Is This The Best MIDI Keyboard? - Native Instruments S88 Mk2 Review
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- Опубліковано 15 лип 2024
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New keyboard time! Composer Guy Michelmore unboxes his new Native Instruments S88 mk2. There’s a quick start guide to Komplete Kontrol and the S88 mk2 plus a deeper dive into some of its more powerful features like customisable midi controllers, buttons and knobs. Plus lots of pretty lights. Is this the best midi keyboard of 2020? Join Guy and find out. I'm not paid to review or promote this keyboard which I bought with a trade discount.
0:00 Start
1:00. Unboxing the Native Instruments S88 Mk2
4:22 Setting up the S88 mk2 and Komplete Kontrol
4:53 The S88 touch and feel as controller keyboard
6:18 Learn Music Theory - My Online Course!
6:52 A weasel outside the shed!!!
7:54. Komplete Kontrol setup
10:22 Using the S88 with other virtual instruments
10:50 Controlling your DAW from the S88 Mk2
15:07 Programming S88 knobs to custom midi controllers
16:22 Programming S88 buttons to send key switch data
17:10 Using Komplete Kontrol to set up custom templates
19:10 Setting up a sustain pedal with the S88 mk2
20:00 Saving your settings as a template
20:12 How to set up pretty coloured lights on your S88 mk2 keyboard!
20:50 Conclusions
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I'm thinking the Native Instruments A series 49 or 61 may just be the ticket for my budget. Great demo Guy!
Just scored myself a M-Audio Axiom 61 second hand for $40. My adventure begins! Cheers Guy!
Whenever Guy starts a video with ‘exciting times’, I do get a little excited! Pausing the video and making tea. ☕️
Helen K
🤣🤣🤣🤣. That’s exactly what I’m doing right now!
LOL! I love this Helen!
😂
lol same making coke in a glass
Glad that I'm already having an Indian Masala Tea
Oh my god., just showed my wife the video. Only comment I got was, “he’s as nuts as you!”. Well she liked you mate.
He's exactly like my Welsh mate. :D
ADHD is a thing.
Sat next to a guy like him at school in 1968, we’re still great friends. .
Still friends.
Guy is brilliant. Love him.
"My new album is based on the works of Cole Porter"
- But It sounds nothing like Cole Porter?
"Yes, but my keyboard stand is resting on his book"
😂😂 bahahaha😆🤣😆
😄❤👍
How freakin' good to see this man to be as excited as a little kid. Congrats Guy to have a dream keyboard. I wish You write a lot of great tunes on it. Cheers! "The most important thing. Its got lots of lovely flashing lights!"
Dream keyboard, hell, his studio is wired to the studio downtown. Dream setup- don't have to leave home to cut a track...🙄
@@reeblesnarfle5443 and it got greenery, and weasel too.....
If you make an effort to keep the inner-child alive, you can enjoy that feeling until the day you die.
I, personally, wouldn't have it any other way.
"Give me 20 minutes to give it a go!"
- Comes back wearing a different shirt -
"As you may have noticed that was more than 20 minutes!" - A man who spent a full day playing with the lights
You are so right
ROFLMAO!!
I bet he wears sandals and socks
Hahahahaha
I love this GUY! Great presentation with added humor!
Honestly finding your channel was one of this years best happy accidents.
I'd love to watch a 10 minutes long "Captain Weasel vs. The Shrews Gang" video scored by Guy Michelmore using his new keyboard. :)
Good idea!
Oh yes, that'd be great!! :-)
@@ThinkSpaceEducation 😄😄😄
This man is to music what Bill Nye is to science.
He makes music an exciting topic.
My sentiments, exactly!
he seems more like Sir Martyn Poliakoff to me because they are both British
This person actually knows music, whereas Bill Nye doesn’t have a lot in scientific qualifications.
Mr. Guy, the Music Guy....🎵🎶🎵
@@connormccloy9399 But he's a Mason....🙄...
You are quickly becoming the David Attenborough of the music equipment/software world.
"When they said this thing has weighted keys they weren't kidding."
I had to stop the video for a minute.
It made me hit the like button.
