Is Traktor Still A Good Choice Of DJ Software?
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- Опубліковано 4 вер 2019
- Traktor has, we can all agree, fallen way behind the curve over recent years, testing the loyalty of its users sorely. Last year it felt like things were finally looking up for the platform, with Native Instruments heralding a big cash injection, and with the announcement of both new hardware and software.
However, news recently broke of huge redundancies at the company (over 100 people, around 20% of its workforce), affecting key people across all areas of the business.
For Traktor’s users there are naturally going to be big questions: What now for Traktor? Is it time to leave? Or will development continue despite what’s just happened?
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Been using Traktor for over 10 years and it's hands down, the most stable software on the planet. Never once did I have a crash, glitch, reboot or nothing happen. Who cares if they don't update anything. People who love Traktor will continue using it regardless. You can't keep on buying new controllers or equipment anytime something new comes out.
You can do more with Traktor than any software on the market, period.
Derek Henson very realistic.If your going to DJ with a computer, use it for DJing only and you’ll never have issues.
Good software that does the job doesn't need to be updated as often: Sonar used to be a decent and stable DAW updated only when it was really required... until they decided to go with the subscription model with new features and updates being delivered several times per year, kind of like Windows 10 forcing updates and adding/removing features god knows where and wrecking stuff the devil knows how!
never heard of you
having a problem - been using traktor for years as well - over night my music stop playing - reads - low input - how can i fix this ? please help
@@bigdaddyozone8574 yeah... it means youre too poor... fix your life
I use Traktor since 2008 and I love it, I hope everything gets better
Here's hoping...
If it ain’t broke don’t fix it. Traktor could use a few improvements but it is by far still the best to me. It takes a certain type of DJ to appreciate what Traktor has to offer.
Exactly, imagine if synthesizer engineers showed up at your house several times per year to add and remove knobs, buttons, menus and other features from your synthesizer just to show work done!!
Traktor is not a piece of hardware though, it is a piece of software. Software can be nimble and keep its users at the cutting edge. Innovation doesn't have to break what came before.
Digital DJ Tips Innovation doesn’t have to break what came before but a lot of times it does, which is why there are constant updates and fixes to software that try to stay on the cutting edge. I personally don’t like the frequent update model, I prefer they take time and get it right the first time. So I’m rolling with Traktor until the wheels fall off. I have been using Traktor for many years and it has not failed me yet.
Fair enough, thanks for sharing!
Sticking with Traktor Pro 3, Dont like the idea of Heads,Arms & Foot sold apart like Serato...
I still don't know how Serato gets so much publicity and partnerships with gear manufacturers, because I've never seen any big-name DJs using it for live performances... while I've lost count on how many times I've seen a laptop running Traktor with some very well know DJs!
@@PrimiusLovin True!
PrimiusLovin because Traktor is SOLID and much more versatile. Ain’t nobody got time for your software to crash when you have thousands of paying customers(fans) expecting you to entertain them. 🤷🏽♂️
PrimiusLovin well Norman Cook aka fatboy slim uses its I don’t know if you know him?
@@funksoulbrodha he's used it correct but fat boy & Carl Cox use traktor more often than not.
coming from rekordbox, serato and vdj. i would never go back. absolutely love traktor. best switch i have done
Glad to hear it :)
I dunno why people expect a brand new software all the time, Traktor is awesome, great sound quality, super powerful features. Sure the library could use some work but Traktor is still my favorite. Also being able to use any audio interface (unlike Serato) is a big deal
Sandeep Kumar exactly! Traktor is very open and had better vinyl latency than Serato. I tested it!
Things change though and I think people expect their software to keep up with the norms.
Digital DJ Tips I agree but traktor has midi clock! Serato still doesn’t have this feature
True, although Ableton Link is an interesting solution with Serato (and loads of other software of course)
Digital DJ Tips true but traktor has Ableton link and has midi clock. I think the future of DJing is creativity. I need room to create my new music live and with other artist!
This is My 8th Year with Traktor and its Still Going Awesome .
Your are on the side of the user not companies like other channels good job
We are a DJ school, so we are on the side of our students above any particular brand of hardware or software - thanks for noticing.
definitly, this was by far the media coverage that I connected the best
We try! Thanks Pedro
I like that traktor has midi clock in and out
Gotta love the Ableton link.
D twist Rewind yes, plus Traktor had midi out before Ableton link.
Yep been programming my devices for years been using traktor since traktor pro 1.2, although they could make the midi mapping a little bit less convoluted, good when you are used to it but I can see how the modifiers could scare off new users.
D twist Rewind yea very true. I do like how Serato has their midi mapping made easy!
I love Traktor! And it has been working for me for many years!
I have been a Traktor user for 10 years. It was the FIRST digital dj software I bought....because I couldn’t afford the others. As time went on...I loved it. so much so that I replaced my S4Mk2 with the MK3 when it came out last year...preorder it at a lower price than the current price too. I am sticking with Traktor for now. I LOVE all the new pioneer gear..even thought about upgrading to one last year. traktor just works and has given me NOTHING but years of reliable performance.
Native instruments has always been a notoriously hard headed company. They do quality music tools but it has always felt that they care little for users opinions.
Well, I am a one time vinyl Dj who has retired more than 20 yrs ago so I only play for myself as a hobby. I started with Virtual Dj and a Mixtrack 3 then a Mixtrack Platinum. I was always dreamed of purchasing the Numark NS7 I,II, or III but was driven away by the price.
