How to Integrate Your Kontrol Keyboard with Your DAW

This article explains how to set up your Kontrol keyboard for advanced integration with your DAW.

All Kontrol keyboards can be used in any DAW with the Komplete Kontrol plug-in. Full Komplete Kontrol plug-in control (including Browser, Native Map and the perform features) is available in any host software which can load the Komplete Kontrol plug-in (VST, AU, AAX).

The guides below explain how to set up your keyboard with supported hosts for deeper integration and transport controls (Play, Stop, Record, etc.).

KKMK3Snap.png

Click to expand the solutions listed below.

Avid Pro Tools

Note: Support for Kontrol S-Series MK3 is coming soon!

The following explains how to set up Avid Pro Tools for KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK2, A-Series, and M32 keyboards.

Note: This feature requires Pro Tools 2021/10 or later, and is not available with the S-Series MK1 keyboards.

  1. Ensure that the keyboard is connected to your computer and switched on.
  2. Launch Pro Tools.
  3. Navigate to the Setup tab in the menu bar and select Peripherals....
    PT_setup.PNG
  4. In the Peripherals window, go to the MIDI Controllers tab.
    PT_peripherals.PNG
  5. Select KOMPLETE KONTROL in any of the drop-down menus in the Type column to add the keyboard. The ports and MIDI channel will populate automatically.
  6. Click OK to confirm the settings and close the Peripherals window.

Pro Tools is now ready to be used with your KOMPLETE KONTROL keyboard.

Note: We recommend always inserting the KOMPLETE KONTROL plug-in on Insert A of an instrument track.

Function Guide

Transport Control

Action in Pro Tools Control on Keyboard

Start Playback

 PLAY (Restart)

Stop Playback

 STOP (Clear)

Activate / deactivate recording

 REC (Count-In)

Move playback start point

 Turn 4-D Encoder

Move timeline selection

 LOOP + turn 4-D Encoder

Activate / deactivate loop playback

 LOOP

Activate / deactivate click

 METRO*

Activate / deactivate count off

 SHIFT + REC (Count-In)

*A Click Track must be created in Pro Tools in order to be able to activate / deactivate it with the METRO button.

Editing

Action in Pro Tools Control on Keyboard

Undo

 UNDO (Redo)

Redo

 SHIFT + UNDO (Redo)

Track Navigation and Control

Action in Pro Tools Control on Keyboard

Select previous / next track

 Push 4-D Encoder left / right or up / down

Mute

 M (Mute)

Solo

 S (Solo)

Mixer Mode

Note: The A-Series and M32 keyboards do not have a Mixer mode. However, it is still possible to adjust the volume and pan for tracks in the current bank using knobs 1-8 and SHIFT + knobs 1-8.

Action in Pro Tools Control on Keyboard

Select previous / next track

 Push 4-D Encoder left / right 

Select track

 Button 1-8

Move mixer back

 < / >

Mute track 1-8

 M + Button 1-8

Solo track 1-8

 S + Button 1-8

Set knobs 1-8 to control volume

 SHIFT + 4-D Encoder up

Set knobs 1-8 to control pan

 SHIFT + 4-D Encoder down

Adjust volume / pan for selected track

 Knob 1-8

For a quick-reference guide to using the S-Series keyboards in Pro Tools, please download the DAW shortcut sheet below.

Bitwig Studio

This setup requires Bitwig 5.0.10 (or higher).

Simply start Bitwig, connect your Kontrol MK3 controller and switch it on. The keyboard is detected and set up automatically. Komplete Kontrol MK2 users can find a setup guide here.

Here you can find more information about Kontrol MK3 integration in Bitwig:

BW_Setup1.png

BW_Setup2.png

BW_TN.png

BW_MD.png

Cubase Artist / Pro or Nuendo

Setup

  1. Connect your keyboard and switch it on.
  2. Start Cubase / Nuendo.
  3. Navigate to Studio > Studio Setup.
  4. Click the "+" button in the upper left:
    CubasePlus.png
  5. Select your keyboard from the list:
    CubaseSelectDevice.png
  6. On a Mac, set MIDI Input and MIDI Output to "*Your Keyboard* DAW".
    In the example below we are selecting the KONTROL S49 MK3 DAW:
    Midi_Mac.png
  7. On Windows, if you are using a Kontrol S MK3, set Input to MIDIIN2(KONTROL S MK3) and Output to MIDIOUT2 (KONTROL S MK3):
    Midi_Win.png
    If you are using a different Komplete Kontrol keyboard, select "*Your Keyboard* DAW". Here is an example of Komplete Kontrol M32 on Windows:
    Cubase_4_MidiIO_Win2.png

Your keyboard is now configured for advanced host integration in Cubase / Nuendo. The main transport functions of the keyboard are listed below:

BUTTON
FUNCTION
PLAY Start playback
STOP Stop playback / recording
REC Record (Count-in)
SHIFT + REC Toggle Count-in On / Off
LOOP Toggle Loop Mode On / Off
LOOP + Main Rotary Encoder Move loop in one bar increments

For a detailed list of all controls and functions, please consult your keyboard's manual.