@@adambernstrom548 the keyboard is shit, I should know, I own it. Software is good though
No, is it? I want it tho
@@soundeducation5554 Its a fantastic keyboard... in my opinion. I have had mine for a few months now.... got me thru cancer :-)
Its a pretty shit keyboard if you're going to use it as a piano. I have it and nah man im going to keep it but ill buy the roland rd88 just for the key action. The software integration is the reason why you should buy the mk2
Man, i hope you know how happy you make me. Every time i see you excited about anything, I feel excited. Thank you for always being full of life and helping me remember that music is supposed to be fun.
Seems like I remember something about that back in the dark ages....🤪👍
This has simply got to be the best channel on You Tube by a clear 100 miles. Period! (or, err, exclamation mark). Amazing, inspirational, entertaing and hilarious musical tuition! What a GUY you are, Guy! ;-) Utterly splendid stuff indeed...!!!
Starting out this presentation with the Bösendorfer Imperial just shows Guys good taste
I love the sound of Rodgers myself....
I think the biggest surprise here, is that a book on Marketing is actually useful for something!
What a pleasure to see you with my keyboard and KK ! Very impatient to see the next vidéo !
Take care ☺️
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Good god bless this man! I just feel so good seeing his genuine enthusiasm and passion
I love to see people get this excited! Congrats. So happy for you!
It's so cool when such a mature fella can be so childishly excited. Keep on being so mate, wish you the best! :)
"It's all glowy and doing glowy stuff!" I'm sold! :))) truth is this one has been on my wishlist for a while
I can't believe it! I made something happen by thinking it! When I started watching your videos and saw you were Kontakt "guy," and then you said you had velocity issues with your current keyboard, I thought, "Man! I'd love see you review the Mk2!" And look! You did! One thing you didn't mention is the lights on the keyboard will indicate key switch and instrument ranges so you don't have to hunt and bang or overplay an instrument and get no sound.
Keen sending those telepathic messages
@@ThinkSpaceEducation I'll take that old controller you threw out into the yard for the dogs to play with....😄
I love you. I was having a really rough day when this video popped up in my feed. Since I've been eyeing the MK2s for a while, I decided to check it out. Seeing your authentic exuberance made me smile. Thanks for brightened up my day. You have a new subscriber.
omg, I am so happy for you Guy!! great choice! can't wait to see your new videos featuring this beauty
I’ve got my eye on the S88 Mk2 and have been looking for videos that show the integration with cubase. So thanks Guy, this was exactly the video I was waiting for :) now I need to talk to the financial controller ;)
Depending on the sustain pedal you have, there’s a better setting than the one you’re showing. If your pedal is TRS, it likely is a potentiometer and you can get it’s position. It then acts as an analog controller on CC64 which some VST support for half pedaling and such. Use "cont" instead of "switch" in the pedal tab, adjust the other settings depending on your pedal and don’t forget to calibrate it! Enjoy your new toy ;)
Every once in while I come back to this video just for the sheer joy. What an amazing person Guy is! "its all glowing and doing slowly stuff" haha
Had my S49 MK2 for three days now, absolutely love it!!!
My Favourite quote ever "It's all glowing and doing glowey stuff". You've made my year with that quote :-)
“It’s got lots of flashing lights!”🤣😂🤣 honestly though, that was my first thought when I got mine!
Awesome, thanks for upgrading Guy!
I’m rather junior at the keys and noticed a big improvement in sound when I switched from synth to hammer action.
I can’t wait to hear what a notch up from your mind-blowing performances sounds like!
Just ordered one and came back to see some vids on it in the meantime, saw this new video. I love the enthusiasm and beginner friendly content. Great vid
Just bought the s49 mk2 last week. Absolutely loving it. A staple in anyones studio.
yeah pretty good too. But it's not the same keys as this one. Only the 88 has weighted keys. But the 49 and 61 are pretty decent keyboards too, far above the competition in that price range. And the controller part is the same.
@@manunoyonify Roland a800 pro is better.
Native, a lot of bad reviews
How did you not get this sent to you for free, this is the best advert for any keyboard ever
My thought, exactly! And NI should compensate him for providing the BEST tutorial on how to use the Komplete Kontrol software.
