Native Instruments introduces Traktor Kontrol D2 DJ controller and Stem MP4 audio format

A few days after the WMC 2015 Miami, Native Instruments officially introduces the Traktor Kontrol D2 as well as its new Stem audio format.

The new Traktor Kontrol D2 is a compact USB MIDI controller for DJs designed to work with the Traktor Pro 2 software.

Features:

High resolution color display to visualize the beatgrid of a track
Beatgrid adjustment function
Browse tracks, effects and adjust the filter directly from the hardware
Touch-sensitive knobs and faders
LED-guided touch strip
4+4 channel Remix Deck faders
8 color-coded performance pads
Foldable feet
2-port USB hub with power supply split cable to link two controllers
USB port to connect to the computer and control Traktor Pro 2

The Traktor Kontrol D2 will be available starting from May 4th for 499 €/$. It will be among the first controllers to support the new Stem MP4 open audio format developed by Native Instruments, that will allow DJs to mix multichannel external elements in a track within Traktor.

Here’s the story: Native Instrument is releasing a utility called Stem Creator Tool, which allows for separating a track into 4 different parts (synth, bass, drums and lead for instance) ; the software then stores these four audio elements in an MP4 file that is played like any other audio file on most players/software.

The second phase, which will debut in June, is an update for Traktor that will give DJs the ability to control and manipulate the four parts in the Stem MP4 file. The code is open to developers, which will give third-party company the opportunity to launch compatible hardware and software. These Stem format is already supported by Toolroom Records, Hypercolour, InFiné and many others.

More info about the new Traktor Kontrol D2 at www.native-instruments.com.

Following are two videos introducing the controller and the upcoming Stem format: