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Traktor Overview

Abstract

This section introduces you to the main areas and elements in Traktor.

Traktor consists of the following main areas and elements:

TraktorPro3_Interface_boxout.jpg
  1. Application menu bar: Provides access to basic functions and information about the software. For more information, refer to Application Menu Bar.

  2. Header: Here you can find various status indicators and useful functions and buttons, e.g., the Preferences button. For more information, refer to Header.

  3. Global section: The Global section contains the FX Units, the Master Control panel, the AUDIO RECORDER, and the LOOP RECORDER. For more information, refer to Global Section.

  4. Decks: Traktor provides you with the four virtual Decks A, B, C, and D. The Decks are where tracks, STEM files, and Samples are played back. If you previously selected to use only two Decks A and B from the Setup Wizard, you can enable the lower Decks C and D in the Preferences. For more information, refer to Decks and Deck Types.

  5. Mixer: The Mixer receives audio signals on its four Mixer channels, coming from the four Decks. The Mixer’s basic purpose is to adjust the relative level of each Mixer channel, to control the channels’ frequency content, possibly routing them into the FX Units, before sending the overall result to the master output. For more information, refer to Mixer.

  6. Browser: Lets you manage all your tracks in the Track Collection. You can group tracks in Playlists, sort them according to various attributes, and search within Playlists as well as in the entire Track Collection. For more information, refer to Browser.

Application Menu Bar

The Application menu bar provides access to the Traktor (macOS) / File (Windows), View , and Help menus, which contain the following entries:

TP3_Overview_Application_Menu_Bar.png
  • Traktor (macOS) / File (Windows): Contains options for setting up Traktor.

    • Preferences: Opens the Preferences dialog.

  • View: Contains options for the Traktor Layout.

    • Layouts: Shows the list of available Traktor layouts you can select.

    • Fullscreen: Switches the Traktor application into fullscreen view.

  • Help: Contains options for updating Traktor and getting help.

    • Check for Updates on Native Access: Calls up the Native Access application that is checking for available software updates.

    • Downloads: Opens the web browser on your computer and directs you to the download page on the Native Instruments website.

    • Get Started with Traktor: Opens the web browser on your computer and directs you to the Traktor video tutorials page on the Native Instruments website.

    • Online Traktor Documentation: Opens the web browser on your computer and directs you to the Traktor downloads page including links to the manuals on the Native Instruments website.

    • Start Setup Wizard: Launches the Setup Wizard for configuring Traktor.

    • Buy Upgrades and Accessories: Opens the web browser on your computer and directs you to the Traktor products page on the Native Instruments website.

    • Subscribe to Traktor Pro PLUS: Opens the web browser on your computer and directs you to the Traktor Pro PLUS page on the Native Instruments website.

Global Section

The Global section contains five distinct panels with global controls and recording functions: FX Unit 1 and FX Unit 2, AUDIO RECORDER, LOOP RECORDER, and the Master Control panel. Not all of the panels can be displayed at once. The Master Control panel is always visible. In the left panel you can display FX Unit 1 or the LOOP RECORDER, and on the right side you can display either FX Unit 2 or the AUDIO RECORDER. The panels can be selected using the corresponding buttons at the far left and right of the Global section.

TP3_Overview_Global_Section.png

Global Section with FX Unit 1 and 2 displayed.

(1FX Unit 1 and FX Unit 2Traktor offers four FX Units for tweaking the audio signals in the Mixer. By default, only FX Unit 1 and FX Unit 2 are activated. All FX Units can be freely assigned to any of the Mixer channels A - D. For more information, refer to FX Units.

(2) Master Control panel: The Master Control panel is a central component of Traktor. It lets you control the MAIN volume, and defines the behavior for setting Cue Points and Loops as well as enabling and disabling the Master Limiter. It also contains the Master Clock and works as a tempo reference for the Sync function and the effects. Here you can also join or start network sessions via Ableton Link, or send a MIDI Clock signal to external hardware and software. For more information, refer to Master Control Panel.

TP3_GUI_Overview_Global_Section_2_Callouts.ai

Global Section with the LOOP RECORDER and AUDIO RECORDER displayed.

