Traktor X1 MK3 Video Review
Traktor X1 MK3 Key Features
Advanced Displays for Enhanced Workflow
The X1 MK3 is designed to give you all the information you need right in front of you, saving you constant back-and-forth glances at the laptop and letting you focus on the performance. It’s got five OLED displays that give you a range of information right there on the controller, including track names and progress as well as loops and effects.
Expanded Connectivity Options
Building a digital modular DJ setup can often result in a mess of wires and cables. The X1 MK3 aims to solve this with a hub on the back with three powered USB slots. That allows you to easily hook up additional gear like the Traktor Z1 or F1, other X1s or even CDJs.
Effects and Mixer Modes
The X1 has two different modes – effects and mixer – that you can switch between with a dedicated toggle for each deck. In mixer mode, you can control volume and EQ much like a traditional mixer. In effects mode, the top knobs control Traktor’s FX suite.
Pattern Player Integration
The X1 MK3 introduces the Pattern Player, which lets DJs trigger drum patterns and layer them into their sets. With multiple kits and patterns to choose from, this is a fun and easy way to add live performance elements to your mix. This will especially appeal to Native Instruments’ core audience of producers and ‘hybrid DJs’ looking for a way to make their DJ sets more unique.
Dynamic Light Notification System
The built-in lighting system doesn’t just look pretty – it’s also a functional tool. The lights on the side of the unit flash up in different colours to show extra information. For example, they’ll flash red when a track is nearing its end or glow green to indicate active loops. You can also set it up with custom colours for cool ambient lighting.
Is the Traktor X1 MK3 Worth It?
The X1 MK3 retails for £259, which makes it a very affordable controller option. However, like the Z1, it’s more designed to fit in as part of a larger DJ setup, probably alongside other Traktor modular units. That makes it much less of a bargain when you consider the total cost of this sort of system. However, one big thing to consider is that this comes with Traktor Pro 4 included, which retails at £129 just by itself.
The lack of jogwheels and reliance on beat syncing and nudging with buttons will no doubt put off many traditional DJs. But this thing is about as far from traditional DJing as it’s possible to get. And once you get used to the unusual workflow and controls, it’s a very powerful bit of kit.
Especially for hybrid DJs and electronic musicians, this is a really good way to play around with programming sets and adding live elements in a different way. We’re super excited to see Traktor retaking its place as one of the big names in DJing gear, and this new X1 just cements their position as the go-to company for anyone after a more unique approach to DJing.
Learn to DJ with Traktor
If you want to learn how to get the most out of Traktor controllers like the X1, our Traktor courses are perfect for you. Even if you’re a complete beginner, we’ll take you step by step through the software and teach you everything you need to know to get mixing. Check out some free lessons.
