The Best Add On Controller For Your Dj Setup? Step Sequencer - Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol F1

The Best Add On Controller For Your Dj Setup? Step Sequencer - Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol F1
In part 4 of the F1 series we will look at using the F1 and D2 to make your mixes unique. You can use these as standalone, make your own and add them to your mix to make you stand out.
As always feel free to ask me any questions and if you want to book me to DJ or for lessons, then please go to my website and get in touch. Thanks for watching and happy creating :-)
D.A.V.E.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

I need to firstly thank D Twist Rewind for commenting and making me realise something huge I got wrong in this video. Also, I apologise for not checking it earlier, I should better. So where I said you can't do more than one F1 on step sequencer, that is a big FAT LIE! I obviously wasn't thinking when I recorded this. You can have 4 F1's plugged in at the same time AND all be on step sequencer on each deck. When you go to controller editor and add the F1 step sequencer, go and add all 4 (one by one). Then in device select your first F1 which says 'Traktor.Kontrol F1.user(Kontrol F1)' Then go to in-port and select KontrolF1. For the second deck select 'Traktor.Kontrol F1.user(Kontrol F1 -2)' and in-port Kontrol -2. Repeat for 3 and 4. Please let me know if this doesn't make sense and once again SORRY from your Digital and Vinyl soon to be an expert if he takes more time on things.

[@dtwistrewind7361]

I'm not aware you made any mistake as even when loading two sequencer decks and making Shure deck c and d are set to separate f1s on separate sequencer maps for the corresponding channels, when I switch lets say deck d to sequencer while deck c is running it disables the sequencer currently playing, I think it might be a bug, but I'm not sure, I would like to hear if you have any luck.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

did you see the 'in-port' part I wrote? I got it working today so shout me on [e-mail] and happy to help you sort.

[@dtwistrewind7361]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert I got it working thanks, I didn't realize I had to delete all f1 user maps that pop up when you plug an f1 in, as the shift+browse enables and disables them as standard they were interfering with activating on more than one deck, this overrides even when deck a sequencer is set to deck a, and f1-1 input-output is set to f1-1 and the same for the next three decks B F1-2 C F1-3 D F1-4 all sorted now but am not able to shift+browse into remix deck now as it's when the base mapping is in the control manager list the issue happens.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

It’s a real pain. I’ll will go and double check when I can.

[@Yosser70]

this side of Traktor is what really attracted me to it, more than the pure dj stuff. Got myself a good setup with 2 X1 mk2’s, 2 F1’s, a D2 and a XONE K1. Love that it’s all hands on, after it’s set up there’s no need for the screen. Even run an hardware 808 and a bass synth into the mix 😀

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Sounds awesome

[@jean-baptiste9230]

I had a f1 for many years , it ‘s a solid piece , never had a problem with it..

[@patrickk.3676]

This is so great! One Problem, now I need a second F1 and a D2. Expensive hobby, but I love it. Thank you so much.

[@fusionworks7270]

I was Today years old when I discovered it can be used as a step sequencer. I've had a pair of F1s for afew years now

[@Spikey8d]

Amazing!! Love it, definitely gonna play with this. Been waiting so long for more of this series!

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Yeah apologies Spikey. New borns take WAY more time than I thought 🙄 but I’m back!

[@Spikey8d]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert Hey Dave! Hope everything is going well with your family and Covid, just letting you know I've been practising with the F1 using this series and I'm in suspense for part 5! IMO Traktor should be paying you for this series and featuring it on their website. Amazing stuff!

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

We are all ok thanks and hope you are all well and safe. Part 5 will be a while as I have a lot of videos for companies to do and have to pay bills. I’ll be there ASAP with it 😉

[@JohnnyGi]

u are the Man !!

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Thanks Johnny 😊

[@PilzE.]

