As a long time Traktor user (over 10 years) I still think that Traktor is the best software for EDM on the market. Hardware, functionality and layout is still competitive, even if the software has hardly been developed for 4 years. That shows how far the software was back then. I hope that Native Instruments gets the announced features from the roadmap soon times on the road. But I don't think NI can manage to integrate a real-time stems function that is qualitatively appealing. And if they do manage it, the hardware requirements will be enormous. The competitors have only managed this poorly so far.
I think if and when they introduce realtime stems it will be the best. Take into account that NI own izotope and also produce there own music production software.
Thanks for the review of the MK3, your videos are always super clear. I was a long time fan of Traktor, still am to a point and still own too much NI gear not to be. I have been using Serato for the past couple years, because the lack of development happening on Traktor. I have been holding my breath on the flexible grid in Traktor, which they should have had when they got the dev team from Torq (after they promised it, damn you Chad!!!!), after that DVS fell apart. Maybe one day, after NI receives more VC money and ask its user based for another $50 upgrade we can finally get many of these super long awaited vaporware promises.
I'm really digging it I have 3000s and a 96 at home and with this setup, I now don't need a separate USB hub to power everything, I can just use the X1 for that. It lowers the amount of gear I need to take to private functions and wedding gigs as well, which is always welcome! Although, the lack of USB C to B cable in the box was a real pain as it meant I had to wait a full two days longer to use it, after it arrived. One feature I am really digging is being able to turn the hot cue buttons (which I wouldn't use anyway as I have the 3000s) into stutter loop buttons, really awesome! That fact I now have those at hand, rather than using the touch screens on the 3000s (which means pressing two or three buttons) is a big workflow advantage.
you said so much, it's hard to add more after such a good video. I'm using Traktor for more than 12 years and already bought lot of products from NI I'm also a hard user of X1 MK2, but did NOT tried the MK3 yet. This MK3 was very expected for few years, and I must say that some points are NOT looking like UPgrades but, DOWNgrades: - Loosing Touchstrip - The brightness of the LED buttons looks much weaker on MK3 than MK2's pads - The brightness of the 5 OLED displays looks limited also - The brightness of the light-based notifications looks almost invisible - The ablity to use it outdoor, under a sunny day, MK2 was GOOD, MK3 seems to be a disaster - The need of AC power to run the beast? why? and why not USB-C powered? - Pioneer's DJM-S5, Focuscrite's Scarlett, NI's Kontrol S2... they all run with a single USB cable, can't NI do it 2023? - NI used to update Traktor, adding major new fonctions every time they released a new gear (S4mk1, Z2, F1, S8...) but NO new fonctions and no major update for X1 MK3... - New device is good, THANK YOU NI Team, but new effects, dynamic grid, live stems... that would be perfect to sync it to new products - Less compact than previous gens (but better ergonomy) - 100$ more for...(I agree, amazing) gadgets I can't say that I don't wanna buy MK3, I believe it's an amazing product globally, and it worth 299$ no question what do people think?
You MoJaxx are the Godfather of DJ’n , reviews , and everything in between , your passion , positive energy , and knowledge are next to none. Thank you for this review, I hope to see stems and I think they will be the best of all softwares, good things come to those who wait..and you mentioned they have the best effects, I think this controller will be perfect for stems ….flexible beat grids are long overdue but I tried to switch to the ddj 1000, but I came back to traktor bc I wasn’t loving record box , and so my wish is these next updates let’s hope they deliver, was their any mention of any standalone or more intuitive products to come? And curious what is your main Rig, thank you for all your great vids , keep inspiring and appreciate you!
Have 2 of these and they are amazing. Perfect for 4 channel techno sets running through my 92. Long time user of traktor (dvs and x1s) just very pleased to see NI manufacturing some new gear. Had the mk2s for a good few years and loved every minute with them. These, like all traktor gear are really well made with a premium feel. Long live traktor… great review btw (as always).
Thank you for saying “mark” instead of “emkay”. The NI presenter on their site annoyed me when he kept saying emkay. You’re the product expert, say it right. Now, I’ve also been using the mk2 controller and it’s robust and so easy to use. I started with the MK1 and I’m not sure if it’s worth upgrading to the mk3
I own the Mk 2 as well. I agree it's a great compact controller and very versatile. I have migrated to Virtual DJ (via Serato and Rekordbox) because of Video support, Stems and the option not to buy a perpetual subscription and it was amazing that it supported my old Traktor controllers including the S4 Mk2 and S8 along with the X1. When NI announced the X1 Mk3, it looked like a cool piece of tech and I looked it up and VDJ also support the Mk 3, so I picked it up and just used it yesterday. Unfortunately, the sync-loop (to increase or decrease the bpm) doesn't work on VDJ, but most other functions behave like they do in Traktor. I always found the 'touch-to-library-view' a bit annoying on the Mk2 myself so I turned it off, but I must say, as a VDJ user, using the X1 both works and allows me to pack less gear for gigs.
Your reviews are incredibly good. The overhead camera angles and screenshots from the Traktor software are seamless. Not sure if the upgrades are enough to make me trade in my X1Mk2 for this. I was hoping for a built in audio interface and some new, game changing features but this seems like an incremental hybrid of the MK1/Mk2
I was a very long time user of Traktor and I have 2 X1 mk2, I also love those ones. But my patience with Traktor is over, I was very disappointed with their very low innovation over time and this mk3 for me just confirms that, it is a minimal upgrade. Finally a month ago I switched to Serato, I invested in a Rane Seventy A-Trak with 2 LC6000. It has been very fun and creative times. Stems are really amazing and I really don't miss nothing from Traktor. Maybe I will come back in the future....
