Mixdown's Picks: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4
mixdownmag.com.au
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 is a versatile and portable four-channel DJ controller. It offers improved ergonomics, enhanced features, and smooth software and hardware interfacing. The MK3 version has an asymmetrical design, a classic layout, and a haptic drive feature that provides physical responses and vibrates when spinning past cues. It has club-ready DJ routing options, four FX knobs per deck, motorized platters, and two LCD display screens. The 16 performance pads allow for creativity with a sequencer, sampler, and hot cue functionality. The Traktor Pro software is user-friendly and integrates seamlessly with the hardware. The S4 can be used as a standalone mixer and is compatible with high-level line inputs. It is a reliable and versatile controller that has stood the test of time.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 Review
wearecrossfader.co.uk
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 is a powerful and portable controller with industry-standard features. The deck section has been redesigned for familiarity, with large tactile buttons and RGB performance pads. The high-resolution displays provide useful information, and the motorized haptic drive jog wheels are responsive and adjustable. However, the haptic feedback system was underwhelming. The controller offers various performance features, including deck effects, remix decks, and stem decks. The four-channel mixer has a three-band EQ and new mixer FX. The unit has a high-quality audio interface and a range of inputs and outputs. It is competitively priced and sure to be popular among Traktor users.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 Review
www.digitaldjtips.com
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 is a well-designed DJ controller that offers new features while staying true to Traktor's strengths. The motorized decks and LED lights add a fun element to the controller. The mixer section is clean and logical, with improved external channel switching. The new Mixer FX simplify effects and allow for individual channel assignment. The performance pads are smaller but still comfortable to use. The screens are small but clear and useful. The library controls are per deck, with a toggle button for library view and performance view. The inputs and outputs have been improved, with XLR outs and additional headphone sockets. The Traktor Pro 3 software is good but lacks some features found in other platforms. Overall, the Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 is a solid controller with innovative features.
Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 Review: A Mature Controller For Everyone
The Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 is a mature and impressive DJ controller from Native Instruments. It features a haptic system that provides a realistic turntable experience, an updated sound card for improved audio quality, and a redesigned interface that reflects modern DJ standards. The motorized jog wheels are a standout feature, offering strong rotation and haptic feedback. The controller also includes a new Mixer FX effects engine, improved microphone inputs, and deck information screens. Overall, the S4 MK3 is a solid choice for DJs looking for a high-quality and professional controller.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 review
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 is a versatile and powerful DJ controller with a large size and weight. It has plenty of outputs and all functions are easily accessible. The S4 is lightweight but may not fit in most bags. It has a separate flightcase available but adds significant weight. It supports time-coded vinyl and CD control. The S4 instantly maps to Traktor without any preset loading. It has a mixer section with EQ, filter, and gain controls. The jog wheels are sensitive and have a patent-pending braking system. The S4 has a loop recording section and a sample deck for storing loops. It is intuitive and offers high-quality sound. The S4 is suitable for mobile DJs but may not be ideal for beginners or touring DJs.
Review: Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2
The Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 is an updated version of the popular DJ controller. It has been optimized for use with Traktor's software additions, including Remix Decks and Flux Mode. The controller features a sleek black faceplate, aircraft-grade aluminum jog wheels, and backlit RGB buttons. It also has new 1/4" outputs and is compatible with the Traktor DJ app on iOS devices. Overall, the S4 MK2 is a solid and attractive controller that offers a futuristic DJ setup.
Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 Digital DJ Controller Review
The Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 is a powerful 4+1 channel DJ controller that comes with the full version of Traktor Pro 2 software. It has additional RCA inputs with an internal Traktor DVS soundcard for external deck timecode control. The controller has low-latency and high-resolution jog wheels and faders, extensive advanced features like hotcue, loop, remix decks, FLUX mode, and FX. It is compatible with the Traktor DJ app for iOS devices. The only downsides are the lack of XLR balanced outputs and the non-user-replaceable plastic crossfader. Overall, it is recommended for professional DJs who want a powerful controller for Traktor Pro software.
Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 and Kontrol S2 MK2 Review
The Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 and Kontrol S2 MK2 are professional-quality DJ controllers that offer seamless integration with Traktor Pro DJ software and the Traktor DJ iPad app. The Kontrol S4 MK2 is a 4+1 channel system with intuitive performance and MIDI input/output for syncing with other devices. It features colored RGB buttons, a loop recorder, and access to pre-made sets. The Kontrol S2 MK2 is a more compact 2+1 channel device with 40 buttons and 27 knobs. It is designed for mobile DJing with iPad or iPhone and supports multiple controllers. Both controllers have excellent integration, solid construction, and an intuitive design. The choice between them depends on the DJ's preferences and needs.
