Traktor Z1 MK2 User Manual and Hardware Guide

Welcome to the Traktor Z1 MK2

Thank you for purchasing the Traktor Z1 MK2. The Traktor Z1 MK2 is a fully integrated Traktor mixer controller and audio interface, giving you hands-on control over the mixing experience when using the TRAKTOR software on your computer. The controller is both a professional and portable solution for your DJ requirements. The purpose of this Traktor Z1 MK2 manual is to achieve the following:

• Provide you with the required information to get your Traktor Z1 MK2 up and running with Traktor.
• Explain how the key features of the Traktor Z1 MK2 operate when using either the Traktor software.
• Help you understand the function of each component on the Traktor Z1 MK2 device.

Naming Convention

In this manual, we often refer to the Traktor Z1 MK2 as the "Z1 MK2", or simply "Z1". Likewise, the included Traktor Pro 4 software will most often just be referred to as "Traktor."

The Traktor Z1 MK2 Documentation at a Glance

The Traktor Z1 MK2 Manual

The Manual will teach you how to use your Z1 in combination with the Traktor software options. A general hardware reference Traktor Z1 MK2 Hardware Reference also provides an explanation for each and every element on the device.

The Traktor Manual

For in-depth information on all features provided by the Traktor software, please refer to the Traktor Manual. You can access the Traktor Manual online at Traktor Pro online manual or via the "Open Manual..." entry from the Help menu in the Traktor software.

System and Power Requirements

Power Requirements

When using the Z1 with your computer, the device will be powered by the standard USB connection.

Software System Requirements

The Traktor Z1 MK2 requires a specific minimum Traktor software version to function. For more information see: Native Instruments Traktor Z1 specifications.

For the minimum system requirements your computer needs to meet, see the Traktor specifications section of the Native Instruments website: Native Instruments Traktor Pro 4 specifications.

To check the compatibility with several operating systems, please have a look at: Native Instruments compatibility page.

Using the Z1 with Traktor

In this chapter, we will describe how the Z1's key functions operate when using Traktor.

[information-icon] Refer to the Traktor Manual in case you are uncertain about specific Traktor functionality.

[information-icon] The Z1 is a two-channel mixer controller. Therefore, some of the control possibilities are limited to only Decks A and B and are not available for Decks C and D.

A Word about Traktor...

If you are not already a proficient Traktor user, you might want to refer to the Traktor Manual as you read this chapter. We assume that you have a basic understanding of many Traktor concepts such as Decks, Deck Flavors and configurations, looping, cue points, and so on. In addition, you should understand how Traktor's mixer and effects (FX) work. Of course, you can operate the Z1 without using Traktor's rich feature set. But you will certainly be rewarded for taking a little time to learn more about the Traktor software so that you can get the most out of the Z1 as well.

Key Z1 Functions Using Traktor

Although you are no doubt eager to get straight into mixing with the Z1, we recommend taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with how the Z1's key functions operate when you are using Traktor.

Deck Volume Controls and Crossfader

The Z1 is essentially a two-channel mixer controller. The two channel faders control the volume of Decks A and B in the TRAKTOR software while when using the [mode-select-button] button gives you access to Decks C and D as well. The crossfader allows you switch between the output of the left and right Deck. Therefore, If the crossfader is all the way to the left, you will only hear the left Deck (if the volume fader is turned up). If it is all the way to the right, you will hear the right Deck (if its volume control is turned up).

Adjusting Channel Gain

The channel GAIN knob is located at the top of the Z1's channel filter and EQ sections. The channel GAIN knob can be operated in two viewing modes: User-Gain level and Auto-Gain level. In User-Gain level viewing mode, turning the GAIN knob on the controller simultaneously moves the GAIN knob in the Traktor software. Here's what the two modes display:

• User-Gain level: This is the default mode within Traktor. A blue indicator ring around the knob indicates that you are in this viewing mode. Turning the GAIN knob on the Z1 will change the mixer channel gain, which has a range of -inf to +12dB. [information-icon] User-Gain level is not stored in your song file.
• Auto-Gain level: Clicking the button next to the label activates Auto-Gain level viewing mode, the label then displays AUTO. When on, the knob shows the Auto-Gain level stored with your song file during track analysis (upon importing the track to the Library). Changing the Auto-Gain level on the software will also write this new Auto-Gain setting to the song file. However, turning the GAIN knob on the Z1, will still alter the User-Gain level, not the Auto-Gain level. [information-icon] Auto-Gain can be activated in the preferences via Mixer > Level > Set Autogain When Loading Track. Refer to the Traktor manual for further information on Auto-Gain.

