Dear Sanjay, this is one of the best reviews I've seen for a LOOOONG time. Straight to the point, very informative, friendly and down-to-earth. Will be definitely tuning it your other reviews in the future!
@@SanjayC Great review Sanjay on the S88! Considering this is a midi keyboard controller, how does it compare to its competitor the Yamaha KX88 Midi Keyboard Controller? (W/Fully weighted hammer keys). ? The KX8 also has prebuilt in settings for all major midi instruments and lots of easy daw integration! I believe they are similiar quality and price points? Your thoughts?
Your playing is superb, Sanjay! At the other end of the spectrum, I'm 70 now and re-starting piano classes (using an app called Piano Marvel) after a break of 30 years! (I took piano classes for 3 years back then). I practiced on a $200 M-Audio Keystation 61 Mk3 for four months, then it dawned on me that the semi not-so-weighted keys would not build up muscle strength that is really essential for piano playing. I considered the NI S88 but thought, uh-uh, lots of times I just like to play/learn something without a computer, so I decided on a Kawai digital piano and chose the ES920. The ES520 is really what I should have got, perhaps. But hey, the extra $400 got me their best hammer action; my fingers kind of feel, um, hammered at this time but I think in four weeks they'll cope better, hahaha! The ES920 is really for professionals and the ES520 for amateurs, beginners. All told though, the ES920 is just an incredible digital piano with awesome sound and Onkyo-designed speakers. Easily portable if you're a muscle man lifting weights at the gym on a regular basis!!! :)
I have a 61 note version and don’t regret buying it for one second, the product expands the feel and use of patches in my library from the get go and the support NI are giving to it is also there to justify the outlay. Get to a store if you can to try one, but you will be impressed, best of all the controller is quiet to use I.e buttons aren’t to clicky so night time usage in environments with consideration to noise gets the 👍
Sanjay you are an amazing presenter! Found you by chance and its the 5 video I am watching and can’t stop! Simply amazing!!! Thanks for your work! Definitely a like!
Sanjay, it's like you regularly read my mind, and then do a review on what I was thinking about! Thanks so much for the level of clarity..you're never ambiguous. Thank you! 😁👌
Don't buy any MKll or MKlll keyboard. The keys start getting lose after 1 year non intensive usage. About 8 now. Those keys feels like a €80 M-Audio keyboard. Going back to the store as I still have warranty. My 5 years old Yamaha CLP-675 keys, which I play alot on are still perfect...
Sanjay, I have to ask, after two years, how does the keybed feel? I am reading a lot that the biggest complaint is that the keys "lose weight" over time and simply don't perform as well as they once had during the first year of use. Do you feel this is an issue with your particular keyboard?
What I can say is... I have the original NI S88 (same keybed as the Mk2), and I have used it actively for several years. It hasn't 'lost weight'. Not even sure how that could happen, given the type of design Fater uses for their keybeds. I have just bought the new Mk2 (it should deliver today), and I have sold my original via Reverb. Can't wait to it the new keyboard for years!
@@lofomuses good to know. I had ordered the MK2 on July 10th, and it was on back order and I finally cancelled my order two weeks ago. I ordered from guitar center because of military discount. I was disappointed.
@@KevboKev When I decided to upgrade my original S88 to the Mk2, I also saw that it was on back order. I wasn't very surprised -- lots of shortages going on right now, all the way down to the precursor chemicals/metals needed to build things like an electronic keyboard! I deal with Sweetwater, so I had my guy there put my name on a waiting list. Fortunately, he let me know about 10 days later that they had some in stock, and one got shipped to me. I noted just a moment ago that Guitar Center now has them in stock.
I’m a non piano or keyboard player but am looking into this, do weighted keys also mean that the sound of a vst can react to the pressure of how hard you press vs non weighted keys? Or is it simply for a better realistic feel?
@Sanjay C, I follow all sorts of channels, but yours is pretty much the only one I go to when I'm getting serious about aquiring new equipment. Thanks for another really informative review !
It is June 2020, and I just saw this review of the NI S88 from Apr 18, 2019. This review made me realize that while the S series have Fatar keybeds, the S88 has what NI calls a true piano feel whereas the S66 and S49 have semi weighted keys. As Louisa sang in the Sound of Music song, "I flit, I float, I fleetly flee, I fly" 😁 The S61 weighs 14.1 pounds, whereas the S88 weighs double, at 29.1 pounds, obviously because of the weight of the keys plus it is wider; is also an inch thicker and 2 inches deeper than the S61. All said and done, that decides it for me: I'll just restart piano lessons with my 30 year old upright piano, and not bother with a Keyboard controller till a year from now, or when I can play Gymnopedie like you did whichever comes first! 😉😁 God, us boys with our toys! The S61 only costs $110 more than the S49, and the C key 2 octaves down from the middle C has such a pleasing sound for me that I likely will not be happy with an S49 though it is more convenient and would sit nicely on a draw-out computer keyboard drawer on my desk. On the other hand, I understand that at just a touch of a button you can go one octave down on these electronic thingies. Decisions, decisions! :) Thanks so much for all you do! Have subscribed! :)
Just discovered your channel a few weeks ago... loved it back then for the no bulls#!t advice but love it even more after seeing this video. I'd be happy just to listen to you play music for an hour or two! (but don't stop doing the great reviews!)
