Since i have Komplete Kontrol 13 CE, i had my eye on the KK S88 mk2 (which i had in the past and sold because i needed the cash).
But i also have the Arturia V collection 9.
The Native Instruments kb is tightly integrated with Komplete eco system - but very minimalistic in terms of controls - whereas the Arturia has drum pads, faders, more dedicated DAW integration buttons, and more outs. I know it's possible to get the S88 mk2 and get some kind of control surface that'll take care of knobs, faders and drum pads (think of akai mpd 32 and similar).
Both cost about the same, same kb action as i understand (though placed differently - which makes a bit of a difference).
Not sure what is more crucial. The integration with Komplete (with the browsing, pre mapped controls to all the NKS instruments etc) - or a controller with more controls for daw integration and V collection specific.
Also, looking at when the NI and Arturia keyboards appeared on the market, and their product life cycles - i'm thinking whether either have an MK3 up their sleeves...
I also had my eye on the cheaper M Audio Hammer 88 Pro which i tried at the store to feel how the kb action is. I liked the kb action but i didn't get to check how it can integrate with cubase. I understand its controls are less accurate and can result in values stepping (?).
Aside from these, there's always the dilemma of whether buying a controller is a waste of money to begin with, since it's an empty shell with no sounds and i'd be better off buying a digital piano or whatever - and use it also as a controller.
On the other hand when i used to have the Nord Stage 3 - i kept going to Keyscape and Komplete for piano sounds, and synth sounds (although it was fun having the option just to fire up the Nord and start playing without needing the computer).
So i'd really appreciate some insights and thinking directions
