The rear panel features MIDI In and Out sockets, so you can drive external synths or drum machines and even sync Maschine to external MIDI clock sources. Most importantly, the pads, buttons and encoders all feel fantastic, and the simple 'eight parameters per page' integration with Massive (and other synths) renders the controller/sequencer experience slick and painless. The two 64 x 256-pixel displays are a tangible improvement, their white text on black background instantly clearer and easier on the eye than the previous model's inverse video. It has dropped the dedicated knobs for Volume, Tempo and Swing, and in their place is a single fat, pushable encoder, plus extra buttons as compensation. The new model is the same size as its forerunner and a little heavier, at 2.1kg. This review concentrates on the full-sized Maschine controller but there's also a MkII version of the smaller, cheaper Mikro. This should come as some relief to existing owners who might be feeling slightly miffed.
However, apart from the coloured pads, the two are functionally almost identical. In comparison, even the stylish earlier model looks a bit cautious. The Maschine MkII hardware is undeniably a thing of beauty. If you were ever tempted by Maschine in the past, the theory is that you'll now be massively tempted. As a further sweetener, Massive - Native Instruments' bass and lead synth - joins the package.
Sadly, there's no way to physically transform the older controllers into multi-hued marvels, but existing users can at least enjoy the new effects and other enhancements this update brings. Colour now shines at the heart of the Maschine's universe and, thanks to upgrades in the host software, it can be applied as extravagantly or as sparsely as your taste dictates. Hot on the heels of last year's trimmed-down Maschine Mikro are two eye-catching new hardware controllers for Native Instruments' Maschine. Maschine's MkII hardware gets a Technicolour make-over, while its software increments to v1.8.
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