Long term Review of Traktor S4 Mk3 DJ controller from

[@DjKRuZe81]

Most underrated DJ channel on the tubes. You deserve way more subs bro. The quality of your content is next level ✊🎧🔥

[@DJKeo]

Thank you!!!

[@jimmurphy9904]

Agree

[@r3sgthepvs448]

Traktor S3 tow d2s and 2 F1s

[@rockojulian6281]

I really like how this has more of a radio show type of approach, feels different 👏

[@awkwardsquadproject]

The thing I love most about Traktor is Stems and remix decks so I won’t be moving elsewhere but I do wish the Z2 mixer was updated to at least rival the s9 type mixers available.

[@DV91]

All I ask for is 8 cue pads update

[@awkwardsquadproject]

Kontrol s4 mk3 + Kontrol D2 x2 = Pefection. 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾

[@mikemaltby]

I ordered an S3 (I’m no pro) earlier I’m the week, and your video makes me think I made the right choice. I don’t need spinning jog wheels or tiny screens, and am perfectly fine with the Traktor software and running off a laptop. Great review! 👍

[@Vladimix76]

I have been using Traktor for years. I owned the S4 Mk3 and I love it. My 2 complaints are the mic volume and the crossfader curve adjustment. A rotary knob would be much better than a 3 position switch.

[@edsjuice]

i just bought this controller may 2024. i did my first traktor gig after 3 weeks practice and it was amazing. so easy to use. very intuitive. great sound and tactility. i fully recommend, even tho everything is going USB, i got this for $300 and im stoked. cheers!

[@12voltwizard1]

I've been using the S4 MK3 for awhile now. I definitely recommend getting Joe Eastons screen mod for it and do a new review with that. It completely changes the controller and screens I to what NI should have put out. Just FYI. You can use the S4 MK3 with VDJ if you want. No screens or motorized jogs yet though.

[@DJKeo]

It blows my mind NI still haven't come out with a update to the control to add these features. But overall it's still a great controller.

[@12voltwizard1]

@@DJKeo Absolutely still a great controller. The Screen Mod from Joe Easton makes it top notch though. Highly recommend trying it.

[@vedanthashok201]

Just got my S4 and this vid made my day !!

[@djom-amari]

I have been using Traktor for years and love it. I have tried other software but honestly just something I prefer about Traktor. I actually bought the Maschine Jam and loved it and used that also for Dj'ing for some time but am at a lost now the NI no longer supports and it no longer works with Traktor because it has to use "Controller Editor" with mappings. I wish they would actually make a basic mapping for it since many users made them before. But have been considering looking at a Traktor controller or something else since the Maschine Jam is an issue and have scoured the internet and many users have the same issue. It works fine in Maschine but it was perfect for me using it with Traktor and it being a Traktor product I did not envision it would such a headache trying to get it to work once it stopped working, i.e. the Controller Editor for some reason. I have also been truly looking at Denon standalone options, but I personally do like being able to type in a song quickly while dj'ing on a laptop - so not exactly running out to get a standalone. Thanks for such a great review

[@inikodo]

I got the S4MK3 as the successor to the S4MK2 and had to get used to the cue and play buttons. The Mk3 is very robust and easy to handle, the only disadvantage is if you use jogwheel mode, you always have to reset the pitch with shift+reset after loading a new song. E.g. pitch on the controller is at +10% and the song is at 0%, if you set the pitch fader to 0% the song is at -10% in the software

[@LoonTonic808]

I've been a hard-core Z2'r for years. Loved it... until it broke. Now ive had my eye on the S4 mk3 since it came out and so appreciate your input. Thank you.

[@MrMshirk51]

I recently moved to rekordbox dj and ddj 1000. I'm a hard traktor fan too I had this same s4 mk3. Traktor really needs to step into 2021 for me to go back. They forgot about us fans.

[@orestoast]

I'm still a relative DJ newbie with a preference for abrupt bpm transitions & genre hopping. I just did my first mix last week with this thing (and it was live streamed :D). Coming from the desktop Virtual DJ and one mouse button transitions, I completely butchered some of the transitions and pre-cued with the volume up etc. But boy, oh boy, was I having FUN! The fn' EFFECT section, killswitches, post-fader, TT mode, the mixer, the loops, the stems, the remix decks. This thing has completely my blown mind.

[@alchemistrpm82]

In the end it’s about the fun!

[@orestoast]

@@alchemistrpm82 YES! 100%

[@as680783]

I know where you're coming from mate. Thing is when I first started Djing (with vinyl in 1987) I was butchering mixes at weddings, Christmas do's and birthday parties. Yes, it was cringe but it was amazing fun. Only a year or so later I was pumping out some decent transitions. Practice makes perfection my friend so keep going. Even Tiesto and Carl Cox began with crap mixing.