Serato is mediocre crap though. And for making custom midi controller mappings it's a JOKE. Traktor is still way better than any of the competition imo.
I have a mk2 + z1 as a portable setup. And I love them. As I don't use flux mode I've mapped it in a way that I can use the effect knobs on the x1 to control my stems
The only reason I can think about why SYNC button is located there is for open format djs as me using Traktor. I do change BPM regularly and I need to, sometimes, deactivate the SYNC button. Being said, I prefer the PLAY, CUE layout in MK2
Great review Mojaxx! Another long time Traktor user (~20’ish years), but the X1 is one of the controllers I never got into. I’ve always been more of an S4 user, currently running S4mk3, 2xD2’s + an F1 and 1 vinyl DVS deck. I get that it’s NI’s most popular modular device though, so makes sense for it to be the first release in the new series and fund ongoing development of the platform through new sales…. I just hope it is not too late-so many frustrated users on the Traktor forums! Completely agree that they need to make some of the oldest feature requests development priorities asap to retain loyalty though…. flexible beat grids, retina display support and for god’s sake can they hurry up with real-time stems!?! I mean they pioneered Stems as a format, their controllers do Stems control amazingly (especially the D2 or F1) and their parent company bought Izotope who arguably has one of the best Stems algorithms around…. why oh why is it taking so long to incorporate real-time stems into the software!!! And why was pattern player a higher priority than any of the above???!? Hopefully some of this tech, especially those OLED displays, will trickle into additional new controllers… an S4mk4 with some of those displays for the FX section would be awesome. One thing that no-one ever talks about though is the challenge of NI’s Traktor business model; the revenue really only comes from new hardware sales, unlike some of the major competitors that have moved to subscriptions to help fund ongoing development. I know VDJ is also one-time purchase, and they are arguably the most innovative DJ software developer, but I can’t help but feel that the future for viable, evolving DJ platforms depends on subscription models to fund development (I’m sure many will hope I’m wrong! 😂)
9:48 the best would be to map the cue to a sync button, the play to the cue button and the sync to the play button 😂 but mapping isn't available currently... Great indepth review as always, as a +10 years Traktor user i always get excited, a bit disappointed in this xase but i guess with this new design language there is more gear on the way, and soon finally live stem separation by izotope, super excited 🎉🎉
*I feel like add on MIDI controllers are a thing from a bygone era when we didn’t have full on controllers with decks, a mixer and effects all built in into one controller.* *Back in the day when i had 2 CDJ400’s and a DJM400 linked up to Serato i used to have an X1 for effects since the DJM400 didn’t have a manual filter.*
Alternately, I own a v10 & a Model1 and thus “only” want a small unit with browse and transport so I can access my digital library and then use the mixer for everything else. Different strokes…
Great review. My favourite part of the x1 mk3 was the bizzarre launch where they released a presale where the devices were like 50% off. Obviously was a mistake on their end, but probably showed the value isn't there at it's current MSRP.
Great long awaited review. These seem an upgrade for the mk1 users whom never got along with the mk2. Myself, I'm the opposite having only used the mk2's as I think the touchstrips are a great transport control without jogs. But I think this controller will be geared towards the elusive real time stems, the button for mixer (an after thought) will be to switch between stems or fx. Does pluging into mains brighten up the leds, heard somewhere it does? Anyhow glad to hear that NI are still invested in Traktor as they were the best DJ software years ago.
Can’t say why I prefer Traktor to Serato, I just do. Think I prefer the interface layout. Funnily enough the MK2 browse knob thing is the one thing I don’t like about that controller. I missed the dual browse knobs of my Mk1, so happy to see them back on the MK3. Very happy to have the traditional pitch bend buttons too. Hanging out to try the Mk3 which should be soon as my buddy just picked one up. Unless I’m super blown away with it, I’ll probably stick with my Mk2 though for the time being, as I didn’t actually pick it up that long ago. As a whole, the X1 is easily my most favourite Dj controller ever, and I’ll keep supporting them as long as they keep making them.
Traktor remains still the best software for sound quality, i would like to see traktor 3 fully featured (real time stems) on Ipad and in conjunction with this controller and a quality analog mixer would be the most killer dj set up combo. NI please bring traktor 3 on IOS
The PATTERN PLAYER focus seemed like such a waste of R&D honestly, I LOVE traktor as a turntablist myself but it's been far too long since we got any love on the hardware side, the Z2 was the only turntablist focused piece of hardware to come out (aside from the interfaces) and it was such a beautiful hit of hardware and so many people wanted to see a MK2 come out of that beauty but only radio silence. I've had my Z2 since release and it gets abused regularly after all these years and still trucking along as smooth as day 1. I've since transitioned over to Serato for my general playing needs but always come back to traktor for my turntablist focused routines and recording cuts into my daw though. Seems like NI has clearly been focusing on the hybrid DJ/producer type of setups and I'm not mad at it, just wish that olive branch for the hiphop DJs was still extended. Even to the bare minimum with revamping the drivers on the z2 to work with newer versions of Mac OS and stuff like that
i just go tback into this hobby after approx 12 or more years and it is honestly insane how little things have changed, it seems like the only thing that feels really futuristic is the denon dj media players and the djm v10. and this mk3 looks even like they went backwards somehow
I’m a Traktor user since 2015. I can’t move over. It’s my preference to RBX, SRT or VDJ. But I have RBX for pioneer use as I’m seem to struggle to connect to the CDJ3000s with my Traktor. I’m gonna stick with Traktor. Hope they do some more upgrades for the software to compete with the other Dj Software. Great review MoJaxx. And you look well too! 🙏🏼
I was today years old when I figured out how to store the X1 with the lid properly that comes with the stand. Ha! Regards the MK3 X1 - nothing big enough to draw me in to be honest. The MK2s work so well. I paid for Traktor Pro Plus nearly a year ago and it just feels like no progress is being made at all. I am not spending any more money on traktor until things start to gain momentum
Thank you for a great review. I have been a Traktor Z1 user with Traktor for iPad for many years. Another issue I have w the MK3 is that it cannot be used on iPad. I am big fan of touch controls, you mention the touch strip on the MK2, which I love as well, especially for setting very specific cue points, also scrubbing through tracks is a breeze! The MK3 is useless to me because I use my iPad w the Kontrol Z1 for light-weight portability. The mixer option is cute but not NO cross fader is a deal breaker for me. I recently completed a survey for Native Instruments and expressed my thoughts on the MK2 vs MK3. They also made it tempting for me to purchase the MK3 by offering a discount code. Although I do like the visual aesthetic of the MK3 and the tiny displays (Im getn older and the eyes struggle with small fonts) it seems more like a gimmick than an improvement over the MK2. Its sad because I was eagerly awaiting for something new from NI, only to be disappointed with the MK3.
