Traktor Kontrol S3: First Look With Ean Golden
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- Опубліковано 27 чер 2024
- Check out our store + grab a S3 preorder here: djtech.tools/s3Preorder
Ean shares his thoughts on the new Kontrol S3 and where it fits into the Traktor controller market. - Навчання та стиль
'O.G' DJ Tech UA-camr... Mr Ean... Glad to see you again bro.
Stay tuned, there will be more every week!
DJ TechTools let’s get him back in the lab at tech tools HQ in front of equipment this dude is legend and taught all of us so much!
We needed a Z2 mixer update before this S3. Seriously, the Z2 came out in October 2012!
sweet jesus yes!
With an actual innofader Inside. F that mini innofader.. 3mm cut
How ould you update a piece of hardware that still is as relevant today as it was 7 years ago?
Yessss, please!!!! Z2 needs an update. Put in all rubber rgb backlit buttons and better quality potentiometers.
There is almost no effort. Just remove some features from s4 - > done.
Very difficult to find a review of this controller for today’s market. The price drop is a game changer. Literally $200 been wiped off. Imagine the reviews for this had it launched at that price. Yeah, it’s missing fx but it’s half the price of the s4 now and only 100 more than the s2.
The price has dropped massively now, I’ve just bought one as an upgrade for my S2mk3. It suits my needs and will give me room to grow
So glad to see you back here Ean! I'm keeping my S2 until I can afford and S4... This S3 seems weirdly priced too as you said.
welcome back Ean!
Really disappointed that it omits the effects knobs on the top, those knobs are what people quite love from Traktors.
According to ean its something most people are not actually going to need.....
@@afxtwin1337 it's true, most of those DJ that stick to the basics only need one filters and minimum effects.
The problem is, those kind of DJs prefer Pioneer and other hardwares instead of Traktor, while Traktor has more segment on effects and progressive mixing. I still remember the craze when NI introduced S5, S8, and STEMS few years back.
i’m honestly shocked they’re not there for how much this costs
@@MFachrizalR - then for those people there is the S4. If those were there it's going to be damned hard to sell the S4... because why would you? It's got everything except for the rotating jog wheels that really no one needs and the screens that are too small to be really functional.
So - this would then make the S4 totally obsolete except for a very small number of people who desperately want mechanical jogwheels.
Thank you! I don't understand why they got rid of them!?! Like who thought we wouldn't need them? I'm getting the older version.
Ean, glad to see you back and another great review! My thoughts are that the S3 is for the new or sophomore Traktor users that picked up that S2 MK3 and could get this without breaking the bank! The S3 comes with Traktor Pro for free with the S3, so for newbies, this is a win! I have the S4 MK3 and that jawn does it for my workflow! I also rock with a A&H PX5 with a X1mk2 for my gigs that need that sound, both work for me and it's all about what works for Traktor users! NI should concentrate on getting Traktor to be a better product and offer more/better support of end users, so that users can and will come back to the brand and stay loyal! It would be nice for NI to put a Z4 mixer together using the Z2 as a blueprint to be able to rock 4 channels on the device!
i also have the PX5 and think NI should not think about a Z4 - seriously, could it be better than the PX5?!?! - and create a D2 deck with a jog wheel and pitch fader.
glad to see you back on the camera
Just ordered mine this morning. Love the NI products because of their great learning curve and the products are fun to use.
i own an MKII S2 and S4 that i use for mobile work. what i love is that the S4 is my main controller and the S2 is my backup and the only real difference between the 2 is the 2 extra channels. everything else operates basically the same. if i were were starting out now, wanting to get into a system that provided a backup with a similar workflow, i'd be forced to purchase 2 S4 MKIII controllers. the second, that costs just as much as a backup, would sit in a bag 99% of the time. i know NI wants to entice consumers to jump straight into the top controller but that is not how new customers are built. take me for example. i started with the S2 MKII. once i hit my limitations with 2 decks i upgraded to the S4 MKII, and eventually paired it with a couple F1 cotrollers. years later, when i decided i wanted to tackle vinyl and control vinyl, i purchased 2 high end turntables, 2 D2 decks, a bitchin' A&H mixer, and added my F1 controllers to create an incredibly versatile setup. i stuck with NI products because they either were perfect stepping stones or complimented one another. the new set of lower end controllers don't give you enough capabilities of the the flagship controller to steadily progress as an artist. and at the end of the day, that is what we are all trying to do. if you are NI and haptic drive has "revolutionized how people DJ", THEN WHY IS IT NOT ON EVERY CONTROLLER YOU CREATE. and where is the D2 deck with the jog wheel a pitch fader!
