which is better? z1 + x1 vs S3

alibabarian · 2025-05-19T07:31:52+00:00

There was an error rendering this rich post.

I'm considering the Native Instruments Traktor X1 + Z1 versus the S3. My reason for considering the X1 + Z1 is its small size, and I don't think I'll really use jog wheels. However, it seems like the X1 + Z1 doesn't have tempo faders. How do I handle tempo control in that case?

Are there any overlapping controls between the X1 and Z1? I'm wondering if I could just get one of them, or are both essential? Or is one of them possibly unnecessary?

And do I get the software for free if I purchase one of them?

And can these be used as MIDI controllers in a DAW?

Find more posts tagged with

Accepted answers

lord-carlos

Overlapping controls

Technically, the x1 has mixer controls (volume, eq etc) but I don't like the experience. So in theory you can use just the x1. But if you want to use fx you will need to switch between the two modes, and then the knobs are at different position .. eh.

Also the x1 does not have a soundcard.

Software

Both of them come with Traktor 4 Pro.

Midi

They can be set to midi mode, but of course the display and lights will not be controllable.

z1x1 vs s3

By default, the s3 does not have control over the famous Traktor effects (just 4 simplified mixer effects)

And x1 is nice if you at some point want to upgrade to a real mixer, like a DJM or Xone. Or want to bring your setup to the club. Then you just need the x1 and keep the z1 at home.

But beatmatching and jog wheels can be fun.

S3 + used x1 mk2 can also be an option. Then you can control more effects and a used x1 mk2 can be head for under 100 EUR, depending on area.

Tempo change.

Hold sync and use the rotary encoders to change the bpm.

All comments

maniacintosh81

S3 or a Z1/X1 combo is more a matter of personal taste. Wouldn‘t say one option is better than the other one in general.

You can use hold Sync + Loop Encoder on X1 Mk3 for tempo control. Or use Sync from the start.

You can control mixer controls with X1 if you want to - but not FX while you are doing this. But you can change modes on the fly. But using a Z1 for mixer controls is much more comfortable.

You can set all three models to MIDI mode and map them to your DAW.