Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 Review & Demo + Native Instruments Traktor Pro 3 New Features
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- čas přidán 23. 10. 2018
- The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 is the brand-new flagship controller for Traktor Pro 3 software, and this is the full Digital DJ Tips Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 review.
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Launched alongside the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3, the Mk 2 is the more serious controller of the two, offering loads of new features including motorised jogwheels, a more industry-standard layout than the previous S4, advanced input and output routing, built-in screens, and the new (and excellent) Mixer FX.
[Buy the Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3 featured in this video here: amzn.to/2RsTNvy ]
In this definitive review, we look at practically every feature and function of the controller, and ask: should existing users upgrade? Is this a good reason to switch to Traktor? And would it be a good choice as a first controller?
Full written review: www.digitaldjtips.com/reviews...
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The controller looks amazing!!! So simple, yet so effective!!
It's awesome! 😍
Just got the S4 MK3 yesterday. Amazing. I'm DJing with Traktor since the first version of both software and S4. But the MK3 with the software is awesome. And the S4 is now capable for stand alone use, yess.
Glad you're enjoying it :)
Great review, well thought out and demonstrated.... Easily the best video on the MK3 I have seen to date.
Just under a week until launch, certainly looking forward to collecting one now!
Yeah, a lot of people waiting for 1 Nov... :) What are you looking forward to the most?
another excellent review. Bought this controller a few months back, and can only say I'm super happy with it, fits in lovely on a link with my Maschine+ hours (no days/weeks/months) of fun with my new setup.!!!
This was an excellent Digital DJ Tip on the Native Instruments Traktor Kontol S4 Mk3. Greatly appreciated of the learning experience!
You're welcome Delmar. What did you like most about the controller?
The new MK3 is a very cool controller for TP3. Wow! Nice work from NI.
It is - thanks for watching!
Been waiting patiently for this review, thanks Phil. Perfect.
You're welcome. What do you like best, cheef?
An amazing review as usual. Just, always the most complete reviews!
I also disagree about this being a purely hobbyist controller. Sure, this is not about to sit in clubs. It is though, a controller that is a perfect middle ground for DJs who travel and aren't going to be 'surely' given equipment at the other end. Secondly, Traktor being Traktor, if you are a club DJ+ a mobile DJ (like me), and will get CDJs at the other end at times- it works with advanced HID and full waveforms on the decks now. It is truly 'the sweetspot'. Important to remember, Traktor is still the most flexible software. Never stuck, can always play with any ol' equipment. Anything can be mapped to it. Never have to carry heavy equipment around and reject a job on the basis of being unable to travel etc. etc.
Specifically talking about the s4 mk3- I got a chance to play with this at a launch event and I was quite blown away by the jogwheels as you clearly are too. Those jogwheels are so precise in both turntable and Jog mode. The turntable mode, does feel as close to real analog feel compared to any other controllers which have sort of tries this in the past. Another thing I agree with is the useability of those mixer FX on a single knob, per channel. They sound so good and make creativity very easy. The sound is definitely better with the combination of the s4 mk3 and traktor 3. Most of all, for me, the fact that this controller has become more 'club like' in layout and is still portable makes it golden. Most controllers of this grade and price are too big. In my opinion the sx3 for example, is HUGE (and heavy!!). It is super selfish when DJs all bring sx2- sx3 size controllers and sit them on a small dj booth where multiple DJs are hired to play. However, SX3 style controllers should help because they have 2 soundcards. What is called 'portable' is not portable. Sure, it's portable compared to carrying two vinyl players and a mixer and all your vinyls, but we are in 2018. Portable is less than 5 kg and less than 55cm footprint.
Big things I don't like: No standalone capability and no second USB for a second DJ. Regarding not having a true extra channel for MICs or an Aux, it can be a tradeoff between making the controller bigger and heavier, or not.
Here is hoping Native Instruments release a new firmware with standalone capability and please please, flexi beat grids for Traktor pro. Everything else, honestly, can wait.
Some great points, supposedly standalone capability is coming (don't ask us how) so worth keeping an eye out :)
Again great review! The s4 is beginning to grow on me!
Glad you liked it! :)
Thank you for the comprehensive review!
You're very welcome!
Excellent review Mr. Phil.. Do Keep up the great work my friend
Thanks for your support, ClectaSkiMusic.
