![]() There is also a MIDI mode to enable more advanced mapping with software on a computer (but not for iOS devices).Ī Z1 paired with an iPad or laptop makes for a powerful but extremely portable combination. Strangely, these features do not work the same on both platforms, but this may only be a software update away. Similarly on the desktop version of Traktor, the cue buttons double as play/pause buttons when pressed with the mode button. There are a few hidden features: when using the Z1 with Traktor DJ the filter knobs can be switched to control the FX section. "A Z1 paired with an iPad or laptop makes for a powerful but extremely portable combination" Sound quality is good and the main audio and headphone outputs are nice and loud. It has no external audio inputs however - all sound comes in via USB. In use, the Z1 feels just like a regular DJ mixer. A downloadable copy of Traktor LE completes the package. This limits the portability of the system, but it charges the iOS device during use. A power supply is also in the box and required for use with iOS devices. Owners of the newest Apple units will have to budget for a Lightning to 30-pin adapter as well as the Traktor DJ software. Backlit buttons and (pre fader) volume meters are bright and responsive.Ĭables are included for connection to a computer or 30-pin Apple iOS device. The channel-faders have the right amount of resistance for long smooth mixes and the crossfader is nice and light for faster moves. The construction of the Z1 is as solid as previous models, with a sturdy plastic case and controls. "The construction of the Z1 is as solid as previous models, with a sturdy plastic case and controls" This is their first controller designed for use with the new Traktor DJ software on a recent Apple iPod, iPad or iPhone, allowing for a very portable set-up. For now.The Z1 is the same size and shape as their popular F1 and X1 Kontrollers, but the layout is that of a traditional two-channel DJ mixer, complete with a built-in audio interface for monitoring. The Kontrol Z1 is a no-nonsense frills-free mixer controller, and that’s all you need to know. I’ll offload the unit to one of the team to go into a little more detail, but essentially is does exactly what you think it does, exactly as you think it should. So in a nutshell, it’s like the other Kontrol modules, is shinier, and is proper plug and play with Traktor and Traktor DJ. There’s a certain irony in having to take an extra power supply in a real small setup I guess. One thing with iOS - the Z1 needs power which thankfully is supplied. The setup is slightly awkward because there’s no natural way for the Z1 to sit with the iPad, or at least not one that I’m used to just yet. And it’s the same with Traktor DJ on iOS. I’ll try it paired up with a Z2 when I review it fully to see how it interacts though. Last night’s release of Traktor Pro 2.6.2 recognises the Kontrol Z1 right away and has it working perfectly. To clarify for those that care, the crossfader is fixed to the motherboard, so no Pro X Fade or Innofader transplants for the Kontrol Z1 I’m afraid. Making a casual mixer based observation, the crossfader is smoother than the line faders, which is a good thing. If ever there was a product to trigger OCD cleaning frenzies, it’s the Z1.įeel wise, it’s just like the others in the range. Personally I prefer the brushed metal of the F1 and X1, but this seems to be NI’s new finger print magnet ID for the future. The big visual difference is that the faceplate is now shiny clear plastic to match its bigger Z2 stable mate, but thankfully has the markings underneath the faceplate. It’s another small format device that looks and feels much the same as its Kontrol X1 and Kontrol F1 siblings. It’s an incredibly simple device that like Cuprinol, does exactly what it says on the tin. Given what I’ve done with the Z1 today, the final review isn’t likely to be much longer than this quick piece. The Traktor Kontrol Z1 sandwiched between the X1 and F1. A few pictures is a much better way to get to what you really want to see in my book. I can’t watch them myself, and certainly can’t imagine a format for such a thing that I’d be happy filming, or that is interesting. Sorry people, but that’s not my bag at all. ![]() So here it is, as well as a large dollop of first impressions as well.īefore I start, I got a few requests for an unboxing video. So I asked the DJWORX masses via the usual social media channels if said unboxing was needed, and back came a resounding yes. And when new and highly desirable shiny comes into my world, the first thing I think is UNBOX. NI’s Traktor Kontrol Z1 “DJ mixing interface” (that’s what the box says) is finally making it out into the wild.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |