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We all knew they were coming, and when, and to some degree due to leaks, what. but today, NI has officially announced their updated Traktor Kontrol S2 and Kontrol S4 controllers. The key word here is “update”, something we’ll address later. First watch the dual demo from Mad Zach.
Here’s the official word from NI
Native Instruments announces updated TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 and S2 DJ systems, now also TRAKTOR DJ compatible
Berlin, September 12, 2013 – Native Instruments today announced new versions of both the industry-leading 4-channel DJ system TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 and its 2-channel counterpart, TRAKTOR KONTROL S2. The KONTROL S4 and S2 perfectly combine a premium DJ mixing interface, built-in 24 bit/96 kHz soundcard, and an intuitive interface into a powerful all-in-one DJ system engineered for seamless control of TRAKTOR software. Both units now offer an improved look and feel with added control over the latest TRAKTOR PRO 2 features. Furthermore, both the KONTROL S4 and S2 are now plug-and-play with TRAKTOR DJ – the world’s most successful DJ app for iPad and iPhone.
Trusted by countless professional DJs for its unparalleled creative possibilities and supreme work flow, TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 now features a sleek new design with 8 color-coded RGB buttons that trigger and identify loops, cue points, and samples for improved visual feedback. Also upgraded are high resolution jog-wheels which now feature aircraft-grade aluminum plates for increased durability and performance. The advanced Flux Mode feature is now instantly accessible on the KONTROL S4 and S2 via dedicated buttons on each deck, while TRAKTOR PRO 2’s Remix Decks controls can now be accessed directly from the units.
Built to the same professional standards as the TRAKTOR KONTROL S4, the KONTROL S2 has also been redesigned with RGB backlit buttons, reinforced knobs, and high-res jog wheels also with new aluminum plates. In addition to offering all core TRAKTOR PRO 2 controls, the KONTROL S2 is now plug-and-play with TRAKTOR DJ, delivering physical control for every function including cue points and Freeze Mode and thus yet again redefining on how to embrace integration between hard- and software. Its compact size, robust build, and innate TRAKTOR DJ integration make TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 the ideal choice for iOS-based DJ setups.
Both TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 and S2 include a full version of the flagship TRAKTOR PRO 2 with Remix Decks® software, opening up a wealth of creative possibilities. TRAKTOR PRO 2 offers powerful cue, loop, and sampling functions, a suite of over 30 effects, pro-grade EQs, and fluid playback control of up to 4 decks. DJs can instantly add live editing and sampling to their sets with the use of TRAKTOR’s Remix Decks. Eight Remix Deck slots can hold a total of up to 64 loops or one-shot samples and ready-made Remix Sets from renowned artists are available for instant use.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 and S2 also now boast flawless integration with the revolutionary TRAKTOR DJ app for iPad and iPhone. With a 2-channel mixer, 3-band equalizers, and eight professional effects, TRAKTOR DJ brings the quality of TRAKTOR PRO software to the compact and tactile iOS platform. Both units charge connected iOS devices when in use.
A video, in which controllerist Mad Zach performs a spectacular routine on both TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 and S2 with TRAKTOR PRO 2 and TRAKTOR DJ, is available on YouTube at:
http://youtu.be/3ZYiOV9g6aATRAKTOR KONTROL S4 will be available at retailers worldwide and at the NI Online Shop for $799 / 799 € / 83,800 ¥.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 will be available at retailers worldwide and at the NI Online Shop for $499 / 499 € / 52,800 ¥.
Additional information on TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 and TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 is available at:
www.native-instruments.com/traktorkontrols4
www.native-instruments.com/traktorkontrols2
So that’s a tidy update (not Mk2 you understand) to the existing models to incorporate the latest (Traktor DJ) and greatest (remix decks, flux mode etc) into their controller offerings. I know for a fact that… well I can feel a disturbance in the DJ force, as if a million voices all cried “is that it?”, which brings me to a little section I like to call…
Evolution vs Revolution
I did want to write an entire piece on this, and may still do so. But let’s address the undoubted of wave of meh that’s heading in the general direction of Berlin.
