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Xone:K3 vs K2

I recently bought a K3 to expand my setup, which currently consists of some K2's and an analog DJ mixer. Hopefully this comparison helps anyone else considering between the two.

For reference I also have two first-generation K2's (rubberized coating on the base), and one second-generation K2 (no rubberized coating on the base).

The build quality on the K3 seems nicer. The base has been redesigned and is now a silver colored textured plastic that have deeper indentations on the sides that work like handles. It feels solid. It's essentially the same dimensions (small differences). The faders seem a bit stiffer and the buttons a little bit clickier - though this may just be me comparing a new K3 to well loved K2's. The RGB lighting is nice, and adds some options for expanded visual feedback that will be helpful.

The K3 seems stable so far. My first generation K2's are bullet proof other than that terrible rubberized coating that turns sticky over time. My second generation K2's (I had one, sent it back, got a replacement) have been plagued with connectivity issues. The first one couldn't maintain a connection for longer than 30 seconds without restarting. The replacement, randomly cycles power too, but is generally stable enough to use for a mixed set. The K3 seems to be holding connection well enough.

Connectivity is by USB-C now instead of USB 2, and they now include a slightly buggy software that lets you modify control messages and save states outside of the device.

The K3 does not ship with the nice carrying case that doubles as a riser like the K2, and A&H also no longer includes an ethernet cable for using X-Link.

The K3 doesn't have an audio interface, which is double edged. The K2 audio interface wasn't great, but was in theory nice to have in a pinch. For me, it was also a bit of a liability because I use a different interface - so I would have to make sure to disable them in my OS to prevent conflicts.

The most surprising and annoying for me, and what has killed any consideration of replacing my K2's is that A&H decided to change how XLink works. The K2's can act as XLink Hubs, meaning I could connect one through USB and, daisy chain the rest with XLink. Because the K3 is USB-C powered I first attempted to connect it, and daisy chain the rest of my K2's off of it. The K3 would connect, but the K2's would not. Then I inverted the situation and daisy chained the K3 off the K2's and everything worked fine. I reached out to support and they confirmed that the K3 cannot be used as an XLink host like the K2's did. I think it's unfortunate that they chose to do this, as it reduces the functionality in my opinion, but perhaps they're trying to push people into buying an XLink mixer, which feels like a subset of the K2 customer base.

Lastly is the price. I get inflation and Tariffs. But they improved build quality a bit and added RGB lighting, while removing XLink functionality, the audio interface, and the carrying case. The K2's were selling at about $379 at release of the K3. In the US the K3's sell for $299, while the rest of the world gets them for about $220.

So in general, if you need more than one and want to use XLink to daisy chain, K3 isn't really an option. If you're only using one, and don't need an audio interface, and live outside of the US, the K3 is an attractive option at about 1/2 the price of a K2. If you live inside the US, the price difference between K2 and K3 gets eaten up if you decide to buy a case for the K3 (since one is included with the K2).

For me, I'm on the fence, but more than likely will return my K3 and pick up another K2 instead.

https://redd.it/1pxa45x
@r_djs
What strategies do you use to keep your DJ sets fresh and engaging over time?

As DJs, we often find ourselves playing the same venues or for the same audiences regularly. This can lead to a feeling of stagnation or repetition in our sets. I'm curious about the methods you all employ to keep your performances exciting and fresh. Do you focus on exploring new genres, incorporating live elements, or perhaps using technology like loop pedals or software to add variety? How do you balance your signature style with the need to innovate? Additionally, do you have any tips for discovering new music or remixing tracks to breathe new life into your setlists? I’d love to hear your experiences and insights on keeping your DJing journey dynamic and engaging for both you and your audience.

https://redd.it/1pxaeio
@r_djs
Lower Beam angle from ADJ Ikon IR for lengthy throw?

I know the Ikon IR from ADJ has a 25, 32, and 43 degree angle lenses, where should I go to get a tighter lens for a longer throw?

I find myself in venues too large for the 25 degree angle lens and too open to have a tall light stand in the middle of the floor.

https://redd.it/1pxau9s
@r_djs
Stems instrumental brake on Rekordbox?

