All aspiring DJs will need to give themselves freedom to spread their wings. Their equipment may be restrictive or it may provide them with an endless amount of freedom to experiment and manipulate their music. The Numark Mixtrack 3 is certainly an excellent DJ Controller that does just that. It will give the DJ the ability to ply their trade with very few restrictions, if any. This is Numark’s mid range model, they also have a premium version of this controller called the Numark Mixtrack Platinum. For the price, the DJ controller is a great bargain, but additional purchases may be necessary. Below, you will learn about the pros and cons of this device.
Numark Mixtrack 3 Review
It should come as no secret that beginners will be better suited with a more user-friendly DJ controller, while veterans will want something a little more advanced. This right here is the best of both worlds. The Numark Mixtrack 3 will prove to be a great investment for beginners, who do not mind making a few additional purchases. Also, their computer will need to be compatible with the controller. In order to utilize this device with your laptop or PC, you will need access to two USB ports. The controller does not include a sound card. Therefore, the buyer will also need to be willing to invest in an external audio interface.
Unfortunately, investing in an audio interface will increase the overall cost and this may make the product unreasonable for some newbie consumers. For established users who have the additional gear this device is a beast. The DJ controller does not offer headphone monitoring and therefore the user will need to monitor their beats through alternative audio sources. Nonetheless, the Numark Mixtrack 3 is undeniably fun to use and it is downright perfect for beginners, who are just getting into the hobby.
Plenty Of Features
While the Numark Mixtrack 3 is affordable in its own right, it still includes a wide assortment of features. In fact, the device’s features easily parallel those offered by a much more expensive DJ controllers. This is why it’s a perfect device for advanced users who want to add it to their setup. This specific device comes with 3 channel EQ filters. At this price range, it is nearly impossible to find another controller with this type of functionality. The Numark Mixtrack 3 also includes 100mm pitch sliders and convenient dedicated filter knobs for each channel. Many other affordable DJ controllers only offer a 50mm pitch slider. This may seem like a minor feature on the surface but it’s amazing. With more space to make adjustments it allows for fast, seamless and fine tuned adjustments you can never get with a 50mm slider.
Therefore, this device offers more mixing freedom, while also ensuring your beats will remain in perfect sync. The product also comes with sixteen multi-functional performance pads and a Prime Loops remix tool kit. On top of that, you’ll also be blessed with multiple FX manipulation possibilities. Truly, there is little you cannot do with the Mixtrack 3. The device is very versatile and you’ll really be able to let your imagination run wild.
Additional Purchases
It is important to note that the Numark Mixtrack 3 does not come with a sound card, which means that it will require an additional external audio interface. The device will allow your laptop or computer to transmit audio data to a third-party device, such as speakers or headphones. Many DJ controllers are not embedded with a sound card, but they are a necessity for all professional DJs. You will need to purchase an additional sound card, be sure to invest in a reputable brand.
The DJ system’s sound quality will definitely depend on the quality of the sound card. This controller won’t change your sound quality due to this. The external sound card is embedded with audio ports, which are compatible with speakers, surround sound systems, CD players, headphones, microphones, MIDI keyboards and joysticks. Determine what you need to hook up to and check out our audio interface guide for more information.
Another thing to note is the Mixtrack 3 includes Virtual DJ LE software, which will suffice for mixing at home. This program is the bare minimum to get started on mixing beats. However, if you perform live in front of a large group, or make meaningful beats you may want to upgrade to the Virtual DJ Pro. This upgrade will provide you with more options, but it will require a bit of practice to perfect your skills and adapt to the updated version.
Surprisingly Durable
When utilizing the Numark Mixtrack 3 for the first time, you will likely feel of the plastic knobs and form the misconception that the device isn’t going to last. The truth of the matter is that this DJ controller is enormously sturdy. It is manufactured with the highest-quality plastic. The device weighs just a little over 4 pounds, but it is still built to last. The knobs and sliders feel plastic and slightly cheap, but they’re very durable and they can certainly take a beating. This is one of the main reasons the Numark is a good investment for beginners.
And of course, the jog wheels work exceptionally well. Scratching on the wheels can be immensely fun and the device is very responsive. Even the slightest moves will be translated to your computer and into your sound.
Some Limitations of the Numark Mixtrack 3
While the Numark Mixtrack 3 Controller is certainly a great product, it does have a few minor limitations. As mentioned above, the device does not include a soundcard. You have to fully rely on the connected computer for sound control and monitoring. You should also remember that this product will not work with tablets or phones. A USB input is still required for the external DJ interfaces. And finally, you need to know that this device is not compatible with audio streaming services, such as YouTube or Spotify. In order for you to play your beats, the audio files must be present on your computer’s hard drive.
Notable Specifications
- Weighs right around 4 pounds
- Measures in at 9.1 by 21.7 by 1.2 inches
- USB powered
- Features dedicated filter knobs for each channel
- Includes 16 performance pads
- Metal jog wheels work exceptionally well
- Offers numerous FX manipulations
- Comes with a Prime Loops remix tool kit
- Includes a multi-functional Touch strip
Overall Assessment
When it comes down to it, the Numark Mixtrack 3 USB DJ Controller will prove to be a great option for most beginners. However, it is essential to remember that this will not be the only purchase you’ll make. If you really wish to utilize this device to the fullest, you’ll need to buy more and spend more. As long as you’re willing to do that, this product will provide you with a fun and convenient way to learn how to DJ. If you want a more complete package, you should consider looking elsewhere.
If you consider yourself to be an aspiring DJ, you’ll want to quickly equip yourself with the most reliable equipment. Over the years, DJ turntables have evolved substantially, thanks to an abundance of technological improvements. The Hercules DJControl Compact USB Controller is an innovative virtual turntable, which will give you precise control over your beats. While the product is lightweight, compact and very affordable, it possesses an array of excellent features, which allow it to parallel much more expensive alternatives. This specific USB controller will be explored in greater depth below.
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