The DJ industry has been deluged with wave after wave of new tech — some good, some not so, but there has definitely been a seemingly unceasing wave of new stuff hitting us at a breathtaking pace. But the fledgling digital age has matured to a point where all the unpolished new controls and techniques that have been liberally shoehorned into the wave of new controllers need to be honed and polished. The revolution is over people, and it’s time for some natural selection to take place.
Let’s take the Kontrol S2 as an example. It’s clear that this is the Traktor DJ unit. Yes, it can be plugged into a laptop running full fat Traktor, but you simply don’t need to anymore. For a great many DJs, the capacity and capability of an iPad is more than enough to DJ with. To put this into context — bar the internal storage, the iPad is an extremely powerful computer, but it just doesn’t have a keyboard. In this day and age, those really are the only 2 distinctions. I’ve happily mixed with an iPhone powering a controller — there really is no technical reason not to, unless you absolutely must have all the music ever made at your disposal.
So the S2 is directly addressing the consumer/prosumer market that is a massive cash cow, and where all the new DJs currently reside. If it’s not for you, then that’s fine. But it is just as valid as using a laptop these days.
The S4 however is where I suspect the most disappointment will lie. As NI’s flagship controller, it doesn’t have the total wow factor that we’ve come to expect from NI. This is exactly what this section is about: Evolution. It is important to remember that the new Kontrol S4 does offer all the features of Traktor Pro 2, but perhaps not in the 4×4 pad and touch strip magic of the modular F1, X1 and Z1 series. But that is rather the point — these units keep the essentials simple, but if you want that advanced level of control, add a modular controller. Most users don’t need the full 16 pad magic. Hell, I suspect that most people don’t even touch remix decks at all.
EXCLUSIVE: In The Flesh
We have seen the new Kontrol S4 in the flesh, as the newly formed NI UK passed through the worxlab. We didn’t see it powered up, but rest assured that this is familiar NI hardware. Everything looks and feels great, the shiny surface isn’t too annoying, and the new wheels look and feel great. One of the original issues of the original S4, namely booth out has been addressed, but without powering it up, we couldn’t quite work out how the rear controls would work. I’m sure that will become apparent.
It’s designed to be precisely the same size as the original, so if you’re an existing user, your investment in bags and cases is safe. Outside of that, it’s hard to comment more without playing.
Summing Up
This is a great update that brings the stellar Kontrol S2 and S4 bang up to date with Traktor’s feature set. I don’t know if this enough of an update to have existing users reaching for eBay. But for new users, this gives them the full Traktor repertoire in a more compact iOS-centric 2 channel format, or a more expansive 4 channel format.
Release is imminent, with prices of $799/€799/¥83,800/£679 for the Kontrol S4, and the Kontrol S2 landing at $499/€499/¥52,800/£429. And you can see it for yourself at the BPM Show 2013 in a couple of days. DJ Shiftee will be on hand doing demo duties.
S2 Gallery
S4 Gallery
meh. how’s this gonna be able to fight the ddj-sx / ddj-sr? fail.
Hmmm… by being cheaper, smaller, simpler, and 100% integrated with Traktor and iOS? There’s a lot of reasons for picking these over larger units. Not everyone wants or needs large jogs or performance platters. Just because something is bigger, it doesn’t make it better for everyone. So from that perspective, win!
BTW, both these units work with iOS on ipad!!! Engadget news reports this!
Yeah I know. We said that in the story. But the S2 is clearly aimed at the iOS market.
Yeah I know. We said that in the story. But the S2 is clearly aimed at the iOS market.