@@edrock26 I'm pretty sure Guy can afford to buy whatever keyboard he fancies - and if I were in his shoes (which I'm not!) I'd also like the option of being critical if it hadn't lived up to expectations, which is tricky with sponsored gear.
Such a pleasure seeing your genuine joy and excitement!
How wonderful to see someone who demonstrates the features of the keyboard instead of just talking about them. There are just way to many reviewers who just talk about the keyboard but do very little to show off a keyboards features and show the practical features on how you could make your life easier if you just used this particular Keyboard.
I loved your interaction and mapping various functions to the cleaver placement of buttons that the S88 does. Bravo well done and I have o idea why YouBoob recommended this video to my 2 years too late.
I use the S61 Mk 2 and love it, i did want the S88 Mk2 but it wasn't available at the time. Oh well lol
Yes same here 😫
Same here but I’d love to upgrade. I miss the weight in the keys. Anyone in the market for a S61?
This is the most Slavoj Zizek does music lessons I’ve seen you so far.
You are such a delight to watch. Wishing you great vigor for many many many more years to come.
I just got my NI S88 MK2 Keyboard yesterday! Loving it so Far!! Thank you for the "Taming of the Schrew" Interlude in the middle of this video!!!
Awww, I got an Oxygen because you had one. If I'd known this was coming I'd have waited and taken this one off your hands!
Do not just buy keyboard because someone you like uses it. Before I bought mine I tested several in a music store to finde the one that fit me the most. I test the feel of the keys, functionality, precision, workmanship etc. One has to feel comfortable with the tool one uses.
@@DJKLProductions And did you buy in that same store you tested the keyboards in?
MaX Miller Yes, but I tested keyboards they didn’t have there to test in other stores as well before I decided which one I buy.
Use something like transmidifier to filter your velocity curves and you will be much happier with it than he was. Output to a virtual (or physical for hardware control) midi port and then anything you use it with will receive your custom velocity curve tuned precisely to how you want.
A large portion of people's perception of play-ability is based on velocity curve alone and they don't bother to look beyond simplified (even on very high end) built-in curves.
@@DJKLProductions Troof!
I looked hard at this one, but in the end chose the Roland A-88 MkII. The feel of the keys and the action is just sublime.
Better build quality too
I agree. If your going to be using it all the time the best keys are a must. Pretty lights don't help anything. The only thing I don't like is the controllers all the way to the left are really un-usable. They had plenty of room to make access to knobs and buttons more easily in the empty space on top in center. I put my Subsequent 37 on top of it for better midi control.
hello, a question friend, does the roland have harder keys than the ni88mkii? I'm not a pianist, I have an s61mkii ni, and I'd like to know if it's worth switching to one of these, Roland or Ni, with 88 keyboards, which would you say would feel more pleasant to play and record midi orchestra?
@@electedmusic7685 I wasn't able to actually touch before purchase. All I can say is that the Roland feels pretty similar to my 50 year old Yamaha upright piano.
Appreciate your energy!!! I am excited to be getting one soon, and your video review sealed the deal on my decision. Thank you for creating this and best wishes to your life and music making!
Congrats on the new purchase. The level of enthusiasm you display is like watching a kid in a candy shop. My granddad used to say; "the only difference between a man and a boy is the price of the toy" 🤣🤣🤣
"when they said this thing has weighted keys they weren't kidding"
0:52
The weighted keys sold me. I just bought my Komplete, something that I've been wanting for years. This would go perfect with it. And last time I looked it's not that expensive.
Lab Baby You might be able to get a discount? Buying the keyboard and Komplete together are bit cheaper
@@TheWinterwraith I missed my bus on that one, I already have Komplete. Maybe if I get the Maschine I could get a discount on it.
Lab Baby I just bought ultimate during the summer sale, this keyboard is definitely awesome but no where near my price range for someone who is just getting into making music digitally. However the a series seems nice as well and is way cheaper, so I might end up going with one of those!
