NKI File Extension

What is NKI file?

NKI files are associated with Kontakt, an audio editing software.

What kind of data NKI files contain?

Files with NKI extension store audio samples, either individual instrument or sampler-generated samples. Kontakt allows users to edit said samples and save them to NKI files.

What are samples used for?

Audio samples (samples for short) are used for creating music and audio tracks. Sample are commonly used in such music genres as:

• hip-hop,
• trip-hop,
• house.

NKI samples can be used to great success in producing audio tracks for movies or theater productions. Kontakt is an advanced sampling platform for producing professional audio scores.

Programs which support NKI file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support NKI files. NKI files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 06/20/2022

How to open file with NKI extension?

Being unable to open files with NKI extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with NKI extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install nkitool

Problems with opening and working with NKI files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with NKI files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install nkitool or one to the listed programs: KONTAKT, TRAKTOR, KOMPLETE. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading nkitool installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update nkitool to the latest version

You still cannot access NKI files although nkitool is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that nkitool cannot handle files with NKI may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of nkitool is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open NKI files to nkitool

If you have the latest version of nkitool installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage NKI on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the NKI file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where nkitool is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open NKI files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with NKI extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with NKI extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the NKI is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the NKI file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The NKI may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the NKI is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the NKI file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the NKI file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Ensure the file with NKI extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic NKI file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with NKI extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the KONTAKT Instrument Format file again.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open nkitool

If the systems has insufficient resources to open NKI files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with KONTAKT Instrument Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle NKI files.

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