The Native Instruments Maschine MK3 is a feature-rich drum controller and production tool that has earned its place as a top-tier device for music creators. Combining excellent hardware with powerful software integration, it caters to DJs, producers, and live performers alike. Here’s an in-depth look at its capabilities, design, and performance.
What really should be the main topic here is the fact that Native Instruments’ Maschine Mk3 drum controller is a professional drum controlling pad that is also very intuitive and friendly to beginners as well.
After much praise from many satisfied musicians, we wanted to check out the extent of its brilliance in practice. Without any further ado, let’s see what Native Instruments’ Maschine Mk3 drum controller comes supplied with, is it worth the money, and at the end of the day, is it as good as people say. Let’s move on to the Native Instruments’ Maschine Mk3 drum controller review.
Native Instruments Maschine Mk3 Review
Key Features of the new Maschine Mk3:
Starting from the very top, we have the usual software controls – channel, plug-in, arranger, mixer, browser, sampling, and numerous other fine-tuning elements are sitting right next beside the large, backlit display. In fact, the display itself is so well-built that it probably deserves a special segment of its own; in short, it offers a clearly visible and approachable overview of all of the active and selectable settings.
- Improved Performance Pads: The MK3 features 16 large, highly responsive pads, ideal for finger drumming and live performances. The pads are more sensitive and slightly larger than in previous models, ensuring better playability.
- Dual High-Resolution Color Displays: Borrowed from Maschine Studio, these screens make browsing, sequencing, and sound editing intuitive without needing to glance at your computer.
- Integrated Audio Interface: With 24-bit/96 kHz resolution, it provides professional-grade recording and playback, including TRS inputs/outputs, a headphone jack, and a mic input. It eliminates the need for an external audio interface for many users.
- Smart Strip: This touch-sensitive strip allows for pitch bends, modulation, and unique expressive controls like strumming virtual strings.
- Massive Software Library: The Maschine MK3 includes the KOMPLETE 11 SELECT library with over 25 GB of sounds and effects, enhancing its versatility for music production.
Needless to say, it’s one of the finest drum controller pads that you can get for the money as an arranger or music producer who wants to approach the songwriting process in the most versatile way possible, at least the drums.
The simple outline of the many features Native Instruments’ Maschine Mk3 drum controller comes supplied with allows you to perform live with it without having to batter down the steep learning curve most drum pads present as an obstacle.
Advanced Features Revolutionizing Music Production and Performance
- Stem Separation: Maschine 3 now integrates iZotope RX technology, allowing users to split audio into stems like drums, bass, and vocals. This enhances remixing and creative possibilities.
- Maschine Central: A redefined library offering 100+ kits, 144 Kontakt instruments, and synth presets from Monark, Massive, and Prism, among others.
- MIDI Editing Tools: Advanced tools include note splitting, muting, audible previews, and more, making it a robust option for fine MIDI adjustments.
- Custom Scene Tempos: Users can set unique tempos for different scenes, enabling more intricate arrangements during performances.
- Aftertouch and Expression: The pads support aftertouch for nuanced performance. Combined with the smart strip, they offer unparalleled expressive control.
- Improved Integration with Kontrol S-Series MK3: Includes transport controls, NKS support, and on-keyboard module displays for streamlined hybrid workflows.
- Bounce-in-Place: This feature converts patterns into audio files directly, saving CPU power and facilitating creative freedom.
Design and Built Quality:
What’s really important about the Mk3’s design is that it sports a set of really big pads. All of the controls and features are slightly oversized for easier use, which only affirms what we said earlier about it being great for beginner musicians, producers, and pretty much anyone who wants to program drum beats and loops.
The Maschine MK3 is a sleek and compact device with a sturdy, professional-grade build. Measuring 12.6″ x 11.85″ x 1.61″ and weighing about 4.85 pounds, it is portable while remaining robust. Its matte finish and streamlined layout improve both aesthetics and functionality. Dedicated buttons for key modes (Pad, Chord, Keyboard) and redesigned navigation enhance the workflow, making it user-friendly for beginners and experienced producers.
What’s more, the main settings are underlined and colored in a very intuitive way, eliminating the need to constantly ‘hunt’ for the keys you need as you are getting accustomed to how the drum controller works.
Performance and Usability:
The Maschine MK3’s integration with its software ecosystem is seamless, allowing users to quickly produce and arrange tracks. Features like the step sequencer, sampler, and mixer make it easy to layer sounds, tweak parameters, and structure your tracks.
The Maschine MK3 excels in its intuitive workflow. Beginners will appreciate the large, color-coded controls, while professionals can take advantage of advanced features like:
- Lock States: Save and morph between parameter snapshots, opening new creative possibilities during live performances or sound design.
- Touch-Sensitive Knobs: Eight customizable knobs offer dynamic control over various parameters.
- Seamless Integration: The device pairs perfectly with Maschine software and other DAWs, allowing for both standalone use and extensive integration with production setups.
Connectivity options on the MK3?
The MK3 offers extensive connectivity, including:
- Two TRS line inputs and outputs
- A headphone out
- MIDI In/Out
- A dynamic microphone input
- A USB 2.0 port
- Footswitch input for hands-free control
The Maschine MK3 boasts exceptional connectivity with two 0.25-inch TRS-line outputs, two 0.25-inch TRS inputs, a 0.25-inch dynamic-microphone input, a stereo out, one MIDI in, one MIDI out, and on top of it all, a footswitch.