Yep, from that perspective it’s a win. But I was expecting more. I love the new Kontrol X1. They could have added some of the features (e.g. touch strip for loops, touch sensitive encoders) as well as the pad modes from the DDJ-SX or more Remixdeck-Pads. Instead, both NI controllers look like the guys in Berlin were in a hurry so they decided to keep the old chassis and just change the rubber caps of a few buttons + add a slightly different print on the faceplate. While Serato is offering a lot of nextlevelness these days, NI at the same time seem to be slowing down a bit – strange situation :)
NI are capitalising on a MASSIVE market right now. I have no doubt that they’re actively working on really cool stuff beyond a simple update. Serato however are making their moves into the top end in a big way, having already seen up the entry level with DJ Intro. Time will tell what their answer to Traktor DJ will be, if indeed they have one at all.
I sold my S4 Mk1 and have been using a F1 and X1 Mk2 while waiting for this to drop. I have to say that I love the versatility and flexibility of the F1/X1 combo (e.g. access to 8 cue points from the F1). I’m probably going to get a Z2 rather than the S4 Mk2, which would feel like a step back to me now.
I think you will be rather pleased with a Z2.. I know everyone is anxiously awaiting a Z4 but I’m not sure this is where NI wants to head.. I’m sure it will probably become a reality.. just not the way people think.. NI seems to be focusing on the strength it has with it’s modulars and the one backing “real mixer” they have.. With an X1 MK2 and an F1 and a pair of preferred decks.. I’m not sure there is anything in Traktor you can’t access within the basic setup or one shift layer.
Especially when you consider that it has inputs for turntables and CDJs and can function as a four deck mixer within Traktor.. I mean really.. these days I can’t see any DJ absolutely requiring 2 turntables and two CDJs at the same time within Traktor.. four decks? easy.. just not 4 physical decks.. which should be fine..
Thanks for the recommendation. My brain only has two hemispheres so I can’t really handle 4 track decks! I find that I use C and D mostly as sampling/remix decks which seems to suit the 2+2 model of the Z2 perfectly. I wish I’d picked one up when they were $599!
I’m currently using a Z1 with the F1/X1 Mk2. I can see the value of an iPad for handling the waveforms but 2+0 is too restrictive. Traktor DJ is fun but I’m more interested in the iPad as an adjunct display/controller for Traktor Pro. I could put more effort into Lemur but it would be nice if NI could do the work for us!
I like the F1 a lot and use it for both samples and for cue point display. The complex functionality with it and the X1 Mk2 is often a couple of keystrokes away but I have got used to that.
I suppose we all knew it was coming with the price drops on the S4 leading into the announcement. I think it’s a nice little upgrade on the already solid S2/S4 controllers. RGB LED’s really help, and as you mentioned in the write up there is the modular controllers to act as remix deck supplements when needed.
The main thing which I’m annoyed about is the lack of the dedicated filter knobs on the S2. As a fairly filter oriented mixer, this is one of the bothersome things about this controller. They have it on every one of their “mixers” except for the S2 now. (Z2,S4 and Z1 have dedicated channel filters).
PS: Mad Zach pulls off a rather awesome routine here for the showcase video, props to him!
The iOS thing is a very cool update but when you compare what serato dj controllers offer I’m seriously hoping NI will team up with pio or vestax to give traktor dj’s more options, plus they kinda seem a tad bit pricey for what they are, either that or the alternatives are competively priced.
Considering the s4 has made some steps into the industry standard arena, this micro update is hardly surprising, if it ain’t broke……
My main disappointment would be the lack of mini innofaders. Also I really hate the trend of streamlining handy features off 2 channel controllers. Saving the filter knobs, loop display and phono pre amp/DVS capability for huge 4 channel space ships is just plain mean.
The iOS thing is a very cool update but when you compare what serato dj controllers offer I’m seriously hoping NI will team up with pio or vestax to give traktor dj’s more options, plus they kinda seem a tad bit pricey for what they are, either that or the alternatives are competively priced.
Considering the s4 has made some steps into the industry standard arena, this micro update is hardly surprising, if it ain’t broke……
My main disappointment would be the lack of mini innofaders. Also I really hate the trend of streamlining handy features off 2 channel controllers. Saving the filter knobs, loop display and phono pre amp/DVS capability for huge 4 channel space ships is just plain mean.