(1LOOP RECORDERThe LOOP RECORDER allows you to instantly create Loops from the Mixer’s main output signal, from a particular Deck, or from an external audio input. For more information, refer to LOOP RECORDER.

(2) AUDIO RECORDER: The AUDIO RECORDER enables you to record your mix from the main output as well as from other physical audio inputs. For more information, refer to Audio Recorder.

Master Control Panel

The Master Control panel is a central component of Traktor. It allows you control the MAIN volume, and defines the behavior for setting Cue Points and Loops. It also contains the Master Clock and works as a tempo reference for the Sync function and for the effects. Here you can also join or start network sessions via Ableton Link, or send a MIDI Clock signal to external hardware and software.

TP3_GUI_Overview_Master_Control_Panel_Callouts.ai

Master Control panel.

(1) SNAP: Enables SNAP mode. When SNAP mode is activated, Cue Points or Loops are always set to the closest beat. The button lights up blue when activated.

(2MASTER CLOCK TEMPO display: Displays the current tempo and offset of the Master Clock. You can enter a new tempo with a double-click.

(3) MAIN knob: Controls the main output volume.

(4) LIMITER: Enables the Limiter for the main output signal. When activated, the main output level meter shows the Limiter position right before the red LEDs. For more information, refer to Adjusting Gain Levels for Incoming Audio Signals.

(5) MASTER: When activated you can play on four Decks with a stable tempo reference. It is also the mode to be used when Traktor is sending out the master tempo via MIDI Clock messages to another application or hardware being synced to Traktor.

(6) AUTO: When activated Traktor automatically selects one of the Decks as Tempo Master. The Master Clock then automatically syncs to the Master Deck.

(7) LINK: Syncs Traktor to an Ableton Link session and gives additional status information. For more information, refer to Synchronization using Ableton Link. When the Enable MIDI Clock setting is activated in the External Sync page in the Preferences, LINK is replaced by EXT. For more information, refer to Syncing Traktor via MIDI Clock.

(8) QUANT: Enables Quantize mode. Quantize mode lets you jump between Cue Points and Stored Loops seamlessly, without losing sync. Skipping in the track in Quantize mode brings the playhead position to the next destination without losing sync. The button lights up blue when activated.

Further Master Clock Controls

When hovering the mouse over the MASTER CLOCK display you are provided with additional Master Clock controls.

TP3_GUI_Overview_Master_Control_Panel_Hovered_Callouts.ai

Master Control panel.

(1) TAP button: With this button you can tap in the desired Master Clock tempo.

(2) Master Clock Bend buttons: Slows down or speeds up the Master Tempo momentarily.

(3MASTER CLOCK Tempo Up / Down buttons: Decreases or Increases the Master Tempo step-wise.

(4) Metronome (Master Clock Tick): Toggles an audible metronome beat tick with the Master Clock as source on or off.

Further MIDI Clock Sync Controls

When the MIDI Clock is activated in the Preferences, the Master Control panel expands providing further MIDI Clock controls. For more information, refer to Preferences – External Sync Page.

TP3_GUI_Overview_Master_Control_Panel_Further_MIDI_Callouts.ai

Master Control panel.

(1) Offset display: Indicates the offset for the synchronization.

(2) MASTER CLOCK START: Enables or disables MIDI Clock for external synchronization.

(3) MASTER CLOCK SYNC: Resets the external devices (receives) connected via MIDI clock.

FX Units

Traktor offers four FX Units which give you the control of adding FX to your mix. By default there are only two FX Units activated - FX Unit 1 and FX Unit 2. Each FX Unit can be assigned to any Mixer channel individually or to more than one Mixer channel at a time. The FX Units are located on the left and the right side in the Global section. A click on the FX Unit buttons labeled FX on either end of the Global section shows the corresponding FX Unit.

The FX Units are used as insert effects by default, but you can also use them as post-fader effects and as Send effects. The FX Units are freely configurable.