If you want a piano controller, EXCLUSIVELY for piano playing and not other instruments, you can check out the Kawai VPC-1. Nothing related to the actual video, but if you are looking for an amazing piano action without any controls, the VPC-1 is the way to go
Hey Sanjay, after a few weeks of research and scrolling reviews I am desperate to make a decision between purchasing the Arturia MKii 88 and Native Komplete S88. I saw your reviews about 10 times for both controllers, and I really would like to leave it to your experience. If you could please help, only things I would like for you to take into consideration are that I like having the pads as a feature, but I give more importance to finding the best keyboard overall. The DAW I use is Logic Pro. Hope you will be able to see this. Thanks.
@@lewisalexander I love the idea of the Studiologic Grand and it's arguably superior keybed but I am weary of the it's display and workflow. It would be better, imho, if it was even more simple without the screen or a simplified OLED screen.
@@christophertodman Grand keybed feels great to me, however beware of quality control issues. I have one in great condition I bought used, but one or 2 keys have inconsistent velocity response. So now I have to open it up and try to clean the sensor, assuming it's a dirty sensor. Little issues are apparently a little more common with these than one would expect for the price point. Do some searches though to confirm for yourself. BTW the pitch stick sucks. It has a big dead zone in the middle. Stick to something with regular pitch and mod wheels or the old joystick. They're not new, but they still work.
For 88 keys 1 native instrument S88 2 arturiam mk2 keylab essnetial 3 M audio oxygen pro 88 keys This are nice 88 keys keyboard for piano the cons fir native s 88 they dont have pads ord fader like arturia and maudio pro has pads. But i will still love native instrument S 88 keys for there making good keybed and there software. Even arturia are partnered with native instruments
A very gentle review with a very good sounding voice... just for relaxing! Well, I will try it out at Musicstore Collogne, but I know that Fatar have lost their glance from older days. I have a 88 keyboard controller from 1995 and I haver later never played better keys since then... maybe I will be surprised, maybe not...let's see what happens 😊
Bro I see that Rhodes... That's a true joy to play I've played one a long time ago que emotional music to sell story I walk in one day and there she was gorgeous I saw her and said is that a mark 1 I sat down and pressed down the real ivory keys and heard the bell tones I was blessed a wonderful day 😊😍end of story
It needs to be updated with at least a single 10 inch touch screen with faders and drum pads. A built in pre amp to plug in a guitar or mic would be the chef's kiss.
@@SanjayC I already own one (mk 1), excellent keyboard in so many ways, not the least of which is NI/NKS, and yes other 3rd party software. For those reading this, the key bed is plenty pianistic (I was a piano major ..Frost School of Music). The bit of bonus is, for whatever reason playing non piano instruments such as woodwind, strings, etc, the "feel" seems to soften up...not sure why, definitely sort of psychological, who knows. Anyhow, like most things, one adjusts. Didn't take me long from my previous Yamaha S80. I'm going to get the MK 2, as I prefer the Mod wheel thing, and the screens may speed me up, as I'm not as quick with Cubase 10 Pro as others. Comes with age.
I'm intrigued about the digital clock/display on top of your electric piano to your right. Hopefully, that is more affordable than the S88! Thanks for the review!
is it weird that I like your voice ... Damn voice sounds like a scene from interstellar mixed with an angel trying to tell me I should go to church and buy my mother flowers at the same time, while listening to lo-fi ....lmao anyway, great vid man.
The cheapest I can find here in Norway is 1300$. Would you say that's worth it now when it's starting to grow "old" ..or should I perhaps get something else?? Amazing introduction, made me want it, but yes, a bit hesitant since it's a couple years old at this point.
Excellent review of the keyboards, and the feel of the weighted and semi weighted keys. That part generally gets left out of the reviews. Certainly helped me decide for a more studio based career.
You probably will not have time to answer my question, but I am only looking to play just the keyboard. Does it require a computer to connect to in order to work or can you just plug it into the wall and turn it on? Will it still have all of its cool features minus the music software?
Hi Jake. With the S88, you'll need a computer to generate sounds - like most of midi controller keyboards. I suggest you look into "digital pianos." They have onboard sounds and speakers, so you can just turn it on and play. I like Yamaha digital pianos a lot.