Digital Performer

This setup requires Digital Performer 11 or higher. The latest installer for Digital Performer 11.22 or higher is required for Kontakt 7 Direct Connection.

  1. Connect your keyboard and switch it on.
  2. Start Digital Performer.
  3. Navigate to Setup > Control Surface Setup…
  4. Click the “+” button in the top right:
    DP_PlusButton.png
  5. Select Komplete Kontrol from the list:
    SelectKK.png
  6. Set Input Port and Output Port to the corresponding output based on your setup.
      macOS Windows
    Kontrol MK3 (S49/S61/S88) Kontrol S49/S61/S88 DAW,
    MK3    		 MIDIIN2 (Input Port),
    MIDIOUT2 (Output Port)
    Komplete Kontrol A
    (A25/A49/A61)    		 Komplete Kontrol A DAW Komplete Kontrol A DAW
    Komplete Kontrol M32 Komplete Kontrol M DAW Komplete Kontrol M DAW
    Komplete Kontrol S MK2
    (S49/S61/S88)    		 Komplete Kontrol DAW Komplete Kontrol DAW
    Note: On Mac, this might be under “Unconfigured Ports” (see screenshot below).
    NoteMac.png

Your keyboard is now configured for advanced host integration in Digital Performer. The main transport functions of the keyboard are listed below:

BUTTON FUNCTION
PLAY Start / Stop / Restart playback
STOP Stop playback / recording
REC Start / Stop recording
SHIFT + REC Toggle Count-in On / Off
LOOP Toggle Memory Cycle On / Off
LOOP + Main Rotary Encoder Move the Memory Cycle in one bar increments 
FL Studio

Note: Support for Kontrol S-Series MK3 is coming soon!

KOMPLETE KONTROL can be integrated with FL Studio by using the MCU (Mackie Control Universal) protocol. In this case, the host integration functionality is limited. Here's how to set it up with FL Studio:

  1. Make sure your KOMPLETE KONTROL keyboard is connected and powered on (if it has a power switch).
  2. Start FL Studio and select Options > MIDI settings from the menu bar.
    FL_1_OptionsMenu.png
  3. In the Input section, select Komplete Kontrol DAW and choose Enable. Then, click the drop-down menu right next to Controller type and choose Mackie Control Universal from the list:
    FL_2_MIDISettings.png
  4. Next, select Komplete Kontrol in the Input section and click the Enable button:
    FL_3_Enable.png
  5. Close the Settings window.

    Note: the KOMPLETE KONTROL entries in the Input section will vary slightly depending on the model of the keyboard you are using.

FL Studio is now set up for the KOMPLETE KONTROL keyboard.

Supported Controls

KOMPLETE KONTROL BUTTON FUNCTION
PLAY  Start / Pause Playback
REC Record
STOP Stop
FFW / RWD (MK1 only) Fast Forward / Rewind 
GarageBand

Important:
- If you’re experiencing issues with Host Integration on an Apple Silicon-based Mac, please follow the steps in this article.
- If you’re experiencing issues on an Apple Intel-based Mac and GarageBand 10.4.4 or higher, please follow the steps in this article.

Setting Up GarageBand for KOMPLETE KONTROL

  1. Make sure your KOMPLETE KONTROL keyboard is connected and powered on.
  2. Start GarageBand.
  3. The following prompt will be shown each time you launch GarageBand. Click Connect to connect your KOMPLETE KONTROL keyboard to GarageBand.
    Garageband_1_PromptKKWantsToConnect.png

 GarageBand is now set up for KOMPLETE KONTROL.

Loading KOMPLETE KONTROL in GarageBand for the First Time

  1. Load the KOMPLETE KONTROL plug-in on a Software Instrument Track.

    Note: read this article to learn how to load a NI plug-in in GarageBand.

  2. If GarageBand prompts you to lower your security settings, click Lower Security Settings to proceed.
    Garageband_2_PromptLowerYourSecuritySettings.png
  3. KOMPLETE KONTROL prompts you to rescan your Library and Plug-ins. Click OK to proceed.
    Garageband_3_PromptRescanLibrary_Plug-ins.png
  4. Open the KOMPLETE KONTROL Preferences.
    Garageband_4_OpenPreferences.png
  5. Go to the Library tab and press the Rescan button. Wait for the Database to be updated; this can take a few minutes.
    Garageband_5_LibraryRescan.png
  6. Go to the Plug-ins tab, and press the Rescan button. Wait for the Database to be updated.
    Garageband_6_PluginsRescan.png
  7. You can now close KOMPLETE KONTROL's Preferences and start using KOMPLETE KONTROL.

Please note a separate database cache is created for GarageBand that will not automatically synchronize with the standalone application of KOMPLETE KONTROL or KOMPLETE KONTROL plug-ins used in other hosts. However, it can be synchronized manually via Preferences > Library > Rescan (see steps 4 and 5 above). Please update the database every time you add a new instrument or save new presets in the standalone application or plug-ins of KOMPLETE KONTROL used in other hosts.