Because I am only a hobby Dj, there was no rush or reason to break the bank on it. But then Tracktor came out with the Kontrol S2 MK3 with the hapatic moving platters for like $900. I was already saving for the NS7 but this unit was within my means at the time so I purchased it. I have no choice but to use Tracktor now. I am pretty much happy with it but I still don’t know how to use it completely. I was at 60% capacity in knowledge with Virtual and I am currently at 40% with Tracktor. I don’t do gigs and I turn my controller on at best once per week for 2-3 hours. I hope that Tracktor will continue to be around because I don’t want to change to another platform when I’m just a hobbyist and not making any money doing this to support my “fix”.
I stopped using Traktor about 2 years, started using Serato DJ with my Z2 and I'm now using Rekordbox DVS (5.6.1)with a Pioneer DJM S9 because of the library management, easily transfer library to Pioneer gear and AMAZING sound quality. Native Instruments needs to just sell their DJ division.
As a long term Traktor user , for me the introduction of Z Plane's Elastique (master tempo / keylock) was very welcome in Traktor Pro 3 .. As a DJ who plays tracks that can have a 10 bpm stretch in some cases, this in invaluable to me .. and keeps the platform a firm favourite for me.
Agreed, Traktor's sound quality has advanced in leaps and bounds for a few reasons recently, this being one of them.
Using traktor with s4 mk3. Allways loved the fxs and remix decks and remix decks with d2 controller is so nice to use.
Cool, for some people the Remix Decks are awesome!
My first DJ controller was a Traktor one, but I since moved over to a Serato one. I’ve been using Serato before Traktor, and my DJ crew also uses Serato so it was a no-brainer...none of them use Traktor. That said, I will get Traktor the software again because I’m keenly interested in using it as a performance tool to go with my Maschine Jam...there’s a template that interfaces with Jam and makes it a controller, and it also supports STEMS, which I can see myself using more for performances than DJing, though handy for mixes too. To that end, I think that Traktor has some legs yet. Also, I’d like to try out Traktor DJ 2; for iPad; I was bullish and keen on setting up beat grids and cues on the iPad version, and then transferring them to the Pro, until it was taken away (to be clear, NI took advantage of an Apple exploit, which was plugged and making syncing useless). With the upcoming Traktor controller mentioned by NI this week (no specifics yet), Traktor is gonna be around for awhile.
I’m using Traktor with Maschine Jam and Stems and It’s great.
Great video! You always bring good, intelligent discussion around the latest DJ news out there. Keep it up!!
You're welcome Brent.
Hi Great Video!
I've been practicing on Serato lite for about a year now with a DDJ SB3 and was about to upgrade to Serato pro when I heard about the Remix/Stem decks function for Traktor.
Which made me think about switching over. I'm more focused on playing dance music so I got really excited when I found out about this function.
What's your opinion on switching over in this situation? Are these functions worth switching over for?
Any opinions or suggestions from Serato or Traktor users would be greatly appreciated!
Purely personal opinion Oscar but no - Stems haven't really taken off and their isn't as much content for them as you'd hope years down the line, add that to the fact that all is not well at Native Instruments who make Traktor and news is few and far between. I will say though that many will disagree including other members of the Digital DJ Tips Team!
Pro 3 works fine for me.
always just made a folder which has the date of download and genre it is (if it isn't trance)
if I was to jump what are the options and costs?
I currently use a pair of Technics 1200mk2 and an Allen&Heath Xone DB4.
I use vinyl timecode as the sole means of deck control, apart from playing real vinyl.
if I was to jump ship, what would work?
as a side thing...
I use Ableton live for adding things to DJ sets, where g just manually lined it up with Traktor playing.
got a number of controllers for Ableton live, which the output of both Ableton live and Traktor go to the DB4.
and with Phil saying it uses more processing than the competition (words to that effect) how much more efficient are other software?
I have my DB4 midi mapped to browse the folders of music.
can this still be a way?
is the DB4 supported by other software?
I may be being stereotypical, but it seems Allen&Heath mixer users all use Traktor.
I am sticking with Traktor for now. What attracted me to the software is that you be more creative thru Traktor. Nowadays the producer -DJ is a relative term and that Tracktor is geared towards the production side of DJing.
My DJ setup is Traktor 2 on turntables with dual D2s and Rekordbox via a DDJ-400(maybe a DDJ-1000 in near future). Best of both both worlds. Serato can suck it. But I feel that music hobbyists and pros should own more than one software system and appreciate the variety of functionality.
Native Instruments will bounce back to satisfy our musical needs.
Mr. Taylor lol. I just like how Serato has turntable stop/start adjustment. They also have a sequencer thanks to Roland. Other than that Serato is decent
Have a look on my DDJ-1000 mapping Traktor with jog screens that I just released.
ua-cam.com/video/h9tQZEHr8hk/v-deo.html
I am using Traktor since early 2000 and love everything about it, almost no problems and issues. Interesting what would be the new gear from NI this year. I recently asked a Toronto Techno, Tech House club DJ what percentage of Serato and Traktor Toronto techno club DJ's use and his answer was that 50% of DJ's are with Traktor. So Traktor is alive despite of all rumors at least here in Toronto. Cheers to all Traktor snobs :)
I've been using traktor since my hacked version in the 2000s. It sucks to hear that it's falling behind, but I don't do anything especially complicated in my sets so I can use pretty much any software with very little preparation.
I'm currently using djuced on an impulse 300, I'm looking to upgrade to a 4 channel controller and the s4 mk3 seems like the one for me is it still worth going for in 2022?
The most important question is what software you want to use. If you want to use Traktor, then yes, the S4 Mk3 is a good choice.
@@digitaldjtips most the stuff I would dj is electronic music (dnb mostly) so I guess traktor would be good for me 👍
I think traktor should come out with video tutorials for dummies like myself on how to do midi mappings or make it less complicating within the software. 👍
DJ FLUSH_iT its relatively easy...i mapped tr8 as a mixer on traktor and it works well
Dude its so easy just google it or watch a youtube video if you cant figure it out yourself
dj tech tools. i learned by being a cheapskate and buying 2 cheap x-touch mini midi controllers and mapping them to the 4 main FX racks. its pretty simple if you get into it.
