After spending some time mixing tracks with the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3, we’ve gathered quite a few observations about this DJ controller. Geared toward both budding and established DJs, the Mixtrack Pro 3 from Numark stands out as a thoughtful convergence of functionality and portability. Our hands-on experience revealed jog wheels that feel responsive and tactile, an aspect that’s crucial for precise cueing and scratching.
The touch strip brings an additional layer of control, allowing us to manipulate effects and navigate tracks with ease. This proves invaluable for DJs who love to add their signature style to their sets. The inclusion of Prime Loops remix toolkit is a delightful bonus, sparking creativity right out of the box.
Let’s not overlook the practical side – the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 comes with an on-board audio interface making it simple to connect to various audio setups. For extended mixing sessions, the dual-headphone outputs are a thoughtful touch for seamless DJ transitions.
Bottom Line
The Mixtrack Pro 3 has proved to be a solid and versatile tool in our DJ gigs. It’s a formidable option for anyone serious about their craft yet operating within a budget. With responsive controls and integrated audio options, this controller definitely punches above its weight class.
Considering its balance of features and value, we suggest checking out the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 for those looking to enhance their performance. Take a look at the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 and possibly add it to your DJ setup.
Discover the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3
Our recent hands-on with the Mixtrack Pro 3 left us genuinely impressed. As veteran DJs, we found that Numark has consistently been ahead of the curve with their DJ gear, and the Pro 3 is no exception. This controller strikes a notable balance between functionality and portability, proving to be a smart pick for both newcomers and seasoned professionals.
What stood out immediately were the 5-inch metal jog wheels. Responsive and robust, they feel premium under the fingers, offering a tactile precision that is essential for nailing those cues and scratches. The versatility in connectivity is another win, making it a breeze to link up to various mixers and PA systems without a hitch.
In terms of control, the crossfader is smooth, and the filter knobs provide that much-needed subtlety in transitions. The 16 backlit pads add a layer of depth to performances, from triggering samples to setting loops, making live sets dynamic and engaging.
Admittedly, the included software, Serato DJ Intro, while sufficient to get anyone started, might warrant an upgrade for more advanced features, which could be a minor setback considering the additional cost. Accuracy with the 100mm pitch sliders is another plus, allowing for precise BPM adjustments. Yet, it’s not just about functionality—the Pro 3 sports a sleek design that’s visually appealing without being overbearing.
We encountered the Prime Loops Remix Toolkit and found it quite a launchpad for creativity. However, for those venturing into busier mixes and looking for a wider range of sounds, there may be a need to look beyond the included library. Overall, Mixtrack Pro 3 doesn’t just cater to our mixing needs; it expands them, challenging us to explore and evolve our DJ talents.
High-Resolution Jog Wheels
In our hands-on experience with the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3, the 5-inch high-resolution metal jog wheels are a standout feature. As far as precision and response go, they performed admirably during our DJ sets. The touch-capacitive nature of these wheels allowed us to navigate tracks with pinpoint accuracy—a must for both scratch enthusiasts and those who prefer to blend mixes seamlessly.
However, it’s worth noting that while the jog wheels feel sturdy and professional, they may not satisfy DJs who are accustomed to the weight and resistance of vinyl turntables. Also, the sensitivity might take a bit of getting used to if you’re transitioning from older or lower-end controllers.
Overall, these jog wheels add significantly to the value of the controller by providing a professional feel to cueing and scratching. They enhance the creative experience without a doubt, but for DJs who are particular about the tactile sensation of their wheels, there may be a short adjustment period.
Seamless Connectivity
In our experience with the Mixtrack Pro 3, one aspect that stands out is its hassle-free setup and connection to various devices. With the onboard audio interface, we easily connected to mixers and PA systems without any need for additional drivers or complicated configurations. The dual headphone outputs made back-to-back sessions with fellow DJs a breeze, and switching to the main output for a live set was seamless.
We did note that while the plug-and-play aspect is a significant plus, users should ensure that their systems meet the product’s requirements for an optimal experience. The immediate connection to Mac and PC systems without any fuss is particularly convenient for those of us who want to focus on our mixing rather than troubleshooting.