Logic Pro

Setting Up Logic Pro for Kontrol MK3

The features described here require Apple Logic Pro 10.6 (or higher) as well as Komplete Kontrol 3.0 (or higher).

  1. Connect the Kontrol MK3 keyboard to your computer and switch it on.
  2. Start the Logic Pro application.
  3. When asked for confirmation if you want to automatically assign controls of your Kontrol S MK3, click Auto Assign.

Setting Up Logic Pro for Kontrol MK1 & MK2

If you're using a Kontrol MK1 keyboard, the features described here require Apple Logic Pro 10.2.0 (or higher) as well as Komplete Kontrol 1.6.1 (or higher).

If you're using a Kontrol MK2 keyboard, the features described here require Apple Logic Pro 10.3.1 (or higher) as well as Komplete Kontrol .9.0 (or higher).

Important: If you’re experiencing issues with Host Integration on an Apple Silicon-based Mac, please follow the steps in this article.

  1. Make sure your Kontrol keyboard is connected and powered on.
  2. Start Logic Pro.
  3. The following prompt will be shown. Click OK to connect your keyboard to Logic.
    Logic_1_PromptKKWantsToConnect.png
  4. Logic will display the Control Surface Setup window. You can see that it has identified the Kontrol Keyboard.
    Logic_2_ControlSurfaceSetupKK160.png
  5. Close the Control Surface Setup window.

Logic Pro is now set up for Kontrol. Please read this article if your Kontrol keyboard is not automatically recognized by Logic.

Note: If you have additional Devices installed (e.g. Mackie Controller) in the Control Surface Setup window and remove them manually, Kontrol may not be automatically moved to the correct Control Surface Group. Ensure that it is in Control Surface Group 1 by dragging it to the top of the Control Surface Setup area or restarting Logic Pro.

Maschine 2

The Kontrol S-Series MK3 keyboard is currently not supported.

It is possible to control many of MASCHINE’s functions directly from the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK1 & MK2, the A-Series and the M32 keyboards. Furthermore, the Arrange buttons located at the left of the keyboard’s displays allows access to certain modes and views of the MASCHINE software that makes the integration of KOMPLETE KONTROL into MASCHINE straight-forward. 

Please check the KOMPLETE KONTROL manual for further details on how KOMPLETE KONTROL can integrate with MASCHINE.

Studio One

All the the Kontrol keyboards are automatically detected in Studio One. The Kontrol MK3 requires Studio One 6.5 (or higher). The Kontrol MK2 keyboards require Studio One 4.5.3 (or higher).

If your keyboard has not connected automatically, or if you are using an older version of Studio One, please follow the steps below. 

Integration of the keyboard as a MIDI controller

To make use of the keyboard as a MIDI controller, follow the steps below:

  1. Open the Studio One Options window and select the External Devices tab.
    OptionsAdd1.png
  2. Click Add and scroll down to the Native Instruments entry. Unfold it and select the keyboard you want to set up. In this example, we are selecting Komplete Kontrol S.
    MidiChannels.png
  3. In the Receive From and Send To tabs, select the keyboard that you want to use. In our case, it is the KONTROL S49 MK3.

Integration of the control surface functionalities

The steps to enable the transport and control surface features are similar to the above instructions.

  1. In the Studio One Options window, select the External Devices tab.
    OptionsAdd2.png
  2. Click Add and scroll down to the Native Instruments entry. Unfold it and select Komplete Kontrol DAW.
    DAWSetup1.png
  3. If you are using a Kontrol S MK3, set Receive From to MIDIIN2 (KONTROL S MK3) and Send To to MIDIOUT2 (KONTROL S MK3).
    DawSetupMK3.png
    If you are using a different Komplete Kontrol keyboard, set the Receive From and Send To to the DAW entry available. In our case, it's Komplete Kontrol DAW - 1:
    DawSetupOther.png

Using a Kontrol keyboard to control the Komplete Kontrol plug-in

When the MIDI and DAW functionalities are enabled, you must press the PLUG-IN button in order to change the keyboard state so that it controls the Komplete Kontrol plug-in. To revert back to controlling Studio One, press the DAW / INSTANCE button. The transport buttons (PLAY, REC, STOP, LOOP, METRO, and TEMPO) will still control Studio One even in plug-in mode.

Ableton Live has different setup instructions depending on which keyboard you are using. Choose the guide for your specific model.

Ableton Live for Kontrol S-Series MK3

Ableton Live - Kontrol S-Series MK3 (Mac)

This setup requires Live 11.3.11 and Komplete Kontrol software 3.0.

  1. Connect your Kontrol MK3 keyboard to your computer and switch it on.
  2. Start Ableton Live and go to Preferences > Link MIDI.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol S Mk3.
    LiveCS_Win.png
  4. Select KONTROL S MK3 (Port2) under Input and Output.
    Live_IO_Mac.png

Your Kontrol MK3 is now set up for host integration in Ableton Live.