Just re-discovered DJing after a twenty-year break, family, work, life, etc! Digital DJing, though, WOW! Would have been a member of the old school _“sync ain't shit, if you can't beat match you ain't DJing”_ crew. However, FUCK THAT! If you can't see the utter beauty of what technology has enabled us humble mortals to do, then you just stick to your guns, and best of luck to ya! However, when the young guns enter the booth and show just how archaic your sets have become, you'll maybe have a wee rethink! DAVE, top man, Sir! Your style of teaching is exemplary. I will be 100% blaming you when I purchase an F1 on payday, Monday, to complement the S4 Mark II I bought from last month's pay cheque. Sorry, dude, I need to deflect that wifes anger somewhere, and I reckon you're man enough to deal with it. Please don't stop doing what you do, mate. Some might feel Traktor is done, that Rekordbox and Serato are the ONLY options these days, but not everyone is a topline club DJ (yet) and might just wanna explore the world of digital DJing with affordable equipment. Kudos brother.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Lol cheers 🍻

[@dynexell]

Woa...that's how you use step sequencer...great tutorial..also..cool mix using all remix deck..you definitely get me inspired me to learn more... Fyi..I'm a noob in music production and djing..

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Thanks and glad you like it. Really happy to inspire you to create. That’s what I’m here for 😊

[@awkwardsquadproject]

More excellent work Dave. Happy new year 🎵

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Ahhhh thanks. Happy new year right back. 🥳

[@FlyCasual1]

I used to be completely Traktor, I had a Z2 and a F1, then sold them both and my Traktor licenses... then I discover your videos but now I am on Serato! I would love to see a video using an F1 with Serato! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!!!

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Lol I’ll see what I can do

[@nikolacoric4709]

Tnx DAVE that was an awesome insight, ill know how to use it from now on !

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

You’re more than welcome 😊

[@elbee321]

Fantastic set of videos, thank you! You've really given me something to think about. I have a Z2, D2, X1 and F1 and a new S2..the soundcard in the Z2 seems to have issues and so I've been getting bored with just the S2, now though you have opened up so many more possibilities!

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Thanks Lee. Really glad they helped. Shout if you need any help.

[@combojerman28]

WTF !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THIS IS CRAZY COOL !!!!!!!!!!

[@MickBenjamins]

Blow my mind Dave!

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

ahhhh thanks Mick. Appreciate the support and watching

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

in a good way? right? LOL

[@afshinz8629]

Excellent Video!!!

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Thank you very much!

[@dddvision]

Awwe, that's cute. It's like a baby version of Ableton/Push.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Lol yeah

[@graspinginfinity7655]

but the FX tho

[@petersmith5851]

I’m going to get one and then become the next fjakk lol

[@mikedubz5576]

Awesome now how does one add swing using the f1?

[@garethmillers5453]

Woop woop! About time dude. Well done and thank you for getting that done. You must be so relieved after all my pestering! 🤦‍♀️🧐 Just one question? How do I use the F1 controls to change the Swing of parts? You showed how to on the D2 but not on the F1. Any chance you can clarify please?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hi Gareth, The swing is shift and capture for more swing and shift and type for less swing/ more straight

[@24k-n6x]

its 2024 and the D2 is discontinued for years. Is it a good idea to get one? Also thinking of getting an F1. I see that NI has moved to X1 mk3 (if i remember correctly) so is it a good idea to get an F1 in 2024 without the fear of it being obsolete? Great videos by the way DAVE !

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hey. Good questions. The D2 is still awesome but you are right in that it hasn’t been supported for a long time. Also with the new form of mk3 controllers and addons like the new x1 and a different form factor you do wonder if they will bring out new f1’s etc. I don’t know unfortunately but the f1 is awesome. It won’t be obsolete as it’s midi and can be repurposed. What about getting a second hand one and seeing if you like it?