Traktor is still the only software that has been able to provide me with 100% accurate beatgridding. In the genre that I play (drum & bass) no other software has been able to reliably provide me with correct beatgrids. This plus the customizability still makes traktor by far the number 1 digital platform for me.
Most software can beatgrid electronic music without any issues though - but agreed, for a steady beat, Traktor's gridding is perfect.
I just bought my first ever DJ controller and looking to play dnb
@@Testfortest142 I'd say go either for traktor or rekordbox. Traktor is by far the most reliable for beatgridding. For rekordbox expect to have to fix about 50% of the grids yourself, but your library translates directly to professional club gear, so that tradeoff is worth it.
@@BartSch1pper Yeah I have the Traktor S2, so i'm going with traktor pro 3 as well.
@behexen250 what genre do you play? I have to fix about 50% of all my grids with rb
@digital DJ Tips, thank you for this video. Ive always been Djing as a hobby but have been stoped for 10 years more or less xD. I still have the Hecules Dj console RMX and in the past i was using traktor on it . I know that this could be a very specific question... But what software do you recomend me to use with it ( dont know if this still work with modern software )
No idea, sorry! Virtual DJ, DJUCED should work
@@digitaldjtips Indeed! Thanks! One more question though . Assuming that i have Virtual DJ pro do you know which online library is the widest and can i DJ in a club using that ? do i need anymore licence these days ?
I was happy with traktor when I got my Z2. But lack of updates made it bit outdated when seeing other softwares add some interesting features. Tried Rekordbox and liked it but I came home to Serato. I have issues with Serato but I was using windows at the time. Now that I am on a Mac, Serato has been good to me. Traktor will always be in my heart 🙌🏼
Final scratch was great and traktor still is. I've never noticed the library issues and stems looks great for playing your own tunes.
I have the tractor Scratch Duo but haven’t used it in years do to convince. I got a new laptop yesterday but from what you’re saying that’s probably why the software isn’t working though I thought I would at least offer a update. Is there a way to use these time codes vinyls for let’s say vdj or can it still be used in some sort of fashion? I’m sorry I’m like 10 years out of the loop with Traktor though I absolutely loved them when I was using it. By the way everything is still in ment condition and was stored in the original box. Help please 😔
I think it should still work fine with the latest version of traktor.
I was in the market at the beginning of the year for a 4x channel controller with DVS and bought the S4 MK3. I have previously owned a set of NDX 400s, VDJ with Hercules decks, the XDJ R1 and RX (the latter with Rekordbox) and the Numark V7s with Serato, so have been around the market. To be honest, I came into using Traktor when it was the Pro 3 version and haven't found it that different to all of them. There are a couple of niggles as you mention (particularly resolution, and playlist management) but performance wise it has never let me down (running a 2017 macbook pro) and the sound quality in a club is great. It's a shame to hear about the redundancies and I hope the future remains bright for NI (as I also own a Maschine MK3 and produce!).
We hope so too SOS!
I've had an sx2 for years since my wedding actually 5 years ago, my wife got it for me as a wedding gift and I haven't used it at all, now that I quit my job and looking for a new one I have some spare time, my laptop I will be mainly using is an i5 and my desktop PC that I will be experimenting on is a Ryzen. I will be playing trance/all sub genres of house would traktor be the best way to go ? Or should I learn Serato/Virtual DJ or even Rekordbox instead?
Use the SX2 with Serato
Thank you, I do hope they don't give up, and they have the smartest looking equipment out of the bunch for sure.
I remember that around 2011 there were videos on UA-cam saying serato was done for (although I do not remember for what reason). So if serato comes back from the dead so can Traktor.
At the same time u an get frustrated with the fact that Serato and Rekordbox users have this wide variety of serious controllers while we had to do with very choices that are nothing but toys to begin with.
I don't need smart playlist and such. I need a wide variety of serious controllers that have pitch control.
Mr.Shade
Around 2010 / 2013 Most companies were still coming out of the economic depression, virtual DJ had just begun their major reinvention of themselves. Rekordbox was becoming more pronounced through Pioneer. So it’s possible to believe Serato was caught back on their heels. From 2013 to 2017 Serato had to play catch up and was in the mist of major innovation, new software and a new partnership with Roland Instruments.
So to your credit it’s completely possible that tractor needs to become leaner and more creative in order to be more innovative. But just because Traktor is skin and bones now may not mean it’s ready for a coffin. LOL! (Lets hope!)
very good my friend thanks a lot for your information!
No problem!
Does anyone know what the laptop arm in the video is?
Interesting insights. Thanks for the video!
Here you go: geni.us/Hm2vgMc
I'm only a couple of minutes in, and a little disappointed that you complain nothing has happened since the Traktor MK3 controllers. In todays world of constant new products (both hardware and software), I actually find it quite refreshing that I can buy something and hold on to it for many years.
that is very, very true! I still have and use my s4 mk2 and it works great with traktor pro 2, but with pro 3 I run into audio issues. still a great controller, but I'd say use the software it was built around, pro 2
ok so i’m a producer who started out with NI Maschine and i’ve been using an MK3 for a while now... I want to get into DJing but would it be a good choice since i’m already accustomed to NI software? Also would this be a good controller for Hip-hop/Rap music?