Ableton Live - Kontrol S-Series MK3 (Windows)

This setup requires Live 11.3.11 and Komplete Kontrol software 3.0.

  1. Connect your Kontrol MK3 keyboard to your computer and switch it on.
  2. Start Ableton Live and go to Preferences > Link MIDI.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol S Mk3.
    LiveCS_Win.png
  4. Select KONTROL S MK3 (Port2) under Input and Output.
    Live_IO.png

Your Kontrol MK3 is now set up for host integration in Ableton Live.

Ableton Live for KOMPLETE KONTROL M32 and A-Series

Ableton Live - Komplete Kontrol M32

M32 keyboards currently require the user to select 'Komplete Kontrol A' as the control surface. Please follow these steps:

  1. Connect your KOMPLETE KONTROL M32 keyboard to your computer.
  2. Start Ableton Live and go to Preferences > Link MIDI.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol A by selecting it from the drop-down list.
    Ableton_M32_1_ControlSurface.png
  4. Under Input, select Komplete Kontrol M DAW:
    Ableton_m32_2_InputMDAW.png
  5. Under Output, select Komplete Kontrol M DAW:
    Ableton_m32_3_OutputMDAW.png

To find out how to use the host integration features, please download the 'KOMPLETE KONTROL M32 DAW Shortcut sheet' that is linked at the bottom of the page.

Ableton Live - Komplete Kontrol A-Series
  1. Connect your A-Series keyboard with your computer.
  2. Start Ableton Live and go to Preferences > Link MIDI.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol A by selecting it from the drop-down list.
  4. Select Komplete Kontrol A DAW under Input and Output.
    Ableton_Aseries_1_MIDI_config.png

To find out how to use the host integration features, please download the 'KOMPLETE KONTROL A-Series DAW Shortcut Sheet' that is linked at the bottom of this page.

Ableton Live for Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK2

Ableton Live for Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK2 (Mac)

Depending on which version of Live you use, the setup steps differ. Follow the steps for your version of Live below:

Ableton Live 10 / 11

This feature requires at least Live 10.1 and KOMPLETE KONTROL 2.1.2.

  1. Connect your S-Series MK2 keyboard to your computer.
  2. Start Live and go to Preferences > Link MIDI.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol SMK2 by selecting it from the drop-down list.
  4. Select Komplete Kontrol DAW -1 under Input and Output.
    kkmk2_mac_1_ableton_midi_settings.png

To find out how to use the host integration features, please download the 'KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK2 DAW Shortcut Sheet' that is linked below this article.

Ableton Live 9

The features described here require at least Live 9.2.3. and KOMPLETE KONTROL 1.9.0.

There are four steps involved to set up Live with your KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK2:

1. Installing the MIDI Remote Script

  1. Ensure that Live is not running.
  2. Navigate to the following folder:
    Macintosh HD > Library > Application Support > Native Instruments > Host Integration > Ableton Live
  3. Copy the "_NativeInstruments" folder, as well as the "Komplete_Kontrol_Mk2" folder.
    kkmk2_mac_2_ableton_copy_folders.png
  4. Open your Applications folder and right-click the Live application symbol. In the context menu, click on Show Package Contents.
    kkmk2_mac_3_abletonShowPackage.png
  5. In the Live package, navigate to Contents > App-Resources > MIDI Remote Scripts.
  6. Paste the folders you have copied into the MIDI Remote Scripts folder:
    kkmk2_mac_4_abletonPasteKKMK2_folder.png

2. Installing the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks

In this step, you will learn how to copy the required KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack files to your Live User Library. This way Live will recognize the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks and add them to the browser.

  1. Navigate to the following folder:
    Macintosh HD > Library > Application Support > Native Instruments > Host Integration > Ableton Live
  2. Copy the "Komplete Kontrol VST.adg" and "Komplete Kontrol AU.adg" files to your clipboard by selecting both of them, right-clicking on the selection and choosing Copy 2 Items.
    kkmk2_mac_5_abletonCopy_ADG_Files_Mac.png
  3. Paste the .adg files to your Live Instrument Rack folder. By default this folder is located here: Macintosh HD > Users > *Username* > Music > Ableton > User Library > Presets > Instruments > Instrument Rack
    kkmk2_mac_6_abletonPaste_Instrument_Rack_Files.png

3. Configuring Live for the use of KOMPLETE KONTROL with the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series Keyboards

Once the MIDI remote script and the instrument rack files are installed in the correct locations, you need to activate Komplete Kontrol as a control surface in Live's preferences.

