maschine

Maschine is a line of music-production devices and software developed by Native Instruments, designed to combine sampling, sequencing and effects in a hardware–software workflow. The system centers on a hardware controller with velocity‑sensitive pads and a dedicated control surface, paired with the Maschine software, which runs on Windows and macOS and can also function as a plug‑in within a digital audio workstation.

The software provides drum sampling, pattern‑based sequencing, a sound browser, and a suite of effects and virtual instruments. Its workflow emphasizes rapid beat creation through patterns and scenes, allowing users to build and arrange compositions with a hands‑on approach. Maschine integrates with Native Instruments’ broader ecosystem, including Komplete instruments and libraries, and supports expansion through additional sound libraries.

The Maschine family has evolved through multiple hardware variants. The original Maschine established the concept of hardware‑driven sampling and sequencing. Maschine Mikro offered a compact, USB‑powered entry point with similar functionality. Maschine Studio introduced a larger control surface and display, while later revisions refined pads and connectivity. In 2020 Native Instruments released Maschine+, a standalone version with built‑in storage and processing that can operate without a computer, while remaining compatible with the Maschine software ecosystem.

Maschine is widely used across electronic music, hip‑hop, and live performance for its fast sampling, beat making, and tactile control. It complements the broader Native Instruments lineup, including the Komplete suite, and continues to receive software updates that enhance device integration, instrument and effect options, and workflow improvements.