@@superjet2771 hey dude chill😂😂 I'm a sound engineer and a producer I know what is weighted keys and semi weighted keys . For my production weighted keys are best it'll go with my selection on synths. And the aftertouch is also an advantage. I am playing piano for the last 5 years, now playing on weighted keys are not a big task for me😂 and it's the right way to play a piano than playing on cheap plastic bars. 😂 Go practice and you'll get it. And you are right for monophonic synths weighted keys are not that good but if you already have a midi keyboard (with spring action 😂) this Controller is a legit option. So this is less expensive than a piano its worth it.
@@sampathsnair507 wait im a beginner and just looking for something that feels like a real piano, like real acoustic piano. I already have a keyboard 61 keys and I love testing out different types of sound on it so is this piano a good choice
@@ayecee4107 yeah absolutely. If this fits on your budget this one is the best choice. One of my friends got this on his studio and it feels like a Steinway dude. And yeah sure✌️
It is really a joy watching your videos. Wonderful information, but also so gracefully and seamlessly interwoven with your beautiful playing and asides about functionality and background. Bravo!
Hey Sanjey. Thank you for your very good videos. Is the KK MKII very solid? Is the Arturia Keylab MKII more solid? What do you prefer? I play in Log Pro X on a Mac. I have see people that had Dad Key on the NI KK S88 MKII... Thank you...
Hey Sanjay C, could you let me know how the durability is after all this time. I assume you still use it ? I heard some bad stories about this controller after 1 year of heavy use. And its not just one guy. So i'm a little concerned... Arturia keylab 88 mk2 seems like a more durable and better built keyboard to me. I would love to buy something with 88 weighted keys in the near future, and the 2 mentioned, are probably the 2 best to go for.
Pretty pictures and nice playing, however I have owned this S88 MK2 for about a year now, and have owned numerous other master keyboards as well as some stage pianos and I don't know who payed you for this review, but in my broad experience this does not feel ANYTHING like a real piano (as most keyboards actually don't) or even feel nice as a keyboard in general. Myself and numerous professional pianist struggle to get the right velocity, especially at the edges of the velocity range (playing softly or loud) it feels spongy and inconsistent and really misses a 'thump' op 'click' from physically 'hitting' something (i know this is rare for any master keyboard) making it even harder to hit the keys at the right force. What I absolutely love about it is the intergration with Komplete Kontrol, being able to use the controllers and quickly finding keyswitches in Kontakt, but as a controller for playing a sensitive piano piece? I simply can't grasp how you reach your conclusion, and I'm even starting to wonder if mine isn't broken...!
@@publishingar501 glad to hear I'm not alone...! I posted partly because I was doubting my own judgment. UA-cam is littered with positive reviews raving on about it's action (partly why I went ahead and bought it), but - in this price catagory - it's maybe the worst I've ever played... 😢
Hey Sanjay! Great videos! Does it integrate well with FL Studio 20? One more question... As Mk2 is almost 3 years old, should I buy it or is NI planning to launch a Mk3?
This scores a lot of points with me: Weighted keys, ribbon strip, LEDs on the keys to represent zones/Keyswitching are pure genius and the displays look interesting. What puts me off are the lack of faders, and clearly fingerprints are a consistent issue with the finish. I’m disappointed by the lack of choice in finishes also as I’m sick of black being the default colour of keyboards. I’d be really interested to see how those screens operate with NON Kontakt-based VSTi’s as I use EastWest stuff primarily and I desperately need a decent controller for them. I would have also liked to see those screens raise/tilt. I’m leaning more towards the Arturia, but it’s lack of ribbon strip is incredibly disappointing as I’ve got Korg hardware and soft synths where that strip is essential.
Sanjay C Composer’s Cloud has an absolute plethora for almost any purpose. I’ve been using Hollywood Orchestra for years to score for film and games, Stormdrum has superb percussion. Hollywood Choirs with Wordbuilder gives you an incredibly interesting way to write for choirs with lyrics (albeit with a big learning curve if you want it convincing), Ra and Silk have gorgeous World Instruments but I’d say my favourite is Spaces II for its high quality reverbs.
Meh.... The price is too high for me especially since it's just a controller. It's a cool looking board tho. Would definitely need a dedicated space. ✌
@@SanjayC I would say it's on point. If cost wasn't an issue then I'd be all over it. I give it a 10 in the cool looks department. Definitely inspiring. Still haven't gotten to test drive one yet but I'm hopeful. Being a music maker on a budget means never actually openly liking anything so when you realize you can't afford it, it's not earth shattering....or crying in the rain, either one works just as well. 😆... 😎👍
You'll be hard-pressed to find a cheaper 88-key weighted keyboard, even without the screens, buttons, and knobs…and if you do find something cheaper, well…you really get what you pay for. For example, the M-Audio Keystation 88 will give you 88 keys for $200, but the keys feel absolutely awful.
I am a piano learner . I love how grand piano touch feels as compare to my cheap midi keyboard . You said this keyboard feels similar to grand piano . Is it the only one in market who replicate the touch similar to original piano
great review as usual Sanjay! questions: what is the title of the first song you played and when I buy the Komplete Kontrol does it include a Full Kontakt Version too?
