Native Instruments today announces the next generation of TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 and TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 DJ systems, alongside a new version of its flagship DJ software, TRAKTOR PRO 3. The announcement sees TRAKTOR build on almost two decades of club heritage to extend the possibilities of DJ performance and provide performers of all genres and abilities with the tools they need to define their own style.
“User feedback and collaboration was central to the development of all of these new products,” explains Pedram Faghfouri, Director of Products for TRAKTOR. “We listened to input from users around the world and across the entire spectrum of the TRAKTOR community, from hobbyists to professional DJs.”
“With these releases, we not only acted upon this input, but pushed ourselves to exceed expectations and think of new ways in which to improve the experience of performing with TRAKTOR. We’re also always aware of the fact that no two users are the same, which is why customizability, combined with ease of use, is paramount for us.”
TRAKTOR PRO 3
TRAKTOR PRO 3, the full version of which is included with both new hardware releases, is the most stable version of the software yet, and uses the new Elastique 3 time-stretching engine for noticeable audio improvements. The user interface has been redesigned with a sharper and flatter look for better readability in club environments, while the intuitive workflow, to which many performers have become accustomed, remains intact.
Several brand-new features have also been added: TRAKTOR PRO 3 now includes Mixer FX – one-knob effect and filter controls that can be assigned to each channel independently and used for big buildups and transitions. And DJs using an external mixer can now route unprocessed audio directly from TRAKTOR, thanks to a new mode that bypasses the software’s internal mixer. A full feature set will be announced on September 25.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S4
TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 introduces a world-first with Haptic Drive™ – high-torque, motorized jog wheels that provide performers with haptic feedback in three modes: Jog Mode, Turntable Mode, and Beatgrid Adjust Mode. DJs can now feel cue points and loops when scrolling through tracks, and enable Turntable Mode for natural-feeling beatmatching while nudging and stalling the jog wheels. Interfacing software and hardware within Haptic Drive™ technology means that its functionality can be expanded, and will grow over the course of future updates, giving DJs even more ways to interact with their music.
The S4 places vital performance information on the hardware itself, keeping everything DJs need to know front and center in the booth. High-resolution displays on each deck display a waveform strip, track title, loop length and activation, key, and BPM, as well as Stem and Remix Deck components when performing with Stems and samples. Further visual feedback is provided by RGB light rings surrounding each jog wheel, which visualize deck selection, tempo, and track-end warnings.
An integrated, pro-grade audio interface with inputs on each channel provides support for DJs using timecode vinyl, as well as room for expansion for hybrid DJs who want to incorporate drum machines and synths into their set. Built for the demands of the club, the TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 features rugged industrial design with all-new Carbon Protect faders – inverted carbon strips that better protect against dust and other substances. It also comes with multiple microphone inputs, as well as a much-requested stereo booth output.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S2
TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 condenses the club-standard software and hardware system into an ultra-portable form. The USB-powered system has been equipped with upsized jog wheels that offer more responsive touch-sensitivity and give DJs pinpoint control when scratching and nudging.
Both the TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 and TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 have undergone a complete redesign, with a visual language and build approach that aligns closely with TRAKTOR’s club-standard heritage. The two systems also feature 16 RGB-backlit pads for triggering samples and loops, as well as for setting and triggering cue points. Both systems also provide full integration