[@orestoast]

@@as680783 Hahah, thanks for the nice words!

[@bravobonez]

As a musician/DJ in that order, Traktor is so rewarding. For me Native Instruments is the most musically creative eco-system (e.g. Maschine and Komplete Kontrol etc). Love my S4 Mk3.

[@Le_Lys_Eclectique]

Bravo Bones that is a very useful comment for me that wishes to be a DJ/Musician and I've been wandering about Traktor S4 for a while....

[@MITCHBR0WN]

Been using Traktor since 2011.. when I got my S4 mk1!... Which I'm still using.. it was either that or the Pioneer DDJ-T1 which when I checked out in the flesh it was like a kids toy and didn't come with the full version of Traktor. Still happy with my decision and I've been happy that 11 years later it's still basically the same design with the mk3.. How many controllers have pioneer released in that time!!! 🤔 P.s. I've actually rolled back to the original S4 software as I'm also still using the dedicated laptop I bought at the same time.. and was getting more and more glitches with every update.. still does what I want it to do 👍🏻😁

[@psykophilz]

I also really like the whole Traktor ecosystem. To me it is also the best bang for your bucks. I only have the S4 MK2 but I have a D2, X1 and an F1. I even have a A10 so I can use my turntables and mixer for DVS. I admit I get jealous when Serato gets new gear but it is never enough for me to try or switch over. Now I've need a DJ for decades and my first DVS was the SL1 when it first can out. I used the SL1 for a long time then recently needed to upgrade because of OS. After reviewing all the different options out there, Traktor was a fit for me and how I wanted to DJ. Been on Traktor for almost two years and haven't regretted it. To me it is a robust DJ platform and I am proud to be using Traktor.

[@DJKeo]

In my opinion the x1 is one of the greatest controllers ever created.

[@-Cybin]

New gear every year is just a way to make you buy bs you don't even need. It's like a new IPhone every year, minor changes if any at all. Traktor is good, the controller is good. So why change anything?? People who want new gear everytime something "new" drops have some issues going on

[@Meowbay]

After about 25 times suffering crashes with laptops/tabs and its controllers while performing, I went back to either analog and/or standalone units. The software/firmware on standalone is much more reliable than having to control a set with a laptop. To me it's extra points of failure, that's how I see it. Not just the laptop, also its OS (windows or linux in my case), the software (traktor/serato/RB etc), its internet connectivity (oh the wireless is out, whoops, there go the preparations I could not store locally), its power source (battery out? Whoops, forgot to bring its adapter..).. It's just messy and honestly pretty fragile for a pro. Boot time for a laptop plus controller is longer than that of any standalone unit. Oh and the lag. For proper scratching and control, if you come from the analog world, like me (I'm from 1966), you hate the feeling of 6 ms latency on your scratching or cues. In general; response times, latency, stability, boot times are way up there in favor of standalones over those who need a mobile or laptop or tablet or ipad etc. Just sayin'. Don't say I didn't warn you. ;-)

[@andre-le-bone-aparte]

Question: How was the iPad setup with this Controller - vs - Laptop?

[@xavierpierre1676]

I love what Traktor does making their software now able to use Serato controllers I also have hid mode for cdjs and im able to use turntables when ever someone has it at a venue.. if they could work with all the dj controllers and make them 100% fully integrated that would be a big win because sometimes someone brings a giant Serato controller to a gig and plugs in. or sometimes someone has a DJM 900 SRT which I hate since it doesn't work at all

[@Le_Lys_Eclectique]

As my first controller, to start DJing, is this still good in 2023?

[@DJKeo]

If you aren't using traktor I wouldn't get it to behonest. Its a great but it only works within that closed garden system.

[@Le_Lys_Eclectique]

@@DJKeo hei man thank you heaps for replying! I haven't got any DJ software and was thinking of Traktor as I'm learning how to use N.I. Maschine and I'd love to stay in the same ecosystem as I love electronic music and heard that Traktor is really good for that. Plus I have some friends that loves how Traktor works. But wished to ask a professional like you. Thank you!!!

[@mattskinner5432]

Im a big Traktor fan, looking at the S4 mk3. Thank you for your honest feed back on the controller. Subbed

[@erwingouw3162]

I have a Traktor S4 mk2 with 2 F1’s. Little bit of custom mapping, great. All i need for my Traktor experience. Hope for a new Traktor controller Allen and Heat combination with moving platters. 4 channel Rane One competitor.

[@VINALDADDY]

I agree, this channe definitely should have far more subscribers and views!👍👍👍

[@anthonygato407]

NI, please make a rotary version of the s8 and S4. like every other thing the same just the channel faders switched to rotary knobs. also maybe an analog 3 band EQ isolator on the master out.

[@mojavisanz597]

YO KEO! Were you at? What are your thoughts on the New Traktor drop?

