Kontact vs Kontact 7 vs Komplete Kontrol in Plugins

Trekkie

Forgive me if this is an easy question, I'm just trying to figure out how the software works. I primarily have been using Logic Pro but also have been poking in Ableton trying to decide which one works for me.

What I'm confused about is there seems to be multiple places the plugins show up. I see them under Komplete Kontrol, Kontact, and Kontact 7.

Is there a benefit to picking one or the other? They look a little different but in general seem to do the same. Is there one that is the 'latest' software or what is the logic behind having the three different modes?

I have a S61 Mk3 that I use it with if that makes a difference.

DunedinDragon

First thing first. Kontakt and Kontakt 7 are basically the same program except Kontakt 7 operates within the newer underlying architecture rather than the older architecture. The newer architecture promises tighter integration with DAWs and potentially greater functionality in the next generation of two-way MIDI integration with plugins and other devices. Komplete Kontrol really just works as an add-on over Kontakt for those people using keyboards or finger pad devices.

So a lot of what you would consider in choosing one over the other is your studio workflow. For example, 90% of the work I do in the studio is building tracks with different virtual instruments, so my choice there is to use Komplete Kontrol because I can manage that workflow better from my keyboard. However, when it comes to live recording such as guitar or vocals Kontakt is probably a better choice because I'm managing live "takes" in my DAW.

Milos

Good question.

Here is the link about that topic, but one of my favorite differences (which is why I use Kontakt much more than Kontrol) is that you can use and play multiple instruments at the same time with Kontakt.

https://community.native-instruments.com/discussion/1861/kontakt-and-komplete-kontrol-difference

DunedinDragon

First thing first. Kontakt and Kontakt 7 are basically the same program except Kontakt 7 operates within the newer underlying architecture rather than the older architecture. The newer architecture promises tighter integration with DAWs and potentially greater functionality in the next generation of two-way MIDI integration with plugins and other devices. Komplete Kontrol really just works as an add-on over Kontakt for those people using keyboards or finger pad devices.

So a lot of what you would consider in choosing one over the other is your studio workflow. For example, 90% of the work I do in the studio is building tracks with different virtual instruments, so my choice there is to use Komplete Kontrol because I can manage that workflow better from my keyboard. However, when it comes to live recording such as guitar or vocals Kontakt is probably a better choice because I'm managing live "takes" in my DAW.

PoorFellow

https://community.native-instruments.com/discussion/31409/kontact-vs-kontact-7-vs-komplete-kontrol-in-plugins

I am no expert and compared to many others here then rather new at using everything Komplete.

However the Komplete Kontrol app will show e.g. NKS ready synths and plugins where Kontakt will only show that which you can open with Kontakt (including third party NKS ready). On the other hand then depending on configuration then Kontakt when on computer screen could give you (easier?) access (?) to at least non NKS Kontakt libraries that will not be shown in the Komplete Kontrol app.

The Komplete Kontrol app is first and foremost made for connecting to the Native Instruments keyboards and for allowing you to conveniently browse libraries and sounds from your keyboard. Classically in N.I. connection then Kontakt has not been able to interface like that. And previously then when the komplete Kontrol app were not running then I think that the keyboards would be in midi mode only (I have frankly not used enough things hardware and software to know to what extend that is true).

Also on the subject of S-Series Mk3 keyboards then the MK3 series are the first to have Direct Connection making it and Kontakt 7 the first in their respective series' to allow for the keyboard to connect directly with each other, you will not find this ability in previous Kontakt versions or in previous keyboard versions such as e.g. S-Series MK2. The S-Series Mk3 keyboards have had a very serious upgrade compared to previous generations and I am sure that the ride is going to get even wilder when Kontakt 8 is arriving when (?) (I personally suspect it to arrive around the time of Komplete 15 but have no idea if it will be included , it might though).