Great, review, really good demo and detail, covered everything for me
Thanks for watching!
Best review I’ve ever seen, thank you!
Thanks, glad it helped.
Great overview, thanks for breaking it all down so well :)
You're welcome, let us know if we can help you with anything Jonathan.
kudos for demonstrating the flux mode in a way that actually sounds good and would make sense on a dancefloor.
Glad you liked it :)
I’m a serato user
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and IM IN LOVE!
:D
Im having the same feeling
I use it too - no choice though as Serato is what our booth is set up with at the club. It’s not bad - quite limited however if you have a Pioneer SP-1 sampler unit connected, damn it changes Serato dj completely...
Do a search for dj braindead pioneer demo - or something - he’s an Israeli dj and is a joy to watch using Serato.
thanks ! just bought one and I love it
@18:20...yes, please make a separate video focusing on the sample/sequencer of the pads section. thanks!
Lots of votes for that, we'll do it!
Excellent as always Phil. Right on the "Mark"... :-) Yes... pun intended! Cannot wait to play with the jog wheel!
I think you'll like then Michael.
The idea of CDJs as a feeling is appealing!
My first controller was S2 MK1, now I am using two X1 MK2 with Pioneer mix in clubs. But I am considering to get this one for my home studio :) Thanks for the review, Phil!
Awesome, glad it helped!
Excellent review! Thanks
You’re welcome
Thanks for the full review Phil :) I was waiting for this video, and this controller is exactly what i need (i am a 100% traktor user).
You're welcome Rodrigo, glad to have helped you. So what is it about the controller you particularly like?
@@digitaldjtips the first thing I like are the new motorized jogwheels, because i think are really helpful in order to learn to beat mach pretty well (or scratching too). Then the mixer FX looks so easy to use and fun. And finally i like the tempo fader too, for a controller it have a nice size and looks they response are good.
Yeah, agreed. The tempo faders are really nice - we feel they are better in that more standard layout, too.
@@digitaldjtips yeah to be standard is the most important for me rigth now, because I want to make the transition from controller to standalone mixing (two decks and a mixer for example) without felling that im lost. I have a Pioneer DDJ-SB3 and I will swich to the S4 MK3 for sure :)
I bought it 3 days ago and also bought a Mac Air just for djing. What can I say well , I am super happy, these purchases worth every penny I spent. The S4 just a piece of art, it is a modern 2019 + controller. Sound good quality is just amazing I’d say 30% better than on Traktor 2. Opportunities just so unbelievable, so much can be done with it. Didn’t try it fully yet but I am sure it will be very long and super interesting journey for me. Thanks to NI for such a powerful beast! Keep spinning, piece to all here.
P.S. Phil please make a video about stems and remix decks only. Thanks!
Glad to hear it Evgeni! :)
Great video as always Phil. 👍
Thanks :)
Just got mine what a piece of kit this is , what a steal at the money n1 phil
Have fun!
Absolutely fantastic stuff.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I tried Traktor, but it just wasn’t for me. However, I am glad to see Traktor is delivering fresh gear. The one thing Traktor absolutely delivered on was remix decks. Wish that was a standard across all softwares. Anyway, great review. Always love the vids.
Cheers Omar, yeah I started on Traktor but moved elsewhere but always nice to see new gear and updates :) - Scott
Very nice! Thank you.
this controller is amazing really feels good and high quality all around.
my only minor complain would probably be that the loop number/size on screen has some delay when turning the knob compared to the mk2 which felt really fast (instant)when changing loop size.
as someone who uses that knob ALOT i can feel that delay/latency.
Thanks for weighing in Tom :)
Thanks for an informative review :)
You're welcome Ben.
Thanks a lot for another great review! Grtz
You're welcome.
Great review! Excited to get my hands on mine next month. I would love a video on the recording/sequencer stuff for what it's worth :)
We're on it!
Took a punt and hesitantly pre-ordered a few weeks back. After this review I'm so glad I did! Wish these peeps complaining about stand alone would reconsider. I imagine the rrp would increase significantly. 4 channels with all the tricks for £699 is a steal IMO
Do let us know how you get on once it arrives Steve :)
@@digitaldjtips I most certainly will.... The 1st November needs to hurry up already
That's a great point. In addition, the Pioneer controller in the same price range - the DDJ-RR - won't accept Rekordbox iOS or Android as it's library. As I understand it (and I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong) with this and the S2 mk3, you can get away with chucking in your iPhone or iPad instead of a full laptop if you're really limited for space.