Additionally, you can choose from three different FX Unit modes in Traktor: Either Single FX mode, where four buttons and four knobs control one effect, Group FX mode, where you can use chain of three effects or Pattern Player mode, available with a Traktor Pro Plus subscription. For more Information on using the FX Units, refer to Working with FX Units

FX Units in Single FX Mode

In Single FX mode you get full control over all parameters of a single effect.

TP3_FX_Unit_Single_FX_Mode.png

FX Unit 1 in Single FX Mode.

In Single FX mode you get full control over all parameters of a single effect.

(1) FX Unit Config drop-down menu: Opens a drop-down menu for configuring the FX Unit and taking snapshots. Additionally, the number identifies the FX Unit and the selected FX mode.

(2) D/W knob: Controls the direct-to-processed signal mix.

(3) FX Selector: Selects the effect to be controlled in the FX Unit.

(4) – (6) FX Parameter control 13: Modulates the parameters for the selected effect.

(7), (8FX buttons 1 – 2: Controls the selected effect. The exact function depends on the selected effect.

(9) RST button: Resets all parameters for the selected effect. This button is not available for all effects.

(10) FX On button: Switches the effect on and off. If on, the buttons light up yellow.

FX Unit 1 in Group FX Mode

In Group FX mode you can control up to three FX at once in one FX Unit.

TP3_FX_Unit_Group_FX_Mode.png

FX Unit 1 in Group FX Mode.

(1) FX Unit Config drop-down menu: Opens a drop-down menu for configuring the FX Unit and taking snapshots. Additionally, the number identifies the FX Unit and the selected FX mode.

(2) D/W knob: Controls the direct-to-processed signal mix for the entire effect chain.

(3) FX Selector 1 – 3: Selects the effect to be controlled in the FX Unit.

(4) – (6Effect Amount knob 1 – 3: Controls the individual effect amount.

(7) – (9Effect On buttons 13: Switches every effect in the effect chain on and off.

(10) FX On button: Switches the effect on and off.

Audio Recorder

The Audio Recorder in Traktor is used for recording your mixes or audio from an external source e.g. your mix with an external mixer, a microphone, or a turntable. It is also used for broadcasting your mix. A click on the Tape icon displays the AUDIO RECORDER in the Global Section.

TP3_Overview_Audio_Recorder_Panel.png

AUDIO RECORDER.

(1) Broadcast button: Starts broadcasting your mix once a server has been installed and configured.

(2) Display: Shows the actual file size and recorded time.

(3) CUT button: Saves the recording until the current recording time and seamlessly starts a new file for recording.

(4) AUDIO RECORDER button: Opens the AUDIO RECORDER.

(5) Recording meter: Indicates the current recording level.

(6) Record GAIN knob: Adjusts the level for the incoming audio signal.

(7) Record button: Starts and stops recording and saves the recorded file in the Recordings folder.

LOOP RECORDER

The LOOP RECORDER allows you to record Loops from several sources on the fly. A click on the LOOP RECORDER button on the left side of the Global section displays the LOOP RECORDER.

TP3_Overview_Loop_Recorder.png

LOOP RECORDER.

(1) DRY/WET knob: Adjusts the ratio of main-to-recorded signal.

(2) Progress bar: Displays the current length of the recording.

(3) SIZE button: Determines the initial length of the recording.

(4) Delete / Undo / Redo: Deletes the recorded Loop, undoes the last overdubbing, and restores last undo.

(5) Play button: Starts and stops playback of the recording.

(6) Record button: Starts and stops the recording and the overdubbing.

(7) Source drop-down menu: Selects the source for the recording.

(8) LOOP RECORDER button: Opens the LOOP RECORDER.

Note

If you’re using Traktor with the Scratch feature and are therefore in External Mixing mode, the only available recording source to select is EXT.

Decks and Deck Types

Traktor provides you with four virtual Decks. These Decks can be operated in different Deck Types which are Track Deck, STEM Deck, Remix Deck, and Live Input:

The Decks contain common Deck elements as well as Deck elements specific to their Deck Type. For more information on common Deck elements, refer to ???.

  • Track Deck: The Track Deck in Traktor represents the equivalent of a turntable or a CD player used to play back conventional tracks in a classic mixing setup. For more information, refer to Track Deck.