I don’t think a proper revision of the S4, with two 4×4 pads, was beyond the bounds of reason. Having waited, cash in hand, ready to buy such a device (for what seems like years now), this comes as a *massive* disappointment. Fingers crossed, there’s an actual MkII in the works – because this ‘update’ is meaningless to me.
…as I suspected it would be a to a great many users. The logical step for me from an NI point of view would be a large modular jog unit so that you could more or less build your own killer Traktor solution out of modular units.
Given that us older souls all have a semi-modular (decks + mixer) background, this isn’t too daunting. I’ve just been hanging out for an all-in-one solution for *ages* now! I thought that was the major advantage of Traktor/Serato/etc…?
Oh well, it looks like a chat with the people from Livid Instruments is in order…
Honestly, the only thing I wish it had that it doesn’t is a hub, at least for the S4. I could put an F1 and an X1MK2 on either side and pretty much control every function in Traktor directly with as few layers as possible.
i concur
Why can’t they take away the stickers from the jogs? The S4/S2 looks so much better without those.
This is the first NI release that hasn’t got me the least bit excited. It’s a nice little update for the lot that really like these controllers, but it’s not exciting. I really hope they have something coming out, hardware and software, that will blow our minds. Video would make me very happy. I just thought that since they took the old Serato/Rane approach of doing things they would bring out something next level that other hardware manufacturers can’t do. I’m sure it will happen in time. For the time being Serato (with hardware partners) are offering what gigging Djs need in all shapes and sizes, while focusing on making a better software. Dj technology is very exciting right now, I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Any plans for a new Z2 I wonder?
In 18 months maybe. Too soon.
Honestly I must say, that I am pretty disappointed in NI for this release. With pioneers releases and numarks Amazing NS 7 II, I was expecting NI to follow suite as per usual and give traktor users something special if not something ground-breaking. All I got was colour coded buttons, new jogwheels and a iPad-support, which is great,
but I was hoping for dual-USB-Ports or at least a HUB like on the Z2, 8 cuepoint buttons + 4 Sample/Remixdecks-buttons, Filterknobs on the S2!!!, Booth-Out on the S4!!!, maybe XLR as main-outs & perhaps even spinning jogwheels – (YES, I am a dreamer)!
They all sound like good features, but maybe its a lot to expect that from what is at the end of the day an update of current models. Spinning jog wheels, added outputs, added cue points etc. are very much features you’d expect on a completely new model ie. Kontrol S2 MKII etc.
The added bits and pieces are welcome additions that I do wish I had on my current model S2, but as Giz said, not something Im going to sell off my current S2 in order to get. Although I am actually considering swapping out my S2 for an S4 with DVS, so this will either benefit me in having new features on the S4, or a higher likelihood of cheaper S4s on the second hand market.
The ios stuff is cool but I really want a Z4..I hope that NI release it..the S4 is advanced and I have used and owned the 1st generation but I love my Z2, the spacing of the controls feels better to me, the build quality is great and it’s a proper club mixer..it just needs 2 more channels and a touch strip to compete with DJM 900 or the new Serato version 900..please release Z4 NI!
After hooking up my CDJs to my z2 would really like to ask NI to release a Z4 as well. the S4 is fine but as a few people have mentioned, having a proper mixer that can also be a controller is good for a lot of peoples setups and a lot of us don’t want remix decks just two more decks to play on..please release the Z4. I want to use my tables and my CDJs
I’m inches away from buying one to use when I get an apartment. I was actually looking to buy another set of turntables, but this is just TOO convenient and I’m kind of getting into that MIDI mindset of things right now. Dang it, NI, STOP MAKING AWESOME EQUIPMENT. My bank account can’t handle it.