[@srentkker6634]

Hi Dave Thanks a lot for these guide through videos. Really appreciate them. So everything has been running smoothly for the other video parts from u! I've got the DDJ T1 & F1 controller. When you're adding the step sequencer by following the steps: controller manager - import TSI - native instruments - F1 Step sequencer ... I don't have that option to choose. I dont find any step sequencer's to choose when I'm following your steps. what am I doing wrong ? Cheers and thanks for your time. I've already enjoyed this controller so much just by watching your part 1,2 & 3. 🙏🙏

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hi Søren, That’s odd. Double check the NI site incase it’s there but when I’m next in studio I’ll have a look as well for you.

[@srentkker6634]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert thanks Dave. Will do so. It would be nice if I could get the sequencer to work as well 🙏

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Stems not working either? Odd. Shout me on Instagram if you need any help

[@srentkker6634]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert as I was writing I just played around with the stems, so it was a mistake. Stems work fine. Thanks. Still having issues with the sequencer though

[@justelementt1538]

thank you!

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

You’re welcome 😊

[@jorgebalverdi6135]

Does the step sequencer mide works on traktor 4?

[@mahradnikpanah3205]

Hi dear Dave, First of all wanna thank you for your best videos and tutorials, I faced with a problem, In chapter 4 when we want use F1 as step sequencer, I did whatever you said step by step, But it doesn’t work, It works in another way, And sometimes F1 and X1 affects on each other, Could you please help and guide me, By the way there’s no chapter 5 ?! Do you have Instagram page too? Hope to hear from you soon.

[@FSwiftDJ]

lol I got these somewhere !!! good one Dave but can't the maschine jam function well with traktor controllers ?👍

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Cheers mate. Yes and no. It is an awesome bit of kit but you would need to map it. That is what I am doing at the moment. It is taking FOREVER LOL

[@saidwolf19]

great

[@djVania08]

Is the F1 still alive? How is the software handling all the connected machines? Has it ever glitched on you?

[@federicostefanini3658]

brother if you remap browse to size into f1 user step seq start and stop you can have step seqwuencer going and controlling all the other deck as samlple . and bonus you mwill have has sample one shaqt also the sequencer!!! try it ...

[@МИГДАЛЬНедвижимость]

Hi, man! Thank you for your reviews! I have a problem with my F1. First of all my sets step sequencers from ni are all empty… I don’t know why. But it’s not the problem yet. I’ve downloaded from somewhere a couple of set. The problem is after i imported tsi as it was spoken on the video, by pressing Shift+Browse all the pads turn blue like was described in the part2. It seems like the controller turns to the fx-layer Could you help me please?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hey. Send me an email [e-mail] and I will see if I can help.

[@DJOPELISHERE]

I got the Poof movement on the F1!!!! Where can buy more Native Instruments Stems?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Glad to hear it 😃 check out loopmasters and splice etc. Plus make your own. It's so fun.

[@JeanLouisNguyen-e1g]

Hello, I tried F1/S3 with Traktor Pro3/Pro4 for the step sequencer. I'm stuck. The sequencer doesn't start (play). On the F1, I pressed Browse which flashes. In the 'Assignment table' area, there is a whole list of lines like: Enable step(control), remix deck(assignment), toggle(mode), pad1(mapped to). Should I do a 'midi learn'? I'm French and don't understand all the terms. If I have to do a midi learn, I don't know how to assign a function to a button. The rotary and rectilinear potentiometers respond well (volume and filter). Thanks

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Try with just the F1 plugged in first to see if that helps.

[@arnaudlefort637]

Hi Dave thanks very much for this series, I've deleted by mistake the F1 original "user mode" while deleting one of the step sequencer ones in the Controller Manager , is there something I can do about it ? Thanks in advance.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Emailed you :-)

[@mathpro6243]

yes

[@pierrefitch]

Can this work well with maschine mk3 and jam to mix dj music 🎶

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Very much so

[@fabianpalacios6647]

its possible to have 2 F1 at the same time, one in step sequencer and the other in remix deck ?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Absolutely Fabian. You can actually have up to 4 F1’s :-)

[@frankievesu9884]

hi Dave my step sequencer does not work anymore everytthing visually works but i have no audio at all from the deck selected ad step sequenced ie D deck can you help me please?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hi Frankie, thanks for the message. Remember to press browse otherwise there will be no sound.