  • STEM Deck: The STEM Deck is capable of playing back and remixing STEM Files (.stem.mp4). The functionality is basically identical to the Track Deck, but features additional sub-mix controls for the four Slot Volumes, Filters, and FX Sends for the STEM Parts. For more information, refer to STEM Deck.

    Note

    It is mandatory that STEM Files have to be analyzed before loading them into a STEM Deck. It is not possible to load and play a STEM File before it has been analyzed.

  • Remix Deck: The Remix Deck provides you with four Sample Slots, for adding Samples and loops to your mix. You can load, create and save complex Remix Sets, and arrange Samples live in your mix. The Remix Deck comes with a variety of Sample-related features. For more information, refer to Remix Deck.

  • Live Input: The Live Input is not a Deck, but it allows you to include live audio from an external source in your mix. This can be from any audio input, i.e. a turntable, a microphone, or a synthesizer. For more information, refer to Live Input.

Common Deck Controls

Besides the Live Input, any Deck provides the same synchronization, trigger, and track modification controls. The following image shows a full Deck:

TP3_Overview_Deck_Common_Controls.png

Common Deck controls.

(1) Deck Header: Displays information about the loaded track, like the artist name or track title. By double-clicking the Deck Header, you can switch the Deck layout between five different views from minimized to full layout. For more information, refer to Deck Header.

(2) Deck Tempo display: Contains information about the track tempo. Depending on Deck Type, the contained elements and controls slightly differ. For more information, refer to Deck Tempo Display on the Remix Deck.

(3) Deck Focus: Identifies the Deck and holds a menu for selecting the Deck Flavor and the playback mode for the Deck. Each Deck is named by a letter A, B, C and D. The letter of the focused Deck is highlighted in orange.

(4) Synchronization and Tempo controls: Define if the Deck is the Tempo Master or if it is synced to the Tempo Master. The controls visualize if the track is out of sync, and they contain tempo bend controls. For more information, refer to Synchronization and Tempo Controls.

(4) Deck center: Hosts the elements and controls the characteristic of the selected Deck Flavor. For more Information, refer to Track Deck,STEM Deck,Remix Deck, and Live Input.

(5Loop controls: Activate looping and define the loop size. For more information, refer to Loop Controls.

(6) Advanced panel: On the Track Deck and on the STEM Deck, the Advanced panel contains advanced control options for Cue Point and Loop management. On the Remix Deck the Advanced panel gives you access to the parameter settings of the individual Sample Cells. For more information, refer to ??? and Advanced Panel on the Remix Deck.

(7) Advanced panel button: Shows and hides the Advanced panel below the Loop controls for Deck A and B, and for Deck C and D, respectively. It also shows and hides the Panorama controls in the Mixer for Deck A and B, and for Deck C and D, respectively.

(8) Transport controls: Contain the usual transport controls Play/Pause and CUE as well as the Flux mode and Reverse mode buttons. For more information, refer to Transport Controls.

(9) Waveform Display and Stripe: On the track Deck and on the STEM deck, the Waveform Display shows the zoomed waveform at the current playhead position. The Stripe shows the waveform of the entire track. For more information on the Waveform Display and Stripe on the track deck, refer to Track Deck and STEM Deck.

Deck Header

The Deck Header displays information about the loaded track, Remix Set, or STEM File such as the artist name, track title and tempo. The displayed information can be customized in the Preferences.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Deck_Header_Overview.png

Deck Header.

(1) Track Cover Artwork: Displays the cover artwork of the track.

(2) Track title: Displays the track title.

(3) Artist name: Displays the artist name.

(4Album titleDisplays the album title.

(5) Track time: Displays the track time.

(6) Remaining track time: Displays the time remaining until the track ends.

(8) Current tempo: Displays the current tempo value in BPM, determined by the Tempo Fader position.

(7) Tempo fader position: Reflects the current Tempo fader position as a percentage.

(9) Base tempo: Represents the original track tempo.

Deck Tempo Display on the Remix Deck

The Deck Tempo display in the Remix Deck's Header contains further controls for the Remix Deck.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Deck_Header_Deck_Tempo_Display_Remix-Deck__Overview.png

Deck Tempo display on the Remix Deck.