Just bought one of these and I love it. The workflow is so easy and it is a rally nice looking and feeling controller. I too thought the sync button position was strange at first. I generally always use sync but I do change temp throughout a set. In use, the sync button position Is turns out to be perfect for that. . I love how you can change effects library fromThe controller on the x1. I don’t understand the mixer mode tho. Not sure how it is designed to be used. Would welcome a new z1 and f1 to go with it. Meanwhile, this with an audio interface into a club mixer is a pretty damn good hybrid set up.
I've been a long term traktor using as its most basic. Song managment, effects and basic loops. I've had a go at stems from serato and tbh it's a major game changer. I've never wanted to switch before this, but.. I'm very tempted. Traktor need to hurry up on this real time stems thing. I hope they make remapping work too .
22:25 I actually also think that apart from all the new improved functions, the new look of the hardware is also incredibly important. Here we now have a controller that has a modern design that fits nicely with other mixers, equipment etc...
Regarding browser view. Overmapping does not work yet. But in the official forum you can find files that change the behavior. QML mods. I found a "mod" that opens the browser windows and also has buttons for song preview player (not cue). It's pretty neat if you are into that.
Hello, I have always been an avid Traktor user. This is the best DJ software for me. Just now missing the live Stems. Better to expect a finished product than to release an approximate product with a metallic sound. As for the X1 mk3, I will report back to you as soon as I have had it in my hands. Good to you DJ friends.
Bitter sweet when I heard about this release. I wanted to fall in love with Traktor again but sadly, it’s a Dj program that is finally aging out. What’s keeps me on Traktor is the fact that I have an older MacBook, once I update to a newer Mac, I do not know if Traktor will be installed.
My friend and I did our first night ride round cannock chase in mid winter with about 6in of snow on the ground. We did the trail in our quickest time and when we got back to the car we shone a light into the woods at the side of the car and no more than 10ft away was a heard of deer best ride ever
Argh!! I’m so on the fence here was a Traktor user but made the switch to pioneer & rekordbox. Watching this & other videos is tempting me back to the dark side & a modular setup with maybe a maschine thrown in too. Damn you NI 😂
For me the touch to browse nob was like. Copy and paste code from messages in the iphone. You know where you signing up for something and above the keyboard a little message pops up.
22:53 Super happy with my two new mk3’s… just what I actually wanted. Never really liked the touch strips. Traktor is the classic dj software I always have been preferred and love, especially since there are so many different effects.
Haha after speaking to the Traktor team, I began to suspect that my love of the touch strips was actually quite unusual! And you’re just helping to confirm that 🤣
@@Mojaxx The two complaints I heard the most about the X1 Mk2 compared to the X1 Mk1: 1. No dedicated browser knob per deck is less intuitive and a step extra. 2. Pitch bending with dedicated buttons works better than a touch strip.
08:13 Not a huge deal, but on my unit the display get blurry when watched from an angle. Like when you are sitting down and they are in front of you. Not when you stand above them in a DJ scenario though.
Having moved on from DVS, I'm still using my Kontrol X1 Mk1 as a dedicated FX unit next to my Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 DJ controller. It's a great mobile combo actually. The new Kontrol X1 Mk 3 looks great but with NI now doubling down on its mixdeck features it should have come with a build-in audio interface IMO. Because then you can really use it for mobile DJ-ing and just hook it up to your friend's stereo and throw a party with minimal hassle. A missed opportunity if you ask me. As for the state of Traktor, being more of a free-format guy and still lacking flexible beatgrids is a crime at this point. And a essential feature like stems ending up behind a subscription paywall is infuriating.
There are some notable things missing from the mixer mode that make it so you'd have to reach for the laptop pretty frequently while playing. I'd be much more likely to consider this as a fun travel setup to just throw in a bag if they redid the Z1 in this style too.
traktor were once well aheadas they were the first to explore and offer a stems function .It sadly was not real time as the tech was not ready and when they came up with it they wanted record companies to release tracks with stems included for djs .That did nor work out and djs at the time found the idea a bit out of left field.Its a pity they currently do not have a version of real time stems as they were the originators of the concept.