Wow only Native Instruments can make a new controller that not even Ean would upgrade to. It just feels like NI need to take the same soul-searching journey Mr Golden took (wishful thinking i know) - he looks refreshed and rejuvenated - pity I can't say that as honestly about Traktor. DJTT made me buy into the Traktor ecosystem all those years ago (VCI 100 SE anyone?) with all the innovation and flexibility. Now the competition are all caught up -- even possibly ahead -- and tbh I couldn't be bothered to look back either having switched to Serato (plus NI ditching the S5 cut deep man lol). Anyway I hope we see more of a variety of visual content centered around what have now become relevant DJ software options. That goes for the website too - the strong links to Traktor in the past have stifled content on the site to a certain degree.
Welcome back to the now complete DJTT team with Ean back in the fold. Kudos to those who've been keeping it going in his "absence"!
Yeah right.. if you read all the news about berlin headquater (i am german) .. you may get the idea that something is gone very bad direction. They need and pay oldskool Djs like Chris Liebing to promote their Software "updates" so .. they stick to their old fashion and old outdated community fan base from early 2000.
Welcome back Ean 🙏🏾🙌🏾
Seems like a waste of R&D time. Nothing revolutionary, I think they could have dropped the price of the S4 and sold more of those controllers overall instead of splitting the lineup. Would like to see some more innovation in DJing like NI were doing years ago.
Doesnt look like they researched and developed anything. Just repackaged what they already have.
Totally agree! It really was
Eazy!! My mann. Great to see you heathy & still passionate for all things musical (and outlets alike). Cheers brother. Much love & emotional success 🤙
Hey Ean, good to see you!
Mah boi is back
Ean, you are absolutely right about everythig!
I just purchased the S3. Almost purchased the S2. The deciding factor was the 4 channels vs the 2. I am a beginner (if that) aspiring DJ. I will be mainly be doing this for hobby and MAYBE if I get good I can do local events with this pandemic I'll be honing on my skills at home for sure. Something I always wanted do do as a teenager fast forward 30 years I decided to just do it! Maybe this S3 is too much as far as the 4 channels are concerned so Ill be using 2 channels until I get better. Another reason why I purchased the 4 channel. Ill get better and didn't want to be on a 2 channel. S3 I thought was a great price @549. S4 yes, way pricey. S2 too small. Thank you for the video!
I’m into it only recently for the same reasons as you. Mostly a hobbyist too but this is what I’ve always wanted: the ability to mash two tables together then layer on top with the 3rd and possibly the 4th or other AUV’s. I was having such a good time on the iPad Traktor 2 this is a huge step up albeit some learning curves to learn Pro and the physical mechanics of the Kontroler. So far so good, loving it. How’s your venture going?
yes Native instruments! thats what exactly what we needed, another controller yay!
This feels like a mini review and covers everything I'd want to know. Awesome work!
I was hoping they would release something to replace the D2 or just something that could be used along with a DJ mixer, DVS or CDJ's set up, but it seems not. Does the world need yet another controller?
But 2 decks in one d2. Loose the stems. We need a dedicated deck for all 4 tracks. I don't uses the stems /rmx decks
I like the S4 because of the motor
Yeeee video of DJ Techtoools :DD
Just purchased this unit for a very reasonable £349. For a decent 4 deck controller this is a perfect controller (or should I say Kontroller) for me personally.
S2= entry level S3= wedding dj s4= electronic music/hip hop DJ. Each serve a purpose
1:20 seconds already a dope video
2 less channels and giving back the FX buttons would have been better
This is just trash, and ive been using traktor since I started DJing
I started DJ since only few people had a PC at home, and honestly, for making people dance I always needed 4 channels, but never FX...
Seems like I will stick also with my S5 and F1 🙃
Stand alone controller + Maschine DAW = NI will be safe otherwise the company will go down even more. I love NI products but I think they need to start listening more their customers ✌️🙂
I've S4MK3, the first one forever and ever for me!
When is traktor going to come out with extra decks for the S4? That would be a dream
Hi Ean! First of all I’m very glad to see you again! About NI, do you think they’re gonna go on with the s8/s5/d2 Line in the future? I absolutely love my s8 and I’m planning to get an s5 for backup instead of an expensive and not that innovative s4 or s3...
thanks for your time
Franz
Franz Navas I thought I was the only one who still loved the S8!
Yes bro viva s5 🙌✨🎉cheers
Ean, I have the S2 Mk3 which is for home use, as mentioned for home mixes/Mixcloud uploads, and it really has served me very well.
I am now though tempted to make a change and I can't decide whether to go for the S3 or the S5 - A local seller has the S5 for a very decent price, but I am just wondering if it is still roadworthy? In your opinion, is it worth it or is it past its sell by date? TIA
I got mine brand new for 400€, thomann and native instrumenta official site prices till 31th July.
I feel it like a nice next step from my ddj400.
