. One Template can be selected at a time. Switching between different Templates can be used, for example, to address different applications on your computer or
different MIDI instruments.
The Template contains all Page data, including (for each type of Pages) the list of Pages and
the index of the last selected Page.
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MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
8.4.4 MIDI Message Types – Type Menu
For all control elements, the assignment definition starts with the same menu: the Type menu.
The Type drop-down menu specifies the type of MIDI message that has to be sent upon action
on this control element. Depending on the type of control element, the entries in this menu
will differ (for example, sending a “play” command from a knob wouldn’t make much sense).
All other parameters displayed in the Definition area depend both on the type of control element that you are working on, and on the type of MIDI message selected in this Type menu.
Below is a list of all possible MIDI message types to be found in the Type menu.
▪ Control Change: Sends a MIDI Control Change message. This message is sent over a specif-
ic MIDI channel set by the Channel parameter (range from 1 to 16, 1 by default). This
message tells your target to change the value of a specific continuous controller — controlling for example some effect’s depth in your music application. The continuous controller
(CC) number is specified via the Number parameter (range from 0 to 127). The values to
be sent for that controller are specified in various ways, depending on the type of the selected control element (see next sections).
▪ Program Change: Sends a MIDI Program Change message. This message is sent over a spe-
cific MIDI channel set by the Channel parameter (range from 1 to 16, 1 by default). It tells
the target to switch to another program (or patch, preset…). The program number to be
sent can be specified in various ways, depending on the type of the selected control element (see next sections).
▪ Note: Sends a MIDI Note On/Off message. This message is sent over a specific MIDI chan-
nel set by the Channel parameter (range from 1 to 16, 1 by default). It tells your target to
play or stop the MIDI Note specified via the Note parameter (range from C-2 to G8). The
message also defines the velocity at which the note is played. This velocity is specified in
various ways, depending on the type of the selected control element (see next sections).
▪ Off: Deactivates MIDI for the control element. Select this entry to disable that control ele-
ment or action. The control element / action won’t send any MIDI message, hence no parameter is displayed.
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MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
8.4.5 Assignments for Knobs
For the Knobs, the Type menu offers the entries Control Change and Program Change. Depending on the selected entry, the further available options differ subsequently. The following table
details the different combinations of options:
Type Menu Value Mode Menu Range Number Step
Control Change Absolute From 0-126 / To
1-127
Number
(0-127)
Relative Step (-32 to
31)
Relative (Offset) Step (-32 to
31)
Program Change From 0-126 / To
1-127
Mode Menu Values for Knobs
For the type Control Change, a Mode menu allows you to select between three operating
modes:
▪ Absolute: In this mode the control element sends absolute values. The Range From, To, and
Resolution parameters are the same as for the other message types (see above).
▪ Relative: In this mode the sent message is in a +1/-1 fashion — actually 1/127, which is
then understood by the target software as +1/-1 in that case. This allows the control element to set the new Control Change value relatively to its current value. Two parameters
are available:
◦ Step: Defines the increment to use. Increase the Step value to trigger greater jumps in
the target parameter value. If you choose a negative value for Step, the control will be
inverted.
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MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
◦ Resolution: Adjusts the sensitivity of the control element to your actions. At high Res-
olution values, a little movement of the control element will be enough to trigger the
message. At lower Resolution values, you will have to move it more frankly to trigger
the message.
▪ Relative (Offset): This mode is similar to the Relative mode explained above, with the differ-
ence that here the values sent for the “+1” and “-1” messages are 65 and 63, respectively
— in other terms, they are centered around 64 instead of 0. This is well suited for some
particular software implementations. As in Relative mode, a Step parameter defines the increment to use, and a Resolution parameter adjusts the sensitivity of the control element
to your actions.
8.4.6 Assignments for Buttons
For the Buttons, the Type menu offers the entries Control Change, Program Change, and Note.
Depending on the selected entry, the further available options differ subsequently. The following table details the different combinations of options:
Type Menu Value Mode Menu Value Value Number Note
Control Change Toggle Off / On
(0-127)
Number
(0-127)
Trigger 0 - 127
Program Change Toggle Off / On
(0-127)
Trigger 0 - 127
Note Toggle Off / On
Note C-2 – G8
(0-127)
Trigger 0 - 127
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MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
Mode Menu Values for Buttons
For the buttons control elements listed in the above table, and only for some of the MIDI message types available for these control elements, you can choose from different behaviors for the
way the data is sent. This is controlled by the Mode menu. This menu can have up to four entries, depending on the message type that you have selected in the Type menu. Here is the list
of all possible entries:
▪ Toggle: In this mode, the control element has two states, On and Off. If you press once, it
switches to the On state — if you press again, it switches to the Off state. This can be useful for example for activating some effect, then deactivating it later. This is usually the default mode. In this mode, you find two numeric fields: Off Value defines the value for the
Off state (from 0 to 127, 0 by default), and On Value defines the value for the On state (0
to 127, 127 by default). For the Note message type, since the Off state is predefined (it’s
the MIDI Note Off message), you find instead a single Value parameter defining the velocity of the MIDI Note On message.
▪ Trigger: In this mode, only one message is sent when you hit the control element. There are
no On or Off states. For example, this can be useful for switching to another program (preset, patch…) or for triggering one-shot samples (e.g. drum sounds or any other envelopecontrolled sounds). In this mode, you thus find only one numeric field called Value, defining the value to be sent when you hit the control element. It goes from 0 to 127 (127 by
default).
8.4.7 Assignments for Pedals (Switch)
For Pedals used as switch, the Type menu offers the entries Control Change and Program
Change. Depending on the selected entry, the further available options differ subsequently.