[@visualdubmusic]

Nothing works with Traktor Pro 3. When we get to the last step the number is 0 instead of 16 and the sequencer doesn't start. All keys remain solid blue Help me please

[@fidel_saba2340]

when i hold shift and browse the pads do not change they just all turn orange and nothing works. kindly help.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hi. You’re in midi mode. You need to be in user mode. Hold shift and press midi then let go of both and you’ll be back to user mode.

[@angelonasso]

Hey dave great video, i'm having an issue when i press shift and browse it doesn't show 16 on the f1 and wont start the step sequencer please help.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Thanks Angelo. I assume you are on the F1? What’s happening?

[@angelonasso]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert im using traktor pro 3 with s4 mk3 and the sequencer wont start up

[@angelonasso]

when i hit shift and browse it goes into preparation mode

[@angelonasso]

shift and browse shows 0 instead of 16 and wont allow me put anything in also the size button is on

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

You can only use the step sequencer with the F1, D2, S8 and S5 unfortunately

[@LoDaKid]

Can you open Tracktor if it’s plugged into your MK3 and record the sound right in your arranger?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hi. Do you mean maschine mk3? That’s a really good question. You could with some internal routing, aggregate device and soundflower.

[@LoDaKid]

DAVE Digital and Vinyl Expert yes, Maschine mk3...I have a Ddj-400, I want to use it while the Maschine application is open, but I can’t I don’t if my sound card can’t do it, or I need something else or what

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

So your ddj400 has its own sound card so you could come out of it for traktor and the machine could use the mk3 sound card. Then both masters to a mixer and then to speakers.

[@no_iris9868]

Dave, Would you suggest getting the f1 remix deck controller to add with the traktor s3? And is there a benefit to having the fx controller also. I imagine you would get access to the other fx without have to use the 🐁 right?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hi Dan There are lots of options but if it’s purely for FX then I’d look at the x1 mk2. But if you want a more versatile approach then I believe you can’t go wrong with the F1 and yes leave the 🐁 and🧀 alone lol.

[@no_iris9868]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert ah! so both eventually got it...are stems unmasterd.. meaning they would be a bit quiet compared to regular released tracks in the software..

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Budget depending of course :-) If you make your own stems then you can compensate for the volume drop and the pro ones should be done well but if not, then yes they might be a little quieter.

[@no_iris9868]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert Cool thanks Dave

[@CrusaderGeneral]

do you know if the step grid will show up on the S8?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

It does. It shows up on the F1, D2, S5 and S8.

[@RandomFPVlive]

Hey Dave, what version of traktor are you using in these videos? Looking at getting an F1 and have heard they took away some features in 3.3? Any word on that? Thank you for all your videos.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hey It was the version just before this last update. So 3.3.something. Can’t remember exact. I’ve not heard or seen anything about any removal and I just did a video for ADSR on the f1 and remix decks last week and all seemed normal 🤞🏼

[@RandomFPVlive]

DAVE Digital and Vinyl Expert gotcha, i knew you would know. Thanks Dave!!!

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Anytime :-)

[@mokikihara8088]

Nice one Dave, is it okay to say your just crea(Dave)tive ...🤔

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hahahaha brilliant.

[@FSwiftDJ]

off subject !!! MPC One by Akia just announced Dave , could this be Maschine MK3 rival ?? looks the bizz at namm 2020

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

It looks great. TBF the Akai fire, the MPC Live and now this are all rivals and all very good. Looking forward to playing on one.

[@AlWey97]

Hi Dave, I follow all the step, but my step sequencer on my f1 doesn't work, after I set the setting and I press shift + browser, all the pads became blue but no one yellow pads of the sequencer work, the time in the f1 is 0, can you help me? Also when i repress the browser's button, they work on the browser for searching other stuff to play...

