There’s a new member of Traktor’s family of modular DJ systems – the Z1 MK2. As has become the case with new Native Instruments gear, it’s a sleekly designed bit of kit and will no doubt appeal to DJs after a more unique system, especially producers looking to play around with their own tunes.
It’s designed to work with the new Traktor Pro 4, which comes included. One of the biggest upgrades to this new version of the software was the inclusion of high-quality stem separation, which the Z1 allows you to control
Unlike more conventional Traktor controllers, like the S4 or S2, this is meant to be part of a modular system. This mixer controller and audio interface are designed to pair perfectly with other Traktor gear, such as the X1 M3 or F1, to create a completely customised DJ setup. If you’re a producer/DJ, you could even run it alongside a Maschine for hybrid performances to create and mix beats live.
Key Features of the Traktor Z1 MK2
- Traktor Pro 4 Compatibility: The Z1 MK2 comes with Traktor Pro 4 included and directly integrates with the software’s new stem separation and mastering tools, powered by iZotope.
- Enhanced OLED Displays: With three high-resolution OLED displays, you get essential mix information directly on the controller.
- Simplified One-Knob Mixer FX: The Z1 MK2 introduces a streamlined Mixer FX section with nine one-knob effects, including filter, reverb, and gater effects.
- Stem Control Layer: The EQ knobs on the ZQ can double up as mix controls for the separated stem elements.
- Modern Design with Transparent Base and Custom LEDs: The Z1 MK2 boasts a transparent undershell with LED lighting that provides key information.
- Integrated Soundcard: The built-in high-quality 24-bit/96 kHz soundcard and RCA audio outputs mean you can connect headphones and speakers directly to the Z1 MK2 for high-definition audio without additional equipment.
The Traktor Z1 MK2 retails at $259 / €249 / £214. While it can technically be used as a standalone portable controller, it’s clearly meant to be a part of a larger system. You’ll probably want at least one X1 MK3 (RRP $299 / €299 / £259) to build a more functional DJ setup. When you consider that, it’s hard to call this a ‘budget-friendly’ controller despite its seemingly low price tag.
This style of setup also really won’t appeal to most DJs – there’s a bit of a learning curve to these systems and not having jogwheels and a traditional layout will be a deal-breaker for some. But for Traktor’s diehard user base of electronic producers and DJs, this will be a welcome update. The big updates to Traktor Pro 4 alongside this new hardware have put Traktor back on the map, especially for those after a different approach to mixing.
Learn to DJ with Traktor
If you want to learn how to get the most out of Traktor controllers like the Z1, our Traktor courses are perfect for you. Even if you’re a complete beginner, we’ll take you step by step through the software and teach you everything you need to know to get mixing. Check out some free lessons.
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