While the Kontrol Z2 can be operated as an analog 2 channel mixer, it is really meant to be used with the supplied Traktor 2.6 software to unleash its full potential. This way, you can virtually introduce two more decks and operate Traktor in 4-deck mode. It provides specific cue control, remix deck and loop controls. Allow your creativity to use this powerful button.įinally, the bottom-section is the control-section. A combined one-knob Macro-FX can be used for buildups and breakdowns on the master channel. The Z2’s top-section is where you find effect controls. There is also a Shift-button, that provides a secondary function to the buttons, for use with Traktor or (when in MIDI-mode) for triggering other MIDI-controlled devices. The function of these buttons is used to control these function of Traktor. Apart from the expected layout (eq-rotaries on the top and a vertical fader bel0w each channel), the Z2 provides some extra buttons. The mid-section is inspired by a traditional DJ mixer setup. The Z2 can be divided in three functional parts. The USB part consists of a USB B-input, as well as two USB A-outputs.Īnd there is a 220v power connection. The output of the mixer consists of Master (XLR), Rec Out (cinch) and Booth (jack). The two mixer channels can be fed with separate line- or phono inputs. On the rear, you find the inputs for the microphone as well as an extra AUX input. On the frontpanel of the mixer, there are two headphone connections, both for a small as well as a big jack connector. We also connected an old fashioned turntable to the analog inputs of the mixer, and this also produced a good quality and neutral signal to the outputs. The output provides is more than loud enough for use in a club setting. We wouldn’t expect anything less from Native Instruments though. The quality of the built-in audio interface is excellent. The only point of attention could be the USB-connector: when moving the mixer, a connected USB-cable does not always stay connected, leading to possible audio loss. On the bottom of the mixer are some rubber feet, that give it extra stability. The buttons and faders are well constructed, so when operating the mixer, you don’t have to worry about damaging the buttons. The deckplate is partly plastic and the buttons are made from a grippy rubber-like material. Build qualityĪpart from the deckplate, the outside of the Z2 is made from aluminum, which gives the unit a decent feel. On the left- and right edges, the Z2 has a rows of rotaries and push-buttons that are meant for Traktor software control. Also, the mixer has just two physical channels to provide controls for. The second impression is that the Z2 must be easy to use, mainly because there is no overkill of buttons and the layout of the large rotaries and buttons comes across as sensible and well organized. The first thing that you notice when you see the Z2 is its size. We wanted to find out, is the Kontrol Z2 more than just a 2-channel mixer? After we received the Z2 in our lab we took it through some extensive testing. After absorbing the specs and the rumors, we were pretty curious about the Z2. The release of the latest Traktor software was combined with the introduction of Native Instruments’ DJ mixer, the Kontrol Z2. Think Maschine Mk2, Kontrol F1 and Traktor 2.6, that introduced Flux Modus. Last year gave us a lot of new gear from Native Instruments, who have been introducing new controllers as well as releasing a major new version of their Traktor DJ software.
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