  1. Start Live.
  2. Open Live's Preferences and go to the Link MIDI Tab.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol MK2 by selecting it from the drop-down list.
    kkmk2_mac_7_abletonSelect_KK_as_contol_surface.png
  4. Select Komplete Kontrol DAW - 1 under Input and Output.
    kkmk2_mac_8_abletonControl_Surface_Input_Output_MK1__1_.png
  5. Go to the File / Folder tab of Live's Preferences and make sure the Use Audio Units and Use VST Plug-in System Folders options are activated. If these options were not activated, press the Rescan button after having set them to On. If you skip this step, you will not be able to load KOMPLETE KONTROL correctly in Live. Read this article for more information on plug-in administration in Live.kkmk2_mac_9_abletonPrefPlugInSources.png

4. Loading KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live

To load KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live, drag the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack from the browser to an empty MIDI Track. The KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks are called:

  • Komplete Kontrol VST.adg (VST plug-in format)
  • Komplete Kontrol AU.adg (Audio Units plug-in format, Mac only)

You will find them here in the Live browser: Instruments > Instrument Rack. Make sure not to use the VST version instead of the Instruments Rack version of KOMPLETE KONTROL, if not you might experience connection issues as described in this article.

Important Note: Don't use both the AU and VST versions of KOMPLETE KONTROL in the same Live project. You have to use the same plug-in format across all instances in your project. Otherwise automatic track focus will not work correctly.

kkmk2_mac_10_abletonKKInstrumentRackLibrary__1_.png

Ableton Live for Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK2 (Windows)

Depending on which version of Live you use, the setup steps may differ. Follow the steps for your version of Live below:

Ableton Live 10 / 11

This feature requires at least Live 10.1 and KOMPLETE KONTROL 2.1.2.

Note: if using Ableton Live 10.0.x, please follow the setup steps outlined for Ableton Live 9.

  1. Connect your S-Series MK2 keyboard to your computer.
  2. Start Live and go to Preferences > Link MIDI.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol SMK2 by selecting it from the drop-down list.
  4. Select Komplete Kontrol DAW -1 under Input and Output.
    kkmk2_win_1_Control_Surface_Input_Output_MK1_.png

To find out how to use the host integration features, please download the 'KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK2 DAW Shortcut Sheet' that is available through this link.

Ableton Live 9

The features described here require at least Live 9.2.3. and KOMPLETE KONTROL 1.9.0.

There are four steps involved to set up Live with your KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK2:

1. Installing the MIDI Remote Script

In this section, you will learn how to copy the KOMPLETE KONTROL MIDI Remote Script to Live's MIDI Remote Scripts directory. This will allow Live to recognize KOMPLETE KONTROL as a control surface.

  1. Ensure that Live is not running.
  2. Navigate to the following folder:
    C: > Program Files > Common Files > Native Instruments > Host Integration > Ableton Live
  3. Copy the "_NativeInstruments" folder, as well as the "Komplete_Kontrol_Mk2" folder.
    kkmk2_win_2_Copy_both_folders_Windows.png
  4. Go to the MIDI Remote Scripts folder in Live's installation directory. By default, it is located here:
    C: > ProgramData > Ableton > Live 9 > Resources > MIDI Remote Scripts

    Note: The Program Data folder may be hidden. This article explains how to display hidden files and folders in Windows.

  5. Paste the folders you have copied into the "MIDI Remote Scripts" folder.
    kkmk2_win_3_Paste_Host_Integration_Scripts_Windows.png

2. Installing the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks

In this step, you will learn how to copy the required KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack files to your Live User Library. This way Live will recognize the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks and add them to the browser.

  1. Navigate to the following folder:
    C: > Program Files > Common Files > Native Instruments > Host Integration > Ableton Live
  2. Copy the "Komplete Kontrol VST.adg" file to your clipboard by right-clicking it and choosing Copy.
    kkmk2_win_4_Copy_Instrument_Rack_File.png
  3. Paste the .adg file to the Instrument Rack folder in your Live User Library. By default this folder is located here:
    C: > Users > *Username* > Documents > Ableton > User Library > Presets > Instruments > Instrument Rack
    kkmk2_win_5_Paste_Instrument_Rack_File.png

3. Configuring Live for the use of KOMPLETE KONTROL with the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series Keyboards

Once the MIDI remote script and the instrument rack files are installed in the correct location, you need to activate Komplete Kontrol as control surface in Live's preferences.

  1. Start Live.
  2. Open Live's Preferences and go to the Link MIDI Tab.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol MK2 by selecting it from the drop-down list.
    kkmk2_win_6_Select_KK_as_contol_surface.png
  4. Select Komplete Kontrol DAW - 1 under Input and Output.
    kkmk2_win_7_Control_Surface_Input_Output_MK1__1_.png

4. Loading KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live

To load KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live, drag the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack from the browser to an empty MIDI Track. The KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack is called:

  • Komplete Kontrol VST.adg (VST plug-in format)

You will find the rack here in the Live browser: Instruments > Instrument Rack. Make sure not to use the VST version instead of the Instruments Rack version of KOMPLETE KONTROL, if not you might experience connection issues as described in this article.

kkmk2_win_8_KKInstrumentRackLibrary__1_.png

Ableton Live for KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK1

Ableton Live 9 / 10 for Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK1 (Mac)

This feature requires at least Live 9.2.3. and KOMPLETE KONTROL 1.9.0.

