I cut through the hype to show you what's really important. For me, this boils down to user experience and sound quality. These are what sets good controllers apart from average ones.
I prefer seeing the production model tested by real pro DJs first before giving an opinion.
The Traktor Kontrol S4 by Native Instruments is similar in that it's also a fully integrated hardware and DJ software solution.
It's a great size for a DJ controller. Not too big to transport easily (unlike the Numark NS7) and big enough to look cool.
It also appears to be scalable enough for both beginner and pro DJs to use with confidence.
What advantage for you? Stability my friend. The last thing you want is for your DJ mixing software to get stuck in a set and embarrass you, leaving you red faced and having to reboot everything. With everyone laughing and pointing at you.
Traktor Kontrol S4 review - 4 decks to mix with & 4 channel mixer
Many of you won't mix using 4 decks to start with, but after a while you'll start to see why having 4 different audio sources can be interesting. Using 4 decks isn't for a casual DJ who plays out once a month and rarely practices. It's for the guys and girls who want to add some creativity, splice new sounds into their mixes, mix 3 or 4 tunes together (yes people can do it) and basically let rip on the sounds.
I do like their 4 channel mixer function. That is Kool & the Gang! Good, sturdy knobs and buttons give you close control.
Having 4 audio sources also is great for when a new DJ has to hit the decks running with no dip in the beat.
Imagine you play for 1 hour, everbody's dancing, then another DJ comes on, or your buddy. You have to keep them on the floor!
He or she can seamlessly plug their audio source into the Traktor Kontrol S4 and play away without either of you sweating!
Just the dancefloor will sweat. You'll head off and get a nice cold beer of course, happy with your set.
Traktor Kontrol S4 review - 4 decks to mix with & 4 channel mixer
Many of you won't mix using 4 decks to start with, but after a while you'll start to see why having 4 different audio sources can be interesting. Using 4 decks isn't for a casual DJ who plays out once a month and rarely practices. It's for the guys and girls who want to add some creativity, splice new sounds into their mixes, mix 3 or 4 tunes together (yes people can do it) and basically let rip on the sounds.
I do like their 4 channel mixer function. That is Kool & the Gang! Good, sturdy knobs and buttons give you close control.
Having 4 audio sources also is great for when a new DJ has to hit the decks running with no dip in the beat.
Imagine you play for 1 hour, everbody's dancing, then another DJ comes on, or your buddy. You have to keep them on the floor!
He or she can seamlessly plug their audio source into the Traktor Kontrol S4 and play away without either of you sweating!
Just the dancefloor will sweat. You'll head off and get a nice cold beer of course, happy with your set.
Traktor Kontrol S4 review - 4 decks to mix with & 4 channel mixer
Many of you won't mix using 4 decks to start with, but after a while you'll start to see why having 4 different audio sources can be interesting. Using 4 decks isn't for a casual DJ who plays out once a month and rarely practices. It's for the guys and girls who want to add some creativity, splice new sounds into their mixes, mix 3 or 4 tunes together (yes people can do it) and basically let rip on the sounds.
I do like their 4 channel mixer function. That is Kool & the Gang! Good, sturdy knobs and buttons give you close control.
Having 4 audio sources also is great for when a new DJ has to hit the decks running with no dip in the beat.
Imagine you play for 1 hour, everbody's dancing, then another DJ comes on, or your buddy. You have to keep them on the floor!
He or she can seamlessly plug their audio source into the Traktor Kontrol S4 and play away without either of you sweating!
Just the dancefloor will sweat. You'll head off and get a nice cold beer of course, happy with your set.
Traktor Kontrol S4 review - the verdict
Pros This controller is great. For me, it's the fact that the DJ will enjoy him or herself and not get stressed and lost with the controls.
Having the 4 channel mixer is a massive plus.
I do think having a 24 bit sound card is a must and you should only be considering digital gear which has at least that.
It also looks extremely cool.
Cons
No scratching
I think that if you're a turntablists, you should consider using Serato as Traktor seem to be less adapted for turntablism.
Price isn't for everybody
The price is not low, but gets you good, high end material with reliable software that'll last you for the next 5 years at least, and probably more.
Have a look at it, see the user reviews and decide for yourself if it's really for you.
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