Hey, mate! I have 2 x1 mk3s and I love them. I currently use them with a 1850x mixer. Do tou know if it is possible to plugin 2 z1s and have 4 channels?
does anyone knows of an audio card that has 4 stereo outs for decks A B C D on traktor plus an extra in and out to use the 4 effects units on traktor on send return mode?
The oled screen's look very handy, but im not a fan of the corporate bland black look i want each control to stand out, and so does mojax if you see the multi coloured fader and rotary knobs, its a pain to only rely on muscle memory, shure it looks ocd neat but speed and ease of visual componentry is far more important to me.
I have Traktor Scratch A6. Could you explain how I set up the X1 Mk3 with an Analogue mixer (as you have with Master Sounds Mixer in video)? Would it be Mixer into A6 then A6 into X1 hub and then X1 into Laptop? Thanks :)
I'm disappointed with this piece of equipment. You need two of them to accomplish what one Xone K2 can do, and it lacks an audio interface. I love the design, and the upgrade is cool, but I still wouldn't exchange it for the Xone K2. Thank you so much for the excellent review. You are always awesome!
Regarding traktor itself I'm a long time user, tried rekordbox recently because I wanted to try "live" steam...for me rekordbox steam is unusable... no way I would use that... I really hope all the wait for traktor "live" steam worth... Also the midi mapping for rekorbox is terrible... you cant do half of the things you can with traktor... the only thing I think traktor is behind is regarding smart playlists.
I've been on Traktor since the early 2000's. It's the software I by far know the best. But my S4 mk2 is starting to show its age & I've been considering replacing it. With Traktor's real lack of features and apparently very slow development now I'm seriously considering making a move to something else.
What is missing in Traktor that the competition has? Whenever I read comments like this I just don't understand what the issues is. Sure, NI lacks vision but it's still far ahead of the competition imo.
Or an S8, which is 2 D2s and a mixer for the price of 3/4 of a 2 D2s. Bought one used Saturday for € 600. And the Z1 mk3 was send home to sender within 26 hours. Mine had knobs with a center nudge (who needs that anyway on a fx controller) that made it impossible for me to smoothly bring in an fx from 0 to Max. The S8 has them as well but these are far less obtrusive. And anyway it still is entoxicating as hell. And on the mark 2 you could assign an fx to the touchstrip. I don't see the point of not syncing in a Digital DJ environment where you can read the BPM.
@@Filipendula69 thanks man... so is still supported by native instruments??? or there's nothing to be update in this hardware , is just plug and play hardware...??? I bough one audio 10 a couple months ago because I'm going to get the master sounds v4 mk2 and I play digital tracks with DVS on my turntables so I'm worried about it'll still would work...
Its good have something new or the same but i have Kontrol X1 all this years cant stop using it i think have a better components and professional look then this one ,ok you can use 4 channels effects but is only about that, X1 have the amazing X pad,i use it all the time for drops and other options on effects its a must have,this one its a downgrade version for me ,and wait all this years just for this...hummmmmmm
Definately, more people must scream to NI that they are idiots. 100 of 100 djs will prefer play and cue buttons to be those big buttons. We, the big Traktor fans we still wait for some better, bigger controller, also a 4 channel mixer similar to z2 , maybe z4. NI have a great gear and tech. Their problem is that they dont listen and dont care for the DJs at all.
Seems like a downgrade in everything but aesthetics to me. Which is sad. Oh well...had mk2s for basically ever and don't actually need an upgrade until they die. Maybe they'll eventually make an S4/S8 replacement with something like x1s as the deck sections....been wanting that for a really long time too (but, sadly, never bought an S8).
If they dont release Stem separation soon Traktor will be a dead product only used by those with legacy gear (like me! with an S3). The clock is ticking. All that pattern player stuff was nonsense. It seems they just don't have the team to do real overhauls of the software, even if they are enthusiatic like you say. Id love to see the figures but I am guessing 90% of their profits come from selling (and reselling) their music software (and the endless expansion packs that are rubbish).
The layout of these makes ZERO sense. Whoever is in charge at NI is fucking clueless. Play and sync on big buttons while cue is the most used button generally is just INSANE. Sure the MK3 screens are nice, but this "upgrade" is just bizarre.
As a long time Traktor user (over 10 years) I still think that Traktor is the best software for EDM on the market. Hardware, functionality and layout is still competitive, even if the software has hardly been developed for 4 years. That shows how far the software was back then. I hope that Native Instruments gets the announced features from the roadmap soon times on the road. But I don't think NI can manage to integrate a real-time stems function that is qualitatively appealing. And if they do manage it, the hardware requirements will be enormous. The competitors have only managed this poorly so far.
I think if and when they introduce realtime stems it will be the best. Take into account that NI own izotope and also produce there own music production software.
Thanks for the review of the MK3, your videos are always super clear. I was a long time fan of Traktor, still am to a point and still own too much NI gear not to be. I have been using Serato for the past couple years, because the lack of development happening on Traktor. I have been holding my breath on the flexible grid in Traktor, which they should have had when they got the dev team from Torq (after they promised it, damn you Chad!!!!), after that DVS fell apart. Maybe one day, after NI receives more VC money and ask its user based for another $50 upgrade we can finally get many of these super long awaited vaporware promises.
I'm really digging it
I have 3000s and a 96 at home and with this setup, I now don't need a separate USB hub to power everything, I can just use the X1 for that. It lowers the amount of gear I need to take to private functions and wedding gigs as well, which is always welcome!
Although, the lack of USB C to B cable in the box was a real pain as it meant I had to wait a full two days longer to use it, after it arrived.
One feature I am really digging is being able to turn the hot cue buttons (which I wouldn't use anyway as I have the 3000s) into stutter loop buttons, really awesome!