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hey. You need to put it in to midi mode not user mode in preferences

[@dtwistrewind7361]

Hi Dave, have you got any idea as to why only one sequencer can be used at a time as I want to run four f1s, and I'm a bit confused as to why it is not enabled in software.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

D Twist I will be adding a pinned post as I made a mistake and thanks to you learnt something.

[@videosvideos6243]

the first pad is yellow and the other pads are blue. there is nothing I can do. I can't play anything or load a sample... What did I do wrong?

[@kerimbosmans6566]

Hi Dave nice vids. I have a question for you. When i play the D2 in remix mode as a step sequencer , the F1 controller isn't able to load the sample with the sample pads and always automatic go to the first pad that was playing. It's drive me crazy ahhhh....the controller was for 5 months with native but they can't fix the problem....can you?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hi Kerim I’m intrigued. Would you mind sending me a video to [e-mail] and I’ll see if I can help :-)

[@Lamby1]

👏 👏 👏 👏

[@AGAMER077]

Hi. please help me. I have S2 mk3, and F1, I can not set up the sequencer. I read the comments and didn't find the answer. I press shift and browser shows 0

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hi Aziz Feel free to send me a video of how you set it up and what’s happening and I’ll try and see if I can shed some light on it [e-mail]

[@luckyone2125]

Goddammit stop! or i will really need to get one ;D

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

LOL SORRY :-)

[@luckyone2125]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert kzbin.info/www/bejne/laLak5p-eax2erc check dat out midi paradise. Though f1 had it all from the start.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Wicked video. The akai stuff is great.

[@luckyone2125]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert yeah. But just the protocol thing is a gamechanger. Not cheapest though.

[@zenluiz]

Is it possible to have Beat/Note repeat in the F1s, like in the Maschine hardware? That's the missing thing for me to replace my maschine by a F1 on my hybrid DJ sets :) Thanks

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hi Luiz There isn’t anything by default but I’m just thinking if there is a way to map it so it does a loop cue whenever you press it.

[@zenluiz]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert Tks for the reply ;)

[@graspinginfinity7655]

so you can only have one f1 running the sequencer mapping at once?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

No. You can have 4 F1’s running at the same time in any way!

[@lovewave444]

Hi Dave, any idea why the stop & mute buttons not working on F1? It's brand new. To stop a sample I need to press Shift & Stop. To mute I need to turn the volume down on that sample but can still be heard slightly with volume right down.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hey Love Wave. That’s odd. Feel free to send me a short video to [e-mail] and I’ll work out the deal for u.

[@better2beme]

Hi dave, can I use the samples I have downloaded from loopcloud for use with the traktor f1?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Absolutely :-) you will need to make sure they are beat gridded before you want to use them as loops so it all syncs up. Shout if you need help.

[@better2beme]

Is this possible using ableton?

[@better2beme]

Hi dave I have only recently started using Ableton and after watching your videos on the F1 and owning an F1 you've got me interested in using it to its potential. I could do with some help and tips on how to get my samples from loopcloud to ableton and converted into remix set format so I can use them with traktor software.

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

yes :-)

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

sure thing happy to help. This video I did should give you some ideas :-) kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYmugomqZ66fpaM

[@DJWerkz]

What USB hub are you using for all these NI devices?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

I use the ORICO 10-Port Aluminium USB 3.0 Hub with Power Adapter & Data Cable

[@gillesrevillod5777]

hello DAVE, can we record a pattern made with the step sequencer?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Hey You can with the loop recorder and the main traktor recorder.

[@gillesrevillod5777]

@@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert no, actually I was talking about the pattern, not the sound ... but maybe it's specific to a real sequencer like Maschine

[@J.VelezFilms]

Can’t find that overlay anywhere😢

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

They are like gold dust unfortunately.

[@phabyo_ferrer]

Unfortunately couldn't find video n. 5 Anyone can provide me the link please?

[@DAVEDigitalandVinylExpert]

Unfortunately i didn't make it due to lots of unfortunate reasons.

[@giovannivicentin8438]

Where is the part 5?