All user reviews for the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4

I use the s4 for over a year and I just returned from a midi mixvibes followed by a Hercules Rmx followed by a VMS4 from American Audio.
The feeling that I had with all the controllers that was only after a month of use I had to change. Regarding the S4 it's been a year that I use and the idea of ​​change has not crossed my mind once.

It is by far one of the best controllers on the market first because it combines portability, reliability, versatility (I'm dj hip hop and house). And secondly edition sticky perfectly with Traktor which is also one of the best software to mix, giving it a full consistency with the latter and a plug And Play safe (ie a s4 can only work on a license Traktor at a time, so that on my PC: D).

It is a choice that I advise that when you start having a budget! I would almost say it is a must when using Traktor.
Budget for about 700 € you get new or like new and are not going to bother the other hand if you have something to buy.

• How long have you use it?
I use this controller for almost a year.

• Have you tried many other models before buying it?
This is my second, the first controller I had was the Numark Mixtrack Pro.


• What is the particular feature you like best and least?

The +:

- Knobs to manage loops: a treat! Truly exceptional for controlling Traktor!
- Intuitive: it perfectly follows the logic of Traktor
- Plug & Play
- Light / transportable wish
- The pushs jogs (I've remapped to control FX)
- Small screens displaying the size of the loop, very convenient
- Easy custom mapping with Traktor S4, I exchanged knobs notched gains by selecting FXs, very convenient.
- We regale with this controller! Its use is really addictive

The -:

- No eQ kill!
- Tempo pitch too small compared to the DDJ-SX for example, not easy to calibrate with that ...
- Plastic: seem perfectly solid over time ...
- Crossfader / faders seem a little fragile. A friend replaced his cross in not even 3 months ...
- The output in dB is rather low compared to CD players (mean difference in club), but I could not compare it with other controllers. I guess the Pioneer with 105 dB supplants. I never found the output characteristic dB S4 ear but it must be seen in the 85-90dB max ...


• How would you rate the quality / price?

- A little too expensive considering the longevity / dubious quality ...


- After almost a year of intensive use, despite having taken care of extremely stupid (I have small hands and I press the buttons really slowly, no need to go as a nag), I all déconnent buttons: Shift, Sync, Cue, Play, FX on / off, cue previews, Load, Cue buttons and buttons Samples: sometimes when I press nothing happens, so that I missed some breaks! Must be pressed several times sometimes before it deigns to walk (I had no problem at first, but I think it is a scandal after less than a year of use for the price!) It's frustrating and it proves that the plastic is not robust / durable in time, I am disappointed because of that, I'll have to buy another more robust type controller DDJ-SX.


• With experience, you do again this choice?

- I have learned through this excellent Traktor controller, it is perfect for it, however I do not think it's made to last over the years. It's really great to start Traktor and improve his techniques, it is THE controller that comes with the software, however I expect Native Instruments improves the quality of its machines because the cheap plastic side is a remarkable error.

- I think the switch to DDJ-SX, which has me much more solid air with more metal than plastic doubtful. Looking primarily a controller so I can keep over the years, tired of changing setup every year.

- I am surprised that nobody else has done back when the strength of this machine on the length, it is for this particular detail that I decided to write my return. Someone there had the same problem as me? My friend who has changed the cross fader has the same problem, and was purchased at almost the same period.

How long have you use it?

I use it for a month (as of happiness)

Have you tried many other models before buying it?

I started in 2006 and club on Cdj 1000, after I found a real job . Passion mix is ​​still intact I discovered the digital with the first Hercules mp3 without sound card. Then the mk2, the Rmx, return Cds with Adj Radius 2000 + Mixer (through good brand largely undercut), small tower Timecode (2 decks adj + Mixer and Vdj pro). Back on the market (pubs evenings , trendy bar, cafes) and buying a Traktor 4.1 Vrms (discovery of the beast), want to raise the level of purchasing a dj Ergo (sold again after 2 weeks), tested DDJ-T1 S1, NS7 and excellent SX and finally buying the S4 Native (A against heart before discovered).

What is the particular feature you like best and least?

+
-The SOUND RECORD is in my humble opinion the best on the market that is more is a major factor that drives me to buy (I prefer a table with a good record and void, that the sound rotten with 10000000 effects)

-The incredible possibilities offered by the table (Multitudes of effects, samples, etc. and many etc.) and especially without affecting the sound quality (it is well known when the sound quality is decrescendo, opportunities will crescendo) this is pure bliss especially for me who love remix, I really feel to be in the studio and without slamming the tune for mastering.

-Plug and Play, in my case buying 18h, the same night I put the fire as ever

-The knobs (large) and jogs a very good size for a controller, the workspace.

Responsiveness and unerring accuracy of pitches and all buttons, And the list is exhaustive.

-The Sync (just kidding lol)

ThE-

It is just so perfect that it no longer makes you want to leave on CDs or vinyl, which is a big mistake (for a DJ who wants to end up in a club). For my part I do not mix club (Can seriously do with a taf next) so it's perfect.

