Maschine is a software/hardware hybrid production system. This means that you can either make beats using the point and click method or you can use the hardware to get hands-on with your beat. Most people will use a combination of the two. It’s made by Native Instruments, a company that has been making sound libraries for decades. Combined with their S-Series keyboards and their Komplete sound library, Maschine makes for a powerhouse of a production system that I love to use.
I was mainly looking for a keyboard controller with some drum pads on it because I mainly make beats on keyboards. That’s how I learned. A few successes and heartbreaks later, I finally came across Native Instruments’ Komplete Kontrol Keyboards. I started with the A-Series/Maschine Micro combo just to use the Micro for drum pads. I quickly outgrew that combo and stepped up to the Kontrol S-Series/Machine MK3 combo after learning what Maschine could do.
To be honest, I wasn’t looking for a new DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) or beat making software. I was already using Reason. But my index finger was getting tired of pointing and clicking and I couldn’t find a good MIDI solution. After picking up the Maschine MK3 and learning how much fun it is to use the knobs, buttons, and pads, I was hooked. I found myself using the Maschine more than the Kontrol S-Series keyboard to craft my beats because there are so many tools to use on it.
Now, Maschine has its limitations but so did Reason back in the day. Maschine is only its 3rd version and has plenty of potential for improvement. But instead of focusing on what it doesn’t do well, like automations and vocals, I focus on what it does outstandingly well. I love the flexibility in idea-creating and arranging tracks. Plus, the fun of getting hands-on with my tracks can’t be overstated. The workflow is easy to grasp and there are tons of support through Native Instruments and elsewhere on the web.
Let’s not forget about the most important thing: the sound. The sounds in Komplete are among the best in the industry. My sound is now powered by Native Instruments. Their support is top-notch, and they have great guides on production tips on their blog. Maschine leaves room to grow with awesome VST support that lets you customize the knobs and save them for each VST. Maschine also plays well with others as a VST in other DAWs.
Everything being said, I’ve found a home with Maschine and Native Instruments. I can’t wait for what comes next for them. I’m patient though. I already have plenty of capabilities available to push my beats to another level. Here’s to making hot beats.