There are four steps involved to set up Live with your KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK1 as explained below:

1. Installing the MIDI Remote Script

In this section, you will learn how to copy the KOMPLETE KONTROL MIDI Remote Script to Live's MIDI Remote Scripts directory. This will allow Live to recognize KOMPLETE KONTROL as a control surface.

  1. Ensure that Live is not running.
  2. Navigate to the following folder:
    Macintosh HD > Library > Application Support > Native Instruments > Host Integration > Ableton Live
  3. Copy the "_NativeInstruments" folder, as well as the "Komplete_Kontrol_Mk1" folder.
    kkmk1_mac_1_Host_Integration_Files.PNG
  4. Open your Applications folder and right-click the Live 9 (or 10) application symbol. In the context menu, click on Show Package Contents.
    kkmk1_mac_2_ShowPackage.png
  5. In the Live package, navigate to Contents > App-Resources > MIDI Remote Scripts.
  6. Paste the folders you have copied into the "MIDI Remote Scripts" folder:
    kkmk1_mac_3_MIDI_Remote_Scripts.PNG

2. Installing the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks

In this step, you will learn how to copy the required KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack files to your Live User Library. This way Live will recognize the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks and add them to the browser.

  1. Navigate to the following folder:
    Macintosh HD > Library > Application Support > Native Instruments > Host Integration > Ableton Live
  2. Copy the "Komplete Kontrol VST.adg" and "Komplete Kontrol AU.adg" files to your clipboard by selecting both of them, right-clicking on the selection and choosing Copy 2 Items.
    kkmk1_mac_4_Copy_ADG_Files_Mac.png
  3. Paste the .adg files to your Live Instrument Rack folder. By default this folder is located here:
    Macintosh HD > Users > *Username* > Music > Ableton > User Library > Presets > Instruments > Instrument Rack
    kkmk1_mac_5_Paste_Instrument_Rack_Files__1_.png

3. Configuring Live for the use of KOMPLETE KONTROL with the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series Keyboards

Once the MIDI remote script and the instrument rack files are installed in the correct location, you need to activate Komplete Kontrol as control surface in Live's preferences.

  1. Start Live.
  2. Open Live's Preferences and go to the Link MIDI Tab.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol Mk1 by selecting it from the drop-down list.
    kkmk1_mac_6_Control_Surface_KKMK1.PNG

    Note: Live's auto-selection may choose the Komplete Kontrol Mk2 instead of the Mk1 automatically. If it does, simply choose the Komplete Kontrol Mk1 from the Control Surface list.

  4. Select Komplete Kontrol DAW - 1 under Input and Output.
    kkmk1_mac_7_Control_Surface_Input_Output_MK1.png
  5. Go to the File / Folder tab of Live's Preferences and make sure the Use Audio Units and Use VST Plug-in System Folders options are activated. If these options were not activated, press the Rescan button after having set them to On.
    kkmk1_mac_8_AbletonPrefPlugInSources.png

4. Loading KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live

To load KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live, drag the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack from the browser to an empty MIDI Track. The KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks are called:

  • Komplete Kontrol VST.adg (VST plug-in format)
  • Komplete Kontrol AU.adg (Audio Units plug-in format)

You will find them here in the Live browser: Instruments > Instrument Rack. Make sure not to use the VST version instead of the Instruments Rack version of KOMPLETE KONTROL, if not you might experience connection issues as described in this article.

Important Note: Don't use both the AU and VST versions of KOMPLETE KONTROL in the same Live project. You have to use the same plug-in format across all instances in your project. Otherwise automatic track focus will not work correctly.

kkmk1_mac_9_KKInstrumentRackLibrary__1_.png

 Ableton Live 9 / 10 for Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK1 (Windows)

This feature requires at least Live 9.2.3. and KOMPLETE KONTROL 1.9.0.

There are four steps involved to set up Live with your KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK1 as explained below:

1. Installing the MIDI Remote Script

In this section, you will learn how to copy the KOMPLETE KONTROL MIDI Remote Script to Live's MIDI Remote Scripts directory. This will allow Live to recognize KOMPLETE KONTROL as a control surface.

  1. Ensure that Live is not running.
  2. Navigate to the following folder:
    C: > Program Files > Common Files > Native Instruments > Host Integration > Ableton Live.
  3. Copy the "_NativeInstruments" folder, as well as the "Komplete_Kontrol_Mk1" folder.
    kkmk1_win_1_Host_Integration_Files_Windows.PNG
  4. Go to the MIDI Remote Scripts folder in Live's installation directory. By default, it is located here:
    C: > ProgramData > Ableton > Live 9 (or 10) > Resources > MIDI Remote Scripts.

    Note: The Program Data folder may be hidden. This article explains how to display hidden files and folders in Windows.

  5. Paste the folders you have copied into the "MIDI Remote Scripts" folder.
    kkmk1_win_2_MIDI_Remote_Scripts_Windows__1_.PNG

2. Installing the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks

In this step, you will learn how to copy the required KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack files to your Live User Library. This way Live will recognize the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks and add them to the browser.