I recently tried serato and I loved the instrumental brake when I use stems, is there a way to do this in rekordbox as well?

https://redd.it/1pxl9to
@r_djs
Vinyl to Traktor

My current setup is purely analogue: SL1210s with Xone23C.

I’ve not touched DVS or timecode software before, but I’m looking to make a foray into that world (if for nothing else than expanding my music library, as vinyl prices are getting ridiculous).

I’m inclined to go with Traktor, but would greatly benefit from your experience.

I appreciate that the Xone23C isn’t compatible (without tinkering) for Traktor, so can you recommend a decent replacement? I’m a bedroom only DJ so no need for anything extraordinary. Would the Xone43C work?

Also, which version of Traktor is best?

Many thanks

https://redd.it/1pxof8e
@r_djs
Irig stream solo audio issue with iPhone 16 plus

I got an irig stream solo for Christmas, and I’m looking to set it up to record vinyl clips for instagram. I got a USB C - 3.5mm jack adapter from Amazon and using the camera app it records the audio but the quality is awful - mega compressed and distorted. I’m thinking it’s the adapter that’s the issue? If so does anyone know which adapter I need specifically?

https://redd.it/1pxwr4v
@r_djs
In my beggining stages & thinking of my Dj name & need some opinions

My name is Justin Ryan & thinking of just going by that or Dj Ryan?

https://redd.it/1pxychy
@r_djs
Bday for 7th-8th graders

Hey everyone,

Long time techno/trance dj that is doing some open format gigs for some extra cash.

I picked up a gig for a kiddos bday party and have no idea what they like since I’m in my 40’s with no kids. I have a beatsource subnoscription so I’ll mostly be depending on that for playlist suggestions but wanted to see if you guys had any tips for a stress free successful evening.

Also planning to ask the parent to give me some gems the kid likes so I make sure they are happy.

Thanks in advance 🫶

https://redd.it/1pxy035
@r_djs
Apple Music Mixing iOS26

On Apple Music in iOS 26, the app mixes tracks with each other; fading, mixing, matching bpm, picking the drops that match, etc.

This effectively means any one person can connect their phone to Bluetooth, set a playlist on Apple Music, press play, and lets AI be the dj for any amount of time. It’s pretty good and uses different filters and other methods or styles of mixing without adding samples or other sounds.

What’s your take? I feel something big happening…

https://redd.it/1py48ka
@r_djs
I built a professional-grade DJ Controller in the browser using React 19 + Raw Web Audio API (No Tone.js/Howler)

Hey,,

I’ve been (sorta) obsessed recently with how far we can push the browser's audio capabilities, so I decided to build NEXUS-DJ—a dual-deck DJ controller that runs entirely client-side.

I made a point not to use libraries like Tone.js or Howler. I wanted to learn the raw AudioContext graph from scratch, and honestly, the performance gain from managing the nodes manually was worth the headache.

https://preview.redd.it/8lqjamr4y1ag1.png?width=1873&format=png&auto=webp&s=4599f23124e6e95099e7ab895e98bee39fed22bc

Repo / Code: https://github.com/dovvnloading/Nexus-DJ

# 🛠 The Stack

Core: React 19 + TypeScript
Build: Vite
Styling: Tailwind CSS (Glassmorphism aesthetic)
Audio: Native Web Audio API (AudioWorklet compatible structure)

# 🧠 The Technical Challenges

The hardest part wasn't the UI, but the state synchronization. React is great, but if you try to drive audio parameters (like a filter sweep) purely through React state updates, you get "zipper noise" or lag because the React render cycle is too slow for audio rates.

How I solved it:

1. Direct Node Access: I use React refs to hold the actual AudioNodes (Gain, BiquadFilter, etc.).
2. Bypassing the Render Loop: When you drag a knob, it updates the AudioParam directly for immediate sonic feedback, then updates React state lazily for the UI visual.
3. The "Sync" Button: Implementing the beat-matching algorithm was a nightmare. It calculates the phase difference between two tracks and nudges the playback rate to align the beats mathematically.
4. The Scheduler: For the 16-step Trance Gate, I had to build a lookahead scheduler (waking up every 25ms to schedule events 100ms out) to keep the rhythm rock solid even if the main thread chokes.

