download native instruments maschine studio midi controller no software

Lastly, there’s the all-important SD card slot for storing your projects and samples along with 32GB onboard storage for expansion downloads. There are now two USB-A ports (along with the USB-B port for connecting to a PC) which allow you to add other interfaces or MIDI USB gear.

You still have two inputs and two outputs (1/4-inch TRS), MIDI in and out, a pedal jack and a 1/4-inch headphone port. Even around the back, where all the connections are, there isn’t much of a difference. The two are nearly identical, bar the new metal finish and a few minor tweaks to accommodate the necessary computer-free functionality. If you’ve ever seen the Maschine MK3, then the Maschine+ will be familiar. And while I wouldn’t call Maschine+ “portable” in the traditional sense, you can bring this with you on the road and leave your laptop somewhere safe. Plus, computers can be unpredictable (especially in a live performance). Some feel that clicking a mouse staring at a screen isn't conducive to creativity.

The idea is obvious: Getting rid of the PC is something many electronic musicians want to do. Maybe you could think of it as outboard gear, but with the UI running on a PC? But that doesn’t quite do the software side of it justice. But then there are plenty of software-specific controllers like Ableton’s Push or Korg’s MS 20 VST hardware. You could argue it’s desktop music-making software with a dedicated MIDI controller. Is it the all-in-one music production hardware many people (myself included) seek? Maybe, but what I can say for sure is that it’s an impressive, if not a slightly expensive attempt at merging desktop functionality with groovebox-style usability.įor those unfamiliar with Maschine, it’s a little hard to explain what it is without underselling it. It’s finally here, it’s called Maschine+, it costs $1,399 and it’s been on my desk for the last week or two. While this approach made it popular, it soon led many to want something ambitious: a standalone Maschine with the software built-in.

The dedicated hardware-software combo was an instant hit with users looking for the tactile control of outboard gear with the flexibility (plugins) afforded by a desktop. It’s been over a decade since Native Instruments introduced the Maschine platform.

Download native instruments maschine studio midi controller no software