@@SanjayC Armin's is the best one.. gave me a good foundation after restarting edm production after a 10 year hiatus.. but I like the deadmau5 one as well and Tom Morello. Hans Zimmer was ok, but I would of liked more musical melodic writing advice from him as I'm not classically trained.
ah one more thing added to my ever growing list of stuff I dont need but really want.
Haha..I know the feeling!
try the roland rd series keyboards
No my friend, you need this
Lololol
Yep.. struggling with that too, but life is short
Dear Sanjay, this is one of the best reviews I've seen for a LOOOONG time. Straight to the point, very informative, friendly and down-to-earth. Will be definitely tuning it your other reviews in the future!
Thank you Oleg!
@@SanjayC Great review Sanjay on the S88!
Considering this is a midi keyboard controller, how does it compare to its competitor the
Yamaha KX88 Midi Keyboard Controller? (W/Fully weighted hammer keys). ?
The KX8 also has prebuilt in settings for all major midi instruments and lots of easy daw integration!
I believe they are similiar quality and price points?
Your thoughts?
The first video that I watched that actually shows what "after touch" is. Great Review!
You finally got it, I've been waiting for this video. Congratulations, Sanjay!! ;) ;)
Thank you! I love it
=-O=-O=-O=-O=-O=-O
Goo kha
Your playing is superb, Sanjay! At the other end of the spectrum, I'm 70 now and re-starting piano classes (using an app called Piano Marvel) after a break of 30 years! (I took piano classes for 3 years back then). I practiced on a $200 M-Audio Keystation 61 Mk3 for four months, then it dawned on me that the semi not-so-weighted keys would not build up muscle strength that is really essential for piano playing. I considered the NI S88 but thought, uh-uh, lots of times I just like to play/learn something without a computer, so I decided on a Kawai digital piano and chose the ES920. The ES520 is really what I should have got, perhaps. But hey, the extra $400 got me their best hammer action; my fingers kind of feel, um, hammered at this time but I think in four weeks they'll cope better, hahaha! The ES920 is really for professionals and the ES520 for amateurs, beginners. All told though, the ES920 is just an incredible digital piano with awesome sound and Onkyo-designed speakers. Easily portable if you're a muscle man lifting weights at the gym on a regular basis!!! :)
Hi Raja. I'm glad you found a piano that you like. Thanks for sharing your experience with us too
Nice intro with Erik Satie: Gymnopédie No.1! 👍🏾
I am very happy with a61 and then I went to m32, I did not need more. For a pianist this s88 must be spectacular
Yeah, its so nice. I love the piano feel. But I think the A keybed is nice too
by the way, I also decided a little over a month ago for the bayerdynamic dt 700 pro 250 ohms, they are fabulous @@SanjayC
Aren’t they?! I love them
@@SanjayC MK 2 S61 best choice for the Studio I got the S88 for a week and take back to store.
Appreciate the opening with Satie.
I have a 61 note version and don’t regret buying it for one second, the product expands the feel and use of patches in my library from the get go and the support NI are giving to it is also there to justify the outlay. Get to a store if you can to try one, but you will be impressed, best of all the controller is quiet to use I.e buttons aren’t to clicky so night time usage in environments with consideration to noise gets the 👍
Yes...the buttons on this are nice and quiet...unlike the A-series keyboards. I prefer these so much more.
Sanjay your videos are very well done, very clear and thorough, without getting too long, always appreciate them, Thanks!
Thanks, Rafael!
Thanks for this very nice tutorial, very well done and your cat is awesome !!! I ordered the S88 MkII today and am looking forward to it !!! 😊
I hope you used the link in my description! Lol! ;-)
Gymnopédie No 1💕
Yes!
A woman of good taste!
Satie is a god
Satie is my favorite composer ever
And everyone forgets no.2 and no.3
Sanjay you are an amazing presenter! Found you by chance and its the 5 video I am watching and can’t stop!
Simply amazing!!! Thanks for your work! Definitely a like!
That's such a nice compliment! Thank you! I will try to keep making good videos :-)
Sanjay, it's like you regularly read my mind, and then do a review on what I was thinking about! Thanks so much for the level of clarity..you're never ambiguous. Thank you! 😁👌
So informative. I usually skip to the main parts, but wathed the whole vid. ty
Thanks so much, Robert!
Instant like for dope cinematography 😍🥵👌🏼❤️
Thanks!
Enjoyed your review on the S88 very much. Thanks for the valuable info and inspiration.
Glad it was helpful!
Don't buy any MKll or MKlll keyboard. The keys start getting lose after 1 year non intensive usage. About 8 now. Those keys feels like a €80 M-Audio keyboard. Going back to the store as I still have warranty. My 5 years old Yamaha CLP-675 keys, which I play alot on are still perfect...