(1) Quantize value drop-down menu: Selects the quantize value.

(2) Quantize value: Shows current quantize value for the Remix Deck.

(3) Quantize enable: The dot enables or disables Quantize mode on the Remix Deck. Quantize is activated when the dot is lit blue.

(4) Remix Deck Tempo: Shows the current tempo of the Deck. Dragging this value up and down changes the tempo. A double-click resets it to the base tempo.

(5) Tempo fader position: Represents the current Tempo fader position.

(6) Base tempo: Represents the original Remix Deck tempo. You can enter a new value by double-clicking.

(7) Capture source: Represents the selected source for capturing Samples when using hardware controllers. The triangle that appears when hovering with the mouse, opens a drop-down menu where you can select the source.

(8) Beat Count: Represents the current internal Beat Count position of the Remix Deck. Synchronization and quantize functions are based on this value.

Synchronization and Tempo Controls

Any Deck Type contains the same controls for syncing and for adjusting the tempo manually.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Snychronization_and_Tempo_controls.png

Synchronization and Tempo controls.

(1) SYNC button: Synchronizes the current track to the Tempo Master.

(2) MASTER button: Sets the Deck as the Tempo Master.

(3) Phase meterVisually indicates the offset of the beats when manually syncing a track to the Tempo Master or the Master Clock.

(4) Tempo bend buttonsCorrect the offset of the beats when manually syncing a track to the Tempo Master or the Master Clock. The left arrow slightly slows down the tempo and the right arrow speeds it up.

(5) Tempo fader: Decreases or increases the tempo of the playing track, Remix Set, or STEM file in the respective Deck.

Transport Controls

All Deck Types contain the same transport controls, which are used for playing back tracks with Traktor’s internal playback mode.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Transport_Controls.png

Transport controls.

(1) Play/Pause button: Starts or pauses playback of the Deck.

(2) CUE button: Depending on the playback state, this button either sets a new Floating Cue Point or jumps to the previously set Floating Cue Point.

(3) CUP button (CUE/Play): Jumps to the current cue point and starts playback upon release.

(4) Flux Mode button: Enables Flux mode for the Deck. For more information on Flux mode, refer to Working with Hotcue buttons and Flux Mode.

(5) Reverse Mode button: Enables Reverse mode and Flux Mode for the Deck. For more information on Reverse mode, refer to Working with Hotcue buttons and Flux Mode.

Scratch Controls

When setting the Deck’s playback mode to Scratch Control, the CUE and CUP buttons are replaced by the Absolute Mode button and the Relative Mode button.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Transport_Scratch_Controls.png

Transport controls in Scratch Playback mode.

(1) Relative Mode buttonEnables Relative mode for controlling the Deck with Timecode vinyl or CD.

(2) Absolute Mode button: Enables Absolute mode for controlling the Deck with Timecode vinyl or CD.

Loop Controls

The Loop controls offer the functions required for the creative usage of Loops in your mix.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Loop_Controls.png

Loop controls.

(1) Active Loop: When a Loop is activated it is highlighted in green in the Waveform display and in the Stripe view.

(2Arrow buttons: Clicking the left and right arrows of the Loop Size control will scroll through the list of Loop values. The Arrow buttons flash if the selected size is out of range.

(3) Loop size control: Determine the size of the activated or deactivated Loop.

(4) Loop In button: Sets the start point for the Loop.

(5Loop Out button: Sets the end point for the Loop. The Loop will be activated when the playback position reaches these two points and the ACTIVE button will be highlighted.

(6) ACTIVE button: Enables/disables Looping. The button lights up green when Looping is activated.

Track Deck

The Track Deck in Traktor is the equivalent to a turntable or a CD player in a classic mixing setup, used to play back conventional tracks. Besides the Common Deck controls, the Track Deck's center contains the following elements:

TP3_Overview_Track_Deck.png

Track Deck.

(1) Waveform display: Visually represents a localized view of the loaded track. The brighter color shade represents higher frequencies, while the darker color shade represents lower frequencies. It also shows the Beatgrid markers, and shows zoom controls when hovering the mouse over the Waveform display.