How would you rate the quality / price?

It is far more, especially on the market or Cygnus 450/500 euros you can have it.

With experience, you do again this choice? ...

Needless to ask, if I have to sell it for a SX OR NS7 at worst governed cd cheap or free

I give luis 9.75 / 10 to ch ... Native and plastic finish, it would be metal I'll stick November 1/10.

The S4 is my first controller in one. I had no doubt at all about buying the quality because I think that Native Instruments has been proven over time.

The S4 is very intuitive, plus it comes with Traktor PRO2 which for me is the best software to the mix having tried repeatedly Serato. The controller is plug and play and runs without taking also included (brightness down in return), which is a big plus when you're a little head in the air ... You can also connect two turntables or CD decks C and D, only a pity we have to add 100 euros more to use them with timecode. Finally, it is not too big nor too small, so it is easily transportable (compared to Pioneer DDJ-SX is really awesome). I can blame him to find him a little weak point: the size of jogs, but as I said before, this is a compact controller anyway and you can not ask anything either, and certainly at the expense of some features that would be removed if they were larger.

I highly recommend it and for my part, it will perhaps take me for a draw, but I really prefer compared to the Pioneer DDJ-SX ...

How long have you use it?
* June 2013

Have you tried many other models before buying it?
* NO to share a Vestax TR-1 but absolutely not comparable
* I would have liked to try the Pioneer DDJ-SX but it was costing € 350 more expensive and spinning with Serato and Traktor pro as I am well and I am naturally led to the S4

What is the particular feature you like best and least?
+ Usability
+ Simple work surface and spaced
+ Ultra-precise jog to scratch even though I'm not a big scratcher lol
+ Sliders beefy and not too small in contrast to the idea we have of it in the catalog
+ Interface with Traktor effects phew
+ Color blue LED flash and oranges not throw hard in the dark
+ The mix without SYNC is a real treat so the pitch and the wheel are at the top

- The headphone amplifier is soft enough so the need to thoroughly when one returns who hit hard in the face
- The after a friend who has the same sound card would not be appropriate for large installations (+ 10.000W and gender) and so it would give a less efficient but good for my part I have already made evenings chattering when mm and no complaints on that

- Always pay attention to the pitch when the SYNC PCQ is removed as soon as the key means directly change the speed so if you like bring progressive pitch in your set, I advise you to do this little detail in the front of the headphone apply to public

With experience, you do again this choice?
* NO DOUBT if I'd even try a whole day DDJ-SX just to compare but if the S4 is just a BOMB!

How would you rate the quality / price?
* EXCELLENT apart from that there must be a good PC / Mac because I had an i3 2GB RAM and bugait therefore obliged to buy a new one and this time i7 8GB RAM and it runs damn well and without any problem: D

How long have you use it?
About 1 month. I started and I did not lose at all. I hesitated with the S2 and I'm starting to take over the four decks.
Need the mouse. Very intuitive and effective.

Have you tried many other models before buying it?
No, this is my first controller.

What is the particular feature you like best and least?
Most: clarity, the workspace.

The least: Lighting a bit feeble in daylight. a headphone jack on the back would have been okay.

How would you rate the quality / price?
With experience, you do again this choice? ...
Good material but I have no comparison to make.

The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 is a complete DJ system from head to toe. You will be able to run a whole set with this set up no matter what your skill level is, it is great for beginners to learn with and understand how to use a controller with DJ software. If you are an “old school” DJ that uses vinyl then you will love this control interface. It has CDJ style plates that give you a very vinyl style feel when mixing. You will have everything you need right out of the box to mix your MP3’s with.
This system is very easy to set up, it is virtually a plug and play set up. You can install the software on your computer quickly without it taking up a lot of disk space. Then just plug in the Kontrol S4 controller and it will automatically sync with your software. You will not have to do anything special to get it to work. It is really easy; it does have a manual included that is easy to understand a follow.
The Kontrol 4 has very low latency allowing you to do everything live. I do recommend having a newer system though with a good amount of RAM so that it will run at a high performance.

The S4 comes with the USB cord which is all you need for it to connect to your computer and control your software. This was one of the first full DJ systems that I had and I loved every minute of using it. Though it is pretty expensive if you are a beginner, there are other similar systems that are made by other companies that are cheaper if you cannot afford to spend this much for a controller and software. I would not have had it any different though. I loved using the Kontrol S4 and it has taught me a lot about using a controller with DJ software.

# # # How long have you been using? # # #

Few days, and I had the opportunity to test it.


# # # Did you try many other models before buying it? # # #

Some one, knowing that I had:
- Behringer BCD3000.
- Vestax VCI100 MKII.

I played on:
- CDJ 800/850/900/1000MK3/2000.
- DJM 400/800/900N.

And I tested:
- Denon DN-MC6000 (also very good).


