Kontakt 5 Player is a free sampler from Native Instrument’s own Kontakt technology. This multimedia software is a lite version of Kontakt 5. A slightly stripped-down version, this app lets you load various music libraries, and is suitable for basic music composition. However, many features of the full, paid version are disabled, and many samples are limited to demos only.

Experience Kontakt for free

Kontakt is the industry standard when it comes to samplers. In fact, thousands of libraries use this format. But if you are new to virtual elements and sample libraries, you might confuse Kontakt 5 Player with other Kontakt products. You need to know the difference, or else you will be paying for something you don’t really need for.

To start, Kontakt 5 Player is essentially the same application as the Kontakt 5 program. The main differences being that Kontakt 5 Player is the free and stripped-down version, meaning some features are not available. However, if you are not heavy into composing for an orchestra full time, then you can make do just fine with it.

The app will let you compose music using various libraries. More, you can also edit parameters in your composition. Aside from it being free, the app can be used as standalone software or as a plugin on any popular music sequencer. More, you can even expand it with a wide range of affordable downloadable packs to accommodate various musical styles and genres.

Kontakt 5 Player is easy to download, install, and setup. It also offers various customization options, including sound quality.

Pretty limited features

As mentioned, Kontakt 5 Player derives from Kontakt 5. But, while it can let you use some functionalities of Kontakt 5, it is actually pretty limited. For one, various instrument editing features are disabled in this version. Sure, you can still edit parameters via Performance View, but if you need advanced music editing function, you might want to consider buying the full version or look for similar apps.

Another thing that might not convince you to try Kontakt 5 Player is that the app cannot load libraries made for the full version. So, while there are various music libraries available, you cannot access all of the contents. More, if you purchase a product that contains Kontakt formatted files, you also need the full version to access it.

However, that doesn’t mean that you cannot access libraries with the Kontakt 5 Player because you can. But your options will be pretty limited. You can also access some using the demo mode, but for 15 minutes only. And even the demo mode comes with a limitation. Only 3rd party Kontakt libraries, produced for Kontakt 5 Player, may be loaded. You can use non-licensed libraries in demo mode, one at a time, but without the ability to save your work.

Not for professional use

Kontakt 5 Player may be a nice tool to have if you are a hobbyist trying to hone your skill in music composition. But, if you are a professional looking for a sample with great features, then you might want to try the full version or look elsewhere. This free version, although works great, comes with various limitation when it comes to function. Its compatible libraries are also restricted. All in all, this app only works for casual users.