On the downside, some might find the need for an upgrade to the full version of Serato DJ a slight inconvenience, considering the additional cost. Nevertheless, the initial inclusion of Serato DJ Intro helps mitigate this, especially for beginners who are just starting out or anyone keeping an eye on their budget.
Essential Mixing Controls
When we got our hands on the Mixtrack Pro 3, its mixing controls were the standout feature for us. The crossfader felt smooth and responsive, allowing for precise transitioning between the two decks. The individual filter controls contributed to an intuitive mixing experience, enabling nuanced modulation of audio. Having touch-capacity on the jog wheels made scratching and track navigation feel incredibly hands-on and engaging.
The 100mm pitch sliders are a boon for DJs needing fine control over track speed, a feature often missing in controllers at this price point. The multi-function backlit pads, which change modes for cue points, loops, and sample playback, are not only practical for performance flair but also provide a quick visual reference, adding to ease of use during a set.
One small gripe we had was wishing for a bit more resistance on the jog wheels for even finer control, but this is largely a matter of personal preference. Overall, essential tools like these on the Mixtrack Pro 3 make blending tracks seamless, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned DJ.
Performance-Enhancing Pads
When we put the Mixtrack Pro 3’s pads to the test, it was clear they’ve been designed for DJs who love adding flair to their sets. The 16 multi-function backlit pads feel robust and responsive – perfect for finger drumming or triggering loops. However, some might find them to be on the firmer side compared to other controllers, which could affect rapid-fire performances.
Navigating through cue points and samples using these pads is intuitive, offering a tactile experience that enhances the mixing process. The touch strip also adds a layer of expression, allowing for dynamic effects tweaking which, when used right, really elevates a set.
While these pads are a standout feature, they don’t illuminate in as many colors as some competitors, potentially limiting your visual feedback during complicated performances. Another small gripe is that, out of the box, the pads only control four cue points per deck, though this is a limitation of the included Serato DJ Intro software rather than the hardware itself. Overall, we think Numark struck a good balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness with these pads.
Software Integration
Our recent hands-on experience with the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 showed its seamless integration with Serato DJ Intro. For those who relish diving into mix creation on Mac or PC, the out-of-the-box compatibility and intuitive design reduce setup time. The high-resolution jog wheels respond well to touch and the controller reliably interprets every nuanced hand movement, breathing life into every set.
While playing with the Mixtrack Pro 3, we appreciated the onboard audio interface, which facilitated a frustration-free connection to mixers and PA systems. Transitioning between tracks is a breeze with the dedicated browsing controls and individual deck filters. What might challenge newcomers is getting accustomed to the touch strip, but it offers a dynamic way to manipulate FX and navigate tracks once mastered.
On the downside, beginners might find the array of features intimidating. However, the step from apprehension to confidence is short, due to well-designed multi-function backlit pads and sample packs from Prime Loops that stoke creativity. We enjoyed infusing sets with samples and loops that stretch the potential of what one can perform with this DJ controller.
Pros and Cons
Pros
After using the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3, we’ve found a number of advantages that stand out. Firstly, the 5-inch high-resolution metal jog wheels feel sturdy and provide precise control, which is essential for seamless blending and scratching. The convenience of having an onboard audio interface with dual headphone outputs and a main output can’t be overstressed—it simplifies the connection to PA systems greatly.
The controller is equipped with 16 backlit pads which offer versatility through multiple modes for cue points, looping, and sample playback, elevating our performance significantly. Another plus is the 100 mm pitch controls and the touch strip for dynamic FX control, which expand creative possibilities. For beginners, having Serato DJ Intro included eases the learning curve and the additional Prime Loops Remix Tool Kit provides a surplus of sounds to get creative with.
Cons
Despite its many positives, there are some drawbacks we noticed. For those looking to progress to more advanced software, the full version of Serato DJ Pro does not come included and requires an additional purchase ($129), which might be a consideration for those on a tight budget. Also, some users, especially professional DJs, might find the feature set limiting compared to higher-end controllers in the market.
Setting up the controller might present some challenges; although it’s mostly plug-and-play, a few of our team members noted that installation on a PC can require troubleshooting, depending on the system settings and configurations. It’s clear that while the Mixtrack Pro 3 is a great tool for beginners and intermediate users, those looking for more advanced features might find this controller falling short.
