Test X1MK3 und practical use

viper9711

My experiences with the X1MK3:

Positive:

-Displays

-4 FX units usable

-Led feedback under the controller

-USB hub

Negative:

-Encoder rasterization far too weak - a significant step backwards from the MK2

-Poti zero detent is much too strong - too much resistance if you want to use an effect sensitively - I also find the feel of the MK2 more pleasant

-Lighting on the keys is way too dark

-no more touch strip

My conclusion:

I'll send it back and stick with the MK2.

The weak and soft rasterization of the encoders is the main reason

I can't and don't want to do without the touch strip

What are your experiences?

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Comments

Sûlherokhh

https://community.native-instruments.com/discussion/28108/test-x1mk3-und-practical-use

I've never had a MK2, so i can't compare. Otherwise i share your gripes about both the mid section of the knobs (zero area is also too wide), and the stepped loop/browser encoders (tension too high).

LED's are okay, buttons feel good with a nice click. Design is slick in the dark, it looks like a thin floating slab.

Plus (for me) is: accessible qml mapping files.

D2 is still my favourite piece, including touchstrip.

lord-carlos

I don't mind the physical detent, but the combination with the large deadzone is just weird.

If there would be no detent, the deadzone would make sense. So you don't over shoot the center. But now you can't do a fx sweep.

I still hope they can fix the deadzone with software.

----------------------

While I have an mk2 I have not used it too much.

I like the buttons on the mk3, they feel nice. And Sûlhs QML mapping fixed quite a few shortcomings that I had. Precis BPM change, browser view, preview player etc.

I have not tested it under sunshine yet, just indoors.

Displays are nice. Switching effects and controlling them without looking at the computer.

Stevan

Encoders are it's biggest issue. Also all buttons are sending NoteON/OFF messages even without the click on all buttons. K2 has this issue also, same switches maybe.

Scott Frost

I like the feel and the updates but do t u destined why the low lit buttons

can the buttons be updated I wonder ? It's just a silk screen the mk2 is nice and bright

Gatuzo

I play with Traktor because it has X1, I love it, I use it with CDJ and sometimes I play from alone, mk2 I am already 10 years old. I was excited to think that I would finally replace my worn-out controller with a new one and I was disappointed 😞 I also sent back mk3, the encoders have a poorly perceptible jump, a quick loop change is difficult, how could it be broken! 😞 Now I wonder if the rekordbox or serato... 🙋‍♂️

viper9711

Yes, the rasterization of the encoders is unfortunately really a deal-breaker.

It's extremely easy to over-twist them.

Why didn't they take the encoders out of the S4MK3? they are perfect

Since these are the most important controls for me, all the new features are of no use to me.

It's a shame - otherwise I would have kept it

Sûlherokhh

I assume it has to do with how touch sensitive (literally) the encoders of the MK2 are. I heard reports of it being too loose for some people's tastes, especially regarding the browse-mode-on-touch feature.

So, this may have been overkill in the other direction.

Stevan

I would gladly replace these with S4 encoders. or with X1 Mk2 if they are compatible that is.

These knobs feel even more loose than K2 knobs (which were the worst quality encoders before X1 Mk3 came out).

Harald Walker

Led feedback under the controller

Looks cool and potentially useful but how practical is it when you place it next to other devices? I feel a special case would be needed that directs the light to the top like a light strip on the side.

Sûlherokhh

https://community.native-instruments.com/discussion/comment/143446#Comment_143446

With the bag/stand designed for x1 there is enough space on the sides.

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