How To uninstall Native Instruments Mac

Uninstalling Native Instruments software on a Mac can be more complex than simply deleting the app because it installs files in multiple system locations. This step-by-step guide will help you completely remove Native Instruments applications and related components from your Mac to free up space or start fresh for a reinstall.

Step 1: Quit Native Instruments Applications & Native Access

Before uninstalling, make sure all Native Instruments software, including Native Access, is completely closed. Quit the apps in the Dock or use Command + Q to ensure no background processes interfere with deletion.

Step 2: Remove Native Instruments Apps from Applications Folder

• Open the Applications folder.
• Locate the Native Instruments folder or specific product apps such as Maschine, Kontakt, or Komplete.
• Drag the app or the entire Native Instruments folder to the Trash.

Step 3: Delete Supporting Files in System Library

Native Instruments installs files in several system-level directories. You need to remove these manually:

• Open Finder and click the Go menu.

• Select Go to Folder… and enter each path below one at a time, then delete the relevant Native Instruments product files or folders:

  • /Library/Preferences/com.native-instruments.[ProductName].plist
  • /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components/[ProductName].component
  • /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST/[ProductName].vst
  • /Library/Application Support/Native Instruments/[ProductName]
  • /Library/Application Support/Avid/Audio/Plug-Ins/[ProductName].aaxplugin
  • /Users/Shared/Native Instruments/[ProductName]

Replace [ProductName] with the exact name of the Native Instruments software you want to uninstall (e.g., Maschine, Kontakt).

Step 4: Remove Native Instruments Files in User Library

Some additional files are stored in your user’s hidden Library folder:

• In Finder, use Go > Go to Folder… and enter:

  • ~/Library/Preferences/com.native-instruments.[ProductName].plist
  • ~/Library/Application Support/Native Instruments/[ProductName]

• Delete the respective files and folders for your product.

Step 5: Empty the Trash

• Once all related files and folders are moved to the Trash, right-click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash to permanently remove the data from your Mac.

Optional Step 6: Use a Dedicated Uninstaller Tool

If you prefer a more automated approach, you can use apps like CleanMyMac or App Cleaner & Uninstaller. These tools scan for related files and remove all traces of the application more easily, including hidden leftovers.

Tips to Ensure Complete Removal

• Verify if your Native Instruments products still appear in Native Access. If they do, try restarting your Mac.
• Deleting files manually may not always remove product metadata registered in Native Access. Sometimes a fresh reinstall requires fully clearing Native Access cache or uninstalling and reinstalling Native Access itself.
• Back up any important presets or projects before uninstalling, as deleting Native Instruments folders may erase custom settings.

Following these precise steps will help you fully uninstall Native Instruments software on your Mac, leaving no unnecessary files behind and preparing your system for a clean reinstallation if needed.