Choosing a controller for traktor.

Hi,

I've decided I want to buy an "all in one" controller for traktor.
So over the past few days I've been browzing through forums and video reviews of diffrent hardware. Two controllers interest me at this time, the traktor S4 and the DDJ-T1.

After finding info on both, it seemed like the forums would all say the same: "if you are going to use traktor, get the S4, it is made by the same company and integrates more features." But I'm tending more towards the DDJ-T1, I prefer the layout, the build (things seem a bit too "clicky" on the S4), and things such as the the default possibility to fadder start is interesting. The only advantage that I see with the S4 is the sample decks that don't really interest my anyways.

So could someone help me make my choice, what I'm looking for generally is something simple, good quality and with the least limitations.


Thanks,
Max

 

hey, I have the ddj t1, this is my 3rd controller. Started with mixtrak pro, then AA VMS4 now the pioneer ddj t1. I have had it about 2 weeks now and am over the moon with it ... i like the sample decks ... no biggie, i got an lpd8 for £30 for that . I think it really is down between the s4 and ddjt1, but bear in mind you can use the s4 sound card with time code cds (i think) if you were ever to go down that route. I went for the ddjt1 for the lay out (i mean it looks cool - like two cdj 400s and a mixer - kinda more professional looking) and the jog wheels are awesome and the sound quality is superb (i dont doubt that the s4 sounds good too!)....I think its down what you can get a good deal on and what you like the most (take into account also that the s4 comes with traktor the t1 dont)

 

Note that both controllers are pure controllers, i.e. you cannot use them as analog mixers to mix, let's say, 2 turntables or CDJs without routing the signal through a computer. Often this is called "standalone".. Controllers like the Xone 4D or the Denon DNMC6000 can do that.

Not a biggie, just so you're aware that you cannot use the controllers without a computer.

I would personally suggest you separate the mixer unit and the controllers.. Invest in a good mixer like the DB2 and put controllers like the NI X1, F1 or the A&H K2 next to it. That way you have the best possible sound, standalone possibilities and you're still flexible as you can extend / change your setup eaily and on the cheap by swapping / adding controllers.

All in one is okay (I'm using a Xone 4D), but by now I believe the modular setup is much more flexible and cool

 

Thanks for the answers, very usefull, have just expanded my search and am going to take a look at the mixers/controllers too.
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Does anyone know if the Numark Mixdeck Quad would work well with traktor, and if it is any good ?

 

You may enjoy reading this article

http://www.djtechtools.com/2012/08/...ght-for-you-all-in-one-vs-modular-dj-set-ups/

All-in-one vs Modular. May get even more confused after reading but it's a good summary never the less.