Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 Review
The Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 has been generating a lot of talk among budding and longtime DJs, but is it as good as claimed? The previous releases in the Numark Pro series were pretty good and set high standards, so does this version live up with those? We wanted to find out, so we decided to do this review.
Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 Features
- The Pro 3 has a USB connection so you can hook the controller up to your computer and start mixing
- The easy-to-use controller comes with 16 trigger pads which are backlit and multi-functional
- The controller has heavy duty, 100 mm pitch sliders for perfectly syncing beats
- Once you have registered the controller, you can download the Serato software
- A sound card is built into the controller so you can quickly connect it to speakers, microphones or headphones
Pros
- Easily connects to your computer
- Excellent beat matching
- Sound card included
- Lots of outputs
Cons
- More suited for beginner and intermediate DJs
- Does not have external audio output for all decks
Performance and usage
The Pro 3 is a well-rounded DJ controller, and it is a consistent performer. It may be aimed at the budding DJ, but the controller and the software are professionally designed and works as such.
The audio system is high quality and you get excellent sounds whether it is used with a microphone, headphone, or PA system. You don’t need an external audio interface so you can start immediately.
The 16 multi-function performance pads are excellent, making it easy to use samples, cues, loops and other effects. The launch strip was designed to make it easy for a DJ to search tracks and manage dynamic FX, and it works great. It is not a fancy tool but it is effective.
The reliability extends to the filters as it offers sufficient tonal control. Tonal management is necessary if you want the right audio, so it’s good to see this feature well implemented here. The Serato Intro software is adequate for starters, and the controller is compatible with Mac and PCs so you just need to plug and play. Once the controller has been plugged in you can launch the software and start mixing.
Speaking of the software, you need to register first before you download. The registration is free and it should not take more than a few minutes. If you have used Serato software before, the layout will be familiar, and even if you haven’t, the controls are easy to figure out.
The controller and software work together well. There is no latency, and the sliders, knobs and buttons respond quickly. Numark makes quite a fuss about the pitch sliders, but they work as well as advertised, allowing you to keep the beat synced. Anyone who has tried DJ’ing knows how important it is to have the beats in sync, so this an important feature.
We also like its jog wheels, which in many ways is what the DJ controller is all about. The jog wheels are large, scratch and respond quickly. As you mix, you may also want to keep an eye on the volume, and that’s easy to do with the display. The controls are also precise and the Pro 3 is also portable so you can take it with you anywhere you go.
Should you buy it?
If you’re looking for a controller that meets the needs of an aspiring DJ, the Pro 3 is going to fit the bill. The biggest benefit it offers is the integrated audio system. With this you no longer have to worry about installing a sound card and wonder if it is compatible with the Pro 3.
The Pro 3 is also suitable for the new DJ because it is easier to learn. It doesn’t lack for features, but it does not sacrifice that for ease of use. Beginners will also like the Pro 3 because you can use it with a wide range of PA systems, speakers, microphones and headphones.
The Pro 3 also does not lack in features, and that’s another reason why this is a good choice for those who like to play DJ with friends and want to get a taste of what it is like to be a mix master. While it’s simple enough for the first timer to use, even a seasoned DJ will find plenty to like in the Pro 3.
Verdict
The Mixtrack Pro 3 goes beyond what the typical beginner/entry level DJ controller can do. It is packed with a lot of features and can be used by both beginners and those who want something more out of their DJ controller. The Pro 3 is not without drawbacks, but the pluses outweigh the minuses so we give this our full recommendation.