Wow such a good review, really nailed and covered all points. Thanks dude
Thank you Dan x! I appreciate the positive comment! :-)
Sanjay, I have to ask, after two years, how does the keybed feel? I am reading a lot that the biggest complaint is that the keys "lose weight" over time and simply don't perform as well as they once had during the first year of use. Do you feel this is an issue with your particular keyboard?
I also have this question about the keybed. I'm seriously considering getting one now.
What I can say is... I have the original NI S88 (same keybed as the Mk2), and I have used it actively for several years. It hasn't 'lost weight'. Not even sure how that could happen, given the type of design Fater uses for their keybeds. I have just bought the new Mk2 (it should deliver today), and I have sold my original via Reverb. Can't wait to it the new keyboard for years!
@@lofomuses good to know. I had ordered the MK2 on July 10th, and it was on back order and I finally cancelled my order two weeks ago. I ordered from guitar center because of military discount. I was disappointed.
@@KevboKev When I decided to upgrade my original S88 to the Mk2, I also saw that it was on back order. I wasn't very surprised -- lots of shortages going on right now, all the way down to the precursor chemicals/metals needed to build things like an electronic keyboard!
I deal with Sweetwater, so I had my guy there put my name on a waiting list. Fortunately, he let me know about 10 days later that they had some in stock, and one got shipped to me. I noted just a moment ago that Guitar Center now has them in stock.
I’m a non piano or keyboard player but am looking into this, do weighted keys also mean that the sound of a vst can react to the pressure of how hard you press vs non weighted keys? Or is it simply for a better realistic feel?
Thank you, Sanjay, for this excellent review! You helped me to load the NI Brass Ensemble on my S61. Now, I love this sound.
Was there an instrument missing due to the number of keys on the 61 vs 88?
@Sanjay C, I follow all sorts of channels, but yours is pretty much the only one I go to when I'm getting serious about aquiring new equipment. Thanks for another really informative review !
Excellent review !!! Thanks Sanja !!!
My pleasure!
I love your content sir! You reviewed the exact keyboards by NI that I’m shopping right now. Great reviews!
Awesome! Glad you found it useful! 😊
It is June 2020, and I just saw this review of the NI S88 from Apr 18, 2019. This review made me realize that while the S series have Fatar keybeds, the S88 has what NI calls a true piano feel whereas the S66 and S49 have semi weighted keys. As Louisa sang in the Sound of Music song, "I flit, I float, I fleetly flee, I fly" 😁 The S61 weighs 14.1 pounds, whereas the S88 weighs double, at 29.1 pounds, obviously because of the weight of the keys plus it is wider; is also an inch thicker and 2 inches deeper than the S61. All said and done, that decides it for me: I'll just restart piano lessons with my 30 year old upright piano, and not bother with a Keyboard controller till a year from now, or when I can play Gymnopedie like you did whichever comes first! 😉😁 God, us boys with our toys! The S61 only costs $110 more than the S49, and the C key 2 octaves down from the middle C has such a pleasing sound for me that I likely will not be happy with an S49 though it is more convenient and would sit nicely on a draw-out computer keyboard drawer on my desk. On the other hand, I understand that at just a touch of a button you can go one octave down on these electronic thingies. Decisions, decisions! :)
Thanks so much for all you do! Have subscribed! :)
You make such high quality videos.
Thanks...I'm trying hard...but its fun too
@@SanjayC If you love what you do and you're great at it, why not?
Love that
Sanjay C - How did I miss this video? It’s beautiful. Love the piece you are playing.
Thank you 😊
@@SanjayC: Satie's Gymnopedie, right?
@@KutWrite Yes! :-)
Just discovered your channel a few weeks ago... loved it back then for the no bulls#!t advice but love it even more after seeing this video. I'd be happy just to listen to you play music for an hour or two! (but don't stop doing the great reviews!)
Thanks so much David! I try to keep the BS to a minimum ;-) LOL!
If you want a piano controller, EXCLUSIVELY for piano playing and not other instruments, you can check out the Kawai VPC-1.
Nothing related to the actual video, but if you are looking for an amazing piano action without any controls, the VPC-1 is the way to go
Nice recommendation
Thank you for your structured, extremely helpful video!
Hey Sanjay, after a few weeks of research and scrolling reviews I am desperate to make a decision between purchasing the Arturia MKii 88 and Native Komplete S88.
I saw your reviews about 10 times for both controllers, and I really would like to leave it to your experience.
If you could please help, only things I would like for you to take into consideration are that I like having the pads as a feature, but I give more importance to finding the best keyboard overall.
The DAW I use is Logic Pro.
Hope you will be able to see this.
Thanks.
There is no wrong choice for playing piano. You have to make a choice by yourself. Buy both and return the one you prefer least ;)
Hey Lorenzo. I’m in the same boat as you my friend. Did you make a decision yet. I’d love to know. Pete
@@lewisalexander I love the idea of the Studiologic Grand and it's arguably superior keybed but I am weary of the it's display and workflow. It would be better, imho, if it was even more simple without the screen or a simplified OLED screen.