That's a difficult question to answer briefly. Firstly I'd say it doesn't matter which controller/software you go with, if you've been producing for some time you'll most likely pick it up pretty quickly. You can DJ any genre with any gear/software however Traktor doesn't track changes in BPM within a single track so open format DJs tend to go for Serato/VDJ. If you head here you can gran our Gear Guide which goes into a lot more detail: djtips.co/join :)
nos sure for rest of the people but 2.6 works the job for me, aint gonna change jet :)
You shouldn't have to do that though!
@@digitaldjtips well true but other problems like $ makes me grounded to old hardware/software :/ not a very good country to be in where playing non folk music costs you money not earns... rip
"not a very good country to be in where playing non folk music costs you money" Feeling that, keep at it Petar!
I was fan but after 2.6 and als on pro 3 my Windows 10 setup has issues. The starting point is off cue and when I press play it starts when traktor thinks is time to start. Hate that. Also after hour of playing it makes Every track you mix fails of getting and staying in sync. I think maybe switch to denon prime 4. No Windows hassle or crashes. I think denon is more at futureproof than Pioneer. They may be at top but pricing way to high for what you get
@@dewacko I know this is a late reply but, running Win 10 ENT on my system and have zero issues with Traktor 3.1. Did you try a fresh install of Traktor? And are all your OS updates, not features, but updates done?
Hey great video. I'm pretty new to DJ software but my experience with Traktor is decent. I hear some of the complaints but when I use Serato. There isn't much of a difference to me. Matter of fact, I'm actually mad at Serato for offering a "pro package" where you still have to buy all the features. IDK man, I'm kind of a minimalist when it comes to software needs
Nothing wrong with that at all, Traktor definitely does the job just fine for a lot of DJs still!
I'm using Traktor with the Z2 for four years now without any problems
Lukasz M me too
Glad to hear that!
Sometimes I play with the Z2 in combination with F1 and X1... Awesome!
will a USB dj mixer work with Traktor Scratch 3? I want a cheap USB mixer with no cables or sound card.
It should do as Traktor DVS should work with any sound card (ie one built in to a USB mixer).
Great video.. I couldnt agree with u more. Though i havent been using other softwares. Yea its stable.. But i do believe others too.. Promising giant montains when so many years there is no evolutionary change makes u wonder why not trying other options.. And they do have a lot of issues to fix
I have always loved the realtor way of doing things (even the remix decks worked for me)... And the stability and audio quality.... I don't think I can switch. The only thing I don't like is the fact that I cant video mix, but of late, I don't do that much so it's traktor for me
Great video. I only use Traktor to produce easy edits. It has too big of requirements for laptops. Thanks.
Hey, I have been DJing with serato and an sx2 for quite a while now, but I was thinking about an upgrade, I have never seriously tried traktor, but I saw a good deal on an S8 and actually was thinking on going for it, after watching this video I was strongly discouraged, I'm starting to think about saving some more and going for the sz, but traktor still causes me some curiosity, specially since I mainly mix electronic music and I think I can live without the smart playlists.
Anyone has any thoughts about my dilemma? I'm really open to suggestions, thanks in advance
Hey Guido, if you're on Facebook this kind of question is perfect for our Global DJ Network - you're likely to get more responses there: djtips.co/family :)
Hey. I´d be interested in an Update about the situation. I´m starting out as a DJ right now and have mostly used rekordbox until now. But Traktor to me seems much more intuitive and uncomplicated (i.e. looping and sampling). Especially because i´m interested in production and including that in my live performance (Maschine). What´s the status right now. Should I anchor myself to traktor by buying their hardware and be pretty much alone amongst my colleagues or stay with rekordbox and be set for the future?
You'll have to make your own mind up about that. They move very slowly with new features etc.
No major problems with Traktor for me so far. It's stable, reliable and gets the job done. I really like the new 3.2 harmonic mixing update. I'm also using remix decks with F1 and for me they are not complicated at all (to be honest, I'm finding them very simple to use).
That's cool! As I saids to another commenter, Traktor has to keep people like you happy and build on that...
Agree 100%. 3.2 is really nice with key highlighting.
I'm new to all of this and taking my time thinking about what I want. It was a youTube video of a DJ doing amazing things with a Kontrol S4 that made me think I wanted to try this for myself. Unfortunately, as I began to look into things, it became clear that NI wasn't a favorite around here (for either the smaller, independent equipment sellers or the big chains). Still haven't quite made up my mind but I REALLY appreciate what seems like a very well informed bit of straight talk. Thanks Phil!
Thanks for watching Thomas, glad we could offer some more insight :)
Didn't even know Traktor was in this much trouble. Serato has been my tool of choice since the start. No problem yet. And I am a Windows user.
No platform is perfect, but Traktor really does seem to be behind. 😪
Hit everything on the head! I own/owned traktor s4 mk1 mk2 and about a week now got the mk3. The hardware is simply amazing, but SO SO disappointed in so called traktor 3 software it's almost just a graphics upgrade. The software is a bit glitchy with the hardware it seriously needs a rebuild. I actually played a gig last night and Meant to email traktor support before watching this. Hopefully this video pushes traktor. All the points here💯
Yea... I too am disappointed by the recently upgraded software. Hence I put off upgrading both the software and purchasing the new S4 mk3
Can somebody tell me how to record on dj track tour. Help
Link us to what you're using
Been using Traktor since the beginning. I still love using control vinyl. And I love my x1 and f1 setup. I’ve never had the software crash during a gig and I’ve had minimal technical issues while using and learning the software/hardware.
Good to hear djscottyc.
I would have loved to jump ship from Serato to Traktor years ago because the sound quality of the key lock algorithm during the time as well as the current scratch algorithm is far superior to Serato. I couldn’t get past the fact the playlist names couldn’t be sorted in anything but alphabetical. I love how it sounds and I love how it looks, but coming from any other DJ software, the library wasn’t welcoming.
