Traktor MX2: NI's 2-Channel Controller at a Glance
· re:union Radio editorial · 2 min read
Native Instruments' Traktor MX2 packs a club-standard mixer, 16 RGB pads with four modes, 40+ deck effects, and Traktor Pro 4 into a compact 2-channel controller.
With the Traktor MX2, Native Instruments delivers a 2-channel DJ controller that consciously models its mixer layout on the club standard – while bringing enough software depth to grow with you well beyond the entry level.
At a glance
- 2-channel mixer in club-standard layout for transitions and blends
- 16 RGB pads with four modes: Hotcues, Stems, Loops, and Pattern Player
- 9 mixer effects plus 40+ deck effects from Native Instruments
- Traktor Pro 4 and a two-month Beatport subscription included
Mixer and Jogwheels in Club Format
Native Instruments describes the MX2’s mixer layout as a “club-standard layout for full creative control over transitions and blends.” On top of that, you get two touch-sensitive, non-motorized jogwheels with two modes: Turntable and Jog mode.
16 Pads with Four Modes
The heart of the controller is 16 RGB pads with customizable colors that switch between four modes: Hotcues, Stems, Loops, and Pattern Player. For sound shaping, nine mixer effects are ready via dedicated knobs – think Filter, Reverb, Delay, and Gater – plus more than 40 studio effects from Native Instruments for the two deck FX units.
Audio Interface for Stage and Home
The built-in audio interface routes the master output via RCA (cinch) and 3.5 mm jack, while headphones connect via 3.5 mm or ¼-inch jack. A balanced ¼-inch mic input handles announcements. Signal runs at up to 96 kHz / 24-bit over USB-C. If you expand your setup with a standalone player like the Denon DJ SC6000 Prime, the MX2 can also serve as a pure effects and pad controller in a hybrid rig.
Traktor Pro 4 Included
Unlike some rivals, software isn’t an afterthought on the MX2: Traktor Pro 4 comes fully included and is required for operation. Native Instruments also throws in a two-month Beatport subscription so you can pull fresh tracks straight into your library. If you want to sharpen your transitions further, the EQ mixing guide for DJs has the fundamentals covered.
| Channels | 2 |
|---|---|
| Pads | 16 RGB, 4 modes (Hotcues, Stems, Loops, Pattern Player) |
| Effects | 9 mixer FX, 40+ deck FX |
| Jogwheels | 2, touch-sensitive, Turntable & Jog mode |
| Connections | Master out RCA + 3.5 mm, headphones 3.5 mm + ¼ inch, mic input ¼ inch (balanced), USB-C |
| Software | Traktor Pro 4 (included), 2 months Beatport subscription |
FAQ
Does the MX2 need extra software?
No. Traktor Pro 4 is fully included and required to run – no separate purchase needed.
How many pad modes does the controller have?
The 16 RGB pads switch between four modes: Hotcues, Stems, Loops, and Pattern Player.
Source: Native Instruments, Traktor MX2 product page.