Wel,l whaddya know, I thought I'd been a professional DJ for 28 years but I hadn't realized that since I switched to Traktor with the S4 Mk1 and then the S4 Mk2 a few years ago, I'm actually nowa hobby DJ. Well, cool: thanks for clearing that up for me..................(C'mon Phil, you really asked for that one ;-))
😊
Super Controller 👍
Yeah it's awesome :)
I can’t scratch my beard in time. But to those of you who can use this KIT to make music. Thank you. And thank you Phil.
Thanks Patrick :)
Hmmm, I like that browser and how you can hear what your browsing through, through your cans.
Yeah, pretty cool :)
Phil! Merry Christmas!
Cheers! Hope you're having nice holidays :)
Nice!
Thanks soul de funk. What is your favourite feature?
This is the best controller for 2019 period. If your a Traktor user, your going to love this.
Update, the Mic channels suck on this controller. Horribly low volume and has to be ran through the software and can’t be used independently. For DJing without the use of the Mic channel, it’s great, if you throw a Mic on this controller, good luck.
OneCrazyDJ Thats not true. I own one and I can use the mixer independently. I just connect the mic and then press shift+ext on deck d. Works perfectly
Btw, thanks for the review!!!
You're welcome :)
good review .
Thanks Jose.
This is the first physical controller I purchased on a friend's recommendation, three months ago. I'm still taking the very first steps, but I think it's a good companion on the road...pending future changes.
Awesome, glad you're enjoying it
@@digitaldjtips I thank you for also doing a written version of the reviews and lessons because my understanding of spoken English is almost zero (and I don't think I'm the only one with this problem).
Thanks heaps, this vid was really helpful. I've gone the other way around (Producer first (HYPERCONFIDENCE), now learning to DJ . Went with Traktor as I'm a big fan of Native Instruments Komplete software plugged into Ableton. They make amazing stuff. Haven't ventured into Maschine yet......But I'd love to see if we could run Ableton/Maschine/Traktor simultaneously live. Anyone else tried/done this?
I'm sure there is a way to do it as Traktor is great for that production/DJing hybrid style of performance, not something we look at here really though - perhaps in future !
Great review as always Phil but also wanted to say the video looks great in 4k - awesome picture.
Thanks Fintan! We are not 100% 4K yet, but getting there :)
Cheers mate :) hope to see you again at BPM in the future -Joey
For sure - from what I hear BPM is on the way back - DJ Worx did a nice write up on it
3 notes about the review:
1. It's definitely not a hobbyist device. Not in terms of sound and not in terms of capabilities (I'm reminding you this would be an external mixer via a future Firmware update).
2. You left out one of the coolest options: being able to sequence samples on the fly, using the little Record button above the cues (while keeping it quantized).
3. The new Cirrus Logic chip DAC is better than the competitors, ranging to a 114dBu SNR.
Thanks! By “hobbyist” we don’t mean “inferior”. As I said we’re probably going to do a separate sampler review, as we think it deserves one. Appreciate the feedback :)
@@digitaldjtips Appreciate the response.
Have a fun weekend :)
BTW, how are you capturing the sound of Traktor in this video? Screenflow? Thanks
Two ways - we use Screenflow which can record all eight sound card outputs at once, and also we hit Record in Traktor itself as a backup. I think we just went with the Traktor recording this time, to be honest.
Thanks a lot
Thank you for an honest review Phil!!! Hmmmm..... the software! I like what I see but I wouldn't be surprised if after a year they come out with an mk4 version. As I've learned from Digital DJ Tips, software is everything! far more important than hardware at the moment. So while I really like what NI are doing I'll stay with my S8 and won't upgrade to the new software.
I'm not so sure... the software is the most pressing thing - the old Mk2 was around for ages, remember :)
If anything I suppose you should upgrade the software, especially for the new key lock sound quality. A software upgrade will not cost much money compared to replacing your S8 with this new S4. I never liked the S8 due to no jogs.
