The strange differences between two x1 mk3s I bought five months apart

Yeah, they switched to different encoders.

A lot of people did not like the original encoders. I doubt they let you switch it.

You could sell it and buy a new one.

I really dislike the original encoders, which is what I got with my MK3 less than a year ago. I constantly get the wrong results while loading tracks or looping/moving loops, which translates to errors and imprecise performance. I often wonder how other users could cope with this, even while reviewing the unit without mentioning this issue. I thought perhaps I got a bad unit, but a bit of searching revealed other users also experienced this.

I am glad they got it fixed, as the X1MK3 has a great potential, but feel ultimately frustrated that the price I paid for being an early adopter is having to keep dealing with this issue which really distracts from what could otherwise be a great user experience. I can't justify buying another unit, and besides, it would seem unfair from a consumer standpoint.

Hopefully, some sort of update path or solution is offered for early customers.

I kinda want to ask ni about what exact encoders they now use, and solder them myself.

I get what you are saying about not buying version 1 of anything, but being this the MK3, you would have thought that they's taken into account all that was achieved with versions 1 & 2, and improve upon it. I also get that the team has been through some changes which probably presented a bunch of challenges, and even then, they went and created an inspired, sexy and exciting product - with bold aesthetics and full of thoughtful features. I would have done a couple of things differently, like the cue/sync/play placement or how the hotcues work for setting and removing ques (MK2 was great). But those are minor things. I think that the encoder issues were just the result of using different parts suppliers for any of many possible reasons, and some of those parts just resulted in being of lesser quality than what we are used to with all other excellent NI hardware. Other build choices do feel like a step back, like the rubber feet that are prone to slide off after a few months because the glue is not strong enough. The build quality of the X1 MK2 is just astounding. After more than 10 years of getting used and abused constantly, mine still holds strongly. Only one button (Load to Deck B) is showing signs of wear, but otherwise, that thing feels like it could go for another 10 years easily. Maybe it will, if it does not become obsolete because of software advancements like MK1 did.

I might decide to sell my MK3, but probably at a discount because out of principle I won't take advantage of an unsuspecting customer who is unaware of the issues. If I do manage to sell it after warning a potential buyer about its shortcomings, I will definitely purchase a new one. But not before making sure that the encoders have indeed been fixed.

Thank you for taking time to answer our questions.

Could we get the exact name of the encoder form the new batch?

@MichaelK_NI

Thank you for the explanation. It’s truly commendable that you are actively listening to customer feedback and incorporating it into product improvements. This approach not only strengthens the relationship between users and the NI brand but also fosters customer loyalty and contributes to the continued growth and consolidation of Traktor’s legendary status within the DJ community.

Since the introduction of the X1MK3 and now with the audacious release of Traktor Pro 4.0, it is very exciting to witness a renewed stance within NI/Traktor and an exemplary return to form. Anticipation and optimism for the future of the Traktor ecosystem is sky high, and I am personally thrilled to start using all of the new features that once again enhance the creative process and allow for enriched artistic expression. Refreshed and modernized software together with hardware that provides unrivaled workflows, are sure to engage current and potential users alike, and I really hope for the best outcome in the coming years for the platform.

In my case, I wish I had waited a bit before purchasing my X1 MK3, as the enconder issue presents an unnecessary challenge to my workflow. I'm glad some people like it, perhaps I can find somebody who is willing to buy it as is. That, or NI can hopefully come up with an upgrade path that is practical for both parties.

Cheers to all.