[@djovercut]

I love your videos man youre just so passionate and down to earth, and you can tell you just enjoy this stuff.

[@artisans8521]

I own an S8....bought one second-hand (after being thouroughly disappointed by the X1 mk3, knobs way to tight). It's great. By far the best controlker for traktor.

[@soulphingerloungethe2.0exp37]

Hey, I love Traktor! I use it on my iPad Pro 12.9”. I liked that the S4 MK3 has the capability of being connected to iPads instead of the laptop. That would be great selling point, because a iPad can have a lot of music as well. I still use a Denon MC-6000 Mk1. It works wonderfully with Traktor 3. Keep making videos, this was very informative for Traktor users. A lot of people sleep on Traktor. But when it comes down to it, music played clearly and mixed well is what people your entertaining care about. If your gear is solid and skills are good, you can make anything work well.

[@s0ulssh4x0r4]

I had a MK1 S4 that I bought second hand, had it for about 10 years and very little failed on it. Eventually after many many hours of use the Hot Cue buttons started to need to be pressed a bit harder than when new, this caused you to sometimes not trigger them when you wanted, which was annoying but apart from that it was a tank, never let me down really.

[@Arnette2007]

I had to do the same thing with my x1 controller. Which is also so old.Was not used a few years and still something. On my machine Studio are some knobs become too smooth. On my S49 goes off also 😔

[@Jake-wq7do]

Well it's 2023 now, and I have been faced with this very dilemma for a while now, and I have finally caved in and bought an S4 mk 3. And yeah I'm like you! I love Traktor, I started with an S2, when that broke I got an S4 mk 2, I got it a week before the mk 3 came out! lol So basically even if they bring out a new controller, I won't be able to afford it anyway! I love the S4 mk2 I have used it so much, sometimes I use it everyday for weeks, it it just amazing, I don't use half of it's functions, a bit of looping and some special effects! I mix a bit like I do with vinyl. But it's nearly had it's day, buttons sticking What has been getting me agitated is the software, which can be most irritating and I have seriously thought about other options, but there's too much to consider so I thought if I see a mk3 for the right price New, then I'll get one, I think I'm actually excited, should be here by Thursday, I'm not sure I'll be using the spinning jog wheels either!!!!!! 😜👍🍄🍺

[@kris5181]

After a firmware update you can use the S4 as a standalone mixer, limited to the basic filter of course but totally independent from PC.

[@swrpn]

Roland 707m vs S4 Mk3? Which one would you suggest?

[@DJ_V_squared]

I use djay pro AI with an S3. Awesome combo. The reason I use djay is that it's compatible with so many different controls.

[@DJWerkz]

I am a huge Traktor fan, been using it since it first came out when there was zero hardware! My S4 MK I is ten years old now and has never missed a beat (pun intended) but recently channel D phono input has become faulty. Native Instruments have said it is unrepairable and have offered $200 credit against a new S4 MK III if I return the old unit. I am too biased not to accept lol

[@GAPPYAKADJTOMA]

Dude, i hope you accepted it... It's a great deal 😁

[@DJWerkz]

@@GAPPYAKADJTOMA yes

[@DJDevine]

Nice video informative although I’m watching in 2024. I still use my SX2 after a Vinyl DJ start in the early 90s. SX2 I have no reason to upgrade and I would probably upgrade to Tables again and an Alpha-theta rotary mixer. That’s upgrading

[@bjoern5796]

Using the Traktor S5 until today. Works fine! Next to come is Traktor Pro 4.

[@DJKeo]

its a gift and a curse, all the old gear I have works perfectly fine on Traktor 4 where as most companies are abandoning all their old gear to force you to buy new stuff. But on the other side you don't get anything new for years.

[@GDUBMX]

I'm still using my kontrol s2 mk1!! It's 11 years old and feels brand new still

[@walasfilms]

2 things about your info: 1.- it does not have all a regular DJ need like loop in/out buttons 2.- their old products do stop working, I have the S4 mkI and it doesn’t work with any new macOS since like 5 years ago which is a shame because that was a really good and complete DJ controller

[@mresquidgeward5965]

Its does have loop in and out. You turn an encoder to select loop length......press it to engage and Again to disengage. Its really simple, I love it

[@djmozmorris]

Traktor user since v2, I upgraded to my S4 version 3 and I love it!