I preordered s soon as I saw that it had the moving jog wheels and new software. I have been a traktor user for 14 years.I love it .......but it is a bit tired. Kind of like having a nice old car....but every other car you see has new features you would like but YOUR manufacturer never brings out any new models. I was. Considering switching to pioneer dj1000 because i liked it’s features. But HATE Rekordbox. Many have told me it is improved. Wasn’t looking forward to redoing markers and cue points on my favorite tracks for the switch either. This came out JUST in time!! I am EXCITED to get my hands on the new. Control in November!!
Hope you enjoy it :)
will have mine monday, amazon!
Chris Schneider so lucky.....I am being told I will have mine mid November......I am not tripping on it.I only paid $829 vs. $939
Re: switching to CDJs: one thing to keep in mind is whether you frequently play gigs at where they won't have Pioneer decks already there. The CDJs are very heavy and a PITA to lug around. Sure, almost all clubs have the Pioneer decks waiting for you other than that you're on your own. With you on Rekordbox. It's improved but I also don't like it.
I just got mine today!! :)
hi guys, excellent video, been waiting for this for ages, had the original s4 and currently use the ddj 1000 so have switched to pioneer. however i always love to see native instruments come forward in the industry especially because there is an element of nostalgia from my end. what did you say about the software issue, isn't there traktor 3 now? also what about sound output quality how will it hold up on big systems? one last thing, i wish to add, when it comes to loop style djing and effects, traktor dominates all the completion entirely IMO. thanks again
Software is still not where it should be, on the bright side, sound quality is better than ever - and yes, Traktor's looping is still the very best :)
Digital DJ Tips hey Phil. Great review. Regarding the sound output. It seems to be super low. A lot of others are having the same issue and voicing it on the NI forums. Would you happen to have any information regarding this? I’ve been using Rekordbox and pioneer controllers but the S4 intrigued me enough to purchase. A novice on traktor but learning quickly. Thanks for the video and your input!
Im glad i bought the s2. Less is more.
Yeah it has plenty :)
Chaz Jankel... TUNE! 😁
Great review Phil. When you intro the screens section, you mentioned showing how to change key but don't then demo any key change function, just the loop functions. I've currently got X1,Z1,F1 setup and have to custom map two of the rotary encoders on the F1 to cover this off and sacrifice two channels. Is there a key change function as standard with the S4?
Yes, you hold down shift and turn the right loop encoder. It cycles through the actual keys so it's a proper semitone "key shift". It's easy to use.
Thank you for clearing up the different effects on different decks situation. Much appreciated.
But I just need to know, is it possible to select more that one effect on one channel?
You can't select more than one Mixer effect, but you can additionally add in one (or both!) of the two FX engines (the ones above the jogwheels), Mpho.
Great review! Will the RCA and XLR output simultaneously? Also, seeing as two of the crossfader curves dip the volume of each channel when in the centre and the other is primarily for scratching, does that mean there is no crossfade curve like the previous models had? (Unless I’ve never noticed after 5 years haha)
Ps, calibrate your tempo faders 😜
Yes, they output simultaneously. The three crossfader curve options are pretty much covering all use cases (many DJs would just leave it set in the middle).
Digital DJ Tips Perfect, thanks for the reply! The lack of a thru for a mic is the only downside of this for me, can’t wait until the 1st!
Love your review
I actually bought one after seeing your video.
One problem though, my bpm or tempo changes when when I stop the music which is kind of annoying.
That's strange, sounds like a bug - are you on the latest version of the software etc?
Digital DJ Tips no I doubt
s4 mk3 niceee
Agreed!
Great review Phil. I'm in a purchasing dilemma right now and that really helped solidify my position. One question: that "HUB" USB port - what can we actually plug into that to make it useful?
Think of it as simply an extra USB for your system, so anything plugged into there will show on your computer too.
For exemple, you can play a Maschine, or Komplete Kontrol keyboard to play straight to the mix. I did that with Maschine MK3. And on the phono input I plugged an analog synth 😂🤪
BITTER SWEET!!!! Finally my DDJ-SX2 mapped to TRAKTOR.. with that lagged jog wheels ( because they're Pioneers /aserato made for) and lost features days ARE OVER!!! i even tried SERATO with that primitive P8 sampler it was no where near TRAKTOR . Baw very upset that TRAKTOR focused for 2 years on music production and ignored DJs .. now this comes out ... don't know should i do back flips or swear at them : WHAT DA FUCK TOOK U SO LONG!!??????