That fact I now have those at hand, rather than using the touch screens on the 3000s (which means pressing two or three buttons) is a big workflow advantage.
you said so much, it's hard to add more after such a good video.
I'm using Traktor for more than 12 years and already bought lot of products from NI
I'm also a hard user of X1 MK2, but did NOT tried the MK3 yet.
This MK3 was very expected for few years, and I must say that some points are NOT looking like UPgrades but, DOWNgrades:
- Loosing Touchstrip
- The brightness of the LED buttons looks much weaker on MK3 than MK2's pads
- The brightness of the 5 OLED displays looks limited also
- The brightness of the light-based notifications looks almost invisible
- The ablity to use it outdoor, under a sunny day, MK2 was GOOD, MK3 seems to be a disaster
- The need of AC power to run the beast? why? and why not USB-C powered?
- Pioneer's DJM-S5, Focuscrite's Scarlett, NI's Kontrol S2... they all run with a single USB cable, can't NI do it 2023?
- NI used to update Traktor, adding major new fonctions every time they released a new gear (S4mk1, Z2, F1, S8...) but NO new fonctions and no major update for X1 MK3...
- New device is good, THANK YOU NI Team, but new effects, dynamic grid, live stems... that would be perfect to sync it to new products
- Less compact than previous gens (but better ergonomy)
- 100$ more for...(I agree, amazing) gadgets
I can't say that I don't wanna buy MK3, I believe it's an amazing product globally, and it worth 299$ no question
what do people think?
I love traktor I don't understant why the touch gone 😢
For me they have really big change to come back . I hope with Z2 +
You MoJaxx are the Godfather of DJ’n , reviews , and everything in between , your passion , positive energy , and knowledge are next to none. Thank you for this review, I hope to see stems and I think they will be the best of all softwares, good things come to those who wait..and you mentioned they have the best effects, I think this controller will be perfect for stems ….flexible beat grids are long overdue but I tried to switch to the ddj 1000, but I came back to traktor bc I wasn’t loving record box , and so my wish is these next updates let’s hope they deliver, was their any mention of any standalone or more intuitive products to come? And curious what is your main Rig, thank you for all your great vids , keep inspiring and appreciate you!
They should’ve kept the touchstrip.
Not many people realize how good it is to have one. Needle drop for one is super helpful on a touchstrip
Just the pitch bend with touchstrip was perfect 🎉
Have 2 of these and they are amazing. Perfect for 4 channel techno sets running through my 92. Long time user of traktor (dvs and x1s) just very pleased to see NI manufacturing some new gear. Had the mk2s for a good few years and loved every minute with them. These, like all traktor gear are really well made with a premium feel. Long live traktor… great review btw (as always).
two xone k2 are mutch better for 4 Deck mixing..In combi with clubmixer a dream :)
I love my X1 MK2 becuse i can make backspins with the Touchfield und hold the Shift Button … this ist perfekt to mix and Play real ❤
Thank you for saying “mark” instead of “emkay”. The NI presenter on their site annoyed me when he kept saying emkay. You’re the product expert, say it right.
Now, I’ve also been using the mk2 controller and it’s robust and so easy to use. I started with the MK1 and I’m not sure if it’s worth upgrading to the mk3
I own the Mk 2 as well. I agree it's a great compact controller and very versatile. I have migrated to Virtual DJ (via Serato and Rekordbox) because of Video support, Stems and the option not to buy a perpetual subscription and it was amazing that it supported my old Traktor controllers including the S4 Mk2 and S8 along with the X1. When NI announced the X1 Mk3, it looked like a cool piece of tech and I looked it up and VDJ also support the Mk 3, so I picked it up and just used it yesterday. Unfortunately, the sync-loop (to increase or decrease the bpm) doesn't work on VDJ, but most other functions behave like they do in Traktor. I always found the 'touch-to-library-view' a bit annoying on the Mk2 myself so I turned it off, but I must say, as a VDJ user, using the X1 both works and allows me to pack less gear for gigs.
Your reviews are incredibly good. The overhead camera angles and screenshots from the Traktor software are seamless. Not sure if the upgrades are enough to make me trade in my X1Mk2 for this. I was hoping for a built in audio interface and some new, game changing features but this seems like an incremental hybrid of the MK1/Mk2
I was a very long time user of Traktor and I have 2 X1 mk2, I also love those ones. But my patience with Traktor is over, I was very disappointed with their very low innovation over time and this mk3 for me just confirms that, it is a minimal upgrade. Finally a month ago I switched to Serato, I invested in a Rane Seventy A-Trak with 2 LC6000. It has been very fun and creative times. Stems are really amazing and I really don't miss nothing from Traktor. Maybe I will come back in the future....
Serato is mediocre crap though. And for making custom midi controller mappings it's a JOKE. Traktor is still way better than any of the competition imo.
I have a mk2 + z1 as a portable setup. And I love them. As I don't use flux mode I've mapped it in a way that I can use the effect knobs on the x1 to control my stems
The only reason I can think about why SYNC button is located there is for open format djs as me using Traktor. I do change BPM regularly and I need to, sometimes, deactivate the SYNC button. Being said, I prefer the PLAY, CUE layout in MK2
Nice review! I love my X1 MK3. 😍
Great review Mojaxx!
Another long time Traktor user (~20’ish years), but the X1 is one of the controllers I never got into. I’ve always been more of an S4 user, currently running S4mk3, 2xD2’s + an F1 and 1 vinyl DVS deck. I get that it’s NI’s most popular modular device though, so makes sense for it to be the first release in the new series and fund ongoing development of the platform through new sales…. I just hope it is not too late-so many frustrated users on the Traktor forums!