It is - by far - the worst thing about Traktor. And it's a relative easy fix. I'm wondering which users they are talking to that they've so far focussed on all sorts of other things, but have not done this (or tagging...c'mon!)
Sorting playlist names... Interesting. What do you mean?
@@flamencopeko - rekordbox lets you tag tracks (for instance brass stabs and funk) and make smart crates which makes it far far easier to get to the exact couple of songs you'd want to choose from. Tags even makes selecting the track from a self made list much easier. The fact that Traitor only lets you put other info in the comments - which in turn makes comments hard yoreadas that imho should only have 'mixes well with'. So... That
@@flamencopeko - as for sorting playlist names: it's always alphabetical: funk goes between dance and trance... Makes no sense. Only work around is putting numbers in front of the name.
@@EricWoning Right, yes. There's no other criteria to sort by, right? So, you'd like to sort them manually? I've started using folders for playlists recently. That pretty much took care of the mess for me. I think I see what you mean now.
Traktor was the first software which brought me into professional DJ-ing (after using DJay). I tried downloading Serato but found it limiting. First, you couldn't use it as a software-only product and required 'compatible' hardware in order to work it and it would only play through that controller's sound card. Traktor offered the ability to map controllers, use NI controllers, download readily available TSI's for you desired controller and even custom TSI's that did funky things with effects, there were 3rd party things like MIDI Fighter Twister which had Traktor drivers and you could bring in other gear like the F1 to play with remix decks which were alright, but required some work to keep interesting. For electronic music, the beat grid detection was awesome, but for the rest (older tracks, etc), it was much more difficult to beat match and mash songs together. Also the fact they didn't have parallel wave forms made it even harder... I revisited Serato when I bought my Pioneer DDJ-SX2 and started using Serato more and it became my platform of choice. I now use Traktor maybe once a year for nostalgia mostly. I was considering getting the new S4, but this news kinda made me nix that idea. I hope they can become great again, fingers crossed, but at the moment, I see them more on the level where Algoriddim was a few years ago... Algoriddim is another company to watch and are trying very hard to be a good platform that uses modern technologies available in the OS (like touch bar on Mac and that weird knobby thing on Windows) and have Spotify integration. They piss me off a bit because when I'm in the club using Serato and need to play a Spotify track, they take over all the Pioneer hardware and HID is much smoother with them (spotty with Serato).
You're saying HID is better with Algoriddim than Serato? Interesting...
Hit it on the nail! If you are a trance head and mainly interested in producing and the DJing aspect for live performances like me should be tottaly happy with Traktor. Plus it's the most hipster😅
Yeah it's great for those kind of DJ/Producers :)
Ok, so i purchased the S4MK3 several months ago after selling my original S4. I've been truly enjoying the new model and never used any other software/hardware before Traktor. Now with the news of Traktor's uncertain future I am strongly considering selling the MK3 (as it's value is probably dropping by the day) and looking elsewhere. Between Serato and Rekordbox which would you recommend, coming from being a Traktor user?..Can you post some links with reviews to both...Thanks!
Our first suggestion: Don't do this lightly! Changing your software is like changing your partner - painful and messy.
The question you should ask yourself is, are you happy with your current setup? If you are, why selling it in the first place? You will never make money since you have to buy another controller and start over.
I'm considering buying a used Traktor s4 Mk2 as my first controller. If Traktor software isn't the best are there any other software options that work well with Traktor hardware?
VDJ, though I wouldn't recommend buying a controller for software you don't intend to use. Pick the software first, then the controller.
I’m a traktor dj, I use the f1 and x1mk2 and the versatile nature sampling and remixing songs and making them unique on the fly is extremely satisfying. I’m still finding and learning new uses for the f1 and I can argue it is as complicated as it is useful. I’m stuck with traktor and traktor is stuck with me. It’s a journey and I’m still on it for sure.
Awesome :)
Some years later but same problem. Thx this video helped me out. I now don`t buy a Traktor DJ Controller to start my DJ Experience ;)
You're welcome!
Hi,. I have the 1st traktor scratch pro edition with audio 8 interface, I've not used it in about 8 years now! Is this useless tech these days ready to be recycled or can I still use it with upgrades on offer?
Should still work, to my knowledge.
Remix Decks and FX are quite advanced in Traktor. It is really creative to use and differentiates Traktor from other DJ softwares.
Very true :)
Good topic indeed.
How about MixedInKey Flow8?
Is it good?
I've been using Traktor for the last five years and to me it is still a safe bet. Its effects library is amazing.
The stems function is something I'd like to have more options, it's hard to find tracks to be played like that. Also they need to include some streamming functionality but so far I'd stick to my S4.
Indeed, you fall into the category of "love what it does well, not too worried about anything else" - which is more than cool! As we say, there ARE things it does better than anyone.
I’ve used Traktor since 1.xxx to its current version so I’m used to its nuances and the effects are still second to none as far as the other dvs softwares go. Hopefully they build off of Traktor DJ 2 and bring it up to today’s standard. Like Phil said if you currently use Traktor and are happy with it, stay the course. Unless they are looking to sell off the dj division, I doubt they would just let the platform die.
I really don’t want to see producer stuff in the software anymore as that I believe is the reason they are int the state they’re in now. Just focus on DJ requirements and improve the software in that area.
Hey Phil really enjoyed traktor hardware and software... Great REMIX Decks .... started getting into stems and the hardware gave a lot of choices....then the hardware S8 started giving me problems got a new plug worked for some time then DEAD!!!! even heard stories about problems with USB
I love native Instruments
And love using trakor dj and will stick with using in my set up
Glad to hear it Harry
It's stable and sounds great.
I don't need rapid fire updates, just ongoing support.
