Native Instruments Maschine Mikro MK3 MIDI Pad Controller
Street Price:
Manufacturer:
Gearank Recommendation
The Maschine Mikro MK3 appeared on our recommended list for MIDI Pad Controllers from April 2019 through July 2020.
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Sound On Sound | Simon Sherbourne | 86/100 |
| All Things Gear | Christian De Looper | 90/100 |
| TNW | Tristan Greene | 88/100 |
Overview
The MK3 edition of the Maschine Mikro caused a stir when it was announced in September 2018.
Forums lit up at the prospect of a sub-$300 Maschine controller.
Although it came out at a lower price than its MK2 predecessor, it also has a smaller screen. This also means that editing samples is not possible without looking at your computer screen.
The Mikro MK3 lived up to the hype at release, bringing in a plethora of features like a new smart strip to control pitch, modulation, effects and even be able to "strum" held down notes as chords like a vintage Suzuki Omnichord.
If your primary goal is to be able to use Native Intruments' Maschine software and want an affordable matching hardware controller, the Mikro MK3 is a great entry into the workflow.
Do bear in mind what gets cut out from its larger siblings. If you don't mind the features excluded, then the Mikro MK3 is a good option.
Specifications
- Pads: 16 Velocity Sensitive Backlit Pads
- Buttons: 4 x Pad Mode, 4 x Smart Strip Mode, 26 x Function/Transport buttons, 5 x Navigation, Search and Favorite buttons
- Knobs: 1 x Universal Encoder Knob
- Other Controls: 1 x Dual Touch Smart Strip
- Standalone Mode: No
- Power: USB-powered
- Connectivity: USB Slot, Kensington Lock Slot
- Compatibility: Mac with Mac OS X 10.5, Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 or 10
- Software Bundle: NI Massive, Monark, Reaktor Prism, MASCHINE Essentials
- Dimensions: 12.6" x 6.96" x 1.77"
- Weight: 2.47 lbs