Another GREAT rev Phil . Thank u for the insight . Grabbin mine asap
Thanks Hatim, enjoy the gear!
Make a separate video on the remix decks + recorder function! Thanks!
Gotcha, looks like that's what we'll be doing next!
If you still intend to use the full functionality of the remix decks - I 100% recommended investing in ideally a pair, of Kontrol F1 remix decks. No matter how good a controller is, nothing makes up for having a pair of dedicated remix decks.
I use mine daily - with Ableton Live too - and have written macros for them too so I can use them as fx decks, samplers and standalone, highly portable controllers for iOS apps.
But, as far as their main purpose in life goes, their job as remix deck controllers is a whole other level. Honestly mate, they change how use the decks in Traktor almost instantaneously- but after a few months of getting used to the, damn, they are just so, so good.
Plus they’re dirt cheap now anyway ✌️
Great review Phil, could you tell me where i find the extra colour effect to choose from as i cant seem to locate them, Thanks
See if this helps: czcams.com/video/PU-sRgrlaJ8/video.html
I used every Dj software but I love Traktor. I was kind of disappointed in the update I wanted elastic beatgrids and smart playlist. I like making remix’s on the fly with the remix deck. The stems was a long process in mixing your own music from a daw, commercial music is hard to find in my genre. Now I can use the stems decks with xtrax stems 2 way better than the first version update come out this week . Izotope rx7 standard is also another great program to take a cappellas and instrumentals from your own library of music. The stems sound a lot better in Traktor Pro 3. I can wait to get my Kontrol S4 M2.
You're certainly not alone in the elastic beatgrid disappointment, but overall we're pretty pleased with all the new developments :)
Hi and you have done a very good presentation of the product ....can you answer me one question? can it used as a standalone controller? thank you and again very nice job you've done!
No it's not a standalone controller
The master button doesn't change or lock the key of the song. Press shift and use the dial to the right of the screen to change the key of the song, shift and pressing the same dial, turns the key lock on/off
Thanks zetamale
I think this is a really nice controller, just ordered one, cant wait to use it. I'll have to modify the layout, but thankfully I can just do it on a controller. I was thinking what gear to get for home practicing (and maybe for some parties too), since None of the controllers or standalone units feature 4 pitch faders, and if you want to mix by ears and use those pitch faders, well basically you just dont because switching back and forth between the decks and adjusting the faders back to where they were on the other track is really not user-friendly. I have a lot of tracks with broken beat and not even all of them are 4/4 so analysing the tracks wont help that much. I can mix by ears just fine and so I dont need to finetune ~1000 tracks worth of grids, tempo and stuff.
I will control the pitch either with the big filter knobs or the Loop / Move encoders under the jog wheels.
Thanks for the review and the demo!
BTW, I had no clue this unit was 5 years old now, damn
Thumbs up on the video. I just bought mine today. I was reading on the NI site that there is or may be a firmware upgrade to make the mixer a standalone without the use of the software. Have you tried this yet?
We've heard that this is coming but no more news as far as we know
@@digitaldjtips Thank you. One last question, Do you have a video for the best approach to organizing your files? Since I am switching laptops, new controller from my s2 and now the new software I want to be a bit more on the organized side.
As in when I place my music on my laptop. whats the best approach etc? Same with grouping in Traktor. Thanks!
Great review, Phil!!! Can this be used just for the jog wheels to control decks A and B and then set Traktor to External Mixing mode through an Audio 6 and to an analog mixer? I know I would be missing out on the whole mixer section and mixer effects. Or, maybe I wait and cross my fingers for new jog wheel controllers. Thanks!!!
Don't see why not - you can route the audio where you like, including using an external audio interface. Not tried it though.
I could be wrong but I would have thought you would use Internal mode for this controller and I think you can only select either Internal OR external at any one time. Internal is for mouse.controller use and external is for linking to a soundcard for mixer use. It would be cool if you could do this though - I hope I am wrong. Did anyone try it?
I love my dex . the turning jog wheels take me back to the technics 1210s . good memory's.
does anyone know if you can set pads to kill low, kill-mid, kill-high. traktor can be a bit of a mine field but its great...….
Good question! We'll look into that....