Completely agree that they need to make some of the oldest feature requests development priorities asap to retain loyalty though…. flexible beat grids, retina display support and for god’s sake can they hurry up with real-time stems!?! I mean they pioneered Stems as a format, their controllers do Stems control amazingly (especially the D2 or F1) and their parent company bought Izotope who arguably has one of the best Stems algorithms around…. why oh why is it taking so long to incorporate real-time stems into the software!!! And why was pattern player a higher priority than any of the above???!?
Hopefully some of this tech, especially those OLED displays, will trickle into additional new controllers… an S4mk4 with some of those displays for the FX section would be awesome.
One thing that no-one ever talks about though is the challenge of NI’s Traktor business model; the revenue really only comes from new hardware sales, unlike some of the major competitors that have moved to subscriptions to help fund ongoing development. I know VDJ is also one-time purchase, and they are arguably the most innovative DJ software developer, but I can’t help but feel that the future for viable, evolving DJ platforms depends on subscription models to fund development (I’m sure many will hope I’m wrong! 😂)
z2 and 2 d2s is the ultimate setup
Now that Traktor 4.0 is out, will you be blessing us with new review of the X1 Mk3 brother? That would be 🔥💯
9:48 the best would be to map the cue to a sync button, the play to the cue button and the sync to the play button 😂 but mapping isn't available currently... Great indepth review as always, as a +10 years Traktor user i always get excited, a bit disappointed in this xase but i guess with this new design language there is more gear on the way, and soon finally live stem separation by izotope, super excited 🎉🎉
Great looking controller -- exciting product. Would definitely be picking up two of these if I were still a Traktor user :P
*I feel like add on MIDI controllers are a thing from a bygone era when we didn’t have full on controllers with decks, a mixer and effects all built in into one controller.*
*Back in the day when i had 2 CDJ400’s and a DJM400 linked up to Serato i used to have an X1 for effects since the DJM400 didn’t have a manual filter.*
Alternately, I own a v10 & a Model1 and thus “only” want a small unit with browse and transport so I can access my digital library and then use the mixer for everything else. Different strokes…
Great review. My favourite part of the x1 mk3 was the bizzarre launch where they released a presale where the devices were like 50% off. Obviously was a mistake on their end, but probably showed the value isn't there at it's current MSRP.
Great long awaited review. These seem an upgrade for the mk1 users whom never got along with the mk2. Myself, I'm the opposite having only used the mk2's as I think the touchstrips are a great transport control without jogs. But I think this controller will be geared towards the elusive real time stems, the button for mixer (an after thought) will be to switch between stems or fx.
Does pluging into mains brighten up the leds, heard somewhere it does?
Anyhow glad to hear that NI are still invested in Traktor as they were the best DJ software years ago.
Can’t say why I prefer Traktor to Serato, I just do. Think I prefer the interface layout. Funnily enough the MK2 browse knob thing is the one thing I don’t like about that controller. I missed the dual browse knobs of my Mk1, so happy to see them back on the MK3. Very happy to have the traditional pitch bend buttons too. Hanging out to try the Mk3 which should be soon as my buddy just picked one up. Unless I’m super blown away with it, I’ll probably stick with my Mk2 though for the time being, as I didn’t actually pick it up that long ago. As a whole, the X1 is easily my most favourite Dj controller ever, and I’ll keep supporting them as long as they keep making them.
Traktor remains still the best software for sound quality, i would like to see traktor 3 fully featured (real time stems) on Ipad and in conjunction with this controller and a quality analog mixer would be the most killer dj set up combo.
NI please bring traktor 3 on IOS
I agree with u
The PATTERN PLAYER focus seemed like such a waste of R&D honestly, I LOVE traktor as a turntablist myself but it's been far too long since we got any love on the hardware side, the Z2 was the only turntablist focused piece of hardware to come out (aside from the interfaces) and it was such a beautiful hit of hardware and so many people wanted to see a MK2 come out of that beauty but only radio silence. I've had my Z2 since release and it gets abused regularly after all these years and still trucking along as smooth as day 1. I've since transitioned over to Serato for my general playing needs but always come back to traktor for my turntablist focused routines and recording cuts into my daw though. Seems like NI has clearly been focusing on the hybrid DJ/producer type of setups and I'm not mad at it, just wish that olive branch for the hiphop DJs was still extended. Even to the bare minimum with revamping the drivers on the z2 to work with newer versions of Mac OS and stuff like that
i just go tback into this hobby after approx 12 or more years and it is honestly insane how little things have changed, it seems like the only thing that feels really futuristic is the denon dj media players and the djm v10.
and this mk3 looks even like they went backwards somehow
love the denon and love the v10
Dude, you've lost a shed load of weight. Fair play to you.... Nice review as well by the way!
I’m a Traktor user since 2015. I can’t move over. It’s my preference to RBX, SRT or VDJ. But I have RBX for pioneer use as I’m seem to struggle to connect to the CDJ3000s with my Traktor. I’m gonna stick with Traktor. Hope they do some more upgrades for the software to compete with the other Dj Software.
Great review MoJaxx. And you look well too! 🙏🏼
Nice review!
I was today years old when I figured out how to store the X1 with the lid properly that comes with the stand. Ha!