Customer Reviews
My recent experience with the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 has given me a good sense of what fellow DJs, both novice and experienced, think of this equipment. The Mixtrack Pro 3 has received considerable praise for its feature set relative to its price, garnering a high average rating of 4.5 stars from over a thousand reviewers. Users frequently mention its intuitiveness for beginners, noting the sleek design and ease of getting comfortable with its controls. All necessary cables come in the box, which is a small but appreciated touch.
Seasoned DJs have shared their admiration for the build quality and performance, considering it a solid transition from analog setups to digital. The professionalism it brings to the table without being overly complicated makes it attractive for those taking a serious step up in their DJ careers.
We’ve observed, however, that some users have reservations about the additional cost of the full Serato DJ Pro software, which doesn’t come pre-included. That said, the sentiment is that it remains a worthy investment for the functionality it unlocks. A few technical notes are made about setting it up on a PC, suggesting room for improvement in user experience there. Overall, the consensus among users is one of satisfaction, with the Mixtrack Pro 3 striking a fine balance between cost and features.
Conclusion
After spending some quality time with the Mixtrack Pro 3, we’ve gathered quite a few observations. The controller strikes an impressive balance between functionality and affordability, and it’s an excellent choice for those starting their DJ journey or looking for a portable solution. Its sleek design pairs with an intuitive layout, making it straightforward to pick up even for beginners.
What stands out is the high-resolution jog wheels, providing that tactile feel critical for precise mixing and scratching. We’ve also found that the included Serato DJ Intro software complements the hardware nicely, although upgrading to the full Serato DJ Pro might feel like a necessity for some, which does add to the overall cost.
Despite this, the value proposition remains strong. Our experience shows that it performs reliably, and the response from other users is overwhelmingly positive, noting its ease of use and solid build quality. There are some mentions of the desire for more advanced features, but considering the price point, the Mixtrack Pro 3 offers an admirable feature set that meets the needs of its target audience. Overall, we believe it’s a smart buy for those looking to mix tracks without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Having had our fair share of mixing tracks and rocking parties with the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3, we’ve encountered several questions that come up repeatedly. Here we’ll address some of the most common inquiries, laying out what we’ve learned through hands-on experience with the controller.
What software is compatible with the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 for DJing?
The Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 is designed to seamlessly integrate with Serato DJ Intro, which is included with the purchase. However, for those looking for a broader range of software options, it does work with a variety of other DJ software like Traktor and VirtualDJ, given they support MIDI controllers. It’s always best to check the latest compatibility on the manufacturer’s website or with the software vendor.
How does the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 compare to the Mixtrack Pro FX?
From our time with both controllers, the standout differences are noticeable in their design and feature sets. The Mixtrack Pro FX targets entry-level DJs with more simple, hands-on controls and effects paddles reminiscent of club-standard equipment. On the other hand, the Mixtrack Pro 3 is packed with touch capacitive jog wheels and a multi-function touch strip that allows for more expressive control and dynamic FX manipulation – catering to those looking for a more professional touch.
What are the new features of the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 compared to the Mixtrack Pro 2?
The Mixtrack Pro 3 displays several improvements over its predecessor, which we found significant during use. The introduction of its class-compliant on-board audio interface means you can plug in and play without the hassle of external sound cards. Other notable upgrades include its multi-function touch strip, sturdier 5-inch metal jog wheels, and the inclusion of 16 back-lit performance pads which enhance creative possibilities during a set.
What is the expected price range for the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3?
The price for the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 varies depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions, but typically, it falls within a mid-range bracket for DJ controllers. As of our most recent check, you can expect to find it priced from the mid to high hundreds. It’s a sweet spot for the budding DJ looking for a potent combo of price and performance.
Can the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 be used with VirtualDJ, and are there any specific configuration requirements?
Absolutely, the controller is compatible with VirtualDJ. Our experience showed that it often requires mapping to utilize all of its features within VirtualDJ effectively. Numark provides this mapping on their support page, or it can be customized within VirtualDJ for those who are comfortable setting up their own mappings.
What year was the Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 initially released?
The Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 was introduced to the market in June 2015. It’s been around for a while but remains a solid choice for DJs at various skill levels, blending a mix of classic functionality with modern, user-friendly features.