The new Traktor Kontrol X1 MK3 from Native Instruments has arrived. A lot to unpack, let's start.
A NEW SLEEK BLACK DESIGN
The X1 features a all matte-black design.
BACKLIGHTS
The MK3 now has functional backlights under a transparent bottom shell which are meant to give feedback, like when you set up a loop on Traktor the lights will go green on the side of the deck your using that loop, or when the track is about to end it will start flashing red, it’s a very useful new feature that they’ve added on the X1.
KNOBS
The knobs are now better quality, bigger buttons that feel more premium with customizable LED color coding with up to 16 colors(you can now change the colors on the FX section buttons), they’re also now round instead of the previous rectangular shape. When the sync slips out, the button now goes red. *Improved Accessibility:* a larger button size and tactile dots for better orientation.
THE RETURN OF THE 2 BROWSE ENCODERS
Yes! They’re back, the two browse encoders from the first ever X1, made it back to the new version. Now you can quickly navigate your library and press the encoder and it will assign the track to the corresponding deck.
NEW ADVANCED DISPLAYS
The controller now has 5 OLED displays that shows you essential track and effect information.
THREE-PORT USB HUB
Now you can connect add-on controllers in a streamlined setup (including the Pioneer CDJs). To use this feature you need to connect the power supply included in the box.
MIXER MODE
Easily switch to mixer mode without worrying about mapping by simply pressing this button up here. Control your EQ’s and Volume. The oled displays lets you know where you’re at as you twist the knobs. The buttons allow you to control the cuts, hi-cut, mid-cut or low-cuts.