That's cool, but it's not all roses: cdm.link/2019/09/native-instruments-support-changes/
Traktor Serrato or other, seriously i do not care, it s technical speeches....The real thing is good music....
Eric Barreau Except when you’re a cash grabbing channel like this one :)
What makes you say that, Saaie?
@@digitaldjtips Absolutely! I have watched your channel for 5 or 6 years now, off and on. I bought a DJ controller after buying a small PA for my solo guitar/vocal performances and thought DJing might be a good secondary use of it. Never done anything paid and never paid you for any course so would like to take this opportunity just to say thank you for the wonderful work you do. This video caught my eye as a NI Maschine user, probably my secondary gig. DJing we'll down there at third and I would probably fit the NI one platform model well in the future.
I mean, that's a fair point, but I'd still prefer to buy the software that I'll have the best time with.
Thanks for that Stephen, we appreciate it!
I use and prefer Traktor. I do have the Maschine Jam and use the software but also have a mapping that I sometimes use with Traktor. When I have played events when they need a VDJ I use Virtual Dj. For my needs and the clubs, bars and events I have played Traktor has served me more than what I need and if I need more I can easily use another software. Great about VDJ is when you need to add the full video option you can subscribe for the features on a monthly basis until you do not need and just keep using the Home version thereafter. I have heard Rekordbox video is not quite on par with VDJ so I have not tried it - maybe it is better now? In the end, it is the music and as a dj if you know your music, your software and your controller it doesn't matter what version the software or new bells and whistles. Sometimes it is that muscle memory that works best in the setting and creating magic for the people. A dj friend I know rocked this party with just his laptop and WeGO 4. And if any of the people there you would not know the difference because the party was pumping and the people danced all night. I still use 2.11 version because of the mappings work best and I know my controller best with that setup (either using the Maschine Jam or my Launchpad S) - though I have been considering getting the S4 MK3 this year or now maybe waiting to see what will be this new controller coming out this year.
Some very true words there - no amount of equipment is going to save a bad DJ.
VERY HELPFUL video. I'm a long-retired vinyl lugger, now tinkering to try the digital world, narrowed down to VirtualDJ vs. Traktor DJ2, & your points are well-made. Traktor sounds like the very insular-Apple ecosphere while VirtualDJ is like the expansive, egalitarian Windows/Android world. So I'll likely go with the Pioneer DDJ-200 for the same reasoning. TYSM.
Glad we could help Donald
I've been using Serato for around 8 or 9 years but I about a year ago decided I wanted to do something more than just 2 deck mixing and implement samples, sequencing and advanced fx. After doing a lot of research into a combination of different platforms & hardware I recently decided to give Traktor a go. I recently picked up a couple of Kontrol D2's very cheaply and I'm just getting started with them atm so will hopefully adapt without too many challenges. I'm hoping the new hardware will be something that can implement well with the D2's. Hopefully the new platform isn't something like Serato Studio which imo is like a scaled back version of Maschine and not suited for live performance
Let us know how you get on as a new Traktor users - we're interested!
Any speculation on what this new controller might be?
No, none yet.
I am a Traktor user. The file management is more complicated than it should be. I would like NI to create a stand-alone, two deck controller that bypasses the computer, that isnt gigantic in size, skipping the stems option. As for the remix decks, Im not sure that option would work in a small screen (for both decks) format. of course I can only speak for myself, but for me less is more. I am a digital dj and portability is an essential aspect of my style of djing. Thank you guys for all of the research!
We hear you Dano, a standalone from NI would be very interesting...
I have been using Traktor for a long time. Traktor Pro 3 is great. I can use all soundcards & mixers with my Traktor vinyl. I will continue to use Traktor. It is stable and has never disappointed me.
Makes sense, if it ain't broke!
Traktor is a great starting point. Easy to use, not too complicated, i got the s2 mk2 in February and they have been fantastic. However, as i've practised more i"ve used them to there full potential and i now need something a lot better. Venues have asked me if i know how to use CDJs or whatever and i've had to turn down the gig because I am unexperienced with recordbox. I can only advise that if you are looking to make a career out of it, then start with perhaps the DDJ200/400 and if you enjoy those, once you've practised enough move up to the DDJ 1000. I am moving from the s2 mk2 to the DDJ 1000 which scares me as they're more complicated decks and completely different compared to traktor but it will be a huge stepping stone in my career that wish to progress on.
Some good advice Tobias, don't be scared about the change, DJing is DJing the DDJ-1000 isn't completely different it's actually very similar you'll pick it up quicker :)
I love traktor! I have s4 mk3, and it's an sweet bit of kit. Sounds good, works well and builds and improves on what was shit about previous controllers and makes it better. Especially if you're on a budget or don't have the space for a denon, pioneer or rane. It runs clubs quality audio so you can take it with you and it'll run in a club just fine. + the little screen is awesome! I get track position, cue points, key, and tempo all in a 1 inch screen dont really need to look at my laptop as much!
All it needs for an update is:
Custom haptic, I want to be able to add haptic feedback to any cue point I lay down.
Smart playlists
Elastic gridding
leaner so it can be less cpu heavy
And a page button for cue points 8 ain't enough, 16 would be better 😀
And that's it! I think they nailed what they were about for dj controllers with the mk3 range.
Personally I think the lay off and native one are pressure from investors to secure return. I mean let's think of investors they are rarely their for the consumers benefit. The consumer is the a means to and end which is a profit. And i dont think the investors were Impressed enough by what they would have seen as catering for a small market by - just giving djs what they want. Remember business is always more complicated than selling a good product at the right price...... 😐
So i think (purely opinion) they've put pressure on traktor to compete with denon and pioneer by doing this outrageously "innovative" (sarcasm implied) idea of combining dj and production. I cant find much about it to research unfortunately so this all speculation but would it not be more innovative to make a solid controller that can sync up to maschine and your daw through some sort of rewire and make what big djs do, which is combine there sets with production, more accessible to all by making integration easier and having some solid stability with multiple platforms. Stems could potentially take off then if you got the midi file also could have drums bass on controller, midi in daw with different synth sound or variation and machine for whatever the hell else you like.
