Choosing the right music production software and hardware can be daunting, especially with the plethora of options available. Native Instruments’ Komplete is a popular suite of virtual instruments, effects, and tools. A common question among guitarists and producers is: Does Komplete come with Guitar Rig? Let’s delve into the details of Komplete and its various iterations to provide a comprehensive answer.
Understanding Native Instruments Komplete
Native Instruments Komplete is a comprehensive software bundle designed for music production, sound design, and performance. It includes a vast collection of virtual instruments, effects, and expansion packs, catering to a wide range of musical styles and production needs. Komplete is available in several editions, each offering a different selection of products at varying price points.
The primary versions of Komplete are:
- Komplete Start (Free)
- Komplete Select
- Komplete Standard
- Komplete Ultimate
- Komplete Collector’s Edition
The value proposition of Komplete lies in the significant savings compared to purchasing individual Native Instruments products separately. It’s a cost-effective solution for musicians looking to expand their sonic palette and production capabilities.
Guitar Rig: A Deep Dive Into Guitar Effects
Guitar Rig is a software-based guitar amplifier and effects modeling suite developed by Native Instruments. It emulates a wide range of classic and modern guitar amplifiers, cabinets, and effects pedals, providing guitarists with a versatile virtual rig for recording, practicing, and performing.
Guitar Rig offers several key features:
- Amp and Cabinet Modeling: Accurate emulations of famous guitar amplifiers and speaker cabinets.
- Effects Pedals: A comprehensive collection of virtual stompboxes, including distortions, delays, reverbs, modulation effects, and more.
- Control Room: A sophisticated mixing environment for fine-tuning the sound of your virtual rig.
- Rig Kontrol: An optional hardware foot controller for hands-free control of Guitar Rig.
- Presets: A vast library of pre-designed tones created by professional guitarists and sound designers.
Guitar Rig is a powerful tool for guitarists seeking a flexible and convenient way to access a wide range of guitar tones without the need for physical amplifiers and effects pedals.
Komplete Editions And Guitar Rig Inclusion
The answer to the question “Does Komplete come with Guitar Rig?” is not a simple yes or no. It depends on the specific edition of Komplete you’re considering.
Komplete Start: The Free Entry Point
Komplete Start is a free version of Komplete, offering a selection of instruments and effects. While it provides a taste of what Komplete has to offer, Guitar Rig is NOT included in Komplete Start. It serves as an excellent starting point for beginners, but users will need to upgrade to a paid version to access Guitar Rig.
Komplete Select: A Curated Selection
Komplete Select is a more comprehensive bundle than Komplete Start, often included with Native Instruments hardware like Komplete Kontrol keyboards and Maschine. Guitar Rig 6 Player, a limited version of Guitar Rig, IS included in Komplete Select. Guitar Rig 6 Player offers a selection of amps, cabinets, and effects, providing a good introduction to the full Guitar Rig experience. However, it lacks the full breadth of features and content found in the standard version of Guitar Rig 6.
Komplete Standard: The Core Bundle
Komplete Standard is a significant upgrade from Komplete Select, offering a much larger collection of instruments and effects. Guitar Rig 6 Pro, the full version of Guitar Rig, IS included in Komplete Standard. This makes Komplete Standard a popular choice for guitarists and producers who want access to the complete Guitar Rig experience alongside a wide range of other virtual instruments and effects.
Komplete Ultimate: The Expanded Universe
Komplete Ultimate builds upon Komplete Standard by adding even more instruments, effects, and expansions. Guitar Rig 6 Pro IS included in Komplete Ultimate. The key difference between Komplete Standard and Komplete Ultimate lies in the sheer volume of content; Ultimate simply offers a larger and more diverse sonic palette.
Komplete Collector’s Edition: The Definitive Collection
Komplete Collector’s Edition is the most comprehensive version of Komplete, including every instrument, effect, and expansion pack available from Native Instruments. Guitar Rig 6 Pro IS included in Komplete Collector’s Edition. This edition is designed for professional musicians and sound designers who demand the ultimate collection of tools and sounds.
| Komplete Edition | Guitar Rig Included? | Guitar Rig Version |
|---|---|---|
| Komplete Start | No | N/A |
| Komplete Select | Yes | Guitar Rig 6 Player |
| Komplete Standard | Yes | Guitar Rig 6 Pro |
| Komplete Ultimate | Yes | Guitar Rig 6 Pro |
| Komplete Collector’s Edition | Yes | Guitar Rig 6 Pro |
Guitar Rig 6 Pro Vs. Guitar Rig 6 Player: What’s The Difference?
