With Traktor v2.5, Native Instruments are now walking a tightrope between the related but disparate worlds of DJing and production. And with every new Traktor release come features that come from a more Ableton Live like environment. And recognising this, Glanzmann Digital DJ Solutions have devised a Traktor v2.5 specific controller to add the producer performance balance to their previous and quite wonderful 4MidiLoop.
The 4TrackTrigger is unashamedly button heavy, and specifically caters for the sample based workflows that NI are heaping a world of hope on. As an indication of just how un-DJ this is, I can’t see a single fader on this unit. A huge controller with no jogwheels or faders… for DJs? Are they mad? Given the excellence of the 4MidiLoop, I suspect they’re not and have spent much time researching this particular box.
Some official words and suitably soft focus picture:
After the successful launch of our 4midiloop-Mix Controller it is now time to introduce the latest hardware for sophisticated DJ’s.
4TrackTrigger the Traktor-Weapon made by the German Faderfox and the Swiss Glanzmann Digital DJ Solutions. A compact and uncompromising 4 Deck Controller, specifically designed for Traktor Pro 2.5 in the external mixer mode. This new instrument is designed with passion for detail and is handmade in Switzerland / Germany. It is the ultimate instrument made by professionals for professionals. It comes with extensive details and a lot of new control features.
150 buttons in different colours and sizes to trigger hot cues, to start samples and to activate effects. 6 displays and 172 LED’s for loop length, loop recorder and master clock. 17 encoder for quick access to functions like browse, seek loop-size and loop-move which are a must for a modern digital DJ. 2 additional pedal connections rear sided to control every effect parameter on the fly.
Everything is fitted into an ergonomically and functional aluminium case, powered by Faderfox!
Available mid June 2012, further information will follow shortly…
Clearly it’s a Glanzmann/Faderfox creation and does throw up some interesting questions about buttons vs pads. Everyone has their own take and preference on this. DJTT’s thing is arcade buttons, whereas Vestax and Novation favour MPC style pads. In my experience, I tend to have little trouble adapting to either, but I suspect that the 4TrackTrigger is button based simply to allow the myriad of controls to be crammed into this footprint. Do they remind anyone else of the now ancient Sinclair Spectrum Plus buttons?
Due in mid June, a very limited first run is being finished off now, and we have our name on one for review. And no, I do not know how much it costs.