[@EricWoning]

Late to this party..... I have (&had) the exact same beef with the S4Mk3. I'm waiting for Traktor to come with the update that lets you get to use stems without having to buy them.. Would have been amazing if they had gotten more artists to have their stems bought in the first place - or that with any producer pack for remixing stems you could easily make your own... but no. My real beef is with the software, not the hardware (though the hardware pushes you to look at your screen more than you should)

[@sabatheus]

First of all...great, great video. I'm with you on every point. Now as a person who's looking for a new professional controller, I had my sights set on the DDJ 1000, but then!...then I looked at the 1000's output...24-bit at 44k. REALLY? Oh, HELL no. Now I'm back in the Tracktor camp 24-bit at 96k. THAT is professional sound. As a previous owner of a S3, I know it's going to sound great. So, unless you have a better recommendation at this point, I'm probably getting the S4 Mk3 (and turn off the platters as you do heh heh).

[@AT-wl9yq]

Unless you have real 24/96 files, you can't get 24/96 resolution. What they don't tell you about upsampling, is that you can't get more than what you started out with. For example, if you play an MP-3 that's upsampled to 24/96, non musical information is added to the file to increase its size. The MP-3 is made to look like a 24/96 file in order to trick the music player into playing the file. But you still have MP-3 quality sound. That's what lossy compression means, and that's also why you have to be careful when buying music. Some sellers transcode a file to a higher resolution in order to charge more for it. With regards to 24/96 playback, assuming the files are real, the dac chip only does so much. Most of what makes a digitally based product sound good, is the quality and design of the analog portion of the component. That's where all of your sound quality comes from.

[@troytinsley148]

So I'm just getting started along my DJ journey and I'm looking at the s4 m3. No I would like to believe that one can do anything with anything, meaning using any software or you should be able to work with any genre. I read reviews about Traktor pro 3 and that it's geared toward electronic music. I think that would mean clubs more than other venues. I don't think I'd be going that way; more weddings and other events. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated.

[@DJKeo]

I would put it like this it excels at dance music but I use it to dj weddings and corporate gigs playing top40 rap reggae reggaeton and pretty much everything under the sun and I mean that literally. I prefer it over serato but that's a personal preference about the software and the hardware. You have to get gear you like with the software you like.

[@801DJVIC]

I'm 100% with you when it comes to the rotating jog wheels and my reasoning is due to no stop option on the track as you switch to the next song. It looks cool somehow but the rotating lights on the wheels itself it looks great. And yes I started with Traktor S2 and still have it, I still have my Traktor S4 MK1 and I use them as back up or small events and my S4 MK3 for weddings or bigger events. Great video!💫👍

[@OfficialMrShade]

I have been with Traktor since 2011. And i have the S3. I love the controller but the sound of other controllers half it's price is louder than my S3. I love Traktor but most likely somewhere this year will switch to Serato or Rekordbox. But i really hope they come with announcement that will allow me to use 3rd party controllers. It would make me stay with Traktor.

[@DJKeo]

They have to announce something soon their competition is too fierce to take this slow stance on the market.

[@djintence]

I love MY MOTORIZED Jog Wheels. I turned off the Haptic Feedback thou. I wished this did have a dedicated Mic Input instead of sharing with the other line channel. 3rd, the Screen there's a hack I heard you can do on it. To make it colorful and what not...

[@henkusdigitalis3794]

I bought the S4 for being the S4, even though I was a Serato user at the time, the value of the S4 was superior to anything else at the time. Now when streaming is released, I’m completely satisfied with it, and won’t trade it for another controller. Albeit I’ll probably get some stand-alone unit later on. I’d urged you to get the screen mod though, it makes the S4 even better.

[@trevormalcolmson2002]

What is the Mod please?

[@12voltwizard1]

JoeEastons Screen Hack makes this controller everything it should have been. The hack allows you to customize almost everything about the screens, colors and functions. You can completely close the laptop and use the screens the way they should have been. It does take some editing of the file provided by Joe Easton, which takes some time and learning. However, it is so worth it to make the controller your own. If you own this controller, it will be the best $5 you've ever spent.

[@Roshend]

Just bought it, OMG. Love it. Traktor For Life TFL

[@ericburgos]

Ayyyy, good to see you, dude!

[@SOUNDSBYROLANDO]

Traktor S4MK3 (got it in 2019) & Maschine MK2 (w custom mapping from dj soundstorm) for on the fly cue point changes (load,loop,fade in/out) and better remix deck control. Totally agree w the mic input being weak ALSO really dislike that i have have to use up one of the 4 decks to use the mic (although now i know you can run the mic thru the AUX channel 🤯, just need to figure out how to map the aux volume) Moving platters, I barely use it because it behaves as if you’re in relative DVS mode (so no instant cue, etc) wish they could have an option so the platters move but acts as if your in jog mode I’m used to / conformable w traktor, But more and more, Serato is getting appealing with new features (playing well w obs, flexible beatgrids, samples/loops, mic on dedicated channels ) and also what they do for dj culture as a whole Also got an z2 & x1mk2 +f1 but barely use em since I haven’t been working so might sell em all (or just the x1&f1) to make the move to serato a bit easier or at the very least pay some bills till i get back out to gigs

[@Vocalisto]

It’s 2024 and still no new S4 Controller is out but anyway I bought the S4 MK3 directly from Native Instruments as B-Stock for 550€. I’m pretty sure at the end of year there will be a new hardware coming out but I don’t want to wait this much longer. If new hardware comes out end of year maybe I’ll sell the S4 MK3 and then get the new one. I hope I don’t loose to much money. If I can sell it and just lose around 100 bucks it’s totally ok

[@bojanbojinovic3755]

if you don't like spinning jigs and want bigger screens traktor has you covered . S5 . i got it and i love it !