As mentioned earlier, Komplete Select includes Guitar Rig 6 Player, while Komplete Standard, Ultimate, and Collector’s Edition include Guitar Rig 6 Pro. Understanding the differences between these two versions is crucial for making an informed decision.
Guitar Rig 6 Pro offers a significantly larger collection of amplifiers, cabinets, and effects pedals compared to Guitar Rig 6 Player. It also includes advanced features such as:
- More Amp and Cabinet Models: A wider selection of meticulously modeled amplifiers and speaker cabinets.
- Expanded Effects Collection: A larger library of effects pedals, including distortions, delays, reverbs, modulation effects, and more.
- Control Room Modules: Advanced mixing modules for fine-tuning the sound of your virtual rig, including microphone placement and room simulation.
- Preset Library: A more extensive collection of pre-designed tones created by professional guitarists and sound designers.
- Customizable Interface: The ability to customize the user interface to suit your workflow.
Guitar Rig 6 Player provides a good introduction to the Guitar Rig environment, but it lacks the depth and versatility of Guitar Rig 6 Pro. If you’re serious about guitar tone and want access to the full range of features and content, Guitar Rig 6 Pro is the way to go.
Why Choose Komplete For Guitarists?
Komplete offers several advantages for guitarists, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a comprehensive music production solution.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Purchasing Komplete is significantly cheaper than buying individual Native Instruments products separately. This is especially true if you’re interested in multiple instruments and effects.
- Integration: All of the instruments and effects in Komplete are designed to work seamlessly together, providing a unified and intuitive workflow.
- Variety: Komplete offers a wide range of instruments and effects, catering to a diverse range of musical styles and production needs. This allows guitarists to expand their sonic palette beyond just guitar tones.
- Updates and Support: Native Instruments provides regular updates and support for Komplete, ensuring that your software remains compatible with the latest operating systems and hardware.
- Inspiration: Having a vast library of instruments and effects at your fingertips can spark creativity and inspire new musical ideas.
While Guitar Rig is a powerful tool on its own, it becomes even more valuable when integrated into the Komplete ecosystem. The ability to combine Guitar Rig with other instruments and effects opens up a world of creative possibilities.
Alternative Options For Guitar Effects
While Komplete offers a great solution for guitar effects with Guitar Rig, it’s worth considering alternative options depending on your specific needs and budget.
- Standalone Guitar Rig 6 Pro: If you only need guitar effects and don’t require the other instruments and effects included in Komplete, purchasing Guitar Rig 6 Pro as a standalone product may be a more cost-effective option.
- Other Guitar Amp Modeling Software: Several other companies offer guitar amp modeling software, such as Positive Grid’s BIAS FX, IK Multimedia’s AmpliTube, and Line 6’s Helix Native. These alternatives may offer different features, tones, and workflows that better suit your preferences.
- Hardware Guitar Effects Processors: Traditional hardware guitar effects processors, such as those from Fractal Audio Systems, Kemper, and Line 6, offer a different approach to guitar tone. These units provide tactile control and often offer more realistic amp modeling than software-based solutions.
- Free Guitar Effects Plugins: A plethora of free guitar effects plugins are available online. While these plugins may not offer the same level of quality or features as commercial options, they can be a great way to experiment with different sounds without spending any money.
The best option for you will depend on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. Consider trying out different options before making a decision.
Conclusion: Choosing The Right Komplete Edition For Your Needs
In conclusion, the answer to “Does Komplete come with Guitar Rig?” depends on the specific edition of Komplete you choose. Komplete Start does not include Guitar Rig, Komplete Select includes Guitar Rig 6 Player, and Komplete Standard, Ultimate, and Collector’s Edition include the full version of Guitar Rig 6 Pro.
Consider your needs and budget carefully when choosing a Komplete edition. If you’re a guitarist who wants access to the full Guitar Rig experience, Komplete Standard, Ultimate, or Collector’s Edition are the best options. If you’re on a tight budget, Komplete Select offers a limited version of Guitar Rig that can still be a valuable tool. And for those just starting out, Komplete Start provides a free introduction to the world of Native Instruments. Whatever you choose, Komplete is a powerful and versatile suite of tools that can enhance your music production workflow.
Does The Full Version Of Komplete Always Include Guitar Rig?
No, not every version of Native Instruments Komplete includes the full, flagship version of Guitar Rig Pro. Whether or not Guitar Rig is included depends entirely on the specific Komplete bundle you purchase. Some versions, like Komplete Select, only include a smaller selection of instruments and effects, and might not feature Guitar Rig at all. Always check the specific product description and contents list for each Komplete bundle before purchasing to confirm if Guitar Rig Pro is included.
