AKAI & Native Instruments NKS Support!!

AKAI and Native Instruments have teamed up to bring native support of NI's NKS protocol to AKAI MPK Controllers. On top of this, you'll also get a FREE copy of Kontakt Select Beats, Band or Electronic with your AKAI MPK Controller. Musicians and producers, what a time to be alive!

Robin Tindill

Robin Tindill

We all know that music production is serious business when recording, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun, right? Well, get ready to level up your production game because the partnership between Akai Professional and Native Instruments (NI) is about to make your music creation smoother, quicker, and more exciting than ever before. By combining Akai’s renowned MIDI Keyboards & controllers with Native Instruments’ epic software library, you’re about to experience a match made in music heaven.

So, what’s the big deal? When you pick up select Akai MPK Controllers, not only will you get access to Komplete Select, but you’ll also receive a free Native Instruments software bundle to get you started. That’s right, FREE software that’ll make your beats, riffs, and synth lines sound next level from the moment you open the box. Let’s dive into the details.

AKAI MPK MIDI Controllers

What is NKS Integration, and Why Should You Care?

The TLDR:

  • NKS stands for Native Kontrol Standard.
  • NKS integration means your Akai MPK Mini MK3, MPK Mini Play MK3, or MPK Mini Plus will instantly communicate with your Native Instruments software.
  • No need to waste time trying to figure out complicated setups. Just plug in, and your Akai controller automatically maps itself to Komplete Select and other compatible NI instruments though we guess invisible magic.

This nifty integration means you can control virtual instruments, tweak sounds, and explore presets all from your controller’s LCD screen. The best part? You’ll be able to focus on what really matters, making music, while your Akai controller does all the technical work. If that’s not the dream, what is?

Free Native Instruments Select Software with Your Akai MPK Controller

Ready for the real cherry on top? When you purchase an Akai MPK Mini MK3, MPK Mini Play MK3, or MPK Mini Plus, you’ll get access to some serious sound magic. You’ll find a download link or product key in the box (yes, in the box, no sneaky subscriptions required) to grab your free Native Instruments Select software. And the best part? You get to choose which flavour of NI software fits your vibe. Here’s the rundown:

  • Beats Edition:
    Calling all beatmakers! Whether you’re into pop, hip hop, or R&B, this bundle gives you everything you need to make killer beats. Think Massive X, Battery 4, and Empire Breaks, along with top-tier effects like Supercharger GT and iZotope Ozone Elements. Yup, this one’s a beast.
  • Band Edition:
    If you’re more of a songwriter or a jamming session enthusiast, this one’s for you. With Session Guitarist – Strummed Acoustic, Scarbee Rickenbacker Bass, and Studio Drummer, you’ll have all the tools to bring your musical ideas to life. Plus, with Guitar Rig 7 LE and iZotope Nectar 4 Elements, your tracks will sound as polished as your most brilliant ideas.
  • Electronic Edition:
    Ready to drop some serious electronic tracks? This edition comes with Massive X, TRK-01, and Replika XT, perfect for crafting everything from techno to trance. With sound design tools like Phasis and Driver, you’ll be cooking up next-gen beats in no time. And don’t forget the Progressive Trance Leap Expansion and iZotope Ozone Elements to put the finishing touch on your tracks.

Native Instruments Komplete Select range

Whichever bundle you pick, you’ll have access to a treasure trove of sounds. And did we mention it’s free?

How Does the Akai x Native Instruments Partnership Enhance Your MPC Workflow?

Let’s talk workflow. If you’ve ever used the Akai MPC series, you know how smooth and intuitive it is for creating beats and sequencing music. Well, now you can get the same power from the MPK Mini series, with the added bonus of NKS integration. This means you can control all your Komplete Select sounds without the fuss, making it easier than ever to get lost in your creative flow.

Use the pads to trigger NI instruments and effects, tweak parameters with the knobs, and get your melodies and beats down in style. The MPK Mini Plus even comes with a 37-key layout and built-in sequencer, so it’s perfect for creating full tracks on the go. And with Komplete Select software bundled in, your workflow just got a serious upgrade.

How Does the Native Instruments Upgrade Path Work?

If you’re looking to take things even further, Native Instruments offers a smooth upgrade path. After you’ve had your fun with Komplete Select, you can upgrade to Komplete 13 or Komplete 13 Ultimate for access to over 90 instruments, 150+ effects, and thousands of sounds. So, while Komplete Select is already a powerhouse, this upgrade lets you unlock an even bigger arsenal of sounds for your music-making journey.

One important thing to note: Komplete Select and the free software bundles (Beats, Band, and Electronic) are only included with Akai MPK controllers. MPC series products don’t come with this package. So, make sure you grab an MPK Mini controller to get your hands on this exclusive offer.

In Conclusion

The Akai x Native Instruments partnership is a game changer for anyone serious about music production. With NKS integration and free access to Komplete Select and the software bundles, you’ll be armed with the tools to make your best music yet, whether you’re crafting beats, writing songs, or producing electronic bangers.

The included software is a huge bonus, and did we mention it’s free? Combine that with Akai’s intuitive controllers, and you’ve got a powerful combination that’ll make your creative process smoother and more exciting than ever. Plus, with the upgrade path to even more sounds, the possibilities are endless.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your hands on an Akai MPK Mini series controller today, unlock your free Native Instruments Select software, and start making the music you’ve always dreamed of.

Robin Tindill
Robin Tindill

Responses & Questions

Leave a Reply