EQ and Stems Mode

The Z1 MK2 offers you direct control over 3 EQ bands when the channel is set to EQ mode. If a Stem track is loaded the Stem Mode becomes available via its dedicated button. In this mode the Gain as well as the 3 EQ bands become your controls of the 4 available Stems in Traktor.

EQ Mode

This is the default mode for each channel. Turning any of the knobs counter clockwise will attenuate the corresponding frequency (High, Mid, Low). Turning any of the knobs clockwise will boost the corresponding frequency. Keeping a knob at 12 o clock position results in the corresponding frequency band to remain neutral.

Stems Mode

In this mode the Gain Knob will control the Drums Stem, the Hi Knob will control the Bass Stem, the Mid Knob will control the Other Stem and the Low Knob will control the Vocal Stem. Turning any of the knobs fully counterclockwise will result in lowering the corresponding stem to 0% volume. Turning any of the knobs fully counterclockwise will result in setting the corresponding stem to 100% volume.

Headphone Cueing

The VOL knob located on the top panel of the Z1 adjusts the volume levels of the headphone output. The MIX knob determines whether you hear the main mix only, the cue channel only, or both signals in your headphones. Cueing a track in your headphones works in the following way:

1. Load Decks A and B each with a track.
2. Click the [play-button] button on both Decks to begin playback.
3. Turn the MIX knob to the center position.
4. Set the headphone volume to a comfortable level by adjusting the VOL knob.
5. With the channel faders up, move the crossfader back and forth to hear one track, then the other.
6. Move the crossfader all the way to channel A so that you are only hearing the track on Deck A. At the same time bring the channel volume fader all the way down for channel B.
7. Press the Channel B Cue button below the MIX knob. The button lights up, indicating that Deck B is now sent to the Cue channel, which you now hear in the headphones. Note that now, no matter where you move the crossfader, you will still hear Deck B, because its cue is on.

Press the Channel B Cue button again to toggle it off and press Channel A Cue button. You will now hear the track playing on Deck A, no matter what position the crossfader is in. This is due to the fact that Deck A's Cue button is on, and the MIX knob is still in the center position.

1. Press both Cue buttons so that they are both active (illuminated).
2. Turn the MIX knob all the way to the left.
3. Now toggle the two Cue buttons on and off. Notice that when both Cue buttons are off (unilluminated), there is no signal at all coming through the headphones.
4. Press both Cue buttons so that they are off.
5. Turn the MIX knob all the way to the right. If the channel faders are up you will be able to hear the main mix coming through your headphones.

[information-icon] Notice that when both channel faders are down, there is no signal at all coming through the headphones.

Move the crossfader from one side to the other to hear the main mix in the headphone cue.

[information-icon] Remember that no matter what mix you are hearing in your headphones, the main mix is still controlled by the crossfader and channel faders.

Mixer Effects

The Z1 contains a FX knob above each of its channel faders, and a corresponding ON button. Additionally to these controls the Z1 offers 4 Mixer FX shortcut buttons as well as a Filter only button in between the FX Knobs. To activate the FX function, press the ON button so it illuminates blue.

[information-icon] Press the ON button again to turn the EFFECT function off. The button will become dimmed when in the off state.

Using Traktor's Mixer FX with the Z1 MK2

1. Press the 1 button to change the Mixer FX control to control the first Mixer Effect stored in Mixer FX Slot 1 (Reverb by default).
2. Press the FX ON button to turn on the Reverb Effect. The ON button will become backlit to indicate the Reverb Effect is active. Turn the FX Knob clockwise to dial in the Reverb paired with a Highpass Filter or turn the FX Knob counterclockwise to dial in a Reverb paired with a Lowpass Filter.

[lightbulb-icon] The Effects linked to the 1-4 buttons can be customized in the Traktor Preferences on the Mixer Page under Mixer FX.

Controlling Decks C and D

While per default the Z1 MK2 channels give you access to Traktor Channels A and B, the controls can be switched to control Channels C and D as well.

1. Press the [mode-select-button] button to switch from Channels A and B to C and D.
2. The center display at the top reflects your current assignment.
3. Press the [mode-select-button] button again to switch back to Channels A and B.

Using the Traktor Z1 MK2 as a MIDI Controller

The Z1 also functions as an efficient MIDI controller with third-party software. To switch the Z1 into MIDI mode:

1. Press the [shift-button] button together with the [mode-select-button] to switch to MIDI mode (the center display will display MIDI MODE).
2. Press the [shift-button] button together with the [mode-select-button] again to switch back to Traktor mode.