@@SegginsProductions Yeah, S series is really expensive... but as with most NI products it's worth the investment, especially if you have already NI products. I have a 61 key Alesis controller, and it's really good. I'm not even that efficient at keyboard, I'm more of a producer than a performer. Based on its compatibility with NI which is already a flexible bundle of VSTs, the S88 would be the cherry on top of what I already have.
Lab Baby very true, I may end up just saving up for it and getting it eventually because it does seem really nice.
Thank You very much Guy!!!
This video is right when I needed it!!
I have a little M-Audio Mini controller with only 32 keys and I found it very limiting. The constant need to switch the octaves when you play around with orchestral plug ins is a real pain!
I don't have any experience with keyboards and MIDI controllers so watching a video of someone I trust talking and showing new keyboard is very helpful.
Thanks You. :)
I agree ! I own one of these and I love it!! the feeling while playing the keys feels so natural.
If you haven’t already, I would recommend that you get a Elgato - Streamdeck, it would sit quite nice on top of the empty panel of the Kontrol S88 Mk2 and it does key-commands.
Roli lightpad blocks is another product that can sit nicely on top of that panel, it lights up, and offers many useful modes for control.
(When it comes to physical dimensions, both of those are slim enough that they don’t really stick up more than the encoders on the S88 series, so they don’t require a lot of extra height, even for sliding solutions for the control keyboard).
Very nice review! I have this keyboard it has a lot of useful functionality that no doubt makes live of a musician much easier. There is one big flaw though. Its keybed (fatar tp100) wears out really fast and keys start clicking really really loud. I found out about the issue a bit less then a year after I got the keyboard, when my downstairs neighbors started complaining and claiming that they can hear some loud mechanical noises coming from my apartment. I couldn't believe it until I listened to my playing myself with sound off. And it was really bad. However I fixed it by disassembling keyboard and replacing worn out foam pad which softens the impact of the keys when they return after being released. Still after some time noise slowly coming back. So I wouldn't recommend this keyboard if you are a pianist and play piano every day. It can't replace a normal digital piano, but if it's mostly for composing music and casual playing then it's a really good instrument!
Guy, I'm also excited...thank you for excite me with your exciting video and keyboard!!!
I like this guy's energy, would watch any product video just because of him
this man over here getting native instrument while I am trying to draw melodies on my piano roll 😥😔
Sending alot of love ❤🙏
@@f.nf.n7689 🙌🙌🙏💖
I’dd love to see the s61 with weighted keys, or maybe a 73 key model since the 88 doesn’t fit my desk.
The S61 is fantastic and as a non-native-keyboard-player it is much better than the S88 with weighted keys.
15 seconds into this video I said to myself, “I love this guy’s attitude and excitement…SUBSCRIBED!”
Man glad to see you've picked up an s88! When I bought mine it had a broken light and so they sent a replacement so for a while I had 2 of them, it was quite the sight! Enjoy the great keyboard!
This man is the Jeremy Clarkson of music.
For those who don't know who Jeremy Clarkson is, I suggest doing a UA-cam search of Top Gear. Emanuele's comment is spot on. And in fact, Top Gear did a spot where they recreated their theme music using exhaust notes from various cars (although I believe the heavy lifting for that spot was done by James May.)
he's too happy
Ano Nymous How could someone not know who Jeremy Clarkson is!
@@AnoNymous-ul8rd 😳.
....😄
@@marLamaDeo Be an old fart, it's EZ. But I'll find out.
Come for the keyboards, stay for the weasels.
😄😄😄
Whenever I start watching Guy's video, I cannot stop till it's over.
Ahhhh. Help. I got stuck again.
It's magic.
Congrats! Glad to see a new video yet again!
13:56 Marvel's lawyers will be in touch soon.
Guy can I have your M Audio board then? 😜🤣
Nope. My daughter's got it already. :)
@Non à la censure I think he mentioned once she was kinda learning music ... I'm not sure
I love that you dedicated part of this to the weasel in your back yard! Great review...
Love watching your videos man! Awesome stuff.
I really enjoyed this video! You brought a smile to my face multiple times during the course of this video. Thank you for being you! Keep doing what you do. :)
Guy you are a bundle of joy. Your enthusiasm puts a smile on my face, many thanks.
