![]() It's far and away our favourite iOS-related DJ device we've seen so far, and has the added bonus of acting as either a simple introductory controller or neat portable back-up device for laptop DJs. On first impressions, the Kontrol Z1 seems like an impressively flexible entry point into the world of Traktor. Adding either an X1, F1 or some other MIDI controller into the mix immediately offers a simple way to throw together a more comprehensive setup with the Z1 at its centre. The fact that it's so easy to use the Z1 as a base to build a fuller setup is a major bonus though. In reality, the amount of control that the Z1 offers over Traktor Pro is pretty limited compared to the capabilities of the full software - i.e only two channels and no remix decks or loop triggering - but it does work as a nice entry point. While it's not quite 'plug and play' in the way use with an iOS device is, as a driver download is required, it's still intuitively mapped and fairly hassle free. Of course, the Kontrol Z1 is also compatible with Traktor Pro 2, and ships with an LE version of the software and USB connector for plugging into a Mac or PC. The Traktor X1 MK3 will be available from 20th September and is priced at £259/299. Meaning that owners of newer iPhone, iPads and iPad Minis will need to pick up an adapter in order to connect it. The X1 MK3 comes loaded with the latest version of Native Instruments flagship DJ software, Traktor Pro 3. One slight issue that's likely to irk some users, however, is the fact that the Z1 ships as standard with just a USB to 30-pin connector. The volume level and sound quality that comes out of the 24-bit soundcard is a pleasant surprise too, going beyond what we'd usually expect from a mobile setup. It allows EQs and filters to be tweaked on the mixer with one hand, while the other hand goes to town with the effects using the XY pads within the app. Although the amount of controls on the unit itself are slightly limited (i.e one rotary shared between the filter and effect sections) combined with the touchscreen of an iOS device, it lends itself to fun and intuitive two handed mixing. We're big fans of the Traktor DJ app ( check out our review to find out why) and connecting the Z1 really brings out the best in it. As long as the app is updated to the latest version, the device is pretty much 100% plug and play. Native Instruments will release Traktor Kontrol X1 in February 2010 at a suggested retail price of $229/199 Euro.The Z1 is definitely at its best when used in conjunction with Traktor DJ for iPad or iPhone. The X1 bundle also includes the entry level Traktor LE software, which can be upgraded to the fully fledged Traktor Pro system at any time. And as those who watched the Hawtin clip may have noted, the X1 can be doubled-up for control over a four-deck setup. The plug-and-play nature of the unit (no setup or specific configuration required) is also likely to be a big draw. One of the key boasts of the new unit is a level of responsiveness beyond the realms of a standard MIDI controller, thanks to its high-resolution protocol. NI haven't limited themselves to an entirely Traktor-focused design, however, as the Kontrol X1 is also compatible with any MIDI-based DJ software, (a Serato Scratch overlay for the X1 will be available) doubling as a standard MIDI controller via a dedicated button. The controller is designed with Traktor's many looping, cue, effect, track selection and transport functions in mind, providing users with a simple integrated solution for manipulating their performance. There has been a bit of a buzz surrounding the specifics of the Kontrol X1 ever since the video surfaced in late September of Richie Hawtin road-testing the unit at Berlin's Saturday Adventure Club. Native Instruments have announced details of their first Traktor specific performance controller, Kontrol X1.
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