Native Instruments Kontrol X1 Mk2

Reviews | Native Instruments Kontrol X1 Mk2
96
T
he original X1 was the fi rst
hardware controller from
Native Instruments in 2009. It
was highly successful, and
mainly aimed at those integrating
Traktor Scratch into a traditional DJ
set-up. High profi le users such as
Richie Hawtin, Luciano and Dubfi re
could often be seen using one alongside
the CDJs. For the new Mk2 version NI
keep the essence of what made the fi rst
version so popular, while updating it to
make it better suited to modern DJing.
Everything old is new again
While the X1 Mk2 shares the same form
as its predecessor, a number of
signifi cant changes have been made.
The sturdy and reliable case has been
retained, but the rest of the design feels
more mature and streamlined, with
simpler labelling and a number of
refi nements. The middle section has
seen a major overhaul, with the addition
of a touch-sensitive strip and LED
loop-length readouts as found on the
S4. Finally, the backlit buttons at the
bottom of the unit have been upgraded
to multi-coloured LEDs to allow for
colour-coded cue points and remix
decks. As with previous NI Kontrollers,
the knobs and buttons all feel sturdy.
A new feature for the Mk2 is touch
sensitivity for the browse and loop
encoders. This automatically shows the
full-screen browser in Traktor whenever
you touch the browse knob – no need to
push it. Buttons at the bottom of the
unit have been re-arranged, with the
addition of larger cue and play controls
which are more familiar to those coming
from CDJs. A fl ux mode button has also
been included. The result of this
however, is that only four cue points can
be accessed at one time. DJs who use
all eight cue points simultaneously will
have to do some re-mapping.
Touched by the music
By default the new touch strip is used
for cuing when paused and for
pitch-bending when playing. The range
can be adjusted, and the strip can also
be assigned to effects or loop controls.
It works nicely for track searching, beat
matching, basic scratching and
spinbacks, but doesn’t feel as natural as
a jog wheel or turntable.
In action, the unit feels comfortable
and well proportioned. NI have done
well to pack so much functionality into
such a compact package. While there
are a few features which require the use
of the shift button, most of the controls
are well thought out and intuitive. The
X1 Mk2 can also be MIDI mapped for
use with software other than Traktor. It
is a shame that no software is included
and that the X1 is not compatible with
Traktor DJ for iOS, but otherwise this is
a very well designed controller that will
no doubt fi nd many fans.
WHAT IS IT?
Updated Traktor Pro deck
controller with touch strip
CONTACT
Who: Native Instruments
Tel: [phone]
Web: www.native-
instruments.com
HIGHLIGHTS
1 Assignable touch strip
2 Clearer layout than
the old version
3 RGB LEDs and
digital readouts
SPECS
Connections
USB 2.0: type B connector
Kensington security slot
Dimensions:
120 x 294 x 52mm
Weight:
0.69 kg
Native Instruments
Kontrol X1 Mk2 | £169
Native revisit their fi rst DJ controller. Oliver Smith
fi nds out if it is more of the same, or a useful update
VERDICT
BUILD
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VALUE
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EASE OF USE
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VERSATILITY
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RESULTS
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An excellent update to the X1
that makes a great partner for
Traktor Pro.
FMU272.rev_ni.indd 96 10/9/13 1:34 PM