Native Instruments Maschine+ – Standalone Groovebox, No Laptop Needed
· re:union Radio editorial · 2 min read
The Maschine+ runs completely standalone with dual displays, Smart Strip, and Wi-Fi — build beats, slice samples, and arrange sets anywhere.
The Maschine+ from Native Instruments is a standalone groovebox that runs entirely without a connected laptop. If you want to build beats, chop samples, and arrange sets, you only need the unit itself — an onboard quad-core processor handles all the processing.
At a glance
- Standalone unit with quad-core processor, no computer required
- 16 large, multi-color pads plus horizontal Smart Strip
- Two high-resolution color displays for sample editing and arrangement
- 64 GB storage out of the box, expandable via SD card up to 1 TB
Two Displays Instead of a Laptop Screen
The heart of the Maschine+ is its two high-resolution color displays. According to the manufacturer, they let you find sounds, slice samples, build effect chains, edit notes, and arrange tracks — all directly on the hardware, with no computer in between. The 16 large, ultra-sensitive pads respond in multiple colors and are designed to stay precise even during fast beat programming.
Smart Strip and Eight Touch Encoders
For expressive control, Native Instruments includes a horizontal Smart Strip, intended for strumming, pitch bending, and FX performance. On top of that, you get eight touch-sensitive knobs and a four-way push encoder for navigating menus and parameters.
Connections for Studio and On the Go
Onboard you'll find balanced 1/4-inch TRS inputs and outputs, a dynamic microphone input, plus MIDI In/Out and USB ports for controllers or external drives. Via Wi-Fi, the Maschine+ can also link up with Ableton Link.
| Processor | Quad-Core |
|---|---|
| Storage | 64 GB SD card (expandable to 1 TB), 4 GB RAM |
| Pads | 16, multi-color, ultra-sensitive |
| Displays | 2× high-resolution, color |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ableton Link, USB, MIDI In/Out |
"Find sounds, slice samples, chain up effects, edit notes, and arrange tracks." – Native Instruments on the function of the dual displays
If you play live or produce on the move, the standalone operation is the real advantage: the Maschine+ doesn't need an external power source in the form of a laptop, just its included locking power supply — practical for stage use. For more gear suited to DJs, check out our piece on Hot Cues, Slip Mode & Beat Jump, and if you want to mix on the go, take a look at the AlphaTheta DJM-V5.
FAQ
Does the Maschine+ absolutely require a computer?
No. It's designed as a standalone device with its own processor, storage, and dual displays, and runs without a connected laptop.
How much storage does the Maschine+ ship with?
It comes with a 64 GB SD card, expandable up to 1 TB according to the manufacturer, and you can also connect external USB drives.
Source: Native Instruments, Maschine+ product page.