[@l.g.5899]

I think I'll go for S3, because like you I don't care about spinning jogweels and those useless screens, and for 420 euros less I can forget the fact I won't have the three effects... One question: if I buy S3 now will I have Traktor pro 3? Not the pro 3 plus, but I just would like to have what I got before the Pro 3 plus came out.

[@joyvanguevara4206]

Is a Grate controller yes ! i'm using it since 2020. and still my favorite guitar!!!but there is one thing that nobody realize and is driving me crazy when i see that i cant have no chance to LOOPING MANUALLY ,so if there is a organic music with band playing and want to loop manually there is no chance. ,only with the scroll pushing with 4/8/16/32/ and for example that kind of loop by default dosent understand salsa and other music with sincopat ...so can you have any solution for this?? is the only really serious problem i found in this controller!i ll be very happy if there is a solution for this..can't found the answer in anywhere thanx also for this video ,very honest!

[@robertalipalo4865]

Bro much love from down unda!! Been rockin Traktor since '08 , Ive still got serato but keep on goin back to Traktor..... Love the channel , honest but passionate reviews and feels..... current set up since marriage and kids... Z2 , 2x X1mk2 , TP3 , 2x Stanton ST150's and pioneer RMX 1000 for fun , gets the job done . 100% NI need to bring out a Z2 mk2 and a Z4 with 4 effects section , performance pads , loops etc and send and return for external effects + Stand alone......this would defs give Pioneer DJM 900 nexus a run for its $$$ ...... BOOM!! GAME CHANGER !! 100% S4 mk3 better build and finish than a DDJ1000 which feels a little plasticy except for the jog wheels. This is coming from my old set up DJM 900 , 2x CDJ 2000 , RMX 1000 , 2x X1 mk2 , 2x F1 , TP2 and my even older set up DJM800 , 2x CDJ1000 mk3 , TP and custom mapped wireless logitech Dinovo edge keyboard for software control

[@MrShanebizzle]

Excellent video man! Thanks!

[@TheDykos]

Like this review. Just brought one and can say agree with everything you said on another plus, if you still have record decks it's a plus for the 4 deck set up.

[@chriskaer]

I use pioneer controller but on traktor. Traktor 4ever.

[@DJVarMar]

Thanks for the video. I'm on the fence so this helped.

[@johnsangalang]

Use this along with the screen hack and 2 SL1200 Mk 2s, perfect for hybrid DVS/Vinyl setup and can mix with my normal library too. Sound quality is great and mic level isn’t much of an issue when I’m metering for 0

[@TheCoatingChronicles]

I sped up thr jog wheels to 45rpm .. love the spinning . There is though a glitch when u back spin at times where it misses

[@Astroboytoy]

Love your Channel

[@_wrks]

I was looking for an S3, but they only had an S4 available. So I jumped from an S2 to and S4. As a 'pro-thusiast (basically someone who needs to buy the best affordable piece of gear to really enjoy my hobbies) this thing was an unreal jump in quality from the S2. Only thing I dont like is having to plug in the controller, but that's fine, I can deal with it; would've been cool if they allowed you to run it bus-powered but removed your ability to use TT mode while unplugged.

[@xfOL.]

I own it for about a week and I love it! comming from S2... lol and the same feel with jogs, although I like the feel of the vinyl - I turned off moving jogs too. btw, did you know that you can upgrade these tiny screens? and you'll be able to search through library or put a bigger waveform on it. pretty neat features, check out NI forum!

[@DJKeo]

Yeah somebody sent me a link after I uploaded the video, have you tried it out yet?

[@xfOL.]

@@DJKeo installed 2 days ago. there are 2 guys who makes screen mods and I went with "Supreme" mod. latest version didn't worked for s4 (fix for that will be in upcoming release), but I'm using previous version and I like it: bigger waveform, scrolling through playlists or folders, custom mapping with extra features... definitely worth it

[@Kl0eppel]

​@@xfOL. Hey do you mean the Hack from Joe Easton or which one do you mean? could you please post or send me the link.