  1. Navigate to the following folder:
    C: > Program Files > Common Files > Native Instruments > Host Integration > Ableton Live
  2. Copy the "Komplete Kontrol VST.adg" file to your clipboard by right-clicking it and choosing Copy.
    kkmk1_win_3_Copy_Instrument_Rack_File.png
  3. Paste the .adg file to the Instrument Rack folder in your Live User Library. By default this folder is located here:
    C: > Users > *Username* > Documents > Ableton > User Library > Presets > Instruments > Instrument Rack
    kkmk1_win_4_Paste_Instrument_Rack_File__1_.png

3. Configuring Live for the use of KOMPLETE KONTROL with the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series Keyboards

Once the MIDI remote script and the instrument rack files are installed in the correct location, you need to activate Komplete Kontrol as control surface in Live's preferences.

  1. Start Live.
  2. Open Live's Preferences and go to the Link MIDI Tab.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol Mk1 by selecting it from the drop-down list.
    kkmk1_win_5_Control_Surface_KKMK1.PNG

    Note: Live's auto-selection may choose the Komplete Kontrol Mk2 instead of the Mk1 automatically. If it does, simply choose the Komplete Kontrol Mk1 from the Control Surface list.

  4. Select Komplete Kontrol DAW - 1 under Input and Output.
    kkmk1_win_6_Control_Surface_Input_Output_MK1__1_.png

4. Loading KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live

To load KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live, drag the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack from the browser to an empty MIDI Track. The KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack is called:

  • Komplete Kontrol VST.adg (VST plug-in format)

You will find the rack here in Live's browser: Instruments > Instrument Rack. Make sure not to use the VST version instead of the Instruments Rack version of KOMPLETE KONTROL, if not you might experience connection issues as described in this article.

kkmk1_win_7_KKInstrumentRackLibrary__1_.png

Ableton Live 11 for Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK1 (Mac)

This feature requires at least Live 11.0.2 and KOMPLETE KONTROL 2.6.0.

There are four steps involved to set up Live with your KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK1 as explained below:

1. Download and install the MIDI Remote Script

  1. Download and unzip the Komplete Kontrol MK1 - Live 11.zip.
  2. Open the unzipped folder Ableton Live 11.
  3. Copy the folder Komplete_Kontrol_Mk1.
    kkmk1_mac_1_live11_copy_kompletekontrol_folder.png
  4. Ensure that Live is not running.
  5. Open your Applications folder and right-click the Live 11 application symbol. In the context menu, click on Show Package Contents.
    kkmk1_mac_2_live11_show_package_contents.png
  6. In the Live package, navigate to Contents > App-Resources > MIDI Remote Scripts.
  7. Paste the Komplete_Kontrol_Mk1 folder you have copied into the "MIDI Remote Scripts" folder:
    kkmk1_mac_3_live11_MIDI_Remote_Scripts__1_.PNG

2. Installing the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks

  1. Open again the unzipped Ableton Live 11 folder.
  2. Copy the "Komplete Kontrol VST.adg" and "Komplete Kontrol AU.adg" files to your clipboard by selecting both of them, right-clicking on the selection and choosing Copy 2 Items.
    kkmk1_mac_4_live11_copy_kkVST_AU.png
  3. Paste the .adg files to your Live Instrument Rack folder. By default this folder is located here:
    Macintosh HD > Users > *Username* > Music > Ableton > User Library > Presets > Instruments > Instrument Rack
    kkmk1_mac_5_live11_Paste_Instrument_Rack_Files__1_.png

3. Configuring Live for the use of KOMPLETE KONTROL with the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series Keyboards

  1. Start Live.
  2. Open Live's Preferences and go to the Link MIDI Tab.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol Mk1 by selecting it from the drop-down list.
    kkmk1_mac_6_live11_Ableton_control_surface_menu__1_.PNG

    Note: Live's auto-selection may choose the Komplete Kontrol Mk2 instead of the Mk1 automatically. If it does, simply choose the Komplete Kontrol Mk1 from the Control Surface list.

  4. Select Komplete Kontrol DAW - 1 under Input and Output.
    kkmk1_mac_7_live11_Control_Surface_Input_Output_MK1__1_.png
  5. Go to the Plug-Ins tab of Live's Preferences and make sure the Use Audio Units and Use VST Plug-in System Folders options are activated. If these options were not activated, press the Rescan Plug-Ins button after having set them to On.
    kkmk1_mac_8_live11_plugin_preferences.png

4. Loading KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live

To load KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live, drag the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack from the browser to an empty MIDI track. The KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack is called:

  • Komplete Kontrol VST.adg (VST plug-in format)
  • Komplete Kontrol AU.adg (Audio Units plug-in format)

You will find the rack here in Live's browser: Instruments > Instrument Rack.

Make sure to use the Instruments Rack version of KOMPLETE KONTROL and not the normal plug-in version. Otherwise, you might experience connection issues as described in this article.