While I do like the upgraded look, and usefulness of the RGB backlit buttons, I’m surprised to see the omission of a USB hub on either of the units like on the Z2. The whole “works with iOS Traktor DJ” bit seems tempting, as an S4 (or even the S2) plus an iPad would make for a lovely portable setup…
The only thing keeping me from buying the mk1 was no innodafers and was hoping for the mk2 to bring innofader mini’s (like the z2) but No info on the faders what so ever. =/
The original S4’s crossfader can be replaced with the Innobender, so I’d assume that the updated S4 can as well. IIRC, the channel faders cannot be replaced.
Yeah I know but you gotta open/Void the product. Not looking forward to that.
What I would like to see is a modular controller with jog wheels from ni. Bit like an z1 with jogs or the mixer chopped out of the s4 , so you could have one either side of the proper club mixer. Will this ever happen?
One further point on this with pioneer being involved with both ni and serato I wonder if they have some kind of agreement/block on either of these companies producing a modular controller with jog wheels?
Kind of like an F1 only with a jog instead of remix button decks? I think this is where the X1 MK2 comes in.. But I agree.. It would be nice to have a modular jog wheel device for the NI Traktor family..
I believe what I will likely be doing is upgrading my Z2 with an F1, An X1 MK2, and a pair of Reloop RP-8000s.. To me that would be the best of all possible worlds.. I could do without jogs if I had something compact and mostly foolproof to push and pull tracks..
As a (rather vocal and) passionate user of the S4, I am disappointed that the updated S4 doesn’t have a new feature that doubles crowds and DJ’s incomes. Even so, I must admit that this release makes the most financial sense.
This strategy preserves the resale value of the S4 (old and new), expands the market for the S2 and S4 via the mobile crowd, and ultimately strengthens the entire NI “ecosystem”.
NI is going all-in on their Traktor platform – not the individual components. Smart.
Which is a shame in some respects as the options for most pro users who don’t require a built in mixer are limited and if you require modular with jogs none existent as far as I’m aware.
After re-reading this article, there’s no mention of the updated S4 being a mixer… so I assume that it won’t be. If true, that’s a missed opportunity, NI.
KLH from djf? even with no mention, those rca ins with phono pre amps strongly suggest it is a mixer.. no?
The old S4 had those too homie.
although i don’t understand a word, a nice view on the new S2 and S4:
http://youtu.be/Eay5HNyImuo
djtechtools had a short review on the S2. Besides the aforementioned aluminum platters, it also has a higher build quality (a lot more metal around the jog/transport area) and a looser crossfader. So for everyone to say that it’s just RGB lights, you’re wrong. The overall build is stepped up quite a bit. To sell them at the same original price of the older models is also a plus for new buyers.
separate input for mic is worth mentioning in my opinion!
I’m actually surprised that so many people are down on this release. I personally love my S4 and I’m excited to get the updated S4. On the upside, I guess that the fact that people don’t think that this update is a “must have” should mean that I will be able to sell my original S4 for more money :) But, I digress…
As I was saying, the S4 isn’t all that old and it is, IMHO, a very excellent controller. Unless you’re looking for new features just for the sake of having new features, it doesn’t make sense to take a solid design and change it without good reason. Personally, I’m happy that I’ll be able to take all of the muscle memory that I’ve developed from playing on the S4 and not have to adjust to something new.
The RGB pads are great. Not something that is essential, of course, but a very nice addition. Increased build quality is always a plus (though I haven’t had a lot of problems with my original S4s). However, what I’m really looking forward to is the replacement of the (stupid, stupid, stupid) two button pitch reset configuration with a flux mode button and a SINGLE pitch reset button. This is probably the ONE thing that baffled me most about the S4 (and continues to do so to this day) and I’ll be immensely glad to see it go away.
Other than that, the only design choice that I really still question is the knobs (as opposed to encoders) used for the FX section. Since the FX can be (and in my use, often are) changed from effect to effect and switched from advanced to simple mode, it has always seemed to me like those really should have been endless encoders from the start (maybe with some sort of visual indicator as to the position of the currently selected effect). Nevertheless, I’ve learned to work with that, but I had hoped that maybe NI would rethink that particular aspect of the S4.