[@gihonmonks]

traktor kontrol s5 works great for remix decks and stems love it

[@JayMcCracken]

Traktor is def great. It's beatgrid algorithm is KING but yea it's sad, a new controller collab w pioneer would be so ideal

[@spacecy]

is there a way to use the jog wheels in Jog mode but disable the scratch mode? i prefer to adjust the speed while touching the jog wheel on top of it instead of the sides.

[@JoseDJGETDOWNBizcarrondo]

I know this is from like 2 years ago but it's kind of funny cuz I'm still using my S4 Mark II and I love it I mean the three would be an upgrade as far as the light going around the jog Wheels I don't know if I really like the mechanical dog wheel spinning around for that I'll just go to work on my turntables you know I have a pair of OEM Audio Technica that I use with face and a 12 year old mixer a Pioneer djm T1 has made for tractor back in the day and that thing is Still rocking still kicking still sounds great great great great great great equipment but I'm a fan of if it ain't broke don't fix it kind of guy I should have never got rid of my techniques back in the day but I did I regretted it ever since if I still had them my Mark II would probably still be jamming today put on the tractor guy I've been messing around with Serato I use both I'm really not fond of Serato in the way it works I'm really used to tractor and machine and I love my Native Instruments stuff so that's just my piece but I just had a comment

[@johnjames5842]

Still have a s8 , want to add 2 vinyl decks for dvs , but I might just sell it and buy this if it's badass

[@kelz3454]

Been with traktor for years. Thinking about switching to Serato due to Native Instruments low production. But this controller has me on the fence between it or the Rane 1

[@GroundBeatDe]

hi, well i am a traktor user because of the sound quality and keylock quality. It has everything i need, but the hardware sucks if you are into open format/scratch/mix/drop djing. The keylock qualy is the best, you can scratch with key on and it sounds great, way better than other software. the thing is they are more into electronic type of music and for that all the hardrware that ni has rocks. Well , at the end i made a custom mixer that has pads and all the control i need , but i wish NI make an upgrade to the z2 to compete with pioneer or rane mixers. But i think it will not be the case. I used also a custom s9 mapped to traktor and its very good, but overall the soundquality its no the best, its ok. (s9 its a little old). When i had to play in clubs with cdjs i used hid mode and traktor works fine, but i think im the only one playing at clubs with traktor :(. Maybe in the future they come back to the roots and make some new gear torward the club djs. overall ni sucks, but at the same time they are very good. Hard to explain. :D. Rekordbox its almost convincing me. Serato, i dont like the sound quality and effects. Traktor has the best effects, they sound great at big volumes...sh.....t ill stay with traktor until i can, hoping that there come hardware that is up to the level of traktor. Btw, you have to test the mixars primo controller...it has everything, long pitch fader, reactive jogs, all the effects, phono input, standalone mode and it accepts innofader. The best small controller of all. well, im done.. i will scracth a little bit to make this awkward feeling about traktor go away :D.

[@q9nine]

If it makes you feel any better, Sasha uses Traktor in HID mode with CDJs. In my opinion, best DJ of all time.

[@GroundBeatDe]

@@q9nine For me are better the tts, but the real problem is that I want 1/8 cue quantize in Traktor on the normal decks :D. Sometimes in the heat of the night (jajja) I miss the cues and it sucks. In rekordbox or Serato I don't have this personal limitation :D.

[@russ813]

Start from Prime 4+ :) Later bought MK3 X1 and install Traktor... Do I use Prime 4+? Yes I start it and make play it on auto :) Now after purchasing Maschine MK3, and see stems update 100% sure I will buy MK3 S4, if somebody buy Prime 4+ I will sell it, if not I will keep it :) It's Good sounds well.... touching good screen nice... but Traktor it's another and it is to who really like it :)

[@unitedintraditions]

I'm debating between the Traktor S4 MK3 and Roland DJ-808. I also have 2 F1 from Traktor for many years. I like making music on the fly...I'm no Carl Cox but working on it. 😁 Appreciate your thoughts on my next adventure. Roland 808 or Traktor S4?

[@DJKeo]

If you are sticking with Traktor get the S4 mk3

[@djx-cue47]

good and honest review. i had the s4 mk3 and the kontrol z2. the sound is excellent. I switched to serato and I am disappointed. if we don't have a lot of money, we don't have great serato material. I want to buy a z2 again but too bad if there is a new one. if so, when ?!

[@chestnut40]

Totally agree! - The screens are indeed too small - It's a really depends on the laptop (no usb function) - The knobs (EQ, Gain etc) are to little and to small - Start/ Stop/Cue button is to cheap (klik, klik, klik) - The effects....i don't know...not so powerful and cumbersome But otherwise perfect.. :)

[@mresquidgeward5965]

The fx are awesome

[@jacobmcarthur2623]

I've had my s4 mk3 for a month now. Love love love it so far, the only issue i'm having is occasional jog wheel movement (and the resulting little scratch sounds) when I'm not touching it and no song is playing. Like theyre over sensitive or something. I've turned the jog resistance up to no avail. Havent seen anyone else have this problem online.

