NEW... Traktor Kontrol X1 - TranceAddict Forums

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-- NEW... Traktor Kontrol X1

Posted by DjWoody on Nov-03-2009 21:56:

NEW... Traktor Kontrol X1

Pretty cool.
http://www.native-instruments.com/traktorkontrolx1.info

Native Instruments Announces TRAKTOR KONTROL X1

Compact professional two-deck DJ controller gives intuitive control
over essential functions of TRAKTOR and Serato Scratch Live�

Berlin, November 3rd, 2009 - Native Instruments today announced TRAKTOR KONTROL X1, a highly functional performance controller that gives DJs immediate hands-on control over vital aspects of their performance. Designed by the team behind the groundbreaking TRAKTOR DJ platform, the compact KONTROL X1 offers an unprecedented level of integration with the latest TRAKTOR generation for maximum performance and ease-of-use, and can also efficiently control any MIDI-compatible DJ software on the market.

TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 provides DJs of all styles and genres with a highly efficient and intuitive way to control loop, cue, effect, track selection and transport functions of their system. The unit accommodates the two most common digital DJing paradigms - it ideally complements a typical timecode-controlled TRAKTOR SCRATCH setup consisting of a hardware mixer, turntables or CD decks, and also excels as a selfcontained controller for DJs who play beat-gridded tracks with the
TRAKTOR software and mix externally. Two X1 units can also easily be combined into a four-deck setup that controls all decks and effect units of TRAKTOR PRO or TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO simultaneously.

The functionality and layout of TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 was carefully engineered and fine-tuned based on extensive artist feedback and usability testing in order to combine a versatile feature set with maximum ease of use. The unit is equipped with precise and durable high-quality buttons, knobs and encoders, complemented by dynamic colored backlighting for additional visual feedback. The X1 integrates with the TRAKTOR software through a dedicated high-resolution protocol, resulting in a level of precision and responsiveness beyond what regular MIDI-based controllers can provide, and allowing for true plug-and-play operation with no setup or specific configuration required.

TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 has been specifically designed for heavy-duty usage in performance environments. Its compact casing is both robust and lightweight for high portability, and the special vertical form factor makes the unit fit seamlessly within a typical club setup. The optional high-quality carrying bag for the X1 doubles as a versatile stand that conveniently raises the controller surface to match the height of typical DJ mixers.

Beyond TRAKTOR, the KONTROL X1 can be used to efficiently control any MIDI-compatible DVS, DJ software or music performance application. The optional MIDI mode of the controller can be engaged on the fly via a dedicated button on the unit. The X1 also comes with a carefully designed set of parameter assignments for the Serato Scratch Live� system, matching the relevant features of the software to the controller in an ideal way without any individual setup effort. A special Serato Scratch Live� overlay for the X1 is also available.

TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 also ships with TRAKTOR LE, a basic version of the TRAKTOR PRO software that provides two decks with essential looping, effects and mixing features, turning X1 into a complete entry level solution for digital DJing. Owners of TRAKTOR LE can upgrade to the full-featured TRAKTOR PRO software for a special discounted price at any time.

Pricing and availability

TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 will be available in February 2010 for a suggested price of $229 / 199 �. The carrying bag / stand for TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 will be available for $49 / 39 �.

Further product information and press material

Additional information on TRAKTOR KONTROL X1 is available at www.native-instruments.com/traktorkontrolx1.info

Posted by xtr3m on Nov-04-2009 03:59:

It's actually affordable.

Posted by david.michael on Nov-04-2009 18:35:

Integrate a sound card and I'll make the switch from my Xone:2D.

Posted by Seppuku on Nov-04-2009 18:52:

I like the fact that these are only deck controllers, these would be sick to use along with the Xone I'll eventually get. The looping and effect controls look awesome. Since I still enjoy using timecode vinyl, I'll probably pick one up to make for an easier solution to 4 deck control. They are a little ugly though imo...

Posted by enydo on Nov-04-2009 19:28:

$229 is not bad... I may consider it as I'll probably need something like this once I get Traktor.

Posted by n3lly on Nov-04-2009 20:31:

It's now november, and they've released full details on this. Why oh why must we wait until February to get these! They're missing out on the whole Christmas sales thing as well.

I do like the look of it though. Might replace my Faderfox DX2 for this. Although I quite like my DX2.

Posted by Ryan0751 on Nov-05-2009 00:40:

quote:
Originally posted by david.michael
Integrate a sound card and I'll make the switch from my Xone:2D.

Why? Unnecessary added costs, and these things are nice and small.

These are clearly aimed at those who already are using traktor /scratch/pro and want something to handle effects, looping, cue points, and loading tracks.

Posted by david.michael on Nov-05-2009 03:17:

quote:
Originally posted by Ryan0751
Why?

Simplicity. I enjoy hooking up my laptop and a 2D to a mixer in a club, and that's it.

Posted by Ryan0751 on Nov-05-2009 12:24:

quote:
Originally posted by david.michael
Simplicity. I enjoy hooking up my laptop and a 2D to a mixer in a club, and that's it.

No I get that... I mean "why" on this particular product... just doesn't fit

Posted by djdk on Nov-05-2009 13:57:

this has totally sold me on traktor scratch now. I was worried that these were going to be silly expensive but they seem to be reasonable although yes really annoying we have to wait until next year!

Posted by skip on Nov-05-2009 20:45:

Kinda cool, but dunno if it'd be really all that useful for me. For 199� I won't be getting it unless I can somehow convince myself of its usefulness.

Posted by djdk on Nov-06-2009 00:12:

quote:
Originally posted by skip
Kinda cool, but dunno if it'd be really all that useful for me. For 199� I won't be getting it unless I can somehow convince myself of its usefulness.

From experience Ive learnt that things like this have to be bought on impulse and then you force yourself to make them useful.

Try to convince yourself you need one, you will never buy it.

Posted by n3lly on Nov-06-2009 00:51:

If you have traktor i highly recommend a person gets a midi controller of some kind. Just for the looping and effects alone. Being able to press two buttons at the same time instead of click and click is a massive benefit.

It's just a question whether this has the features you're looking for and the only reason i'd consider this is because I personally think the price is relatively reasonable.. I just hope shops will pair the 'protective' bag with the it for a discounted price.

Posted by agentdansmith on Nov-06-2009 12:01:

I love the visual feedback it gives you on each button but compared to a Xone1D, it seems to be lacking what you could do with it.

Posted by skip on Nov-16-2009 15:39:

The more I think about this, the less this product makes sense (for me at least). I'd much much rather get a xone:1D than this, if I were to get a midi controller for Traktor Scratch Pro.