Great work on this video as always Phil. I am seriously thinking about purchasing it. However, I do have 1 question. I use the Beatjump feature a lot in Traktor Pro 2 when mixing live to either jump my cued/next track forward 32 beats if it is a bit dull at the start, or I find it useful if I miss the beat I was supposed to mix in on on the live deck I can count 4 beats in my head and then start the cued deck and then beatjump 4 beats forward. At the moment I do all this using the mouse but I want to limit using the mouse. Is there a way to map this function to the S4 MK3 or can you already do this with the Move encoder? I know you can move loops and move within the track using the Move encoder but can you set it to move/jump by a specific number of beats (4 in my example above)? Thanks and I hope you or someone else can help me with this.
I have just seen that the 2nd comment on this review asked the same question (user mikelo303). It seems to have been answered but if you could confirm that it will work the way I have described above I would appreciate it. Thanks.
@@cheefr0berts Yes you can use the loop move encoder for beat jump, you set the number of beats using the loop length encoder the move using the left had move one :)
@@digitaldjtips Thanks for your very prompt reply. I think I have been a good enough boy this year so hopefully santa brings me one :)
Traktor software doesnt suck. its ahead of its time and doesnt need constant updates.
Used properly, I have serato users scratching their head wondering how I did certain things.
The library organization is better also
Traktor is like PC and serato is like mac. You can do way more with a PC if you know how to work it.
My 2 cents
Thanks for your feedback DJ Woof.
@@digitaldjtips :)
I've searched the preferences countless times looking for the option to change the behaviour of browser knob as mentioned but am unable to see it
I noticed that the reverse function is not quantized which makes it difficult to apply it. An abrupt return to the track is a result. I hope NI dev team is reading along :)
Yeah fingers crossed :)
because he don't have the grid . It's working fine here .
I agree about the loss of 2 channels when using a mic and an external media source (phone), it is a big loss of 2 channels.
Shame they could not route it to an unused FX encoder or something similar.
Hi, thx for video.
How can i use Micro and 4 Decks on MK3 at the same time, ist it possible?
Is it possible to Change The Light on Controller more or less? Its to Bright for me.
Does it has an option for begining a loop (in - out) like the last versions ? Thanks a lot !!
I want to upgrade from S2 MK3. The only bad thing I can complain about the S2 MK3 is that I changed 2 crossfaders after using them for 20-40 hours each for scratch learning (maybe I'm a little maniac, but they s**k). I like that the S4 MK3's crossfader is not built in in the motherboard, so it's user replaceable, but I hope I won't need to change it too often, because I'm thinking of upgrading.
At least you have the option which is great, many scratch DJs like to put in aftermarket faders anyway when they get a chance :)
Can you customize the little screens in Traktor, like get rid of the bpm?
Also, is the size the same as mk2? Do they fit in the same bag or do i need to buy a new one? Thank you
It'll fit in the same bag, it's roughly the same size.
I've been a Traktor DJ for many years but never used a Traktor controller apart from the F1, X1 and Z1. As radio Dj the one thing I would have liked on this a ducker. Maybe in the next firmware upgrade NI could include this by turning he cue buttons on decks C and D into On/Off buttons for a ducker when the Mic is selected, as these buttons effectively become obsolete. When switched on the ducker would affect the output of decks A and B by attenuating the volume by around 6dB with a fast attack and medium fast release. How's about it NI, easy enough?
At the time of writing NI is going through a few issues of its own... hopefully it'll come when they get settled down again though.
Love the videos, how would I hook up the RMX 1000 to my s4mk3?
You'd have to hook it up over the master output as the S4 Mk3 has no send and return.
So you can't select other effects in the top FX units section? Or is it possible to remap it to some combo?
Also, what's with NI and Traktor these days? Selling it and rumor about whatnot, any info on that and whether it's stays with us, including updates, support and all?
Would be good to know if someone wants to invest into it.
hi. I'm having problems with my tractor pro3. when i'm playing, the fx2 top section on the pro3 switches On without warning and the mixer fx as well. all the fx knobs on both parts of the s4mk3 are at 12 o'clock. as soon as i touch any of the knobs on the s4mk3, the pro3 resets back to normal. i have downloaded the version tractor 3.2.14 and recalibrated all the fx2 section and mixer knobs following steep by step. both calibrations were successful and still the same thing happens.
my mac has all the system requirements and i'm running out of ideas, this issue is happening frequently and is really annoying. Can you please help?