Regards the MK3 X1 - nothing big enough to draw me in to be honest. The MK2s work so well. I paid for Traktor Pro Plus nearly a year ago and it just feels like no progress is being made at all. I am not spending any more money on traktor until things start to gain momentum
Thank you for a great review. I have been a Traktor Z1 user with Traktor for iPad for many years. Another issue I have w the MK3 is that it cannot be used on iPad. I am big fan of touch controls, you mention the touch strip on the MK2, which I love as well, especially for setting very specific cue points, also scrubbing through tracks is a breeze! The MK3 is useless to me because I use my iPad w the Kontrol Z1 for light-weight portability. The mixer option is cute but not NO cross fader is a deal breaker for me.
I recently completed a survey for Native Instruments and expressed my thoughts on the MK2 vs MK3. They also made it tempting for me to purchase the MK3 by offering a discount code. Although I do like the visual aesthetic of the MK3 and the tiny displays (Im getn older and the eyes struggle with small fonts) it seems more like a gimmick than an improvement over the MK2. Its sad because I was eagerly awaiting for something new from NI, only to be disappointed with the MK3.
Just bought one of these and I love it. The workflow is so easy and it is a rally nice looking and feeling controller.
I too thought the sync button position was strange at first. I generally always use sync but I do change temp throughout a set. In use, the sync button position Is turns out to be perfect for that.
. I love how you can change effects library fromThe controller on the x1.
I don’t understand the mixer mode tho. Not sure how it is designed to be used. Would welcome a new z1 and f1 to go with it.
Meanwhile, this with an audio interface into a club mixer is a pretty damn good hybrid set up.
I've been a long term traktor using as its most basic. Song managment, effects and basic loops. I've had a go at stems from serato and tbh it's a major game changer. I've never wanted to switch before this, but.. I'm very tempted. Traktor need to hurry up on this real time stems thing. I hope they make remapping work too .
22:25 I actually also think that apart from all the new improved functions, the new look of the hardware is also incredibly important. Here we now have a controller that has a modern design that fits nicely with other mixers, equipment etc...
Im gonna stick to my mk2 and d2 for now unless they upgrade the d2 as standalone stems
Regarding browser view. Overmapping does not work yet. But in the official forum you can find files that change the behavior. QML mods.
I found a "mod" that opens the browser windows and also has buttons for song preview player (not cue). It's pretty neat if you are into that.
Hello, I have always been an avid Traktor user. This is the best DJ software for me. Just now missing the live Stems. Better to expect a finished product than to release an approximate product with a metallic sound. As for the X1 mk3, I will report back to you as soon as I have had it in my hands. Good to you DJ friends.
Bitter sweet when I heard about this release. I wanted to fall in love with Traktor again but sadly, it’s a Dj program that is finally aging out. What’s keeps me on Traktor is the fact that I have an older MacBook, once I update to a newer Mac, I do not know if Traktor will be installed.
My friend and I did our first night ride round cannock chase in mid winter with about 6in of snow on the ground. We did the trail in our quickest time and when we got back to the car we shone a light into the woods at the side of the car and no more than 10ft away was a heard of deer best ride ever
Argh!! I’m so on the fence here was a Traktor user but made the switch to pioneer & rekordbox. Watching this & other videos is tempting me back to the dark side & a modular setup with maybe a maschine thrown in too. Damn you NI 😂
Great review! The real question is how does Skelator feel about the MK3?! 💀🧐
For me the touch to browse nob was like. Copy and paste code from messages in the iphone. You know where you signing up for something and above the keyboard a little message pops up.
Please tell me if you can change to “through mode” for DVS with this controller 🙏🏻🙏🏻
22:53 Super happy with my two new mk3’s… just what I actually wanted. Never really liked the touch strips. Traktor is the classic dj software I always have been preferred and love, especially since there are so many different effects.
Haha after speaking to the Traktor team, I began to suspect that my love of the touch strips was actually quite unusual! And you’re just helping to confirm that 🤣
@@Mojaxx The two complaints I heard the most about the X1 Mk2 compared to the X1 Mk1: 1. No dedicated browser knob per deck is less intuitive and a step extra. 2. Pitch bending with dedicated buttons works better than a touch strip.
What is best 4 channel mixer which works with trakor 2 and the updated one?
to setup 2 x1 and 2 f1?
08:13 Not a huge deal, but on my unit the display get blurry when watched from an angle. Like when you are sitting down and they are in front of you. Not when you stand above them in a DJ scenario though.
Having moved on from DVS, I'm still using my Kontrol X1 Mk1 as a dedicated FX unit next to my Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 DJ controller. It's a great mobile combo actually. The new Kontrol X1 Mk 3 looks great but with NI now doubling down on its mixdeck features it should have come with a build-in audio interface IMO. Because then you can really use it for mobile DJ-ing and just hook it up to your friend's stereo and throw a party with minimal hassle. A missed opportunity if you ask me.
As for the state of Traktor, being more of a free-format guy and still lacking flexible beatgrids is a crime at this point. And a essential feature like stems ending up behind a subscription paywall is infuriating.
Holy shit you lost a lot of weight! Looking good!
There are some notable things missing from the mixer mode that make it so you'd have to reach for the laptop pretty frequently while playing. I'd be much more likely to consider this as a fun travel setup to just throw in a bag if they redid the Z1 in this style too.
Now if I could figure out how to use this with Rekordbox.
traktor were once well aheadas they were the first to explore and offer a stems function .It sadly was not real time as the tech was not ready and when they came up with it they wanted record companies to release tracks with stems included for djs .That did nor work out and djs at the time found the idea a bit out of left field.Its a pity they currently do not have a version of real time stems as they were the originators of the concept.