The more comprehensive Komplete bundles, such as Komplete Standard, Komplete Ultimate, and Komplete Collector’s Edition, generally do include Guitar Rig Pro. These larger bundles aim to offer a wider range of instruments, effects, and expansions, making them suitable for professional music production and sound design. However, it’s crucial to verify the specific components listed on the Native Instruments website or from authorized retailers to avoid any surprises after your purchase.
Which Komplete Bundles Are Most Likely To Include Guitar Rig Pro?
Komplete Standard, Komplete Ultimate, and Komplete Collector’s Edition are the bundles most likely to include the full Guitar Rig Pro software. These larger bundles are designed for serious producers and musicians who require a comprehensive suite of tools. They typically incorporate a wider range of instruments, effects, and expansions compared to the entry-level Komplete Select.
However, Native Instruments occasionally updates their Komplete bundles, and the exact contents can vary from version to version. Always consult the official Native Instruments website or a trusted retailer’s product description to confirm that Guitar Rig Pro is listed as part of the bundle you are considering. Double-checking the included products will prevent any disappointment upon purchase.
If Guitar Rig Is Not Included, Can I Buy It Separately?
Yes, you can purchase Guitar Rig Pro separately from the Komplete bundles. Native Instruments sells Guitar Rig Pro as a standalone software product. This gives you the flexibility to acquire Guitar Rig Pro even if you choose a Komplete bundle that doesn’t include it, or if you prefer to build your collection of Native Instruments software piecemeal.
Buying Guitar Rig Pro separately provides a good option if you’re primarily interested in guitar and bass processing, and you don’t need the extensive range of instruments and effects offered in the larger Komplete bundles. Check the Native Instruments website for the current pricing and licensing terms for Guitar Rig Pro. It’s sometimes available on sale, so keep an eye out for promotions.
Is Guitar Rig Player Different From Guitar Rig Pro, And Which Is Included In Komplete?
Yes, Guitar Rig Player is a free, limited version of Guitar Rig, while Guitar Rig Pro is the full, paid version. Komplete Select often includes Guitar Rig Player, but not the Pro version. Guitar Rig Player offers a selection of amps, cabinets, and effects, allowing users to explore the software’s capabilities.
The full Guitar Rig Pro provides a much more extensive collection of amps, cabinets, effects, and routing options. As previously mentioned, it is generally included in Komplete Standard, Komplete Ultimate, and Komplete Collector’s Edition. Make sure you’re aware of the distinction between Player and Pro when evaluating which Komplete bundle meets your needs.
Where Can I Find The Official List Of Included Software In Each Komplete Bundle?
The most accurate and reliable source for determining the included software in each Komplete bundle is the official Native Instruments website. Navigate to the Komplete product page on the Native Instruments website and select the specific Komplete bundle you are interested in. The detailed product description will list all the included instruments, effects, and expansions.
Always refer to the official Native Instruments website directly, rather than relying solely on third-party reviews or promotional materials. The website is regularly updated with the most current information about each bundle’s contents. This will ensure you have the correct information before making a purchase.
If I Already Own Guitar Rig, Does Buying Komplete Give Me A Redundant Copy?
Potentially, yes. If you already own Guitar Rig Pro and then purchase a Komplete bundle that includes Guitar Rig Pro, you would essentially have a duplicate license. While there’s no technical issue with this, it might not be the most cost-effective approach.
Consider carefully whether the additional instruments, effects, and expansions included in the Komplete bundle justify the purchase, even with the redundant Guitar Rig Pro license. You may be able to transfer or sell the duplicate license, depending on Native Instruments’ licensing terms, but it’s best to assess your needs before making the purchase to avoid unnecessary redundancy.
Does Upgrading My Komplete Bundle Automatically Include Guitar Rig?
Not necessarily. Upgrading to a higher-tier Komplete bundle may include Guitar Rig Pro, but it depends on the specific bundles involved in the upgrade. For example, upgrading from Komplete Select to Komplete Standard would likely add Guitar Rig Pro to your software collection.
However, if you’re upgrading from Komplete Standard to Komplete Ultimate, and you already own Guitar Rig Pro (either standalone or from a previous Komplete Standard purchase), you wouldn’t be “newly” acquiring it. Always verify the specific instruments and effects added during the upgrade process to determine if Guitar Rig Pro is among them, preventing duplicate licenses if it is already owned.