Next step maybe a F1? For that nice live style mixes
the Traktor S5 fits in the Traktor s2 mk2 box perfectly by the way! =) now i can keep it dust free!
It stands between this and Denon dj GO for me.
Great review’ slow paced for us that English as a second lenguaje 👍🤩
My friend gave me his S2 Mk1...
I don’t get it. This one has effect knobs which are amazing.
Why does even the s3 let alone the S2 mk3 don’t have them anymore??
what software do you use with this?
Xavier Pearson of course Traktor
@@Dramatello but it doesnt sync to the free one though, do i need to buy the one that isnt free
or can i use rekordbox or something, i dont have much money
@@xavierpearson984 - it should. maybe your 'free one' is already in use by someone else? try downloading it here; www.native-instruments.com/en/products/traktor/dj-software/traktor-le-3/. If it still doesn't work you could use it as a general Midi controller and map it however you want. It will take a while, but you will know EXACTLY how the controller works / doesn't work for a lesson in that: support.native-instruments.com/hc/en-us/articles/210294985-Using-the-Controller-Manager-in-TRAKTOR-Mapping-a-Third-Party-MIDI-Device-VIDEO-
And it also doesn't have the option to use it as a standalone mixer(for turntables) alongside the digital controls?
Thanks for the review Ian, I agree with you, I won’t get one for the same reason. When will Native Instruments think of their DJs who fly abroad, it frustrate the hell out of me that they can’t make it hand luggage size. Surely this is loosing a big part of their market.
Would love an S5 mk2.
S2 is the house party controller. can fit on the smallest table, not worried if someone spills some beer on it cause they were in your face with joy
Whaf about mic input? Is it live? Or only thru traktor software?
EAN is back! Woot! Also: I used to use Traktor as a true convert. Moved back to Serato (and occasional rekordbox user with Pioneer) but haven’t looked back.
NI has been overtaken by the competition for the time being.
Tell NI to get on with it and release the Kontrol S5 MKII!
I was expecting a D2 replacement..., Having to many options seems to be the way now (like Pioneer) to have a more profitable business reaching more people, I really miss more high end options from native instruments.
@Matt man There is no replacement to the D2 still, I'm talking about the single deck controller.
Me too. Love the d2s but just wish i could add a third or forth one to have dedicated deck for each track. Id even like to see a d2 type that was just 2decks in one controller. Drop the stem deck and have 2 track decks.
I know this is an old review. But I say it's definitely worth the price even now. Seeing how it's 1 of 2 controllers in this price range that has Balanced XLR outputs. The other is a Numark one and it's $100 more, and it doesn't come with a pro license for any software, which isn't a huge deal to a lot of people. But why not go with the less expensive one that also gives you a pro license for a DJ program?
is there a good mapping to the s4 mk2?
I won't go for the S3 for sure. I sold my S8 for a push2 and now think about buying a S5 or S4.. as you mentioned, I like the special FX potar.
Much better than a ddj 800 which would be its competition by pioneer but still if the price would be around 500 I think it would be the most exciting value for money controller.
I think DJ S would have liked to see a controller from NI that loses the computer and added a screen and the ability to use a thumb drive. I do own a S 4 MK 3 and I brought it because of the moving Jog Wheels. The case by NI is portable enough to take on a plane. My thoughts.
This could be a good controller if you hook it up to a studio mixer for sound and another controller to use 4fx.
Yeah, FX knobs matter.
What does “balanced output” mean?
Can i acess all the S3 sample slot in remix deck by holding the pad, then turn the browse encoder clockwise or counterclockwise?
Hi, I’m have a Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3. Cant get the settings on traktor pro 3 correct, I’m unable to hear the track come out of my speaker when the track is playing . Can you help me? Can’t find a video on UA-cam to solve my issue
I agree with your 450-550 price range, 650 seems just odd. For a beginner buying his/her first controller it seems a bit pricey and for someone more advanced ,coming from the S2 or similar, it just seems to make more sense to save up a bit more and go for the S4. Just my 2 cents though and being an S4 owner, slightly biased most likely.
I go for the S4 so I can get full Access to all the features
Honestly i am still with my VCI 100 SE. Id thought for home streaming i would like to have something a bit larger since large guy + small controller looks a bit weired sometime. But however for mobile gig VCI 100 SE has perfect proportions, built like a tank and has all you need. For home i wanted to upgrade to somthing larger but probably not for 1000 dollars.
is there any diference between s4 an s3 in sound quality?
S4 for me!
Does the S3 NEED a power supply??? I used to like that the old S4 didn't. It made things like impromptu sets in the park awesome!
Can anyone please ID the Drum n Bass track used in this video. It sounds awesome!
