Native Instruments, a renowned leader in the DJ equipment market, has announced its newest product, the Traktor X1 MK3 DJ controller. Kicking off their upcoming series of new product releases this fall, the X1 MK3 is designed for modern DJs who crave portability without sacrificing functionality.
An evolution of the popular X1 MK1 and MK2 models, the MK3 version has many innovative features, offering DJs an immersive and intuitive experience.
Feedback-Driven Design and Rich Functionality
Building on the successes of the X1 MK1 and MK2, the MK3 model has been developed with meticulous attention to user feedback from the Traktor community. The result is a next-generation DJ controller that combines extensive functionality and maximum flexibility. It offers unparalleled controls for effects, playback manipulation, looping, mixer mapping, and more. The essence of the design aims to be an all-encompassing tool for DJs, suitable for a range of experience levels—from the hobbyist to the seasoned professional.
Enhanced Visual Experience: The Power of OLED Displays
To keep performers engaged in their art rather than fixated on their laptops, Native Instruments has integrated five OLED displays into the design of the X1 MK3. These displays offer essential information such as track name, track progress, loop size, and selected effects parameters. This visual guide frees the DJ to focus on the crowd and the music, cultivating a more engaging live performance.
Intelligent Lighting and Improved Accessibility
An advanced lighting system is one of the X1 MK3’s standout features. The lights offer real-time updates on crucial aspects, like impending track conclusion or loop status. Furthermore, performers can customize the ambient lighting and button color to suit personal styles or branding. To enhance accessibility, the controller features tactile dots and increased button sizes, making it user-friendly even in dimly lit environments.
Mixer Mode: A Leap in Versatility
The new “Mixer Mode” is a testament to the controller’s versatility. With just the press of a single button, DJs can switch from effects mode to mixer mode, taking immediate control of EQs and channel levels. This feature elevates the X1 MK3 from merely a supplementary piece of gear to a more integral component of the DJ setup.
Unmatched Customizability
For DJs keen on personalized setups, the X1 MK3 doesn’t disappoint. The unit offers extensive customization options, including button mapping and color coding. A built-in three-port powered USB hub also extends the unit’s connectivity options, allowing seamless integration with CDJs or additional X1 units.
Seamless Integration with Traktor Pro 3
As a finishing touch, the X1 MK3 comes bundled with the latest version of Traktor Pro 3, Native Instruments’ flagship DJ software. It provides users with sonic sculpting tools, premium audio quality, a user-friendly interface, and other features like time-stretching and a comprehensive effects suite, ensuring DJs can get mixing right out of the box.
Pricing and Availability
The Traktor X1 MK3 is available for pre-order now and will hit stores on September 20, 2023. Priced at €299/$299/JPY 42,900/£259/AUD 449/CAD 389/CHF 299/CNY ¥2,399, it offers an alluring combination of innovation, versatility, and affordability.
Learn More Here
Will Vance is a professional music producer who has been involved in the industry for the better part of a decade and has been the managing editor at Magnetic Magazine since mid-2022. In that time period, he has published thousands of articles on music production, industry think pieces and educational articles about the music industry. Over the last decade as a professional music producer, Will Vance has also ran multiple successful and highly respected record labels in the industry, including Where The Heart Is Records as well as having launched a new label with a focus on community through Magnetic Magazine. When not running these labels or producing his own music, Vance is likely writing for other top industry sites like Waves or the Hyperbits Masterclass or working on his upcoming book on mindfulness in music production. On the rare chance he's not thinking about music production, he's probably running a game of Dungeons and Dragons with his friends which he has been the dungeon master for for many years.