Review: Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 and S2 MK2
The Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 and S2 MK2 are refreshed versions of Native Instruments' popular DJ controllers. They feature new backlit RGB LED buttons, redesigned jogwheels, and dedicated Flux Mode buttons. The S4 MK2 is a full-fledged 4-deck controller with additional features like center-detented Filter knobs and Loop Recorder section. The S2 MK2 controls 2 decks and has limited access to Remix Decks. Both controllers are compatible with Traktor DJ on iOS devices. The new features make these controllers even better without increasing the price.
REVIEW: NI Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 DJ Controller – DJWORX
The NI Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 DJ Controller is a 4-channel controller with similar design and features to the S2. It has a sturdy build and well-spaced controls. The layout is similar to the original S4, with some integration changes. The jog wheels have extra functions for controlling effects. The Remix Deck control is robust, allowing for easy control of remix cells. The only frustrating integration is the effect control, as only one effect bank can be assigned to each deck. The S4 MK2 offers direct control of Traktor Scratch via vinyl or CDs. It can also connect to the iPad to control Traktor DJ. Overall, the S4 MK2 is a great plug and play option for those who want control over Traktor with the ability to tweak their workflow. The choice between the S2 and S4 depends on individual needs, with the S4 being better for those who need four decks or use remix decks and timecode.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk2 Controller Review
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk2 Controller is an upgraded version of the original S4, with a sleeker design and improved functionality. It now has iOS compatibility and features new RGB buttons and aluminium jogwheel tops. The controller also includes a booth output and offers control over the Remix Decks. It works well with the Traktor DJ iOS software, allowing for scratching and manual beatmatching. The effects and loop slicing capabilities are impressive, and the integration with the iPhone is a bonus. Overall, the S4 Mk2 is a worthy upgrade for those looking for comprehensive control of Traktor.
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Feature/Spec | Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 | Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 |
---|---|---|
Number of Buttons | 66 | 74 |
Number of Faders | 7 | 7 |
Number of Knobs | 29 | 32 |
Encoders | 0 | 5 |
Audio Interface Sampling | 96kHz | 96kHz |
Line Input RCA | 4 | 4 |
Mixer Channels | 4 | 4 |
Mic Inputs | 1 | 1 |
Outputs | 4 | 3 |
Headphone Outputs | 1 | 1 |
Backlit LED Buttons | Yes | Yes |
LED Sound Level Indicator | Yes | Yes |
Weight | 3400 g | 3400 g |
Dimensions (W x H x D) | 500 mm x 322 mm x 52 mm | 500 mm x 338 mm x 72 mm |
Jog Wheels | 2 | 2 |
Touch Sensor Jog Wheel | Yes | Yes |
Pitch Faders | Yes | Yes |
Loop Buttons | Yes | Yes |
FX Section | Yes | Yes |
Built-in Audio Interface | Yes | Yes |
3-Band EQ | Yes | Yes |
Filter Channel | Yes | Yes |
Navigation Control | Yes | Yes |
Plug and Play | Yes | Yes |
Compatibility | Mac/Win | Mac/Win |
Software Bundle | Traktor | Traktor |
Cue Button | Yes | Yes |
Headphone Cueing | Yes | Yes |
Hot Cue | Yes | Yes |
Booth Output | No | Yes |
Unique Features | Haptic Feedback, Motorized Platters | Flux Mode, iOS App Compatibility |
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4: The Traktor Kontrol S4 offers robust features like haptic feedback and motorized platters that aim to enhance the DJing experience by providing a more tactile interaction with the media. It has received praise for its durable construction, club-ready input and output options, and the integration with Traktor Pro software, which makes it a powerful choice for both experienced and new DJs. The device is recognized for its reliable performance and its evolution over time as a staple in the DJ controller market.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2: The Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2, while similar in many respects to its predecessor, includes additional enhancements like Flux Mode, compatibility with the Traktor DJ iOS app, and improved physical features such as RGB backlit buttons and aircraft-grade aluminum jog wheels. These improvements cater to a more technologically adept DJ who values the integration of software advancements and portable solutions. The MK2 version stands out for its compatibility with modern digital DJing methods and portable setups.
For New DJs: The S4 MK2 is recommended due to its user-friendly features, such as backlit RGB buttons and compatibility with iOS devices, which support a more intuitive learning curve.
For Experienced DJs: The original S4 remains a solid choice for its tactile features like haptic feedback and motorized platters, ideal for DJs who appreciate a more hands-on approach and complex performance setups.
For Mobile DJs: The S4 MK2 offers greater portability and flexibility with its iOS compatibility, making it better suited for DJs who perform at various locations and prefer a lightweight setup.
For Club DJs: The original S4 with its robust build and extensive input/output options remains preferable for stationary setups where durability and versatility in connection options are crucial.
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