The additive synthesis module (Sine Bank) forms the basis of a new instrument, Lazerbass, while the modal synthesis module (Modal Bank) forms the basis of a new 'Komplete Instrument' add-on, Reaktor Prism. In essence, it builds on the considerable changes that appeared five years ago, improving overall workflow, adding two additional synthesis modes ( additive and modal) and significantly boosting the incorporated sounds library. So, it's fitting that the arrival of Komplete 7 should also coincide with some news on the Reaktor front, and this comes in the form of Reaktor 5.5 and Reaktor Prism.Īs indicated by the title, NI see Reaktor 5.5 as an update rather than an entirely new version, and correspondingly it's a free update for registered users. Surprising perhaps given that version 5 had been around since 2005. One NI instrument that made it through this process unscathed was Reaktor. Needless to say the result was still an impressive package, but easier to understand in terms not only of use, but also underlying synthesis. Sample-based instruments were either rolled directly into Kontakt or reworked into add-on packs in Kore or Kontakt format, and a number of products (Pro-53 for example) were discontinued. Last year's version 6 release of Native Instruments' Komplete coincided with a considerable re-jig of their software instruments and effects.There’s also VSTi and VST FX support, tag-based browsing with Previews and integration with Maschine software. There are a number of the performance features from the much larger KK keyboards so you get Smart Play (chords, scales and arpeggios), pre-mapped control of all Komplete and NKS-format software instruments and effects and control of key features in Logic, Garageband and Live, with Cubase and Nuendo support coming soon. To the left are transport controls, octave, scale, arp, undo and more, with secondary functions accessed via Shift pressing. So at the top right there’s buttons for the Browser, Plug-In or Track Selection. The buttons feature the core controls you need to operate NI’s software and other DAWs from the hardware. It’s the only visual feedback (though the buttons are backlit) - a cost saving measure, but an acceptable one. There are 8 touch sensitive control knobs, two touch strips and a four-way push encoder as well as an OLED display that is small but perfectly functional. There’s some resistance, they don’t just flop up and down, so you can be expressive with them. The 32 synth-action keys are small but much more playable than you might expect. And boy, do you get a lot of integration and extra goodies for your modest spend here. The M32 however is at its best when paired with NI’s software. There’s also a TRS pedal input that can be assigned to the sustain parameter, and like all KK keyboards, it can work as a generic MIDI controller. But you can add your own cable to connect to to a USB-C device. There’s no USB-C included yet - this format is still in the process of becoming the industry standard, which will take a couple more years. It is USB 2 bus powered and of course this bundled cable also carries MIDI. And at just 1.4KG, it really can be carried in a fairly small bag alongside your computer or iPad. It’s smaller in every physical way, but with NI’s engineering talent and software ecosystem behind it, has more functionality than you would expect from such a compact unit. Enter NI’s new baby - the Komplete Kontrol M32 MIDI controller keyboard.
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