When first released in 2009, Native Instruments' Maschine set a template for the next decade of music-making: a versatile pad-based MIDI controller created in coordination with equally powerful software. Just connect the Maschine hardware to the Maschine program on your computer, and a world of drum sounds, virtual instruments, and production methods are at your fingertips.
For the first time in its history, Native Instruments is letting you drop the computer.
The Maschine+ is the series' first standalone production system, an all-in-one sampler, drum machine, synth, and performance controller that gives users the same sounds and process they've come to love in previous Maschine generations. "It's the iconic Maschine workflow, with fewer strings attached," according to Native Instruments. And if you do want to use it as a controller with your computer, you still can.
The Maschine+ is able to drop the external computer, because it includes everything you need inside, including a quad-core processor, 4 GB of RAM, and 32 GB of onboard memory, with an additional 64 GB SD card included as well. It comes with the full Maschine 2 software, a 24 GB library of sounds called the Maschine+ Selection, and two high-res display screens where you can slice, edit, and mix.
With a variety of connectivity options and a built-in 44 kHz/24-bit audio interface, you'll be able to use the Maschine+ in any number of rigs: MIDI I/O, two USB ports, a mic input, two line-level inputs/outputs, and audio outs.
The Maschine+ will retail for $1,399 USD. Check back soon for availability on Reverb.