Hey, mate! I have 2 x1 mk3s and I love them. I currently use them with a 1850x mixer. Do tou know if it is possible to plugin 2 z1s and have 4 channels?
does anyone knows of an audio card that has 4 stereo outs for decks A B C D on traktor plus an extra in and out to use the 4 effects units on traktor on send return mode?
How to reach the Desks C + D if you have only 1 Traktor X1 Controller in a performance?
Touch to Browse in Fullscreen Browser can be activated in Preferences
The oled screen's look very handy, but im not a fan of the corporate bland black look i want each control to stand out, and so does mojax if you see the multi coloured fader and rotary knobs, its a pain to only rely on muscle memory, shure it looks ocd neat but speed and ease of visual componentry is far more important to me.
I'm very happy using Traktor. Once Live Stems come. I'll be even more happy!
they should add audio interface this time.
I still have no idea what the purpose of these are ! I might have to just buy one and try it out.
USB C can receive more power so no need extra psu.
I have Traktor Scratch A6. Could you explain how I set up the X1 Mk3 with an Analogue mixer (as you have with Master Sounds Mixer in video)? Would it be Mixer into A6 then A6 into X1 hub and then X1 into Laptop? Thanks :)
Can i connect this to my smartphone?
Xone K2 is still the best Midi Controller
I'm disappointed with this piece of equipment. You need two of them to accomplish what one Xone K2 can do, and it lacks an audio interface. I love the design, and the upgrade is cool, but I still wouldn't exchange it for the Xone K2. Thank you so much for the excellent review. You are always awesome!
Mojaxx can you tell what you are using this for? What is the use case for this if you are cdj/denon dj?
lol none
Not an upgrade tbh.. nice vid😎
Regarding traktor itself I'm a long time user, tried rekordbox recently because I wanted to try "live" steam...for me rekordbox steam is unusable... no way I would use that... I really hope all the wait for traktor "live" steam worth...
Also the midi mapping for rekorbox is terrible... you cant do half of the things you can with traktor...
the only thing I think traktor is behind is regarding smart playlists.
I just got it. I really like it so far. I been using prime 2. I really traktor 3 better.
haven't touched traktor since Final Scratch 😅
I've been on Traktor since the early 2000's. It's the software I by far know the best. But my S4 mk2 is starting to show its age & I've been considering replacing it. With Traktor's real lack of features and apparently very slow development now I'm seriously considering making a move to something else.
What is missing in Traktor that the competition has? Whenever I read comments like this I just don't understand what the issues is. Sure, NI lacks vision but it's still far ahead of the competition imo.
I'll stick with my mk2
Or an S8, which is 2 D2s and a mixer for the price of 3/4 of a 2 D2s. Bought one used Saturday for € 600. And the Z1 mk3 was send home to sender within 26 hours. Mine had knobs with a center nudge (who needs that anyway on a fx controller) that made it impossible for me to smoothly bring in an fx from 0 to Max. The S8 has them as well but these are far less obtrusive. And anyway it still is entoxicating as hell. And on the mark 2 you could assign an fx to the touchstrip.
I don't see the point of not syncing in a Digital DJ environment where you can read the BPM.
so... Traktor audio 10 still works...???
yes, i have one and its marvel :)
@@Filipendula69 thanks man... so is still supported by native instruments??? or there's nothing to be update in this hardware , is just plug and play hardware...??? I bough one audio 10 a couple months ago because I'm going to get the master sounds v4 mk2 and I play digital tracks with DVS on my turntables so I'm worried about it'll still would work...
Touch strip was shite , so difficult to use accurately
you just didnt know how to use them right poor ypou
@@detroittrickster3327 swipe finger along the crappy insensitive pad and hope it works? is there a special skill I lack?
yes using your brain @@mrkeeny
No usbc that's a shame
sadly it cant be remap
Just get an USB-A to USB-C cable; sorted.
Its good have something new or the same but i have Kontrol X1 all this years cant stop using it i think have a better components and professional look then this one ,ok you can use 4 channels effects but is only about that, X1 have the amazing X pad,i use it all the time for drops and other options on effects its a must have,this one its a downgrade version for me ,and wait all this years just for this...hummmmmmm
Definately, more people must scream to NI that they are idiots. 100 of 100 djs will prefer play and cue buttons to be those big buttons. We, the big Traktor fans we still wait for some better, bigger controller, also a 4 channel mixer similar to z2 , maybe z4. NI have a great gear and tech. Their problem is that they dont listen and dont care for the DJs at all.
I agree
Seems like a downgrade in everything but aesthetics to me. Which is sad. Oh well...had mk2s for basically ever and don't actually need an upgrade until they die.
Maybe they'll eventually make an S4/S8 replacement with something like x1s as the deck sections....been wanting that for a really long time too (but, sadly, never bought an S8).
If they dont release Stem separation soon Traktor will be a dead product only used by those with legacy gear (like me! with an S3). The clock is ticking. All that pattern player stuff was nonsense. It seems they just don't have the team to do real overhauls of the software, even if they are enthusiatic like you say. Id love to see the figures but I am guessing 90% of their profits come from selling (and reselling) their music software (and the endless expansion packs that are rubbish).
yes
The update no one asked for. As a NI user, I feel sad.
Thanks. I wont be getting it.
15 years with native sorry this to late ... traktor is dead.
The goofiest 'DJs' use these things.
X1 Mk3 is garbage. all what was need to do is to make new X1 mk2 interface and add some displays.
I suddenly noticed your hair and I smiled
The layout of these makes ZERO sense. Whoever is in charge at NI is fucking clueless. Play and sync on big buttons while cue is the most used button generally is just INSANE. Sure the MK3 screens are nice, but this "upgrade" is just bizarre.