Rane have just released their idea which is literally if your break it down is just turntable and mixer reinvented as if it was done first in modern times and that's its. Yet its managed to make very decent headway with the people who have bought it and seems very open to expandabilty as well as bridging that ever smaller yet still ridiculous gap between vinyl and digital djs, yes some people have shunned it but you always get that.
We dont need some new fandangeled button box that I need to learn a new workflow for. Let me integrate what I already know so I can expand upon the things that I use that make me sound like me. I already use ni in daw anyways, wouldn't want it paired with my decks unless it's in a format I understand and am familiar with.
Sorry this went on for a bit, the issues technology and of not having anyone to interrupt you....
Anyways hope this adds to the discussion a bit, and if your reading this, have a nice day! 😁
I don't think Traktor needed any help to attempt to combine DJing and production - and frankly it is not of huge interest to Denon or Pioneer. They are two different things.
@@digitaldjtips oooh someone was a little salty this morning woke up on the wrong side of the bed petal?
Not sure what you mean by CPU heavy? Well technically I know what you're saying but I guess what I don't get is "how" it's CPU heavy? What CPU are you running? Even on my old 4770k I never had issues running Traktor including the new 3.XX version.
Your closing track 12:17 sound great! Who produced it? Traktor Studio1 in 2003 was my 1st experience utilizing DJ software which was considered very odd at the time. Traktor came a long way and they helped this industry with innovation which added pressure to other software companies to design better. Competition is important. Even though I'm a hardcore Serato user that won't switch, I would love to see Traktor come back raising the bar to new heights. Denon is doing that with the Prime4 & Pioneer with the XDJ-RR. I can see Traktor doing a standalone unit because Native does both hardware & software. Standalone units will be Serato's competition the next decade in DJ innovation unless they change too.
Thanks for your feedback. Track was written by our very own Joey Santos.
I am a Traktor user and I think there are some Updates that got made that actually where good, but I would just love elastiqe beat grids!
I started off using Traktor because it came highly recommended but recently I decided to make the transition to pioneer rekorderbox etc because of mainly its club use but so sorry to read the reduction of staffing at Traktor there is still a future for NI their producer software for example is world class and used by all producers . Dj equipment it’s difficult to really know where their future is.
it sucks to have one less player in the dj game
IMO, any person who aspires to be a renowned DJ needs to worry only about the software accompanying the dominant platform at clubs, which right now is Pioneer, so that means they need to worry about fiddling with Pioneer gear and Recordbox software.
Anyone else just mixing for fun and not taking themselves very seriously in the DJing business can just choose whatever software and gear suits their creative needs and budget!
You can plug traktor to CDJS
Many Traktor DJs take themselves VERY seriously, just FYI!
@@digitaldjtips That's not what I meant, so let me try one more time!
I don't take myself seriously as a DJ, but I still went through the trouble of reading and comparing both Traktor and Pioneer's CDJs and Mixers user manuals to know what they can and can't do.
Any DJ taking itself seriously, can't fiddle with just software (Traktor or Serato) while ignoring the hardware clubs and other DJs are most likely to use!!
Iv had pro 2 since launch and I bought the pro 3 update because im not spending hundreds of pounds on another brand to do the same thing. This is a totally different question to someone who has £500 in the software since pro 2 launch, compared to someone considering getting into DVS right now.
Lookin' to get back on the decks!
Is there any non-traktor software that can live up to the versatile abilities of tractors multi effects processing simultaneously & instant reasign-ablility ?
That's why I always favored traktor...so much creative possibilities.
But I hate traktirs library....and midi mapping issues...so... ... ...
Serato? Virtual dj? Record box?
Let me know...I'm still researching. Thanks. ✌️
Traktor has the best effects of the lot still.
I notice problem with WAVEFORM speed if you use 2 tracks with different bpm for exemple 124 and 96 and u want to do transition without SYNC, WHILE 124 bpm TRACK is playing and is in the end of break and first kick is 8 bars far from center I use first kick of 96 BPM track and stick it on the FIRST BEAT after break of 124 BPM playing song that is 8 bars away and that two perfectli LINED UP kicks do not manage to go to the CENTER (REAL TIME PLAYING) at the same time. On VIRTUAL DJ and REKORDBOX if you lined up 2 kick in the distance before they go to the center they keep to bi in line all the way, but in TRAKTOR they DON'T. How we can conntact TRAKTOR to solve this?
To be honest I'm struggling to follow this comment but you can contact Native Instruments by simply heading to their website and getting their contact information (they also have a forum)
Traktor is perfect. It does what it’s supposed to do. Why question it.
For the reasons mentioned in the video - other software doing more and Traktor standing still, or progressing much slower at least.
Digital DJ Tips Doing more? Traktor is not the most cpu efficient platform, hopefully they’ll improve it, but at least they are trying to innovate in the live-remix/production future. What are the others innovating? I use my non Native Instruments controller with Traktor 3.2 without problem + Maschine Jam mapped to work with Traktor: mixing Stems, loops, etc with the playing track. Can this be done with other platforms? It’s a question of preferences and what is “hot” in a certain time. Pick a couple of important DJs to promote it and %s will change again.