(2) Stripe view: The Stripe view shows the entire waveform of the track including all Cue Point markers and Loop markers. You can jump back to the start of the track or directly jump within the track by clicking inside the Stripe view.

(3) Key Lock controls: Here you can lock the original key for the track and transpose it by semitones. For more information on Key Lock, refer to Harmonic Mixing and Working with Key Lock.

STEM Deck

The STEM Deck operates in a similar way to the Track Deck, however instead of the Waveform display it provides the Multi-Track Waveform:

TP3_Overview_Stem_Deck_Overview.png

STEM Deck.

(1) Multi-Track WaveformThe Multi-Track Waveform shows the waveforms of the STEM Parts, and provides controls to adjust volumes and apply effects individually. The brighter color shade represents higher frequencies, while the darker color shade represents lower frequencies.

For more information on the Multi-Track Waveform, refer to section Multi-Track Waveform.

(2) Stripe view: Shows the entire Waveform of the STEM File including all Cue Point markers and Loop markers. You can jump back to the start of the track or directly jump within the track by clicking inside the Stripe view. You can also activate Key Lock for the STEM file.

(3) Key Lock controls: Here you can lock the original key for the track and transpose it by semitones. For more information on Key Lock, refer to Harmonic Mixing and Working with Key Lock.

Multi-Track Waveform

The Multi-Track Waveform shows the waveforms of the STEM Parts, and provides controls to adjust volumes and apply effects individually.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Stem_DAW_view.png

Multi-Track Waveform.

(1STEM channel 1 – 4: Each of the four rows represents one STEM Channel, including the individual STEM Part name.

(2) Volume control: Every STEM Channel provides a Volume control for adjusting the volume individually. All STEM controls can be hidden using the small arrow button.

(3) Filter controls: Every STEM Channel provides Filter controls. The Filter button enables the Filter, whereby the Filter knob determines the Filter amount.

(4) FX Send control: Every STEM channel provides FX Send controls. The FX Send button enables FX Send mode for the individual STEM Channel, whereby the FX Send knob determines the FX Send amount.

(5) Waveform: Each STEM Channel displays the waveform of the contained STEM Part in a different color, as well as the Beatgrid.

Remix Deck

Besides the Common Deck controls, the Remix Deck's center contains the following elements:

TP3_Overview_Remix_Deck.png

Remix Deck.

(1) Sample Slot: The Remix Deck shows four Samples Slots containing the Samples, trigger controls and other elements. For more information, refer to Sample Slot.

(2) Advanced panelThe Advanced panel on the Remix Deck contains options for i.e. adjusting Sample Grids. For more information, refer to Advanced Panel on the Remix Deck.

Sample Slot

A Sample Slot contains the following elements:

TP3_GUI_Overview_Deck_Remix_Deck_Sample_Slot_Callouts.ai

Sample Slot.

(1) Sample name: Displays the name of the Sample loaded in the Slot Player.

(2) Slot Player: Displays the waveform of the Sample currently loaded. A moving red playhead indicates the current playback position within the Sample. Hovering the mouse over the Slot Player shows a Mute button, which mutes/unmutes the Sample.

(3) Volume control: Controls the Sample Slot's volume. This control is applied after the individual Gain control of a Sample Cell, which is accessible from the Advanced panel.

(4) Filter control: Applies a low-pass or high-pass filter to the Sample Slot by moving the bar downwards or upwards, respectively.

(5) Sample Cell: Represents the container for Samples in the Sample Slot.

(6Play Type indicator: Indicates whether the Sample Cell is set to Loop or One-shot mode. Clicking this symbol also triggers the Sample.

(7) Page Selector: Selects the current Page with Samples for the Remix Set.

TP3_GUI_Overview_Deck_Remix_Deck_Sample_Slot_Hovered_Callouts.ai

Sample Slot hovered.

