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Feature Request: detachable controller surface for midi s88 controller keyboard

Stuart Beattie
Stuart Beattie Member Posts: 1 Member
in Komplete Kontrol

I can't be the only one unable to use the control surface on my keyboard because of where it sits, tucked under my desk with only the keys and wheels accessible. It would be great if the control section with the encoders and the lcd displays could be detached and could sit separately on my desk, probably front and center behind my computer keyboard.

Comments

  • mykejb
    mykejb Moderator Posts: 2,304 mod

    I can't see them making it detachable, but I've been asking for a 'S0' version of the controllers for yonks. A bit like the Novation SL-Zero controllers from years ago that took the control section of the keyboard (knobs/faders/buttons/displays) and put them in a desktop controller.

  • MLARS
    MLARS Member Posts: 272 Pro
    edited April 4

    Have also asked for this feature request for years way before the MK3 but NI have not listen so far.

    The Keybed on a 88 key is preferably placed beneath the desk and the controller on the top. Most 88 users, like composers, would likely have it this way if they had the option.

    Having to push out the keybed so far just to reach the display and encoders is not ergonomic meaning NKS is less usable and you tend to use third party MIDI controllers with traditional mapping via the DAW instead.

    Could also see two SKUs of the 88: one non detachable classic S88 version, and one split desktop controller (with a long cable for standing or cheap USB-C cable so you can choose length yourself, important if you have to move the keybed to the side) and keybed unit if detachable is not feasable.

    Fingers crossed.

  • JesterMgee
    JesterMgee Member Posts: 3,168 Expert

    Well, this has been asked for since KK was first released, in fact within the first few weeks people asked for a dedicated controller without the keyboard.

    This is basically what Kore was many years ago, that failed due to lack of interest I am guessing and it's been stated a few times by NI on the forums the there are no plans for such a release so I would not place much hope on this (or any for that matter) suggestion.

  • MLARS
    MLARS Member Posts: 272 Pro
    edited April 5
    https://community.native-instruments.com/discussion/comment/220029#Comment_220029

    Disagree that it is the same as the failed Kore. The timing was probably also wrong for the Kore with no open NKS standard.

    A separate control unit is still attached to the S88 or communicate via USB - and is basically a smaller volume spinoff SKU of the S88 and not expected to be sold at the same amount as the Maschine or a smaller Komplete Kontrol keyboard hardware. It could even look a bit different with a somewhat slimmed down hammerweight keybed unit with light guide when it no longer may require to fit the hardware control unit.

    It could also support furniture installation where you remove the keybed case as an option making it even more modular for different 88 keys desk solutions.

    But yes it is a pro niche product if you make it as a spinoff SKU with lower sales numbers expected probably. But there would be plenty of S88 owners who would upgrade for it (as long as it does not deviate in price from the base S88).

  • nico5
    nico5 Member Posts: 86 Advisor

    One workaround might be to customize a studio desk to expose the controller section of the keyboard.

    Currently I'm using my self-modified (IKEA hack) desk, with a pull out drawer shelf that pulls out far enough to expose not only the keybed, but also the control section. My desk won't win any design awards, but it cost a lot less than buying something from a high end studio furniture maker. The other advantage of self built inexpensive stuff is, that I don't hesitate to attach another power bar or telescoping mic arms, cable guides or whatever.

    That setup is a bit of a compromise, but a controller on the desk (like my Maschine MK3) is also just different ergonomic trade-off (at least for me).

    Side note: As a general theme, I'm increasingly coming to the conclusion, that if I really want something badly enough, I should tackle it via changes I can make/build myself, rather than hoping for manufacturers to listen to my requests.

    And in today's environment, making things yourself and sharing knowledge, and homebrew solutions with fellow enthusiasts may become more of a thing than it's been in a very long time. And if I had more money and less time, I'd get a custom furniture maker near me to build it for me.

    Let's hope the Internet stays around for most of us, so we can still communicate over long distances even when other barriers go up everywhere.

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