Native Instruments Maschine review by Freemasons

[admin]

[djglenn]

I JUST watched this video a few hours ago on another website. I'd be interested in giving it a go if it weren't for the price. (Not super pricey, but beyond me at the moment).

What would be the main use of something like this in your studios? (i.e. it's role in your particular setup)

[admin]

After watching it I didn't see much more than just a midi controller. I'm sure it does more but nothing special popped out at me. But I'm not one of the anti mouse brigade.

[Edel]

This reminds me of a MPC/MPD like feature, probably with more control esp on the individual efx section and quick pattern switch. I would probably use this to program drums and synth stabs if im going for a more live/tactile approach.

[admin]

I come from that background, have done a lot of stuff with the MPC's, bought an MPC1000 to start programming that way again but found it tedious to use eventually. For a lot of the precision needed in today's music I think it almost hampers you. But we already have MPC style contollers, I've got the pads on my microKontrol which I never use. So I'm interested to see what else this thing has to offer. I also wonder if you're tied to using NI stuff for it to be integrated.

[sven hauck]

I come from that background, have done a lot of stuff with the MPC's, bought an MPC1000 to start programming that way again but found it tedious to use eventually. For a lot of the precision needed in today's music I think it almost hampers you. But we already have MPC style contollers, I've got the pads on my microKontrol which I never use. So I'm interested to see what else this thing has to offer. I also wonder if you're tied to using NI stuff for it to be integrated.

Couldn't agree more. I followed your example and also bought an MPC to get that feel, but it turned out to be a pain in the ass and took extra time to load the samples, record a pattern, bounce the audio down, etc.

The real difference will be if NI was able to totally integrate this device like Access did with the Virus TI. I love my TI as it synchs midi and audio perfectly to the host software. If Maschine can do that, then they've leaped over AKAI with better usability.

However, if you can draw in funky beats into the drum pattern editor a la Medway style, then this device is redundant. I still am amazed when I watch you do that.

[admin]

Don't forget Akai has that thing for Live now as well so would be good to compare the two.

[sven hauck]

That's true.