FAQ: How to Use UAD Native Plug-Ins with NKS-Compatible Controllers

Updated October 06, 2025 16:23

What is NKS?

NKS stands for Native Kontrol Standard, a technology by Native Instruments that enables a seamless workflow between compatible hardware controllers and UAD Instrument and UAD effect plug-ins.

What UAD Instruments and UAD plug-ins are compatible with NKS?

All UAD Instruments and UAD native plug-ins (UADx) are compatible with NKS. For full compatibility information, see this article.

What do I need before getting started using UAD plug-ins with a NKS-compatible controller?

NI Kontrol series keyboard, NI Maschine, or one of the following NKS-supported MIDI controllers.
NI Komplete Kontrol or NI Maschine software available from Native Access.
The latest updates for your UAD native plug-ins.
The latest updates for your NKS hardware.

How do I get started using NKS with UAD plug-ins?

Install Native Access - Download and install Native Access.
Log in to Native Access - Log in to Native Access using your Native ID. If you do not have a Native ID yet, you can create one from within Native Access.
Install Komplete Kontrol or Maschine - from the Library > Applications tab within Native Access.

Connect and power on your NKS-compatible controller - Your controller may require you to load a specific template or preset for Komplete Kontrol, so be sure to check the documentation for your specific controller.

Using UAD Plug-Ins in Komplete Kontrol

Open Komplete Kontrol - Open either the standalone Komplete Kontrol app or the Komplete Kontrol plug-in in your preferred DAW.

Note: If you are using Komplete Kontrol for the first time, you will need to open the standalone application to scan your plug-ins before they can be used in the Komplete Kontrol plug-in in your DAW.

When launching the Komplete Kontrol standalone application, your plug-ins should be scanned automatically. If you need to manually rescan your plug-ins, click the ⋯… menu in the header of Komplete Kontrol, select the Edit sub-menu, and then select Preferences. In the Preferences window that appears, click on the Plug-ins tab and then click the Rescan button.
Configure your controller - Within Komplete Kontrol, click the … menu in the header. Then, in the Controller sub-menu, select Controller Manager, and double-click on your controller in the list. If you are using NI hardware, your controller will automatically be configured.
Select an Instrument - Use the Instruments menu to select an instrument. Once an instrument is selected, you can load audio effects plug-ins by clicking the Plug-in Chain button and selecting an empty slot in the chain.

Using UAD Plug-Ins in NI Maschine

Open Maschine - Open either the standalone Maschine app or the plug-in in your preferred DAW.
Select an Instrument or Effect - Use the menus to select instruments or plug-ins, or find your sound in the preset browser.