# # # What is special that you like most and least? # # #

+ MOST +
+ Size and spacing of controller commands (point made me put off the Denon).

+ Perceived quality and touch.

+ The version of Traktor delivered.

+ The Jogs are very pleasant despite their size.

+ No notch at 0 pitch.

+ Browse function and any small practical functions related to the shift key.

+ The loop recorder and samples.

+ The 4 buttons dedicated hotcues.

+ The view-meters and primary flight deck

+ The fact that the controller is in perfect harmony with the software (fx, etc ...).

- LESS -
- No button to change the pitch value (100% / 8% / 6% / etc) have to go in pref damage.

- The key remains pressed browse ... I have pressed a little more to the right to be stuck on not ... scandalous material for that price.

- The scratch pro upgrade surcharge playing on Timecoded.

- Gluttony and the soft controller perf computer, I have a pc (yes I'd take a mac but I can not change everything at once: p) Core 2 Duo 2.4 Ghz i3 and 4GB ram, c is bound, forced to disable the wi-fi to avoid lags.


# # # How would you rate quality / price ratio? With experience, you do again this choice? ... # # #

Difficult to comment on the quality / price ratio ... one hand, the "pack" that represents the kontrol s4 is not excessive in itself: a table with 2 decks + effects + sound card + software in the pro version.
Obviously we must take into account the investment of the computer.

That said this is still a substantial budget, but not only did I do it again this choice and I will especially put a little hand in his pocket at the time I bought my VCI100 mkII. But we do not always like you want ^ ^

In summary, apart from the time I tell you, I think this model is an excellent choice.

What I like most about it is the high quality provided by Native Instruments and the great sync with Traktor. Some of the great features of this products are:
Four Stereo Channels , a great and complex loop Recorder , I also like the high Quality 3-band EQ, Filters, and Level Control for every single chanel.

What I love about this product in particular , are the advanced filters that provide a wide control over a certain frequency.
There is another detail that makes a huge difference which is the possibility to connect certain hardwares as well.
The sounds and quality of this product is high, this product can be handled and used as well by some pro's or even someone that is quite new regarding mixing and re-sampling.

The product can be bought on net for about 900 $ , but the product deserves every penny, and if you're an aspiring musician or dj you should check this product.

The powerful mixing selection makes the mixing process even more creative and at the same keep it simple , one of the genius characteristics of this product.

Perfection and high top quality of appears to be is fairly much ideal, this foundation is very useful in combining some awesome sounds to get something completely unique, the design is also extremely appealing , so if you have the money and you want something that works great, looks good, this is your choice.

This innovative product is perfect for nowadays , knowing what I know, and the fact that I had the pleasure to touch different similar products, I think I would go for this product because Native Instruments never did disappoint me regarding the quality of their products and the longevity , so keep that in mind when you're making your choice.

How long you use it?
I use it since December 2011, bought used in excellent condition.

Did you tried many other models before buying it?
I tried the Pioneer models and frankly nothing to do, as many say now Pioneer models are not worth the S4. While in the beginning I wanted to take a Pioneer. The only point where the Pioneer is above the waist with a slightly more comfortable ergonomics.

What is so special that you love the most, least?
What I love most:
-The seamless integration with Traktor. It is very stable, it does not crash and never on my two configs: A desktop Core 2 Duo E7400 4 GB of ram and a modest Samsung 4 GB Ram T5200 Centrino Duo.
Then, contrary to other opinions, I found the finish very good, despite the plastic, but it is quality and assembly is perfect. Flat, the shiny part of the mix is ​​more fragile in appearance and also very messy.
-The Jogs are quite small but very high precision. I do not use the Sync feature (I have the vinyl so this function would be to ban me!) Jogs therefore not serve me wrong timing.
Its size, although for me it is a fault, but for most people is a quality size. Indeed it is lightweight and easy to carry.
-The effects easier to control on the correct part.
-The price! Frankly € 800 for a complete mixing so that not even a CDJ 850 for this price! Both say now, we did more with a solution like this one with a pair of CDJ ... Frankly € 1,700 in 2000 to qualify for a Hot Cue is just abused! There was € 800 for it all!
-The level meters per channel, handy!

What I like least:
-Its size (for me), I'll dream of a more airy space and jogs a little bigger. And a screen plate on each part.
-The Sync button, all you need to avoid having one of the bases of the mix, the timing by ear! I remove this stuff quickly!
No-kills on Eqs, shame!
-The headphone amp just a little power.
-Direct access to change the filter type. I love Allen & Heath tables ...

How would you rate the quality / price?
Very very good, it's stable, cheap, complete, portable and fairly well built, what more?

With experience, you do again this choice?
Without a doubt! But I expect to see future versions. I would be able to separate virtual turntables. So get real decks would be 4 feet. Then why not inclined screens to control effects to clear this part of the laptop? I want the biggest and Jogs ergonomics and more journal aired on a more upscale, leaving the choice in the range of S2/S4 and S8 So for the next?