Native Devices has launched the Traktor MX2, a next-generation 2-channel DJ controller geared toward DJs of all ranges. That is the primary Traktor controller that we’ve seen in years – the renewed Z1 and X1 being the newest. The aesthetic of the Traktor MX2 (fairwell, “Kontrol”?) matches these releases design language. This new controller is designed with Traktor Professional 4 in thoughts, and has and a high-quality audio interface in addition.
Whereas the MX2 is positioned as accessible and transportable, it additionally brings devoted controls for superior Traktor Professional 4 options like Stems, Sample Participant, and 40+ results to the entry-level value bracket.
It’s a two channel controller, so is that this designed for a transportable professional, or a newbie DJ crowd? Let’s dive into the specs and analyze.
Traktor Professional 4’s Instruments in a Compact Bundle
The MX2’s largest pitch is that it delivers the complete Traktor Professional 4 characteristic set in {hardware} that’s smaller and easier than NI’s getting old flagship S4 MK3 (launched in 2018). Many DJs will see it as a practical comply with as much as the Kontrol S2 MK3 (additionally launched in 2018). Key options of the MX2 embody:
- Mixer FX: One-knob results for fast buildups, drops, and transitions, masking 9 decisions from filters to reverb and delay.
- Deck FX: Two assignable FX items with 40+ studio-grade results, providing deeper manipulation.
- 16 RGB efficiency pads with 4 modes:
- Hotcues for jumps and drops
- Flux Loops for glitchy stutters that keep in sync
- Sample Participant for sequencing percussion fills
- Stems for dwell separation of vocals, drums, bass, and devices
This inclusion of stem separation controls is notable. NI was the primary to push an early tackle Stems practically a decade in the past, however assist was inconsistent throughout the trade and userbase. By baking these controls straight into an inexpensive controller, it makes it clear that NI is dedicating no less than some effort to revive stem mixing as a typical workflow of their customers.
Designed for efficiency outdoors the membership
The MX2 displays how some DJing has shifted outdoors of massive golf equipment: bed room streams, radio units, pop-ups, and hybrid dwell occasions. After all, you’ll be able to at all times carry your controller to the membership – and a few markets and venues permit precisely this kind of DJ to prosper. There’s some options within the design that appear well-equipped to emphasise visibility, portability, and efficiency:
- Backlit backside shell (I’m going to name it underglow, and so do you have to) that warns when a monitor is looping or operating out.
- Customizable pad colours to personalize workflow and enhance sales space visibility.
- Two touch-sensitive jog wheels with Turntable and Jog modes for nudging, scratching, or scrolling.
Audio Interface: Constructed-In High quality
The MX2 features a 24-bit/96 kHz audio interface, with output powered by iZotope’s Ozone Maximizer inside Traktor Professional 4. For a smaller controller with a sub-$500 value level, this looks like a possible large win, to have polished and distortion-free mixes. Naturally, there’s extra to a soundcard than simply the bit depth and pattern fee, so we’ll wait on extra specs and listening to it in individual to know the way it performs. I’ll be trustworthy – there’s solely RCA out, so that would have an effect on the constancy expertise.
Connection choices are primary however cowl most use circumstances:
- Grasp Out (RCA, 1/8″ mini jack)
- Headphone Out (1/8″ mini jack and ¼” jack)
- Mic In (¼” jack)
- USB-C for energy and laptop connectivity
For home events or smaller venues, this ought to be ample. However to be used on professional techniques, and even only a cell gig, the shortage of balanced XLR outs looks like a fairly large limitation. I wouldn’t be shocked if we see a Traktor MX4 sooner or later that makes use of XLR out as a characteristic set distinguishing level.
Beatport Streaming Included
To decrease the barrier of entry, MX2 ships with a two-month Beatport Streaming trial for brand spanking new clients.
That is most likely the most important particular person inform that this gadget is beginner-focused. Streaming integration is an expectation for brand spanking new DJs in 2025, who didn’t develop up hoarding MP3s and are used to on the spot entry to music slightly than constructing libraries. However as with all streaming answer, reliability is determined by having a secure web connection – nonetheless a threat in lots of environments.
Full Specs at a Look
- 2 touch-sensitive jog wheels
- 16 RGB pads with 4 modes (Hotcues, Stems, Flux Loops, Sample Participant)
- 58 backlit buttons, 6 encoders, 21 pots
- 2-channel faders, crossfader, 2 pitch faders, 2 VU meters
- 24-bit/96kHz audio interface with RCA/mini jack outs
- Mic in, headphone outs (1/8″ + ¼”)
- USB-C connectivity
- Dimension/weight: 12.7 x 20.13 x 2.4 in / 6 lbs (approx.)
- Launch Date: October 2025
- Value: $449
DJTT’s Take
The Traktor MX2 is NI’s clearest try in years (the Kontrol S2 MK3 additionally was launched in 2018) to re-enter the dialog on the entry-to-mid controller degree. By together with controls for Stems and the Sample Participant, it could possibly be a effectively above its weight for Traktor and Traktor-curious who don’t need cumbersome setup. That stated, what number of new DJs are critically Traktor as an possibility? I believe the advertising and marketing and narrative round this launch can be a fairly large indicator of that.
Potential drawbacks: no balanced outputs for professional membership rigs, plus reliance on software program (not like standalone items), and the continuing query of how a lot DJs actually wish to use Stems and streaming in dwell settings. Truthfully, the standalone factor by itself is large. If we had a time machine to 10 years in the past, and also you informed me there can be no standalone {hardware} gadget that runs Traktor in 2025, I’d be shocked.
What do you assume?
Will the MX2 seize your Traktor-loving coronary heart, or have you ever moved on? Might you see newbie DJs utilizing this one? Share your ideas under.