NI’s updated take on the classic modular controller offers even better integration with the Traktor software. Greg Scarth finds out what the new X1 has to offer for Traktor DJs.
The original Traktor Kontrol X1 was released in 2009 and helped to define the idea of the modular controller. Designed for use with the first generation of the Berlin brand’s Traktor Pro DJ software, the X1 was a game changer in terms of modular control. Later followed by the Traktor Kontrol F1 remix deck controller and Z1 mixer, it was always the “decks and effects” X1 which had the most widespread appeal, picked up (perhaps unsurprisingly) by the likes of Richie Hawtin as a way for forward-thinking DJs to take greater hands-on control of their DJ sets. The Kontrol tag has now been dropped, so here we have the new Native Instruments Traktor X1 MK3, the latest incarnation of a device which has won a lot of fans over the last 14 years. This one has a lot to live up to, but it’s a major update to the formula.
The most obvious change for this third-generation model is the overall physical appearance. From the moment you open the box you’re presented with a high-end experience, with the X1 packaged neatly in a suede-effect dust bag designed to protect it when transporting between parties, gigs and home. The glossy black plastic finish of previous NI controllers has been swapped for a more subtle satin look in keeping with the new Komplete Kontrol MK3 keyboards. Of course, this is far from just an aesthetic update to the X1. The MK3 follows broadly the same layout of controls as the MK2, with effects at the top, then looping and track browsing controls, HotCue buttons and finally transport controls. The effects controls are also optimised this time for mixer control, while the transport controls are subtly different in layout and functionality to the MK2. Notably, the MK3 also dispenses with the touch strip ribbon controller of the MK2. Mode selection is now handled up at the top of the unit, along with three new OLED screens for a total of five displays. Less obvious new features include a dedicated mixer mode, a built-in USB hub and a translucent lower case for lighting effects, more of which later. Whether you miss the option of cueing or scratching using that touch strip will boil down entirely to personal preference, but overall the MK3 feels like a better all-rounder and a more intuitive layout than the MK2.
NI suggest a number of applications for the X1, although much will depend on your own personal approach to DJing and preference in terms of control layouts. The purest Traktor-based approach is to use two X1s alongside a mixer with a built-in audio interface for full four-deck control. The hybrid option is to use an X1 to control things like samples and looping alongside CDJs for mixing. At the other extreme in terms of complexity, you could simply use the X1 and a laptop to mix through speakers, or even just hook up a pair of headphones to practise blends or prepare playlists.
As such, setting up the X1 will depend upon your chosen application, but it’s a pretty straightforward process. After registering your serial number via the Native Access software (and downloading Traktor Pro if necessary), the X1 can be plugged into your computer’s USB port and Traktor will guide you through configuring a layout for your FX units and decks. It’s worth adding here that the MK3 update now includes a full Traktor Pro 3 licence, so if you’re a newcomer to the software itself you don’t need to buy that separately.
Ultimately, you don’t need any experience of the MK2 to get to grips with the concept here. The Traktor X1 MK3 remains a two-deck controller, but you could of course hook up two in order to take full simultaneous control of Traktor’s four decks without the need to switch back and forth between decks 1/2 and 3/4. In use, the X1 MK3 feels familiar if you’ve used the MK2, but newcomers to the concept will find it intuitive and easy to get to grips with. The separation of controls into four main sections is logical and straightforward to understand. The new OLED screens are a fantastic addition, giving visual feedback which means you can focus on the controller itself most of the time, without needing to refer to your laptop screen.
As you’d expect from NI, who at this point have put years of development into hardware as well as software, the encoders and buttons all feel impressively well built and ergonomically tactile. In terms of functionality, though, the MK3 feels like a big step forward from the MK2, to the extent that we expect a lot of MK2 owners will choose to upgrade. The new mixer mode is accessed via the hamburger menu button at the top of the unit, and maps the X1’s controls to Traktor’s software mixer, with the effects section switching to control three-band EQ and channel level, with kills and headphone cueing on the buttons. (Subscribers to Traktor Pro Plus also benefit from a dedicated pattern player mode.)
That translucent case we mentioned earlier also has a functional purpose in the form of lighting cues to indicate the status of the two decks. When a deck slips out of sync from the mix, its LED lights turn red, while a track nearing its end is indicated by a flashing effect. A deck with a loop set up turns green, all of which gives you simple but effective visual feedback of where you are in your mix, alerting you to issues which may need attention. The lighting effects – as well as mapping and other functionality of the X1 – can be customised within Traktor, allowing you to set the controller up perfectly to meet your own requirements.
As a physical unit, the X1 is more impressive than ever, with a freshened up appearance to match all of NI’s latest hardware. In terms of functionality, it matches up to the slick new looks and feel, with hugely improved visual feedback via the OLEDs and lighting options, intuitive mixer control and overall a more logical, streamlined control setup.
The only real rival is the Allen & Heath Xone:K2, which is an excellent controller in its own right and includes a built-in audio interface, but of course you miss out on the seamless integration of the X1 with Traktor. Unless you want to do something particularly unusual with the mapping of your controls, the Traktor X1 is the more obvious choice for 99% of Traktor users. Whether you’re a newcomer to the X1 concept or a MK1/MK2 owner looking to upgrade, the X1 MK3 is a winner.
Greg Scarth
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