I'm sad to see the Mono plug main out gone. I liked this since it did not "stress" any hardware as RCA does. Felt like the RCA would get worn out pretty fast at least on the MK2.
Also, do you have the real dimensions, for example does a MK2 decksaver fit this one? I do not trust the resellers at this time :)
No, the Decksaver won't fit it. I think you should be OK with the RCAs - they're pretty standard after all. Anything that excites you about this controller, Jowcke?
When recording in a mix can it also record voice talk over from the mic as well as effects?
yes
I might be interested. I use a pioneer ssr. I think of making a switch.
It's a nice controller :) Just make sure you like Traktor software before fully committing
Just wish they could make it compatible with Serato. Not much of a Traktor fan.
Mack Deleon Whaaaaaat !!
Honestly mate? You prefer Serato over Traktor?
To each their own I guess - I use Serato all the time - usually in my club on Fridays because of the Pioneer setup. But man, Serato doesn’t even come close to what can be done with Traktor - I mean, it’s soooo versatile, the best DVS tracking software by miles, 20 times as much settings and fine tuneable controls as Serato. The FX units whether used in multiple/ single parameter or in singles with multiple parameters literally laughs at the the Serato “fx” unit.
Then there’s things like Traktors Live-Looper sample recorder that allows you record a few bars and drop then into a slot in one of the remix decks - then there’s Traktors remix decks.
Again, I use Serato all the time, but given the choice- well there wouldn’t even be one as Traktor is simply so far ahead in literally everything (except more than 4 multiple decks I guess)
And Serato does work better with my Pioneer SP-1 Sampler I guess - but then again, with Traktor I don’t even need to use the SP hardware 😉
Honestly my friend, whether you like the previous versions or not - I would persevere with Traktor 3 at least for a couple of months. Shouldn’t even take you that long to see the light and use Traktor as your main software
When he said the mixer does not work stand alone i turned of the review. Showstopper indeed.
To be fair it never has in Traktor.
@@digitaldjtips mk2 had a small take on standalone
Digital DJ Tips
NI must be perfectly capable to build in standalone in their controllers. I don’t get it why they don’t do this. It saves your life when your laptop has to reboot during a gig...
On NI website, the comparison article states that the "standalone mixer capability" on S4 Mk3 will be availiable "Q4/2018", here's the link www.native-instruments.com/en/products/traktor/dj-controllers/traktor-kontrol-s4/compare/
That'll be cool when it appears... the trouble with performing live without a backup is obvious, and a simple unit plugged into a hardwired Aux can save your bacon (as Lars says below).
Is there a way to expand the waveform larger on the hardware screen like how the S8 is?
No. The hardware screens are actually pretty small.
Where can I go to learn about this sampler or remix deck and how it works that Phil refused to go over? That is what I was really waiting to see.
We are making a separate video going into more detail about the sequencer/sampler (ie remix decks)
Great review, anyone know the tracks he plays?
Often it's unreleased tracks by our Joey Santos - copyright free that way :)
What’s the name of the electronic tune at 12 mins- really bugging me as I’ve got it
Hi DJ Tech Tools. I spend much time at Pirate Studios as they have the latest industry standard equipment. I'm looking for a cheap alternative to use at home between gigs, do you have any suggestions?
DDJ-400, will be very useful if you're normally playing on CDJs and it's pretty cheap!
Hi Phil, thanks a lot for the review. I have 2 questions about this:
1- I read in Native Instruments' website that this controller can also work entirely in standalone mixer mode without a computer (and alternatively with the computer using traktor pro). But you say in the video that it can't be used as standalone. Can you explain the issue please?
2- And for the USB hub, can I put my USB drive there and mix the tracks from it into a channel of the controller?
Thanks a lot!
Sorry for the confusion, it's the difference between something being a standalone controller and a standalone mixer - a standalone controller (which this isn't) doesn't need a computer attached as it has one built in that you can play music from, a standalone mixer (which this is) simply means with no computer plugged in you can use the mixer section as you would a normal mixer and route turntables/CDJs etc through it. No you can't plug your USB drive in and mix from it.
@@digitaldjtips Thank you very much Phil. So to play & mix from the USB, you will have to use the computer as far as I understand.
Which standalone controllers do you suggest me for a budget of up to 1.000 - 1200 EUR?