Would like to see a video of how you set up your basic Cubase template with your favourite instruments and sound effects.
super merci Guy pour toutes ces info et ta bonne humeur. Je vais la regarder à nouveau car j'ai le clavier depuis quelques mois et tu m'as fait découvrir énormément d choses…bonnes fêtes de fin d'année à toi Pianistinconnu
Great video Guy as always, both entertaining and informative.. I bought my S88 Mk2 about a month ago and am using it with Komplete Kontrol 12 Ultimate, BBCSO Core and Cubase 10.5 Pro.. Really enjoying using this combination..
I'm excited for you! Have fun with it.
Thanks, Guy. I had been checking around for a 21st century controller and this video made the sale. I'll make sure NI hears that. ;-) Great channel by the way. I majored in Music in university, have played pro since middle school and always steer young musicians to your channel to get started in the basics of harmony.
this video is so wholesome😭 “it’s all glowing and doing glowy stuff” got a like just for that man
I literally got one of these about two weeks ago.. Absolutely fantastic!!
I love the enthusiasm. Can’t wait for mine to arrive next week!
Wow so much information! in just few minutes,thanks for share.
Thanks to you Guy, I went and bought one. I got it yesterday. Thanks for bringing so much life and joy to the world.
Hi, I'm considering picking this controller up - I'm just wondering if you've had any noise or build quality issues so far? I've ready wildly positive and negative reviews about this model and am truly perplexed as to how seriously to take the negative reviews. I'd be very grateful for any thoughts from your experience so far. Thanks much-
WOOOOOOOOO WELCOME TO TEAM S88 BUDDY, YOURE GONNA LOVE IT!!! By far the best thing I’ve ever bought, it was worth every financially stressing penny :) cheers from Florida!
Guy, you really do make me smile. Thank you for that.
I have had this keyboard for about a year and like it, but I had not explored all those features - contagious enthusiasm for diving in to all the knobs and buttons :)
i liked this video immediately just because of your enthusiastic and joyous energy
keep up the passion! I loved this. And also it was very informative.
Your enthusiasm and excitement ooooooozes through the video!
I have watched LOAAAADS of videos today, trying to decide what midi keyboard to buy and your video has been far and away the most enjoyable, thank you!
I'm glad you're happy. I received a new Nektar Panorama T6 last week and the integration with reaper is so deep. I couldn't fit in anything wider but I have an old Korg Pro X I brought in 2000 for when I want to practice the piano. 88 weighted, steel case, the thing weighs a ton, would stop a bullet but plays lovely. I'm always saving for something, new toys are the secret sauce of life!
Man, I love these videos!!
This is my first time seeing one of your videos and you are quite entertaining and that's just the first 8 minutes and we haven't even got to the review yet!
Wow! an unboxing, a new instrument and a creature feature all in the same video. 👍 😎 🤠 👌🏽 💯 👏🏽 👏
Love your enthusiasm and excitement ! That's what keeps you young 💚💚💚 Subscribed
I am so glad I happened upon this channel, instant sub
I just *found* you this evening, goodness I am going to SO enjoy looking at all of your other videos... Yes I subscribed :)
I love all your work thanks for everything!!!!
I noticed your work before and unlike some others you have a lot to say that’s very worth listening too. Great thanks.
I knew Guy needed this keyboard! You needed an upgrade! Awesome video, Guy. Much love from America
Purchased my S88 Mk. II nearly two months ago. I have never experience that much joy getting started with a new MIDI Controller!
I appreciate your enthusiasm!
Guy, you are the ONLY channel I have clicked the bell on. Keep rocking!
Beautiful energy!! Thanks for the video!!😁
I hope everyone loves someone or something as much as he loved the S88. Great video.
Great video… I should be getting my MK2 61.... By next week... can't wait ... you have me even more excited.
Love your enthusiasm!!
your awesome! love your attitude and upbeat atmosphere
Shoutout to that Weasel. Also, your videos are awesome. I love your energy. Thank you for this! Just got one and I am so excited too.