This was the first piece of gear I ever got to use in my new studio. It's actually pretty dang awesome but I'm switching full-time to Ableton and while this will work in Ableton, I also have a Push 2 now and am switching full-time to using that with Ableton instead of the Maschine MK3.
It really can do so much that I know I haven't learned all of it -- fortunately there's TONS of YouTube tutorials, guides, reviews, and demos that will teach you anything and everything there is for the unit!
These are about $500 when brand new and this unit is practically new given how little I've done on it and how long I've had it.
Native Instruments Maschine MK3 Features:
Built-in 24-bit/96kHz audio interface allows you to capture patterns and sequences with your DAW
2 high-resolution full-color displays allow for precision sample slicing, sound tweaking, note editing, mixing, browsing, and more
Larger pads and touch-sensitive knobs make 2-handed drumming and tweaking parameters easy
4-directional push encoder makes browsing, navigating, and adjusting levels and balance fast and intuitive
Powered via USB or power supply (sold separately)
Innovative software/hardware hybrid groove production and performance system
Combines intuitive sequencer, sampler and high-quality effects with comprehensive hands-on control
Dedicated controller with 16 multicolor pads, 47 buttons, and 9 rotary encoders for playing, recording, sequencing, automation and arrangement lets you keep your eyes off your monitor
Smart Strip for strumming notes, pitch bending sounds, performing with FX, and more
Includes all basic groove-production features such as step sequencing, real-time recording, note repeat, slicing, and auto-mapping
Hosts VST and AU plug-ins for adding even more production power to your rig
Easily find kits, instruments, samples, and effects with the tag-based browser
Intuitive automation recording and step automation editing lets you create complex sounds
Sample compatibility includes Akai MPC 500, 1000, 2000(XL), 2500, 3000, and 4000 program import
Threshold detection makes sampling from external and internal sources easy
Works as a plug-in in virtually any application that supports AAX, VST, AU, or RTAS formats
Extensive MIDI I/O allows you to sequence your external MIDI gear with Maschine and vice versa
Onboard NKS integration provides seamless access to a bounty of high-quality virtual instruments and utilities
Easy drag-and-drop pattern export lets you easily transfer MIDI and audio directly to your DAW's timeline
Group Macro Controls let you assign any parameter of the dedicated group to the controller's 8 knobs
Dedicated MIDI-mapping software makes using the Maschine controller with other applications and instruments easy