Traktor Controller under £500?

You seem to have decided on Traktor as your software of choice, so why not go for an S2? It’s a popular controller and you could get a new one within your budget. If you decide to upgrade to another controller, there’s always people looking for S2s. An alternative would be the Vestax Vci 100 Mk 2, which is a controller that although not feature packed, is a reliable controller.

I’m not a fan of Reloop controllers, having had a similar experience to you. Some of their controllers are well built, but their customer service lets them down.

As for B-stock, you’ll hear differing opinions. Personally, I’d avoid B-stock. If you do decide on B-stock, beat the retailer down on the price, or at least add for some deal-makers eg. cables, cheap set of headphones.

If you’re open to moving away from Traktor, why not look at the Novation Twitch. I’ve got one and love it. You’ll get a brand new one for £280 and that comes with an upgrade to the new Serato software.

As for DJ shops in your area. You’re quite near Newcastle, which has a good DJ shop. From my experience, they’re helpful and keen on price. Hope that helps.

Have you check out the Numark 4Trak?

The TM3 and Reloop Digital Jockey ME 3 is available in Newcastle for £429. See your home page for retailer’s name. They even do student discounts and have demo facilities. The S2 might feel like a step down, but if you decide to trade up, will the Reloop hold its value like the S2. S2s are always in demand 2nd hand, whereas Reloop’s don’t seem as desirable.

As for B-stock, it’s a personal thing. Sometimes you’re buying someone else’s problem. Two very real scenarios. A controller has sat in-store as a demo model. Everyone has had a shot on it, with many a wannabe scratch DJ having a shot. Would you want it? Or it’s been sent out to someone, they’ve returned it, saying it’s faulty. The retailer can’t find the fault, or fixes something and then sells it as B-stock. Would you still want it? Both scenarios are very real. If you push some retailers on the price of B-stock, the price will drop quickly. That’s when you walk away.

If you can possibly afford a brand new controller buy new. I’d rather wait than buy B-stock. Some people will disagree, saying they’ve had a bargain, but make your own mind up.