Coming in hot on the heels of the recently released Z1, the folks over at Native Instruments are quick to stir up excitement again with the reveal of the new and improved Traktor Kontrol X1!

The original X1 was a game changer for Traktor (and all of controllerism, really) when it was released back in 2009. It was the first official controller designed from the ground up for Traktor and it ultimately opened the floodgates for the likes of the S4, S2, F1, Z2, and Z1. Beyond providing awesome integrated control of Traktor it was also a highly versatile MIDI controller that worked really well with other MIDI compatible software so people who didn’t use Traktor could still make use of a sturdy controller with plenty of functionality.

The new X1 expands on the original functionality with some new options. The most obvious addition is a new multi-purpose touchstrip that lets you grab control of the music and nudge, needle drop, or play with loops and effects.
There’s also the addition of touch-sensitive encoders, and RGB back-lit buttons. All will certainly provide plenty of control of and fun with Traktor, but will also make it even more appealing as a MIDI controller that can be used with other MIDI compatible software.

These new additions and updated look are currently available for pre-order for an August 1,2013 release at the same price as the original X1, $199 USD.