There aren't that many standalone controllers, the very cheapest is the Prime Go and that's at the top end of your budget - perhaps look for a second hand RX2
Thanks for the review. What is with the USB port on it? Can it send Midi over USB now as it has no Midi IN/outs anymore... I use an S8 and hoocked up Midi Gear on it like Roland 303 and TR8 and many more.... Thank you in advance... :)
You can use it to connect other Traktor controllers (F1 etc)
As a beginner I have been looking at the S2 mk3 as its very affordable but from comments i hear many say its fisher price contoller due to it being basic and headphone voulme low and less effects and no better than the S2 mk2? Is this right?
Do you have those 4 pads you demo on the S4 Mk3 also on the S2 mk3? You know where you can press the button to remove the vocals, another to remove the sound of the drum?
Because many say the gap beteeen s2 mk3 and s4 mk3 is massive now. Its got me thinking do i want the S2 mk3 when longer term the s4 mk3 will be better?
What can you do on S2 Mk3 that also the S4Mk3 has?
S2mk2 was more "high end than the mk3. The mk3 is fine, but it is a consumer/beginner controller. S4mk3 would be better longer term, for sure.
Hello, thanks for the video, It's really helpful. I have a question, I'd like to change the filter intensity, I mean, in the mixer fx I don't use the Hi filter, always the low but I don't like be forced to put the button in the middle (center) position and turn right all the time while mixing to return to the middle again once I want to finish the mix so so many times easily you can pass the center position and the mix could be missed and wrong. With the MK1 I turned the button to the top left and then in my computer moved the button manually with the mouse to the center position so always I had low filter but with the MK3 it could not be done so automatically correct it. Do you know if it's possible to change it or if it's possible to change the intensity of the filter somehow.
Thanks againg.
Sorry no, I am not sure on that.
Not that I know of Nacho.
I'm more interested in the feature that you didn't 't cover which is recording playing the remix decks into the sampler, so whatever I play will play along with the tracks. Eg I have remix decks of drum one shots...when I play a rhythm, I've wanted for ages to be able to record from the remix deck so the rhythm I play then loops over the main tracks, now this is possible but only briefly covered in Ean Goldens review...
We're making a separate video, Joey - watch out for it!
After years of experience with digital stuff i leave my humble opinion.
Mixer side doesn't work without a computer, so if something wrong happens, it will happens, without gives you an "analog computer free" plan B (for example an mp3 player ready in one unused deck). This is probably one of the reasons why you said it's more hobby-oriented.
FX engine (software) wont affect external sources (and IMHO default traktor presets for group fx mode sucks, it's better to use only one fx at time alterning parameters with moderation).
Key section seems not present. I would give more importance (At least one dedicated knob for altering key).
Loop sizes like 1/2, 1/4, 1/8 are still unconfortable to handle with a rotary knob. With one shift or toggle button it would be better for having direct access to a specific loop sizes without watching that tiny display.
It miss that kind of touch stripe for navigate inside the track. It would be useful when you are looking for a track but you have lost the title and you want to listen at specific positions (like when you move the neddle with tt)
Jogwheels seems still too small and the motorized platters seems cool to see but unuseful @ work. Do They change speed while moving pitch?
Crossfader settings have been placed in a wrong place. Do i have to use a torch for watch? Imho front panel should be left empty because of flightcases and if someone still use crossfader (contact me if you want to know why you shouldn't use it) they would need to assign decks very frequently.
Have a play on one when you can and let us know what you think though - maybe your opinion may change a little. One easy way to quickly scrub through a track is to use the "move" knob, so that can easily replace a touchstrip.
@@digitaldjtips it's a very nice controller and probably the best one for traktor :-)
Punky Reggae Party!!!
Tune!
@@digitaldjtips very nice and informative review though, forgot to mention! You are the best, I was waiting for it for the last couple of weeks
How is the sound volume? When playing out I always found the volume of the Mk2 a little lacking compared to a CDJ.
It is MUCH improved, the quality of the sound through this seems so much better than the MK1&2, although we haven't used it in a club yet...
hey im looking to upgrade to this from a mixtrack pro 3 serato setup...is this okay to DJ top 40 and hip hop at local small venues and pubs
If the local small venues and pubs want that kind of music then yes! Frequent these places and see what they play :)