Mixtrack Pro 3 vs Beatmix 2 mk2 vs DDJ SB2 – Best buy DJ Control for Traktor?

You are killing me guys 🙂

I do agree that the original controllers are the best-buy for the certain software. All the 3 devices I mentioned are designed for Serato and that is a fact. But here I raise a topic on which one of the non-NI controllers and their mappings – work better with Traktor!?

That issue goes with many people who are in pursue for their entry-level controller. Why? Not all of them do have/want to spend 400EUR on S2, but do want to stay with Traktor. Statistics and online comments say that there are more people using non-NI hardware with Traktor, than the ones using the original hardware. I do believe that this could be an interesting topic.

Anyway, let me rephrase it – which one is the best buy? Mictrack Pro 3, Beatmix 2 mk2 or DDj SB2?

P.S.Thanks for your efforts, I really do hope my positions and this conversation will help to not just your users, but DDJT staff with upcoming reviews as well. I really do appreciate your help and your point of views.

I’ve read many of your comments on similar topics and still don’t get why you avoid to say some devices are “better” or even “the best” in a certain category/class. I do respect the fact that choosing a controller is a prsonal thing (closely tight to personal mixing/software/hardware preferences), but what is the point of your reviews if we don’t make a difference!?

I know many of us are bothering you with similar questions, but we’re here cause we trust your experience and judgement. So yes, I am aware on NI versus non-NI battle issues and dependence of online community, when it comes to Traktor mappings. But while some see that as a problem, for me is an opportunity. Without wide communication between users, we won’t be having better and lousier Traktor mappings, which implies that we do have hardware more and less compatible with Traktor. Let me give you Denon controllers as an example, which are the best compatibile with Traktor, comparing to others non-NI manufacturers. Of course, none of them will be the perfect replacement for NI controllers.

Also, I have to stress that I asked for “the best-buy” advice on the 3 listed controllers in this topic. Not to discuss about “the best one”, cause it’s more or less impossible to come to a common conclusion. So, all 3 are officially matched with Serato only, but do have different prices. For me, it is hard to make the right choice, although I do know what I do need and what my preferences are:
– Playing electronic music
– Need an entry-level, but PRO controller
– Proper Traktor mappings
– I can settle with plastic, but not to plastic toys
– Jog wheels not using for scratch
– I could live with less than 100mm pitch faders
– 4-deck control is not a must, but would be nice
– At least 3 effects control buttons/knobs (prefferably controlled with a knob, more likely than with a touch strip)
– Dedicated trim/gain knobs etc…

So is an Xmas offer of $235 for DDJ SB2 in my hometown, the best-buy for me?
Mixtrack Pro 3 is $220, Beatmix 2 mk2 is $265.