@@christophertodman Grand keybed feels great to me, however beware of quality control issues. I have one in great condition I bought used, but one or 2 keys have inconsistent velocity response. So now I have to open it up and try to clean the sensor, assuming it's a dirty sensor. Little issues are apparently a little more common with these than one would expect for the price point. Do some searches though to confirm for yourself. BTW the pitch stick sucks. It has a big dead zone in the middle. Stick to something with regular pitch and mod wheels or the old joystick. They're not new, but they still work.
For 88 keys 1 native instrument S88 2 arturiam mk2 keylab essnetial 3 M audio oxygen pro 88 keys
This are nice 88 keys keyboard for piano the cons fir native s 88 they dont have pads ord fader like arturia and maudio pro has pads. But i will still love native instrument S 88 keys for there making good keybed and there software. Even arturia are partnered with native instruments
3:52 Your voice so calming, cat on lower left of the screen almost fell asleep :D
Would like a comparison between this and the arturia keylab 88 mkII
That would be nice 👍🏼
@@SanjayC Yes PLZ!
GREAT vid Sanjay !
Thanks :-D
Love your video SanjayC!
Thanks!
A very gentle review with a very good sounding voice... just for relaxing! Well, I will try it out at Musicstore Collogne, but I know that Fatar have lost their glance from older days. I have a 88 keyboard controller from 1995 and I haver later never played better keys since then... maybe I will be surprised, maybe not...let's see what happens 😊
Yeah, that's the same of many old products - well built - will last for years
Excellent video Sanjay c ! Lots of information ! Thanks 👍👏
Thank you!
Great playing! Nice one Sanjay!
Thanks, Mick!
Nice video Sanjay, I have the S61 and I´m very happy cause I’m not a piano player. Keep posting. All the best.
Good to hear you like your S61. If you're using Ableton, don't forget to map it like this: ua-cam.com/video/i6-PR5FrnJA/v-deo.html
Great review..balanced...and inspiring too!! You're good at this!
Thank you, Elliot!
I love how he actually pointed to the right corner for the plug instead of the left
Nice review, your voice and delivery is smooth.. Well, I could listen all day... Thanks.
Aw thanks!
I love stuff from Arturia and Native instruments 💞😍
Thx Sanjay 4 that helpful overview!
You're welcome! 🙏
When I tell you YOU ARE THE BEST REVIEWER I am not kidding!!!!! New subscriber.
Excellent and very useful review - I really like your videos !!! Thanks for making them !
Intro music reminded my of the minecraft soundtrack, so peaceful. You're an amazing pianist...I hope I can be that good one day
best vids and knowledge on these, had to finally sub
Hey Sanjay, great review, do Output plugins map well with the controllers and display? thanks
Yes very well
@Kyle Isaiah lol stfu fake bots gay
Thank you for the informative review. We appreciate it.
Thank you for your informative and honest review. I really appreciate it as I look to make my decision on a keyboard controller!
Glad I could help!
Thank you sir. this video is one of the very best review... really informative... great sound quality and video. well done!
Bro I see that Rhodes... That's a true joy to play I've played one a long time ago que emotional music to sell story I walk in one day and there she was gorgeous I saw her and said is that a mark 1 I sat down and pressed down the real ivory keys and heard the bell tones I was blessed a wonderful day 😊😍end of story
Yeah it’s a true love of mine. Can’t replicate the real thing
It needs to be updated with at least a single 10 inch touch screen with faders and drum pads. A built in pre amp to plug in a guitar or mic would be the chef's kiss.
As always, a very nice presentation.
Thank you, Robert! You in the market for an S88?
@@SanjayC I already own one (mk 1), excellent keyboard in so many ways, not the least of which is NI/NKS, and yes other 3rd party software. For those reading this, the key bed is plenty pianistic (I was a piano major ..Frost School of Music). The bit of bonus is, for whatever reason playing non piano instruments such as woodwind, strings, etc, the "feel" seems to soften up...not sure why, definitely sort of psychological, who knows. Anyhow, like most things, one adjusts. Didn't take me long from my previous Yamaha S80. I'm going to get the MK 2, as I prefer the Mod wheel thing, and the screens may speed me up, as I'm not as quick with Cubase 10 Pro as others. Comes with age.
Yeah I’m surprised how much I love the screen on the mk2
My son has been eyeing this keyboard. Thanks for the review
You're welcome. Hope you choose it. I love it!
Perhaps the TITLE is True.. Good Review.. As always.. my gears increasing.. and this will be one day a busy gear in my studio..
Yes, its something to aim for, Sameer!
Thank you
That intro was beautiful!
Great Review, Sanjay! Thank you so much!
I'm intrigued about the digital clock/display on top of your electric piano to your right. Hopefully, that is more affordable than the S88! Thanks for the review!