# 🎛 Features

DSP Effects: Real-time Reverb (Convolution), Delay, Distortion, and Flanger.
Trance Gate: A 16-step sequencer that rhythmic gates the volume.
Visualizers: HTML5 Canvas drawing frequency data from `AnalyserNodes` at 60fps.
Zero Server Dependency: It processes audio purely in your browser.

I’d love for you guys to tear it apart. Try loading some tracks (drag and drop works on the library section) and let me know if the latency feels tight enough.

Feedback and roasts are welcome!

Cheers.

https://redd.it/1py9rmm
@r_djs
NYC DJs: Selling a great condition DDJ-1000 Rekordbox with Custom Case

Not sure if I’m allowed to post this here, but I am selling my DJ board. My day job is getting too busy and I don’t have time to DJ on the side. Shoot me a DM for pictures and any details! Thanks!

https://redd.it/1pya8f7
@r_djs
How was your gig?

Post about your gigs here - success stories? Disasters? Lessons learned?

https://redd.it/1pyn0bm
@r_djs
I need advice on streaming services for my sessions.

Hi everyone!

I wasn't sure where to post this question and I need advice from people more experienced than me. Here's the situation: I have Apple Music Family, which I only use to upload my Live Sets to iCloud and play them on Apple Music in CarPlay/AirPods Pro 2. I don't use Discovery, nor do I listen to typical music or suggestions regularly. Sometimes I play a song, but I usually just listen to my own sets.

I usually upload everything in AAC 320kbps (I think Apple Music compresses it), and I also have an active SoundCloud and Mixcloud account (which I'm going to close).

How do you listen to your sets via streaming in the car or with headphones? Do you use SoundCloud? Apple Music like me? Do you use a player? I tried one a while ago that syncs with Dropbox, but it didn't convince me…

It would be great to know what you recommend. I'm paying €16.99/month just to listen to my live sets.

Thank you very much and Happy New Year 🎊

https://redd.it/1pyqkf4
@r_djs
Sound quality from SZ2

Quick question, currently I’m just using rca out to line in to the line in input on my desktop. It sounds decent but the low end seems to be lacking in the stream recording. Would an external sound card fix that and if so, what basic sound card would you recommend? Thanks!

https://redd.it/1pyrn0a
@r_djs
Some recommendations? (GRV6 with rekordbox)

It's my second day with my Grv6 and it's good af, it's my first controller.

Said that, which is your recommendations/settings to rekorbox?

Thanks!

Att:C3O Was Here <#

https://preview.redd.it/caap2b59u6ag1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=81770df2301fbf2b4c648922edd85430c5424b29



https://redd.it/1pyubts
@r_djs
DJ turntables for vinyl house mixing?

I don't necissarily need super advanced features and dont plan on scratching or anything, so wondering what I can get away with as far as budget turntables and mixers go to be able to do simple pitch adjusting and beat matching teqniques.

https://redd.it/1pywh53
@r_djs
When you set up hot cues, how many do you assign?

I'm a producer and musician but rarely DJ and I'm doing a new years party-- I followed some tutorial years ago and my playlists have 7 or 8 markers per song and more or less I can't remember how they're standardized or if some were random and some were like 8 bars before the drop some 16...



I took a little lesson with my friend and he said unless you're doing something crazy and creative like wordplay, if you want people to dance you pretty much just play one predrop, drop, and then outro breakdown fades into the next drop and you have hot cues for those 3 (and only really use the first one to align it to the breakdown of the song that's fading out.



Is this a good framework to get used to? It feels like there's something I'm missing but maybe that's enough haha :P



Thank you!

https://redd.it/1pz0wll
@r_djs
My way of Uploading Music Question

Hey Everyone. So I’ve been djing for awhile now mainly off of sound cloud and all for my school but I’m deciding to take djing a little more serious nice as a side hustle. With this decision, I want to start downloading music to have my own library and record stuff. Surely there is a better way than how im doing it, which is by copying link on spotify and using mp3 converter and keeping all of the music in a folder on my desktop. Is there any other less time consuming way? And I used rekordbox, where do i upload and get access to my downloaded music there (literally just started doing this today). Thanks in advance!

https://redd.it/1pz3b5i
@r_djs