After you purchase it, make sure you take the Udemy course of a complete guide to Machine MK3.
Maschine MK3 excels in various environments:
What’s really phenomenal about this neat little drum controller is that it performs astoundingly well in every possible environment. Due to the fact that it rocks an intuitive design, it’s perfect for DJs and musicians in-the-making; it’s a professional console suitable for all kinds of studio work, but it’s also great for home practice.
- In Studio: Ideal for songwriting, sound design, and mixing. The intuitive interface reduces screen dependency, enabling a smoother workflow.
- Live Performances: Thanks to its durable build, versatile MIDI integration, and real-time effect controls, it’s an excellent choice for DJs and live acts.
- For Beginners: The layout is friendly, and the tutorials make it accessible even to those new to beat-making
Whether you’re in a studio or performing live, the NI Maschine MK3 adapts seamlessly. Its audio interface ensures minimal latency (as low as 4.24ms at 32 samples), making it reliable for high-pressure scenarios. The Smart Strip and enhanced displays reduce reliance on external gear, while the robust pads provide a tactile, engaging experience.
All things considered, this is a well-rounded professional drum controlling console that reminds us why drum machines are slowly replacing the world of ‘analog’ drumming. Its performance has easily earned the perfect score of 10 out of 10, as we’re sure everyone who has ever used Native Instruments’ Maschine Mk3 drum controller will easily agree with.
Video: Getting started with Maschine MK3 BY Jef Gibbons:
Pros:
Excellent connectivity is probably the first thing that comes to mind when we think about the benefits Mk3 offers. It sports a phone out, two Line outs, microphone in, two Line ins, MIDI out, MIDI in, USB in, and a footswitch pedal input.
On top of that, the functionality and versatility of this drum controller are absolutely staggering. You’ll also be able to play around and experiment with hundreds and hundreds of voices, sounds, timbres, and effects, as the ‘Komplete’ library features twenty-five gigabytes of pure fun.
A perfect addition to every home recording studio and DJ setup!
Cons:
The only thing that we thought could be improved in regards to Maschine Mk3 is that the pads are quite huge this time around. In fact, the entire Mk3 series boasts bigger pads, which is not necessarily great for everyone.
People who were accustomed to the mid-sized pads of Mk2 might have a difficult time transitioning to the jumbo bums of the Mk3. However, if you’re new to Native Instruments’ controllers, you’ll probably find them as very easy to use and navigate.
Native Instruments Maschine Mk3 Mikro Review
Differences Between Native Instruments Maschine Mk3 vs Mikro Version
The MK3 is significantly more powerful than the Maschine Mikro. While both use the same software, the MK3 includes:
- A larger library (25 GB vs. 1.6 GB)
- Dual high-resolution screens
- Additional MIDI I/O and footswitch compatibility
- Touch-sensitive knobs and a Smart Strip
There’s the world’s worth of differences between Native Instruments Maschine Mk3 and the Mikro version, despite the fact that they both belong to the same line of drum controllers.
Aside from the fact that the Maschine Mikro costs several times less, it feels like this particular model is actually Mk3, but ‘chopped’ in half. While the Mk3 sports a massive ‘Komplete’ library worth 25 gigabytes of loops, effects, and sounds, the Mikro version sports a fragmented ‘Factory Selection’ that sports only 1.6 gigabytes.
What’s so great about both models is that they’re both powered by the same type of Maschine Software, which basically means that they’re (almost) equal in terms of power.
Obviously, the display of the Mikro version is significantly smaller and more compact; it’s perfect for accurate, focused browsing and monitoring a narrow selection of parameters while the Maschine Mk3 offers a great overview of all the features. Being a bigger console, it essentially is much easier to navigate as well.
Another huge difference between Native Instruments Maschine Mk3 and Mikro is in the sheer number of encoders they come supplied with. Basically, Mk3 features eight touch-sensitive knobs plus a four-directional push encoder whereas the Mikro version has a single multi-function encoder.
What most people adore about Mk3 is precisely what they dislike about the Mikro version; the former features three MIDI outs and one MIDI in while Mikro doesn’t come supplied with any sort of MIDI I/O. Furthermore, Mikro is not footswitch compatible whereas Maschine Mk3 is and comes supplied with one in the bundle.
Everything else is roughly the same in terms of DAW integration, the number of scenes-per-project, power infusion type, hardware style, and such.
For more performance pads like the Maschine, check out the best MIDI controllers for Ableton.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Maschine MK3 be used standalone?
No, it requires a computer and the Maschine software to function. - Is it compatible with all DAWs?
Yes, it integrates seamlessly with most major DAWs via MIDI. - What are the system requirements?
It requires macOS or Windows, at least 4 GB of RAM, and USB 2.0. - Can I use it for live looping?
Yes, it’s great for live looping with its sampler and sequencer tools. - Does it come with training resources?
Yes, Native Instruments offers tutorials, and many online courses are available.
Final Thoughts
The Native Instruments Maschine MK3 is a stellar upgrade in the world of drum controllers. Its balance of usability, power, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for music producers and live performers alike. Whether you’re producing in the studio or crafting beats on the go, the MK3 delivers uncompromising performance.
Whether you’re producing music in the studio or performing live, the Maschine MK3 delivers precision, versatility, and inspiration.