For more information on this usage, refer to the Native Instruments Knowledge Base.

Using Additional Controllers

The Z1 is designed specifically as a portable and professional mixer solution. When using the Z1 with your computer you can easily connect additional controllers such as the Traktor X1 MK3 for even more hands-on control of the Traktor software.

Traktor Z1 MK2 Hardware Reference

Introduction

This chapter details the use of each element on your Traktor Z1 MK2. Like any audio hardware, it is a good idea to get familiar with the Z1 in order to make the most of it.

Rear Panel

Description of Rear Panel: The rear panel of the Z1 features a USB connection port and the MAIN OUT section with unbalanced RCA and 3.5mm connector outputs.

USB Connection

Description: The USB connection on the rear panel of the Z1 is used to connect the device to your computer.

OUTPUT Section

Description: The MAIN OUT section on the rear panel is where you can connect your amplification system. The output level is controlled by the MAIN knob on the top panel.

• Unbalanced RCA: The RCA output allows simple connectivity for an amplification system.
• 3.5mm Connector: The 3.5mm output allows simple connectivity for an amplification system using a 3.5mm Mini Jack plug.

Front Panel

Description of Front Panel: The front panel of the Z1 primarily houses the headphone output.

PHONES Section

You can connect a pair of headphones to the Z1 via the 3.5mm (or 1/8-inch) stereo headphone plugs. The headphone input can be located on the front panel of the Z1.

[information-icon] Adjust the level for the headphones via the VOL knob with the headphone icon on the Z1's top panel.

Top Panel

Description of Top Panel: The top panel of the Z1 contains the primary controls for mixing and effects.

The following section describes all of the controls and displays on the Z1's top panel—learning these functions is the key to mastering the Z1!

MAIN Knob

Description: The MAIN knob located on the top panel.

The MAIN volume knob adjusts the volume of the Z1's MAIN OUT located on the Z1's rear panel.

GAIN Knobs

Description: A Deck's GAIN knob on the top panel.

These knobs control both Traktor's User-Gain level and the Z1's internal direct gain simultaneously.

EQ (HI, MID, LOW)

Just below the GAIN knob at the top of each of the Z1's channels, you will see three EQ knobs (HI, MID, and LOW). The Z1's EQ section gives you a fast and easy way to adjust for frequency imbalances.

Description of EQ Knobs: The Z1's EQ knobs.

HI-EQ Knobs

The HI-EQ knobs control the high equalizer band of the associated channel in the TRAKTOR software. The center position corresponds to 0dB and provides no boost or cut to the hi-band frequencies.

MID-EQ Knobs

The MID-EQ knobs control the mid-range band of the associated channel in the TRAKTOR software. The center position corresponds to 0dB and provides no boost or cut to the mid-band frequencies.

LOW-EQ Knobs

Just like the HI and MID-EQ knobs, the LOW-EQ knobs also control their respective frequency bands, in this case the low band. The center position of the LOW-EQ knob also has no effect on the sound: 0bB with no boost or cut to the low-band frequencies.

[information-icon] The three EQ Knobs control stem volumes when in stems mode. Refer to EQ and Stems Mode for more information.

FX Knobs

Description of FX Knob: The FX Knob.

The two FX knobs give you one knob control to a set of various mixer effects. The center position always results in being neutral and having no effect on the sound.

Headphone and Cue Control Area

Description of Headphone Control Area: The headphone control area on the Z1.

Description of Headphone Cue Buttons: The headphone cue buttons on the Z1.

• VOL (headphone volume) knob: Use this knob to adjust the headphone volume level on your Z1. Headphone volume output is off when the knob is turned all the way counterclockwise and it is at its fullest when the knob is turned all the way clockwise.
• MIX (headphone mix) knob: This knob directly adjusts the cue mix. When it is turned all the way counterclockwise, the headphones will output the cue channel only. When the knob is all the way clockwise, it will output the master signal only. When the knob is at the center position, the headphones will receive a blend of both output busses. Fading between the two positions will mix between the two signals.
• [headphone-cue-button] (headphone cue) buttons: The two headphone cue buttons are located just above the VU meters and control the prelisten function. When turned on, the channel's audio is sent to the headphone bus so that you can listen to it.

Volume Faders and Crossfader

Description of Volume Faders and Crossfader: The volume faders and the crossfader.

Channel Volume

The channel volume faders control the volume of the associated channel.

Level Meters

Description of Level Meters: The level meters located on the top panel, typically situated above the crossfader.

The Z1's level meters are located right above the crossfader. They show the individual decks' pre fader output.