Native Instruments just released the TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 – symbolizing a leap forward in digital DJing with innovative touch-sensitive controls and full-color displays that steer focus away from the laptop, and create an unbroken link between the DJ and the crowd. The all-in-one TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 also features a 4-channel standalone mixer, extensive audio interface, and enhanced performance decks for advanced integration of TRAKTOR PRO 2’s Remix Decks.
Designed to maximize creative expression, TRAKTOR KONTROL S8’s deck sections and workflow simplify live editing and remixing to introduce a different paradigm in DJ performance. New performance tools such as Freeze Mode take a snapshot of a running track and enable detailed slicing for instant live improvisation and an element of spontaneity. The dedicated Remix Deck View provides hands-on control of Remix Sets, samples, and loops while monitoring a deck in full-view on the S8’s displays.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 not only delivers dynamic new touch-and-see workflow, but adds unprecedented flexibility with both classic and modern mixing media. Digital DJs can fine-tune mixes with two wide touch strips for precise track seeking and pitch-bending directly on the unit. Standalone mixer functionality offers connectivity for up to four turntables or CDJs – perfect for analog or timecode vinyl/CD control with the included TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO 2 software. Remix Deck functions can even be controlled with timecode media for extended hybrid analog-digital control.
Central to the TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 experience, its advancements in hardware design deliver uncompromising, professional build quality unmatched even in products exceeding its price-tier. The 4-channel standalone mixer features a detachable fader panel fitted with patented inverse carbon strip faders that exponentially reduce dust and wear. Faders can be replaced for maintenance on the unit, prolonging the S8’s lifespan. The XLR, ¼”, and RCA signal outputs from the extensive on-board audio interface surpass that of any current TRAKTOR product, and easily rival CDJ output levels.
A milestone in Native Instruments’ vision of the #futureofdjing, TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 is now available online and in stores worldwide.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 is available for $1199 / 1199 € / £999 / ¥ 139,800 / AU$ 1.500,99 at the NI Online Shop and at local retailers worldwide.
Further product information and press material
Integral to bringing TRAKTOR KONROL S8’s touch-and-see workflow to life are two high-resolution displays that respond to touch-sensitive knobs. Tracks appear on the displays as stunningly crisp vector waveforms while an array of key views and pop-up panels instantly activate when the corresponding control is touched. The Browse Knob for example, triggers the Browse View for track selection directly from the controller. When activated by performance knobs, Performance Panels appear over track waveforms to view and modify BPM, key, filter, or individual effect values. The FX Panel reveals current parameters of up to two TRAKTOR FX units when an FX knob is touched.
The deck sections on TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 were designed for enhanced Remix Decks integration and live performance features that extend creative workflow beyond current standards and empower pro DJs to develop their own trademark sound. When the Remix Deck View is active, samples and loops all become accessible in full screen on the displays for mixing with the eight dedicated Remix Deck faders. Eight color-coded pads per deck can trigger sounds while in Remix View, juggle cue points, or rearrange a playing track in Freeze View on the fly for boundless live improvisation.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 also delivers increased hands-on editing functions for spontaneous track adjustments or further creativity. The Beatgrid View enables instant fine-tuning of a playing track’s beatgrid when adjustment is needed. Enhanced Remix Decks workflow allows live capturing of loops from a running deck for instant sampling. And two LED-guided touch strips provide motion-sensitive pitch bending, track seeking, vinyl scratch emulation, and keep track of phase in dark environments.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 not only raises the bar in DJ performance features, but also integrates a comprehensive 24-bit/48kHz audio interface designed for expansive connectivity. Four analog RCA inputs with phono and mic preamps allow connection of turntables, CDJs or other analog gear. XLR and RCA master output and a ¼ inch booth output provide versatile connectivity with any sound system. And MIDI In/Out allows external gear like MASCHINE to sync with TRAKTOR via MIDI clock.
Adding to its workflow innovations, the S8 boasts a mixer section with enhanced pro features. Four mixer channels can also work in stand-alone mode when TRAKTOR Mode buttons are deactivated – making DJ switchovers or mixed analog/TRAKTOR SCRATCH usage possible with the touch of one button. The fader section debuts unique wear-resistant faders, which prevents debris from damaging the fader’s carbon strips – prolonging fader life, and maintaining proper function at all times.
Fueling the technology behind TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 is the included TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO 2* software. An innovation in and of itself, TRAKTOR PRO is the award winning DJ software used by countless professionals. Four software decks, over 30 studio-grade effects, and powerful advanced features for creative looping and cueing have provided DJs all over the world with inspiring and customizable DJ possibilities.