Having been through a handful of incarnations, it will come as no surprise to learn that Native Instruments has announced that their diminutive Traktor Audio 2 interface has been updated to include the very thing it was destined for — iOS7 compatibility.
Some words from Berlin:
Native Instruments introduces the updated TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 – now iOS-ready
The ultra-compact 2-channel DJ audio interface for TRAKTOR PRO and TRAKTOR DJ is now iOS-compatible and available worldwide
Berlin, March 18, 2014 – Native Instruments today announced new iOS compatibility for the updated TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 – the world’s smallest premium DJ audio interface. Now plug-and-play with the latest version of TRAKTOR DJ – the pro DJ app for iPad and iPhone – TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 transforms iOS devices into a mobile, crowd-worthy DJ setup. Designed for ultimate portability, TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 delivers pristine, premium 24-bit/48 kHz audio in an unsurpassed pocket-sized format.
The ultra-compact TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 now joins the growing list of iOS compatible hardware by Native Instruments. With the release of iOS version 7.1, TRAKTOR AUDIO 2, TRAKTOR KONTROL S4, S2, and Z1 now all connect seamlessly to an iPad or iPhone running the latest version of TRAKTOR DJ. With an even slimmer, streamlined profile, the updated TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 is more portable than ever. Two 1/8 inch stereo outputs allow for seamless track cueing and headphone monitoring in TRAKTOR PRO 2 or TRAKTOR DJ. The outputs of the TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 can be connected to a standard DJ mixer, allowing two TRAKTOR Decks to be mixed with familiar tactile control.
TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 connects to laptops or iOS devices using the included mini-USB or 30-pin to USB cables. Using the AUDIO 2 with iPad 4 and iPhone 5 requires a 30-pin to Lightning adapter. When using TRAKTOR DJ on an iPhone or iPad, connecting the optional power supply increases the overall output volume and keeps the connected device charged.
TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 includes TRAKTOR LE 2. Two decks, three effects, and all essential mixing features provide a ready-to-use package designed for entry-level DJs.
Pricing and availability
TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 is available at retailers worldwide and at the NI Online Shop for $99 / 99 € / £89 / ¥ 10,800.
A $50 / 50 € / £44 / ¥ 5000 e-voucher will also be sent to users upon registration of the included TRAKTOR LE software.
Further product information and press material
Additional information on TRAKTOR AUDIO 2 is available at: www.native-instruments.com/traktoraudio2
Compared to the original, this one is leaner, louder, and has minijacks instead of 1/4″ connectors. It also lacks the full version of Traktor, which is reflected in the slightly lower price. But what the new Traktor Audio 2 offers is a highly compact USB powered audio interface that fits in the palm of your hand and works with your computer or iOS device for not a lot of money — and it has an NI logo on it. You also get a voucher to put towards the full version of Traktor too.
A couple of things to bear in mind:
- You’ll still need to buy a 30 pin to Lightning adaptor for newer iOS devices
- You’re going to have to update to iOS7.1 to make it work properly
Interestingly, because it has the potential to drain your iOS devices, you can hook it up to a power supply (the same one as the Z1, S2 MK2 and S4 MK2), which has the added benefit of making the Traktor Audio 2 louder. There’s only so much that an iPad or iPhone can chuck out without help.
And yay! Sterling price is listed. Thanks NI — you only had to set up a UK office to make this happen at last.