Numark Mixtrack Pro FX Vs Platinum FX

In the world of DJing, few companies have been doing as well as Numark. In fact, they have been knocking it out of the park recently, introducing interesting, cost-effective controllers that feature excellent sound quality and a very easy-to-use layout and software. And talking about controllers, Numark recently introduced two of them to the market: the Mixtrack Pro FX and the Platinum FX. Have you ever wondered which one is better?
And the answer is that if you are looking for a four-channel entry-level controller that comes with an onboard display on the jog wheel, you definitely have to go for the platinum FX. However, if you are looking for a more basic controller that is a little bit more affordable, choose the Mixtrack Pro FX. Both are among the best controllers that any aspiring DJ can buy as of 2020.
While both of these controllers are excellent for any entry-level DJ looking to upgrade his beginner controller to something with more features, the truth is that they both have their own differences, as well as several similarities. This is why I decided to write this article. I wanted to give my readers a complete list of the main differences between these two new controllers. Anybody that isn't sure whether to purchase one or the other will find this article really useful. Please enjoy! If however, you want a general overview you can this video below.
Numark Mixtrack Pro FX Vs Platinum FX: Main Similarities and Differences
Numark released these two controllers at the same time a few days ago, and guess what: they share a lot of features that any DJ would love, as well as some key differences. Depending on what you are looking for, you might want to choose one over the other. Below, I talk about the main differences and similarities found in these controllers.
The Platinum FX has an onboard display on the jog wheel
One of the main differences between these two controllers is the fact that the Platinum FX features two displays in the center of the jog wheels, while the Mixtrack Pro FX lacks this feature. This display is really useful for checking things like BPM, information about the channel that you are playing on, and more. You can even check things like how far you are into the track that you are playing, making the screens useful for everyone really.
Now, not everybody needs this feature though, and some might want to skip it if you are looking for something with a more back to basics approach. It's worth mentioning that instead of having a display at the center of the jog wheel, the Mixtrack Pro FX features a marking line in the jog wheel for scratching. Many scratch DJs look for controllers with these lines and if you are one of them, it might be wise to choose the Pro FX over the Platinum.
The Platinum FX allows you to use up to 4 channels with 2 decks
Another big distinguishing factor between these two controllers is the fact that the platinum FX gives you the ability to use four channels, instead of just two. This makes the controller a must-have if you are looking to prepare more layered or complex mixes in the sets that you are playing. However, If having four channels isn't a big deal for you, then getting the Platinum doesn't make too much sense then, especially if you do not care about its other key features.
Keep in mind that the four channels need to be utilized with two decks for obvious reasons. Many people do not like this setup because it complicates things, instead preferring to get a four-deck, four-channel setup. The only problem with this is the fact that this setup can be pretty cost-prohibitive, which is the reason why 4-channel, 2-deck mixers are a thing in the first place.
Both use Serato DJ lite
Numark has several years of using Serato in their gear, so it isn't any surprise that they decided to do the same with these two controllers. Serato has long been considered one of the top choices when it comes to DJing software, so if you haven't used it before, let me tell you that it's really good and easy to use! many people prefer it to Rekordbox, but not everybody though. If you would like to try the software before you buy the controller, click here to download the free version.
Keep in mind that the two controllers come with a 1-month trial of Serato DJ Pro, which is the full version of the software. After one month has passed, you are will be downgraded to the lite version, which lacks several key features that the full version does have. Thankfully, the monthly subscription is rather affordable, but it's just something to keep in mind if you are a Pioneer user.
Both models feature full-size tempo control
The fact that both of these models feature a full-size tempo control is one of the reasons they have been getting a lot of praise from the DJ community. This feature is usually only found on higher-end controllers and CDJs, but Numark really delivered by adding it to these entry-level controllers. The full-size tempo control helps a lot with fine-tuning the channels, ensuring that you get the most optimal mix.
There's another reason why you want a full-sized tempo control in your gear: it makes making the transition to club setups a piece of cake. After all, the dream of most people reading this article is to become a seasoned, world-class DJ, and if you aren't there yet, one of the most crucial things to get to that level is to really learn the club setup in and out, and choosing one of these two controllers will definitely help you with that.
The Mixtrack Pro FX is a bit more affordable
Both of these models are very cost-effective, but they're one that's a little bit more affordable than the other, and that's the Mixtrack Pro FX. The price difference isn't much (only 50 bucks) and while I would personally recommend that you shell out the extra 50 to get the jog wheel display, the 50 dollar price difference is worth mentioning.
Keep in mind that the prices of these two models might change as time goes on. Numark released these at $200 and $250 for the Pro FX and Platinum FX, respectively, but they have often tinkered with the prices of their products as time goes on, so the price difference might be bigger eventually.
Both have an excellent build quality
One of the things that I really loved about these two controllers is the fact that Numark didn't skimp on the build quality of the gear. In fact, many of the components and pieces found on these two controllers are pulled from higher-end controllers. The tempo control and jog wheels found on the controllers are very similar to those found on pricier Denon gear, and in general, the controllers feel very well made.
You will also notice the build quality in the controller's buttons and effect paddles. They do not feel clicky at all, and while they are made out of plastic, it doesn't feel cheap at all. The jog wheels are still capacitive and not mechanical, but that feature is virtually unheard of at this price range. Overall, I'm very satisfied with the build quality of these controllers, and many reviewers think the same too.
If you like Dubstep you can watch the following introduction video where Dubstep is being played on these controllers.
How do these models compare to other entry-level models on the market?
Something that I know many are asking themselves is how do these models compare to other controllers in this price range. I will write more about detailed comparisons with other entry-level controllers in the future, but to give you a quick resume, these two controllers have really distinguished themselves by introducing features that were previously nonexistent in this price range.
I would strongly recommend that you choose these two controllers if you are looking for a good newbie product, especially if you do not care about branding. These two controllers do come with Serato which some people do not like, but if you are willing to use it, then these two controllers are one of the best values for the money.
If you would like to go with the Numark Mixtrack Pro FX you can click on the link.
If you would like to go for the little bit more advanced DJ controller Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX you can click on the link.
If you would like to go for the Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX but you are still not fully convinced yet, you can watch the following video below.
I love researching and writing about new and exciting things in the world of mixing, including tutorials, reviews on hardware and software, as well as finding the latest and greatest. My goal is to help people become better DJs by providing them with all the knowledge they need to do just that!