Yes it is...check it out! amzn.to/2MK5K0L
Can you suggest a 61 key fully weighted hammer action keyboard? Probably for a lower price?
I’ll have to look for one. I haven’t found many.
There was one but its no longer sold and i havent found anyone else making them. Buying a used one wasnt worth it either.
Exellent content bro keep it up! Just subbed
🤜🏽 I appreciate that!
SOS by Steve Lion
Same
Thanks Chris
is it weird that I like your voice ... Damn voice sounds like a scene from interstellar mixed with an angel trying to tell me I should go to church and buy my mother flowers at the same time, while listening to lo-fi ....lmao anyway, great vid man.
Haha...I like the Interstellar reference!! :)
The cheapest I can find here in Norway is 1300$. Would you say that's worth it now when it's starting to grow "old" ..or should I perhaps get something else?? Amazing introduction, made me want it, but yes, a bit hesitant since it's a couple years old at this point.
Thanks for this in-depth review
You're welcome :-)
Looks like a sweet keyboard! Especially for a pianist!
Absolutely!
Excellent review of the keyboards, and the feel of the weighted and semi weighted keys. That part generally gets left out of the reviews. Certainly helped me decide for a more studio based career.
Hey, Sanjay.
Great review.
Can I use those knobs with my plugins?
You probably will not have time to answer my question, but I am only looking to play just the keyboard. Does it require a computer to connect to in order to work or can you just plug it into the wall and turn it on? Will it still have all of its cool features minus the music software?
Hi Jake. With the S88, you'll need a computer to generate sounds - like most of midi controller keyboards. I suggest you look into "digital pianos." They have onboard sounds and speakers, so you can just turn it on and play. I like Yamaha digital pianos a lot.
Thanks Sanjay great review
Thank you!
Specs are awesome. 😀 Native instruments 🎹🎊 keys looks exactly like a piano. Omg I wanna try this 😂
Yeah, its beautiful. This feels like a $1,000!
@@superjet2771 hey dude chill😂😂 I'm a sound engineer and a producer I know what is weighted keys and semi weighted keys . For my production weighted keys are best it'll go with my selection on synths. And the aftertouch is also an advantage. I am playing piano for the last 5 years, now playing on weighted keys are not a big task for me😂 and it's the right way to play a piano than playing on cheap plastic bars. 😂 Go practice and you'll get it. And you are right for monophonic synths weighted keys are not that good but if you already have a midi keyboard (with spring action 😂) this Controller is a legit option. So this is less expensive than a piano its worth it.
@@superjet2771 😂😂 lol
@@sampathsnair507 wait im a beginner and just looking for something that feels like a real piano, like real acoustic piano. I already have a keyboard 61 keys and I love testing out different types of sound on it so is this piano a good choice
@@ayecee4107 yeah absolutely. If this fits on your budget this one is the best choice. One of my friends got this on his studio and it feels like a Steinway dude. And yeah sure✌️
Excellent presentation. Just picked one up. Thanks Sanjay!
Awesome! Congrats!
Great review, thanks! I think I will pick up once of these. :)
watching your videos is like asmr 👌 well done sir
Wow that’s a nice compliment
It is really a joy watching your videos. Wonderful information, but also so gracefully and seamlessly interwoven with your beautiful playing and asides about functionality and background. Bravo!
Thanks, Matthew! Really appreciate that!
And that butter-smooth voice!
One hell of a video, my friend!
Thank you, Yuri!
Is this keybed touch feel is good or bad if we compare with Roland PHA-4 touch sensitive ? Thank you
I need this in my life!
yes you do!
Hey Sanjey. Thank you for your very good videos. Is the KK MKII very solid? Is the Arturia Keylab MKII more solid? What do you prefer? I play in Log Pro X on a Mac. I have see people that had Dad Key on the NI KK S88 MKII... Thank you...
Hey Sanjay C, could you let me know how the durability is after all this time. I assume you still use it ? I heard some bad stories about this controller after 1 year of heavy use. And its not just one guy. So i'm a little concerned... Arturia keylab 88 mk2 seems like a more durable and better built keyboard to me. I would love to buy something with 88 weighted keys in the near future, and the 2 mentioned, are probably the 2 best to go for.
You play nicely. It was really relaxing especially with the cat. Now I'm going to your sound cloud.
Thanks so much :-D
Pretty pictures and nice playing, however I have owned this S88 MK2 for about a year now, and have owned numerous other master keyboards as well as some stage pianos and I don't know who payed you for this review, but in my broad experience this does not feel ANYTHING like a real piano (as most keyboards actually don't) or even feel nice as a keyboard in general. Myself and numerous professional pianist struggle to get the right velocity, especially at the edges of the velocity range (playing softly or loud) it feels spongy and inconsistent and really misses a 'thump' op 'click' from physically 'hitting' something (i know this is rare for any master keyboard) making it even harder to hit the keys at the right force.
