The A49 is designed to be used with all software- and hardware-based MIDI instruments, and features expanded integration with most recent KOMPLETE, such as automatic parameter mapping. When used with KOMPLETE, the KOMPLETE KONTROL software allows for unified browsing from a single plug-in. It allows you to search sounds across all KOMPLETE instruments by simply pressing the controller's Browse button, and turning the push encoder to select your instrument and sound. Sounds can also be searched using musical tags and keywords. What's more, a Preview Sound function now lets you hear sounds when browsing presets to help with a fast and efficient workflow. Additionally, there are hundreds of plugins from third-party manufacturers that are Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) compliant, allowing them to integrate with the KOMPLETE KONTROL software. Also, the A49 offers deep integration with MASCHINE software with access to scenes, patterns, and tracks.

Other notable features include Smart Play, which allows your performances to stay in key with over 100 scales and modes, play chord progressions and arpeggios with single keys, or map any scale to white keys only. The Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL A49 includes a collection of KOMPLETE instruments and effects, as well as MASCHINE Essentials and ships with a standard USB 2.0 cable.