Home 2023 Forums Digital DJ Gear DJ Controller (Replace Numark 4Trak) – Serato VS. Traktor

Viewing 9 posts - 1 through 9 (of 9 total)
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  • #2265791
    Chris Baines
    Participant

    Hi DJT,

    I was thinking about the 4Trak a long while ago as it seemed like a good all-round and well built controller, however since it is an old and discontinued product I wouldn’t recommend it either. Have you considered the Kontrol S5 or S8? The Kontrol S5 may fit your budget and in my opinion the screens are more useful than jog-wheels (plus Stems mixing is something I’d like to try).

    Personally I’m waiting to see a Kontrol S8 MK 2 version hopefully sometime next year as the current S8 is a first gen product, surely there are quite a few refinements they could implement before I put down the hard earned cash.

    Controllers for Serato and Rekordbox 4 seem really good and nothing wrong with those software packages but after much thought I’m going to stick with Traktor as I still like using it and already familiar with its operation.

    One day I’d like to see a fully stand-alone Traktor Controller thats on par with a Pioneer CDJ setup with the option to use without a laptop.

    #2265931
    DJT
    Participant

    Hello Chris,

    I totally agree with you! I taken multiple looks at the S8 and I’m intrigued! However, it takes loads of dough where as the S5 seems more budget-friendly. It hasn’t come out yet, but I’m beyond excited! Have they said when it would come out?

    #2266001
    bob6397
    Participant
    #2266021
    Luke Butzen
    Participant

    Yeah, but a new one is outside his budget unless he can find one used. Which considering it hasn’t had really any time in the market, I wouldn’t hold my breath for a while.

    Basically, if you love Traktor, get an S4 mk2 if you need a new controller now and want to stick with 4 decks. (Dj Tech tools does a great deal of an S4 mk2 with free Chromacaps, a “Nice-to-Have” addition to a controller) Otherwise, you’ll be hard pressed to find a true 4 deck controller for Serato for less than 700.

    I can think of a few off the top of my head, but a lot of them are old and discontinued, out of that 700 price point, (Assuming you’re using USD) or almost look like a toy and will probably leave you wanting more.

    #2266031
    DJT
    Participant

    Thanks guys! I just realized that it came out! Although it seems neat, I don’t think I can close my laptop meaning more screens. Not to mention, the S4 went down in price ($599).

    #2266061
    Luke Butzen
    Participant
    #2266921
    DJ Vintage
    Moderator

    I don’t know why you named the post Serato vs. Traktor as that choice has clearly been made. You do not want to use NI gear with Serato and even less non-NI gear with Traktor.

    You are very right that your choices for controllers are -effectively- limited to NI gear if you stay with Traktor. Having said that, they are a serious company that makes good gear and give you an option from small modular setups all the way to the mentioned S8. So it should always be possible to find something to fit both budget and workflow.

    #2267131
    DJT
    Participant

    Thank you all for your suggestions. I called it “Serato VS. Traktor” because of the different softwares. I was willing to learn about Serato if that meant I could get a good quality controller. Both softwares have their differences, but I didn’t mind learning. I’m most likely going to get the S4 after much thought! Again, you guys are amazing and I’m super thankful!

    #2268181
    DJ Vintage
    Moderator

    Clear. Good luck with your choice.

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