The following table details the different combinations of options:
Type Menu
Value
Control
Change
Trigger 0 - 127 Number
Mode Menu
Range Value Number Step / Wrap
Value
Toggle / Gate Off / On
(0-127)
Number
(0-127)
(0-127)
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MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
Type Menu
Value
Inc Min / Max
Mode Menu
Value
Range Value Number Step / Wrap
Step (-128 to
(0-127)
127) / Wrap
Program
Change
Toggle / Gate Off / On
(0-127)
Trigger 0 - 127
Inc Min / Max
(0-127)
Step (-128 to
127) / Wrap
Mode Menu Values for Pedals (Switch)
For the button-like control elements listed in the above table, and only for some of the MIDI
message types available for these control elements, you can choose from different behaviors
for the way the data is sent. This is controlled by the Mode menu. This menu can have up to
four entries, depending on the message type that you have selected in the Type menu. Here is
the list of all possible entries:
▪ Toggle: In this mode, the control element has two states, On and Off. If you press once, it
switches to the On state — if you press again, it switches to the Off state. This can be useful for example for activating some effect, then deactivating it later. This is usually the default mode. In this mode, you find two numeric fields: Off Value defines the value for the
Off state (from 0 to 127, 0 by default), and On Value defines the value for the On state (0
to 127, 127 by default). For the Note message type, since the Off state is predefined (it’s
the MIDI Note Off message), you find instead a single Value parameter defining the velocity of the MIDI Note On message.
▪ Gate: This mode is equal to Toggle with the difference that the state is active for the time
the Pedal is hold depressed. In Toggle mode the state is activated until the next time the
Pedal is pressed again.
▪ Trigger: In this mode, only one message is sent when you hit the control element. There are
no On or Off states. For example, this can be useful for switching to another program (preset, patch…) or for triggering one-shot samples (e.g. drum sounds or any other envelope-
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MIDI Communication
Using the MIDI Assignment Editor
controlled sounds). In this mode, you thus find only one numeric field called Value, defining the value to be sent when you hit the control element. It goes from 0 to 127 (127 by
default).
▪ Inc: In this mode you can configure the press of a pedal to step through a list of values by
choosing the size of the jump (e.g. 1-2-3-4-5, 2-4-6-8-10 or 3-6-9-12-15), and whether or
not the values wrap around back to the beginning, or stop when they reach their minimum
or maximum.
8.4.8 Assignments for Pedals (Continuous)
For Pedals used as continuous control, the Type menu offers the entries Control Change and
Program Change. Depending on the selected entry, the further available options differ subse-
quently. The following table details the different combinations of options:
Type Menu Value Mode Menu Range Number
Control Change From 0-126 / To 1-127 Number (0-127)
Program Change From 0-126 / To 1-127
KOMPLETE KONTROL - Manual - 97
Host Integration
Integration with MASCHINE
9 Host Integration
When using advanced host integration, the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard becomes
the centerpiece of your studio setup. You can use it to control not only the Instrument loaded
in KOMPLETE KONTROL, but also core functionality of supported hosts.
Advanced integration between the new MK2 generation of the KOMPLETE KONTROL SSeries keyboard and Steinberg Cubase / Nuendo is coming soon.
Advanced integration of KOMPLETE KONTROL is available in the following hosts:
▪ MASCHINE
▪ Apple Logic Pro X
▪ Apple GarageBand
▪ Ableton Live
9.1 Integration with MASCHINE
If you own MASCHINE, you can control many of MASCHINE’s functions directly from the
KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series keyboard. Furthermore, the Arrange buttons on the keyboard
give you access to certain modes and views of the MASCHINE software that makes the integration of KOMPLETE KONTROL into MASCHINE straight-forward. This section gives you an overview of the basic controls functions as well as of the advanced integration controls using the
Arrange buttons.
In order to connect the keyboard to MASCHINE:
Click on the Keyboard icon in the Header.
►
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Integration with MASCHINE
Connect to MASCHINE using the Keyboard
Press INSTANCE on the keyboard.
►
Select the MASCHINE instance shown in the display.
►
Press Button 8 (SELECT) to connect the keyboard to MASCHINE.
►
9.1.1 Overview of Basic Control Functions
The available basic control functions mapped to the sections of the keyboard are listed below.
TRANSPORT Section
Button on KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series Action in MASCHINE
PLAY Start/stop playback
SHIFT + PLAY (RESTART) Restart playback at the beginning of the Loop
Range
REC Enable/disable recording
Host Integration
SHIFT + REC (COUNT-IN) Record with count-in
STOP Stop
METRO Enable/disable the metronome
TEMPO Tap in Tempo
LOOP Enable/disable Loop
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Integration with MASCHINE
PERFORM Section
Button on KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series Action in MASCHINE
SCALE Enable/disable SCALE for the selected Group
ARP Enable/Disable ARP for the selected Group
SHIFT + SCALE Edit SCALE for the selected Group
SHIFT + ARP Edit ARP for the selected Group
QUANTIZE Opens the Quantize settings
AUTO Enables automation.
UNDO Redo Undo the last action performed
SHIFT + UNDO Redo Redo the last action performed
PRESET and Page Buttons
Host Integration
Button on KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series
PRESET Up Selects the previous Preset file
PRESET Down Selects the next Preset file
Page left Skip the Plug-in page to the left
Page right Skip the Plug-in page to the right
Action in MASCHINE
Mode Buttons
Button on KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series
BROWSER Opens the Browser in the displays
PLUG-IN Opens the Plug-in view
MIXER Opens the Mixer view
INSTANCE Switch between MASCHINE and
Action in MASCHINE
KOMPLETE KONTROL instances
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