@@digitaldjtips And what is wrong with standing still? Is the most stable Dj software out there. I can play 12 hours gigs, record the set on top of it all without any issues. At least with TRAKTOR you won't crash your set and kill the dance-floor as I have seen many dj's do using Serato and Rekordbox, restarting their laptops several times in a 5h gig LOL
Implement elastic beat grids and intelligent music crates, THEN it'll be perfect.
@@djsubculture2786, there must be a good reason NI hasn't implemented those ideas yet. Also, how good is Serato vs Traktor in the beatgrid department. Last I checked, Serato wasn't as good.
I gave Traktor scratch pro a solid run, and it was because the remix decks seemed so promising. I’m the end, I just couldn’t figure it out. Also, their library functions created a ton of redundancies in my iTunes library, and I still deal with those today. To me, Traktor seemed like Ana amazing piece of software, for people more inclined to do some lightweight programming and control customizing. Going back to Serato proved to eliminate all of the frustrations I faced with Traktor. I guess we can’t all be like Dj Craze or Rafik🤷🏽♂️
xone 96 is capability with serato?
cozax sorry no and maybe never will
...but it's open to traktor 3!
User since Final Scratch, now on Traktor Pro 3. It still does what I need to rock a party all through these years. 2 turntables and my beloved Z2, that's it!
Good stuff Lef_T
Has there been any new news on Traktor pro 4?
Nope
Said it well. Good job
Still use tracktor as I love my (discontinued I might add) S5 as a great mobile system.
As long as that controller is still working I will keep using it.
Having said that , I'm also using Reckord box I can more reliably connect to my friends gear and club pioneer systems.
And I love their menu system , some thing that tracktor still has not improved on with their $99 cosmetic upgrade.
sorry, but I have to just quickly ask.. Phil? sweet chirpy upbeat Phil, we all love you dearly, but.... are you in your PJ's ? :D great article, and sadly Traktor is on the way out. personally, I'm glad I got an unlimited pro license of VDJ back in 2013 and stuck with that, although Rekordbox which I got in 2016 is becoming used more... Pioneer seem to just be way ahead of the hardware game still.. oh and by the way, I DJ'd my first full wedding gig in August this year... as pro musician, taking the jump to DJ'ing on the side was a bold move, but thanks to your articles and videos Phil, I've managed to do it! oh, and who cares if you're in yer PJ's.. we all love ya!.. #feelthelove
Ha ha, I saw my inbox about Traktor when I got in yesterday morning and instead of typing replies to everyone I just thought I'd make a quick video. I hadn't intended on doing that, hence unshaven and in an old T-shirt. :)
Traktor all the way! Solid , stable, nice professional looking, It would be perfect if supported Video playing, as you already can play .mp4s in traktor. Serato also gaves me this feeling of being too related to hip hop scratch scene and this is one of the reasons I prefer Traktor also.
Yeah the marketing for both software definitely leans a certain way (Electronic for Traktor and Open format for Serato)
Im a Traktor user, and in terms of beat gridding I use the tap to tempo button and tap on beat, the grid then snaps accordingly and you on cue, Very useful even for hip hop or RNB, its quick, easy and can be done on the fly, tried to do the same with serato.. was a mission (for me), must be done and prepped before hand, maybe theres an easier way
Thanks for sharing Kirk, definitely a smooth workflow on Traktor :)
DVS user Currently using a Z2, which have had since launch. Have already replaced the crossfader, now the left channel fader is broke and the one of the cue buttons no longer works. I was tempted by all the features of Serato , but is very expensive for a decent setup. Have been waiting for an update for the Z2 , but guess this will not happen now :(
I just ordered the Traktor S4 MK3 controller. Seeing this makes me worried. Do you think that I should cancel my order?
Edit: I am just getting into DJing. My first option was pioneer, but my country has no official reseller and importing abroad is just too expensive.
We don't think Traktor is in jeopardy, at least not in the immediate future. The S4 Mk3 is a solid controller still, and it's highly unlikely that NI will abandon it anytime soon :)
@@digitaldjtips
Thank you for your reply! I'll take some time to think about it...
@@digitaldjtips
I got my S4 MK3 anyway and I don't regret it a bit :)
Thanks for this- love all your material. Frustrating though it is (I bought the Kontrol S8 this summer for it's flexibility- and wanted the challenge of creating new tracks on the fly) I do totally agree it feel like a sinking ship as a software platform when speaking about Pro 3. I still love the S8- i'm only just now getting to drips with all it's features (and I'm a techy type!), but with the lack of support and development, the lack of interest in STEMS from the DJ/producer community, I do wonder whether also, if they can pull things back again.
They are definitely trying to
I Love traktor.. I have been using Traktor for over 10 yrs. Don't get me wrong I was also using serato up to now. I bought the Ns7 when it first came out and the mixdeck. But I find myself using the mixdeck more because of traktor. Then I upgraded to CDJs and the Z2 mixer Which I'm still using. I currently have the kontrol S2 mk3 for backup. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Z2 Mk2😄
You're not the only one! A Z2 MK2 would be awesome :)
On and off, I’ve been a vinyl Dj since the age of 15 , and now in 45. I’ve always struggled with the idea of a controller, as have been more into cutting. I then decided to take the plunge and bought a Denon mc3000, with Serato.. Nice bit of kit for newbies, but was really not for me. I liked Serato, especially the Tidal integration, because over the years I have just been using vinyl and not bothered to convert them. I then got very board with it and within 2 weeks I bought the S4 mk3.. absolutely loved it, the change from Serato was not even noticeable, apart from the massive array of free filers and effects. (Nice) Along with that, I actually found it a little more robust and is more aimed at beat creators. To be totally honest, the only thing that I would like is a streaming integration, an perhaps a overhaul on the file management as Seratos is much better.
Hopefully those things are coming. S4 Mk3 is a lovely controller, we agree.