What I absolutely love about it is the intergration with Komplete Kontrol, being able to use the controllers and quickly finding keyswitches in Kontakt, but as a controller for playing a sensitive piano piece? I simply can't grasp how you reach your conclusion, and I'm even starting to wonder if mine isn't broken...!
Guido Maat 100% agree. If you’re interested in this board, do try it out - I was shocked how terrible it felt...
@@publishingar501 glad to hear I'm not alone...! I posted partly because I was doubting my own judgment. UA-cam is littered with positive reviews raving on about it's action (partly why I went ahead and bought it), but - in this price catagory - it's maybe the worst I've ever played... 😢
Hey Sanjay! Great videos! Does it integrate well with FL Studio 20? One more question... As Mk2 is almost 3 years old, should I buy it or is NI planning to launch a Mk3?
This scores a lot of points with me: Weighted keys, ribbon strip, LEDs on the keys to represent zones/Keyswitching are pure genius and the displays look interesting. What puts me off are the lack of faders, and clearly fingerprints are a consistent issue with the finish. I’m disappointed by the lack of choice in finishes also as I’m sick of black being the default colour of keyboards. I’d be really interested to see how those screens operate with NON Kontakt-based VSTi’s as I use EastWest stuff primarily and I desperately need a decent controller for them. I would have also liked to see those screens raise/tilt.
I’m leaning more towards the Arturia, but it’s lack of ribbon strip is incredibly disappointing as I’ve got Korg hardware and soft synths where that strip is essential.
Got your answer right here ua-cam.com/video/i6-PR5FrnJA/v-deo.html. You can control other plugins or even other keyboards by mapping the knobs.
Sanjay C Big thanks for the link!
Hey what East West libraries do you recommend?
Sanjay C Composer’s Cloud has an absolute plethora for almost any purpose. I’ve been using Hollywood Orchestra for years to score for film and games, Stormdrum has superb percussion. Hollywood Choirs with Wordbuilder gives you an incredibly interesting way to write for choirs with lyrics (albeit with a big learning curve if you want it convincing), Ra and Silk have gorgeous World Instruments but I’d say my favourite is Spaces II for its high quality reverbs.
Thank you for the "key only noise" exapmle, that alone was is worth watching 😘 the rest: as usual: top notch! Thank you
Meh.... The price is too high for me especially since it's just a controller. It's a cool looking board tho. Would definitely need a dedicated space. ✌
Yeah, its big!
So my review was accurate?
@@SanjayC I would say it's on point. If cost wasn't an issue then I'd be all over it. I give it a 10 in the cool looks department. Definitely inspiring. Still haven't gotten to test drive one yet but I'm hopeful. Being a music maker on a budget means never actually openly liking anything so when you realize you can't afford it, it's not earth shattering....or crying in the rain, either one works just as well. 😆... 😎👍
You'll be hard-pressed to find a cheaper 88-key weighted keyboard, even without the screens, buttons, and knobs…and if you do find something cheaper, well…you really get what you pay for. For example, the M-Audio Keystation 88 will give you 88 keys for $200, but the keys feel absolutely awful.
Let’s be honest, I definitely clicked because of the 🐈🥰
I would too!
That cover of Gymnopedie was excellent btw!
M32 is all I need! I'm good for life San
For most, its enough, yes. This won't make those beats sound any different! ;-)
Yuck
Cant tell wether i need to buy this or the ability to play it as well as you, Sanjay U r awesome!
Honestly, most of the time I'm not playing like this - its usually tinkering and experimenting.....and I still enjoy it!! :-)
Simple and really helpful video.
Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Currently, until July 6th, you get Komplete 14 Standard with the purchase of the S88 MK2. Current price is $899.
Omg this is awesome 😍
The best!
I am a piano learner . I love how grand piano touch feels as compare to my cheap midi keyboard . You said this keyboard feels similar to grand piano . Is it the only one in market who replicate the touch similar to original piano
One of the best review, Thank you very much
Glad you liked it!
great review as usual Sanjay! questions: what is the title of the first song you played and when I buy the Komplete Kontrol does it include a Full Kontakt Version too?
Excelent video.
Please make one comparing this one against the Akai mpk 88
Great idea!
haha. I came across with this reviews because of one comment to Arturia mk2 88 of Sanjay C, yours! Sounds really great for Real!
Arturia mk 2 88 or this keyboard?
Excellent intro musical piece and well played. Armin Van Burren used it in his masterclass !!
I gotta watch that! Any other good Masterclasses you'd recommend?
@@SanjayC Armin's is the best one.. gave me a good foundation after restarting edm production after a 10 year hiatus.. but I like the deadmau5 one as well and Tom Morello. Hans Zimmer was ok, but I would of liked more musical melodic writing advice from him as I'm not classically trained.
@@DoctorJRx How about Timbaland's?
@@SanjayC oh I forgot about his.. it's good but shorter than the others. His life advice at the end was really good.
I never knew he and Missy Elliot are from Virginia 🙂