Which Controller? DDJ-SX2 / DDJ-SZ / Mixon 4

If you plan on continuing to use Traktor, I’d be looking exclusively at Native Instruments/Traktor controllers (i.e. the S4 or S5/S8).

The SZ is, imho, terribly overpriced and has a few features that you should only get if you have good reason to use them. The SX2 would be a better option and leaves you with a wad of money.

The Mixon 4 is more of a hybrid controller that you can use with an iPad as well.

However, if you feel you are advanced enough to move up to a new controller, yet you are comparing three very different controllers in three very separate price ranges, I wonder if you are ready for that move yet.

By now you should have developed some kind of workflow, figured out if the software you are using (Traktor) is what you want to stick with. Add setting a realistic budget and you should be able to come up with a list of things a controller should have for it to fit your workflow, software and budget.
If you follow those steps it’s highly unlikely that those three controllers come out as your shortlist, especially if, as I said, you want to stay with Traktor.

Second aspect for the controller is to have 4-Channels (like Traktor has) an big jog wheels, that has a low latency for scratching.

You just described the perfect reason to only consider Traktor controllers. And since you want jogs, S4 is pretty much your best option. With buttons for the things you want, reasonably sized jogs and 4 channels (though not stand-alone I think).

The way Traktor jogs integrate with Traktor software is different from midi. And it only does that between Traktor gear and software. ANY other hardware will connect through midi and some latency will be introduced. While not a problem for some, if you scratch you will notice.

Another thing is that Traktor is more and more closing it’s ecosystem. This might mean (assumption, but based on signals from Traktor) that a next major software upgrade MIGHT stop supporting third-party hardware altogether.

Another thing is that Traktor is more and more closing it’s ecosystem. This might mean (assumption, but based on signals from Traktor) that a next major software upgrade MIGHT stop supporting third-party hardware altogether.

^this

There seem to be divisions happening with manufactures aligning (or divorcing) themselves with certain software.

I’ve not yet had the pleasure of playing with this, but a wildcard if you fancy an all-in-one: http://www.denondj.com/mcx8000

Indeed the MCX8000 is the new absolute winner when it comes to Serato controllers in my book.

Hi Mack – Neither of those are really beginner controllers… Go for something a little more affordable until you figure out if you want to keep this up or not, then invest the money.