Native Instruments has introduced the Traktor MX2, a next-generation 2-channel DJ controller aimed at DJs of all levels. This is the first Traktor controller that we’ve seen in years – the renewed Z1 and X1 being the most recent. The aesthetic of the Traktor MX2 (fairwell, “Kontrol”?) matches those releases design language. This new controller is designed with Traktor Pro 4 in mind, and has and a high-quality audio interface to boot.
While the MX2 is positioned as accessible and portable, it also brings dedicated controls for advanced Traktor Pro 4 features like Stems, Pattern Player, and 40+ effects to the entry-level price bracket.
It’s a two channel controller, so is this designed for a portable pro, or a beginner DJ crowd? Let’s dive into the specs and analyze.
Traktor Pro 4’s Tools in a Compact Package
The MX2’s biggest pitch is that it delivers the full Traktor Pro 4 feature set in hardware that is smaller and simpler than NI’s aging flagship S4 MK3 (released in 2018). Many DJs will see it as a functional follow up to the Kontrol S2 MK3 (also released in 2018). Key features of the MX2 include:
- Mixer FX: One-knob effects for quick buildups, drops, and transitions, covering nine choices from filters to reverb and delay.
- Deck FX: Two assignable FX units with 40+ studio-grade effects, offering deeper manipulation.
- 16 RGB performance pads with four modes:
- Hotcues for jumps and drops
- Flux Loops for glitchy stutters that stay in sync
- Pattern Player for sequencing percussion fills
- Stems for live separation of vocals, drums, bass, and instruments
This inclusion of stem separation controls is notable. NI was the first to push an early take on Stems nearly a decade ago, but support was inconsistent across the industry and userbase. By baking these controls directly into an affordable controller, it makes it clear that NI is dedicating at least some effort to revive stem mixing as a standard workflow in their users.
Designed for performance outside the club
The MX2 reflects how some DJing has shifted outside of big clubs: bedroom streams, radio sets, pop-ups, and hybrid live events. Of course, you can always bring your controller to the club – and some markets and venues allow exactly this type of DJ to prosper. There’s some features in the design that seem well-equipped to emphasize visibility, portability, and performance:
- Backlit bottom shell (I’m going to call it underglow, and so should you) that warns when a track is looping or running out.
- Customizable pad colors to personalize workflow and improve booth visibility.
- Two touch-sensitive jog wheels with Turntable and Jog modes for nudging, scratching, or scrolling.
Audio Interface: Built-In Quality
The MX2 includes a 24-bit/96 kHz audio interface, with output powered by iZotope’s Ozone Maximizer inside Traktor Pro 4. For a smaller controller with a sub-$500 price point, this feels like a potential big win, to have polished and distortion-free mixes. Naturally, there’s more to a soundcard than just the bit depth and sample rate, so we’ll wait on more specs and hearing it in person to know how it performs. I’ll be honest – there’s only RCA out, so that could have an impact on the fidelity experience.
Connection options are basic but cover most use cases:
- Master Out (RCA, 1/8″ mini jack)
- Headphone Out (1/8″ mini jack and ¼” jack)
- Mic In (¼” jack)
- USB-C for power and computer connectivity
For house parties or smaller venues, this should be sufficient. But for use on pro systems, or even just a mobile gig, the lack of balanced XLR outs feels like a pretty big limitation. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see a Traktor MX4 in the future that uses XLR out as a feature set distinguishing point.
Beatport Streaming Included
To lower the barrier of entry, MX2 ships with a two-month Beatport Streaming trial for new customers.
This is probably the biggest individual tell that this device is beginner-focused. Streaming integration is an expectation for new DJs in 2025, who didn’t grow up hoarding MP3s and are used to instant access to music rather than building libraries. But as with any streaming solution, reliability depends on having a stable internet connection – still a risk in many environments.
Full Specs at a Glance
- 2 touch-sensitive jog wheels
- 16 RGB pads with four modes (Hotcues, Stems, Flux Loops, Pattern Player)
- 58 backlit buttons, 6 encoders, 21 pots
- 2-channel faders, crossfader, 2 pitch faders, 2 VU meters
- 24-bit/96kHz audio interface with RCA/mini jack outs
- Mic in, headphone outs (1/8″ + ¼”)
- USB-C connectivity
- Size/weight: 12.7 x 20.13 x 2.4 in / 6 lbs (approx.)
- Release Date: October 2025
- Price: $449
DJTT’s Take
The Traktor MX2 is NI’s clearest attempt in years (the Kontrol S2 MK3 also was released in 2018) to re-enter the conversation at the entry-to-mid controller level. By including controls for Stems and the Pattern Player, it could be a well above its weight for Traktor and Traktor-curious who don’t want bulky setup. That said, how many new DJs are seriously looking at Traktor as an option? I suspect the marketing and narrative around this launch will be a pretty big indicator of that.
Potential drawbacks: no balanced outputs for pro club rigs, plus reliance on software (unlike standalone units), and the ongoing question of how much DJs really want to use Stems and streaming in live settings. Honestly, the standalone thing by itself is huge. If we had a time machine to ten years ago, and you told me there would be no standalone hardware device that runs Traktor in 2025, I would be shocked.
What do you think?
Will the MX2 capture your Traktor-loving heart, or have you moved on? Could you see beginner DJs using this one? Share your thoughts below.
