“Forget what you know about DJ controllers and DJ software. TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 was designed from its conception as a fully integrated system where software and hardware are fused in perfect harmony. Once you experience it, you’ll immediately feel how simple, yet powerful and fluid a professional DJ system can be.” – That’s what Native Instruments have to say about their new product.
So, what’s this? Well, Traktor Kontrol S4 is basically a controller with a 4-channel mixer, CDJ-like controls, 3-band EQs, and filters. It also features a 12-buttons grid, located under the jog wheel, laid out in a 3-row system from where you can control your tracks like you would on a CDJ.
The controller sports dynamic multi-color backlighting, LED status displays, and level metering, which makes it easier for DJs to focus on their performance rather than on the computer screen. Native Instruments sais that the dual touch-sensitive jog wheels on the Kontrol S4 hardware offer responsive deck control (“working at lightning speed (1000 counts / revolution!) to provide a smoother, more precise user experience“), while the integrated audio interface offers 24-bit, 96 kHz quality audio with low latency.
Traktor Kontrol S4 works with a special version of Traktor, called “Traktor Pro S4″, which is basically Traktor Pro with a optimized UI, designed to work better with Traktor Kontrol S4. The two Sample Decks can add up to eight simultaneous one-shot samples or beat-synced loops to the mix allowing you to maximize your creativity during your sets or mash-ups. The Loop Recorder allows you to capture and overdub audio loops from the live mix, cue signal, or an external input, and then drop them back into the mix at any time.
Native Instruments also offer an explanatory tutorial and two performance videos with advanced DJ routines from Ean Golden. There’s also an interactive page where you can check out all it’s features, rotate it, zoom-in, etc. Click here to check it out
Most Notable Features
- Integrated 4-deck TRAKTOR controller and software.
- Plug & play – Just fire up this baby, and start dropping bombs.
- 4-channel mixer with ergonomic layout, 2 high-res jog wheels.
- 2 Analog inputs with phono and mic preamps for hooking up turntables, CD players or external audio gear.
- TRAKTOR PRO S4 software – features 4-deck mixing and effects, plus all-new Sample Decks and a powerful Loop Recorder.
- 2 customizable FX units with 28 performance effects for adding your own trademark sound.
- Powerful MP3 management with iTunes® integration and iPod® compatibility.
- Built-in 24bit/96 kHz soundcard features pristine, award-winning audio quality.
- All components designed by the same team – precision German engineering.
- Includes 40 original loops and 10 full tracks from the world-famous Loopmasters Studio.
Pricing & Availability
Traktor Kontrol S4 is available for purchase from Native Instruments, and it costs 899 EUR. More details here (native-instruments.com).
Some people say this is expensive, but if you think about it, you spend a lot more money if you’re gonna buy a pair of CDJs, a good mixer and Traktor Scratch.
Personally, I think this is an amazing piece of hardware, combining the best of both worlds. What do you think?