[@jacobmcarthur2623]

also traktor is my first dj software (if you don't count ableton) and i love it! it's deep but i'm used to audio software learning curves.

[@molyo6963]

Hey boss ! Is there a way to connect it to recordbox and connect turntables and dvs

[@mingern10]

Yes

[@emanuelmorales8007]

Great video 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@danielcanaan4787]

Been with Traktor from final scratch, Traktors sound is clean and crisp, my controllers were 1210 and a mixer with audio 8 I bought a z2 and use a iPad with z1 also have a x1 mk2 but for me the best item NI came up with was the F1 I have serato used once found the sound not so good I bought a denon prime go and the z1 sounds better found your review on the s4 great as with any gear we have little nit picks but the main thing it does the job.

[@vminus7505]

great video man

[@Eric_Vonk]

I have a DDJ SB3, I am planning to buy something more serious and the S4 looks a bit more suitabe for me.

[@SpaceTribe01]

I still us S4 MK1, to me, this is the perfect controller and retained the loop recorder function. I dislike that was removed as I use it a ton.

[@gmc8102]

I've only just realised it's missing I only just started using it on my mk2 before I retired it such a shame not to be able to record live on mk3

[@TrybeMusic]

@@gmc8102 you actually can do more, record your samples

[@EmmitElliott]

I would love to see how the S4 stands up against the Rane One.

[@erwingouw3162]

If Traktor and Allen and heat made a killer controller. Wauw.

[@GroundBeatDe]

@@erwingouw3162 i allas asked myself why a&h doesbt out a decent crossfader in the mixers (dont mind to pay a little extra with a pro crossfader), but i have to admit that the sound its the best of the best. :D

[@Ziggy_v2]

I upgrade and replace my gear every 2 to 3yrs- what's new- what's next. Currently using Prime4 and S11. Traktor seems okay- but their gear doesn’t excite me.

[@ownlabs]

I do believe in Native Instruments

[@cooksoni.a]

i'm committed to traktor bc its really my only option for DVS in my setup, which is important to me... but ive been thinking about picking one of these up as a mobile setup. i think its funny how u dont like the spinning jog wheels bc thats definitely a selling point for me 😂 plus i feel like i'll be waiting a while if i wait for them to release something more updated, knowing NI.....

[@djrapstar]

Looking at this or the s4

[@bigslim77bs]

Nice vid n yea total agree on screen but if ya using a laptop ya can see it there. aka nothing worse than a dj with his eyes focused down on a controller screen. My setup since 2012 traktor pro scratch 2. 2x stanton t92 either vinyl or dvs.beringer ddm4000 either standard or midi. n controller to fire more boom is a stanton scs3 system for 4deck it alone cant fault since i got it just the jump from 12inch decks to a touch sensative is mad but it does have 2 settings n led display is spot on

[@sezjames2472]

I dont get it, Traktor is discontinued, Native instruments announced it on the website. So this controller is now done?

[@DJKeo]

Where did you see it was discontinued? No the hardware and software will continue to work

[@sezjames2472]

@@DJKeo when you type Traktor discontinued on google, it lists a few articles from 2 years ago saying NI discontinued it, DJ mag being one. but good to see its still going, im thinking to get the s4 but worried its too old and wont be working with updates in the future

[@djsubculture2111]

I know I'm in the minority here, but I just didn't like my S4 MK3. Sold it and got a Xone:92 and a pair of Kontrol X1 MK2s. No more all-in-one controllers for me.

[@Joeydj4u]

What soundcard are you using with your Xone?

[@djsubculture2111]

@@Joeydj4u Focusrite Scarlett 18i20

[@Benjamin-uk5ow]

For me the spinning decks suck mainly because of the lights that move around it (AND BEAT MATCHING SUX IN TRAKTOR!!) There’s no set starting point for where your cue point is. If you’re mixing vinyl, you know where your starting point is because it’s where the needle is on the record. This is a major fail IMO. They could do something like this… If 9:00 was beat 1 (and the cue point starting position) 12:00 was beat 2 3:00 was beat 3 6:00 was beat 4 or each quarter consisted of a full bar (something like this)… this would make a lot of sense to me also. Having customisable options based around this idea would be so cool and make so much sense, I mean just having the lights flick to the starting position upon loading a new track/cue point would make all the world of difference and make it feel less gimmicky and more refined. They could patch this if they realise it. I’ve been hoping for since the beginning. The other major contributing factor is that manual beat matching still sux in Traktor. It is basically broken. Unless there are some settings that I’ve overlooked… it’s just not the same as vinyl or Cdjs or even the pioneer controllers. Still a massive disappointment that they haven’t fine tuned. I predict if they fix this, Traktor would be 10x more popular. The screens are a massive waste. I agree 100 percent. Also the waveform is stuck in 1 colour… I’ve been waiting to be able to make it rgb. Wtf?! Also, it’s probably just me but I’m often confused with the sync and pitch functionality in the software… I haven’t looked to find an answer to why I’ve experienced such annoyances but anyway, it’s been a major pain at times. I can’t remember the exact issues but they definitely have been annoying. I’ve learned to jot mess with it at all. Set and forget. I would love to see more variety of effects that you can set to the filter knobs… that’s been very annoying. Also if there was a customisable parameter knob to for timing of a delay, reverb etc, that would’ve been awesome and also felt less like a gimmick. And I’d love to see the main effects unit get a bit of a work over… it’s just in a bad position for me. All the way up the top of the decks… just give us a pioneer style fix unit already!!! Other than this, I absolutely love this controller.

