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 as well.
Whereas the MX2 is positioned as accessible and moveable, it additionally brings devoted controls for superior Traktor Professional 4 options like Stems, Sample Participant, and 40+ results to the entry-level worth 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 greatest pitch is that it delivers the complete Traktor Professional 4 characteristic set in {hardware} that’s smaller and easier than NI’s growing old flagship S4 MK3 (launched in 2018). Many DJs will see it as a useful observe as much as the Kontrol S2 MK3 (additionally launched in 2018). Key options of the MX2 embrace:
- Mixer FX: One-knob results for fast buildups, drops, and transitions, protecting 9 selections 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 stay 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 almost a decade in the past, however help was inconsistent throughout the trade and userbase. By baking these controls straight into an reasonably priced controller, it makes it clear that NI is dedicating at the very least some effort to revive stem mixing as a normal workflow of their customers.
Designed for efficiency exterior the membership
The MX2 displays how some DJing has shifted exterior of massive golf equipment: bed room streams, radio units, pop-ups, and hybrid stay occasions. After all, you’ll be able to all the time carry your controller to the membership – and a few markets and venues enable precisely any such 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 must you) that warns when a observe is looping or working 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 worth level, this looks like a possible huge win, to have polished and distortion-free mixes. Naturally, there’s extra to a soundcard than simply the bit depth and pattern price, 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 instances:
- 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 pc connectivity
For home events or smaller venues, this must be adequate. However to be used on professional methods, and even only a cell gig, the shortage of balanced XLR outs looks like a reasonably 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 instantaneous entry to music somewhat than constructing libraries. However as with every streaming answer, reliability relies on having a secure web connection – nonetheless a danger 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
- Measurement/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 stage. By together with controls for Stems and the Sample Participant, it may very well be a effectively above its weight for Traktor and Traktor-curious who don’t need cumbersome setup. That mentioned, what number of new DJs are severely Traktor as an choice? I believe the advertising and narrative round this launch shall be a reasonably large indicator of that.
Potential drawbacks: no balanced outputs for professional membership rigs, plus reliance on software program (in contrast to standalone items), and the continuing query of how a lot DJs actually need to use Stems and streaming in stay settings. Actually, the standalone factor by itself is big. 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 suppose?
Will the MX2 seize your Traktor-loving coronary heart, or have you ever moved on? May you see newbie DJs utilizing this one? Share your ideas under.