Important Note: Don't use both the AU and VST versions of KOMPLETE KONTROL in the same Live project. You have to use the same plug-in format across all instances in your project. Otherwise automatic track focus will not work correctly.

kkmk1_mac_9_live11_KKInstrumentRackLibrary__1_.png

Ableton Live 11 for Komplete Kontrol S-Series MK1 (Windows)

This feature requires at least Live 11.0.2 and KOMPLETE KONTROL 2.6.0.

There are four steps involved to set up Live with your KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series MK1 as explained below:

1. Download and install the MIDI Remote Script

  1. Download and unzip the Komplete Kontrol MK1 - Live 11.zip.
  2. Open the unzipped folder and navigate to Komplete Kontrol MK1 - Live 11 > Ableton Live 11.
  3. Copy the folder Komplete_Kontrol_Mk1.
    kkmk1_win_1_live11_KK_script_folder__1_.PNG
  4. Ensure that Live is not running.
  5. Go to the MIDI Remote Scripts folder in Live's installation directory. By default, it is located here:
    C: > ProgramData > Ableton > Live 11 (Suite) > Resources > MIDI Remote Scripts.

    Note: The Program Data folder may be hidden. This article explains how to display hidden files and folders in Windows.

  6. Paste the folder you have copied into the "MIDI Remote Scripts" folder.
    kkmk1_win_1_live11_MIDI_Remote_Scripts_Windows__1_.PNG

2. Installing the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Racks

  1. Open again the unzipped Komplete Kontrol MK1 - Live 11.zip folder and navigate to Komplete Kontrol MK1 - Live 11 > Ableton Live 11.
  2. Copy the Komplete Kontrol VST.adg file.
  3. Paste the .adg file to the Instrument Rack folder in your Live User Library. By default this folder is located here:
    C: > Users > *Username* > Documents > Ableton > User Library > Presets > Instruments > Instrument Rack
    kkmk1_win_1_live11_Paste_Instrument_Rack_File__1_.png

3. Configuring Live for the use of KOMPLETE KONTROL with the KOMPLETE KONTROL S-Series Keyboards

  1. Start Live.
  2. Open Live's Preferences and go to the Link MIDI Tab.
  3. Assign a free Control Surface slot to Komplete Kontrol Mk1 by selecting it from the drop-down list.
    kkmk1_win_1_live11_Ableton_control_surface_menu__1_.PNG

    Note: Live's auto-selection may choose the Komplete Kontrol Mk2 instead of the Mk1 automatically. If it does, simply choose the Komplete Kontrol Mk1 from the Control Surface list.

  4. Select Komplete Kontrol DAW - 1 under Input and Output.
    kkmk1_win_1_live11_Control_Surface_Input_Output_MK1__1_.png

4. Loading KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live

To load KOMPLETE KONTROL in Live, drag the KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack from the browser to an empty MIDI Track. The KOMPLETE KONTROL Instrument Rack is called:

  • Komplete Kontrol VST.adg

You will find the rack here in Live's browser: Instruments > Instrument Rack. Make sure to use the Instruments Rack version of KOMPLETE KONTROL and not the normal plug-in version. Otherwise, you might experience connection issues as described in this article.

kkmk1_win_1_live11_KKInstrumentRackLibrary__1_.png

Host Integration in Other DAWs

You can use the KOMPLETE KONTROL keyboard in any DAW which supports the MCU (Mackie Control Universal) protocol. In this case, the host integration functionality is limited.

Integration with other DAWs using MCU Protocol
Setting up KOMPLETE KONTROL in DAWs supporting MCU differs with each DAW. Generally, it involves the following:
  1. Open your DAW's device / control surface preferences.
  2. Select the MCU / Mackie Control Universal as the device.
  3. Set the ports to Komplete Kontrol DAW.

For more information on setting up controllers with MCU, refer to the documentation of your DAW.
The following table provides an overview of the basic transport controls supported with MCU:

Action in DAW using MCU Button
Basic Transport  
Start / pause playback PLAY (RESTART)
Enable / disable recording REC (COUNT-IN)
Punch in while recording REC (COUNT-IN)
Punch out while recording REC (COUNT-IN)
Stop playback / recording STOP
Relocate playhead position to start when stopped STOP
Enable / disable looping LOOP
Scroll playhead position (if supported by host) Turn 4-D encoder
Track Navigation  
Select previous / next track (if supported by host) Move 4-D encoder up / down / left / right
Select previous / next region (if supported by host) Move 4-D encoder up / down / left / right

Note: Automatic track focus is not supported with MCU. However, you can press the INSTANCE button on your KOMPLETE KONTROL keyboard to call up a dialog in the displays to switch between all loaded instances of the plug-in. 

DAW Shortcut Sheets

Download the DAW shortcut sheet below for a quick-reference guide to controlling Logic Pro, Garage Band, Ableton Live, Cubase, Nuendo and Pro Tools with your KOMPLETE KONTROL keyboard.

 

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