I just went from an s4mk2 to a Numark NVII to barfing at serato in one day to now back to traktor on an s3 i don't know what came over me ive been a traktor dj for 10 years never exploring out of it serato was another planet hated it
I’m sure it’s great but why didn’t they make it the same size as the S5?
Does the S3 have the "capture" feature?
Btw, i like tHE effects Knob. Way not 5, 6 or seven effect Knob.
Thought you “upgraded” from the s5 to s4 mk3 ?
I was saying the same thing in my head.
How does this compare to the ddj 400 and 800?
Considering to buy but would be at a slightly lower price point (500-550 EUR)
I trued to live stream with this do i need to purchase a sound card sorry im knew to traktor . If so what are the best sound cards to get without having to spend to much
yes, I can’t understand the logic of NI, why did this stripped down s4 thug without effect knobs come to light?))
i wish my $1200 s8 would get an update.....
Wish NI would hurry up and come out with a Z4. A 4-channel mixer. Something that can compete with reloop elite mixer and maybe make there own turntables with midi functionality like the reloop RP-8000 mk2. That would probably make alot of traktor users stay faithful and not want to switch to serato.
💘
Can't you just map a mini midi controller to add effects knobs Like midi fighter twister or Korg nano? Seems like the biggest issue is the lack of effects knobs.
Does Traktor Kontrol s3 work with Serato?
Being in Germany it would be easier to Support your Shop if you a so would offer SW, tutorials etc that dont need international shopping. Just a thought.
Watch at 1.5x speed
Is it possible for me to record scratching inside my DAW? If yes, how?
Z2 upgrade and possibility to use both pc and IPad versions of Traktor instead of one or the other (with IOS version made a 4 deck interface).
Seems like the guy just reviewed the machine just by the picture and tech specs coming from the vendor. Didn't say anything about the fake Master VU meter (OMG! why do you want a balanced output if you don't know what are you sending?), or the "clicky" pads buttons, or the wimpy and flimsy knobs, or the very low headphones volume...seems like he just didn't try it....
If it had needle marker LEDs I would have bought it. Sadly without those it's just not for me. Seems really annoying as they have put 4 LEDs around the job wheels but they don't seem to have any function except changing from blue to red depending on which deck is being controlled.
Is the Traktor J1 a thing? Traktor first CDJ style player?
No a fake mock up of what we all want sadly
Hey Ean - I'd love to support... but as for anyone not based in the US, the Store is difficult to use: you pay import afterwards and just don't know how much that is going to be. That makes it difficult to use as prices will vary wildly making some things really just not worth it (especially when adding P&P) - so either open up a UK or EU store (and probably AP store for the folks in Asia & Australia).... or don't expect us to support you in that way.
so NI shilling aside what's this epic tune kicking in the background?
Cool, only if it would be around 100 euros less, than i guess it would make sense.
Latest update: Traktor S3 EOL
So, it’s an expensive controller which is too large, and where nobody was waiting for. Where is the mk2 of the Z2? Man I’m loyal to NI but if there’s no updated battle mixer in q1 or q2 next year, I’m jumping to Reloop or Rane. Been patient for too long.
Me when I watched this: "Man... I wish I had an S4 or an S3 instead of an S2!"
... looks at controller....
"Ouch... I do have an S4" 😬
I thought from the beginning of the MK3 Lineup that they needed something in between the S2 and S4, since getting into the Traktor universe is cheap, but upgrading to the S4 insane. The target group are probably hobbyist DJs that'd like club compatibility.
This ain't it though.
The price is a little to steep, the FX controls are missing.
Also, wheres the fucking stems button?!
You know whats the real problem? This is a 4 channel S2 at the price of a S4 without haptic drive, yet lacking everything else. Even if you buy a maschine jam to support it, it'll still not cut it. Bad NI!
NI It’s time to step up your hardware starting with a 2 channel battle mixer followed by cdj style separate units with more ability to control the bells and whistles and a 4 channel mixer that’s club ready.
I'm sticking to my s4 mk2 I need my efforts knobs and display. Btw tech support has really disappointed me they push you of with so called online tech support who just dont give you live tech support or get back to you Native Instruments see starting to have me to second guess them anyway. I'm sticking with my s4 mk2 right now. Btw is pro3 really good any1 please let me know
It's a shame they don't compete in the standalone controllers arena.
Matteo R nope they are doing both software and hardware like pioneer & dennon
Für den Preis 🤔. Wenn er mindestens "STANDALONE" wäre.
I want an s5 why the hell are they gone.
You guys need to find a cheap shipping solution to Canada.
What're you trying to get there? Shoot an email to support @ djtechtools.com and you can help us figure out how to get gear to you for cheaper :)
Whats up w no effect rack brooo rip
in this price i take s5 all the way - its look they going back - iwait to know what about s8mk2 because if they donwt give us somthing new - they need to close the compeny/