[@Benjamin-uk5ow]

Just read about the screen mod. Knew someone was going to do it. Going to look into it . Yay

[@sportsmax14]

Hey i want to buy a new controller, im hesitating between the S8 and the S4 mk3 , im a hobbyist so playing with sync is not gonna bother me ... i like the screen and i want to use the remix deck to the fullest this said i know the s8 is old and "out dated" but still it attracts me more than the S4 mk3 .... so confused i need help 😅

[@sasserbear9695]

I'm in the same mindset as you. I'm more of a knob twiddler then a platter spinner. I'm hoping NI comes out with a newer S8. It is their "flagship" controller after all

[@dianasmith8890]

The BIG weakness of many Traktor controllers is tying up a channel using the Mic and the sound level of the Mic. This makes no sense at all - does NI not get their equipment trialled by real DJ's before putting them into production?

[@ThePositiveJourney]

if u get Joe Eastons hack you get browser and all kinda more info in the screens. The best thing about the MK3 is the motorized jog wheels, the closest feel to those turntables behind you, what's wrong with you lmao.

[@DJKeo]

I figured out why I didn't like the feel it was the haptic feedback from the cue points, once I turned that off the spinning Jog wheels felt so much better. I think the delay was throwing me off when I was mixing. It annoys me that somebody had to hack it rather than native instruments putting in these options in the first place

[@rupakmajumdar9959]

Using Rekordbox + Traktor! X1mK2 + a pair of XDJ 700s + DJM750MK2

[@DJKeo]

That's a wild set up

[@rupakmajumdar9959]

@@DJKeo also forgot to include the DJS 1000 sampler !

[@club80d44]

Regarding mic 🎤 out volume, that’s customary on most do mixers (at least from back in the day - telling u how old I am w/out telling.. lol)..^**edit DJ Mixers

[@redresonant9296]

My DDJ-RR and even the DDJ-WeGo my kid uses has way better mic volume. Believe me the S4Mk3 mic inputs just suck. period. Actually when I bought it new, I returned it to the store the next day.

[@CosmicFrequencies]

it's 2023 i want an s4, but like.... i feel like they are gunna announce something after i spend my money lol

[@DJKeo]

I love the software but NI is driving me crazy with the lack of new hardware

[@CosmicFrequencies]

@@DJKeo i need something new but im scared something will be announced shortly after i buy lol

[@sekritskworl-sekrit_studios]

You have a "Good" microphone? What does that even mean... Did you use Dynamic or condenser, what type of pattern, should it have had phantom power?

[@DJKeo]

Why would I use a condenser microphone that needs phantom power on a dj controller then complain its not loud enough?

[@andersonvictoria5185]

Hey man! Quick question - when using microphones, does it take deck C/D? Is there a way that it doesn’t use any decks? I have a wired mic and also a wireless senheisser mic with a receiver. Coming from a Pioneer CDJ 1000, there is a mic section on the controller designated for this. If that makes any sense! But I hope someone can help me

[@DJKeo]

Yes you lose decks C and D when using microphones its an annoyance for alot of DJs, if that is a major issue for you it might be better to carry your own microphone mixer in addition to the DJ controller so you don't have to lose the channels.

[@andersonvictoria5185]

@@DJKeo I see. So In the case of bringing an additional microphone mixer, it would take up one deck instead of two. Do you suggest any mic mixer’s I should look into?

[@DJKeo]

@@andersonvictoria5185 of you are using both mics and djing all night then it would probably make sense to get a mixer but if it's temporary it's kind of pointless. How often do you dj with all 4 decks?

[@gbe386]

Con: Takes up a channel, C or D. Pro: You can now route that channel to one of the FX units and add effects to the mic, like reverb or echo.

[@alexdeleon7570]

We need a controller we can use in meta

[@melcuffee]

traktor S3 MK3 mic level low on this too