The Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Hardware Partner Program from Native Instruments was just announced during NAMM ’25.
Announced during NAMM 2025, Native Instruments sets out to make it easier for music producers to explore new sounds on their favorite controllers with the launch of their Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Hardware Partner Program. Industry leaders Akai Professional, Novation, Nektar, Korg, and M-Audio are adopting the NKS ecosystem to power seamless integration with Native Instruments software. With the launch, NKS connects creators to over 2,000 NKS-compatible instruments and effects from more than 250 brands.
“This expansion highlights the impact of collaboration,” says Simon Cross, Chief Product Officer at Native Instruments. “It marks an important milestone in our mission to provide musicians with an open, connected platform, making professional-grade tools, instruments, and technology more accessible to creators everywhere.”
Expanding access to industry-leading hardware
Native Instruments’ expanded partnerships extend NKS compatibility to renowned keyboard controllers, offering unparalleled musical hardware-software integration:
- Akai Professional: NKS integration now supports the MPK Mini Series (MPK Mini, MPK Mini Play, and MPK Mini Plus).
- Novation: NKS enhances the Launchkey MK3 and MK4, FLkey, and SL MK3 controllers, complementing their seamless DAW integrations. This additional integration expands Novation’s streamlined workflows to more creators.
- Nektar: The velocity-sensitive LX MK3 brings intuitive NKS integration, offering producers an expanded creative workflow.
- Korg: The advanced MIDI 2.0-compatible Keystage controllers bring enhanced flexibility and sound design options through NKS, catering to both studio producers and live performers.
- M-Audio: The current-generation Oxygen Series keyboards will feature NKS compatibility, providing cutting-edge tools for studio and stage.
The NKS integration will be available to all partner brands in the coming months. Interested owners can sign up for updates and more details at native-instruments.com/nks.