(1) Sample Slot parametersEach Sample Slot has a set of parameters. Hovering the mouse over the Sample Slot Player or Sample title displays the relevant parameters:

  • Key Lock button: Separates the playback key from the playback speed. This control needs to be activated to adjust the Sample Cell's pitch in the Advanced panel. Otherwise, the Sample Cell's pitch directly relates to the Remix Deck's tempo.

  • FX button: Routes the Sample Slot through the FX Unit(s) currently assigned to the Mixer channel for the Remix Deck.

  • Monitor button: Routes the Sample Slot to the Mixer’s Monitor Output (which can be monitored in headphones).

  • Punch mode: When a Sample is triggered, the position of that Sample is fixed to the Remix Deck's internal timeline.

(2) Sample Mute: Mutes/un-mutes the Sample Slot.

Live Input

When selecting the Deck Flavor Live Input, you can route the audio signal from an external audio source into Traktor and add it to your mix. The Live Input does not provide any control elements apart from the Deck focus.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Live_Input.png

Live Input.

Advanced Panel

On the Track Deck and on the STEM Deck, the Advanced panel contains advanced control options for Cue Point and Loop management, and for correcting the Beatgrids for your tracks. On the Remix Deck, the Advanced panel gives you access to the parameter settings of the individual Sample Cells. For more information on the Advanced panel on the Remix Deck, refer to  Advanced Panel on the Remix Deck.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Advanced_Panel.png

Advanced panel.

(1) Advanced panel button: Shows and hides the Advanced panel below the Loop controls for Deck A and B, and for Deck C and D, respectively. It also shows and hides the Panorama controls in the Mixer for Deck A and B, and for Deck C and D, respectively.

Note

The Advanced panel can only be displayed when the Deck is displayed in full Deck layout and in advanced Deck layout.

(2) Advanced panel page selector: Selects one of three Advanced panel pages; MOVE, CUE, and GRID containing individual control and editing elements.

  • CUEProvides direct access to 8 user-definable Cue/Loop In Points per track, as well as further Cue Point management controls. For more information, refer to Working with Cue Points.

  • MOVE: Provides options for moving the active Loop within the track as well as jumping the current playhead position within the track by beats. For more information, refer to Working with Loops.

  • GRID: Provides control over the Beatmarker, the Beatgrid, and the stored tempo of a track. For more information, refer to Correcting Beatgrids.

Advanced Panel – CUE Page

The CUE page provides direct access to eight user-definable Cue/Loop In Points per track, as well as further Cue Point management controls. For more information, refer to Working with Hotcue buttons and Flux ModeWorking with Cue Points, and Working with Loops.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Advanced_Panels_Cue.png

Advanced Panel – CUE page.

(1) Hotcue 1 – 8: Allows you to directly set or access eight Hotcue or Loop In Points per track.

(2Prev Cue / Next Cue: Skips backward or forward to the previous or next stored Cue Point in the track.

(3) Cue Point Position: Displays the position of the selected Cue Point or Loop in minutes : seconds : milliseconds.

(4) Cue Point List: Selects the Cue Point.

(5) Cue Point Type menu: Provides a list of several Cue Point Types.

(6) Delete Cue Point: Deletes the selected Cue Point or Loop In Point.

(7) MAP: Enables Hotcue Mapping mode. When activated, pressing a Hotcue button will map the displayed Cue Point or Loop In Point to it.

(8) STORE: Stores the selected Cue Point and maps it to the next free Hotcue button.

Advanced Panel – MOVE Page

The MOVE page provides options for moving the active Loop within the track, as well as for jumping the current playhead position within the track by beats. For more information, refer to Working with Loops.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Advanced_Panels_Move.png

Advanced Panel – MOVE page.

(1) Move Mode menu: Selects one of the Move modes BeatJump, Loop, Loop In, and Loop Out.

(2) Move Size control: Selects the step size in beats.

(3) LOOP mode: Selects a step size that is based on the current Loop size for the movement.

(4) Cue Move BWD: Depending on the selected Move mode, the selected Cue Point or Loop is moved backwards at the selected step size.

(5) Cue Move FWD: Depending on the selected Move mode, the selected Cue Point or Loop is moved forward at the selected step size.

(6) FINE mode: Selects a fine step size for the movement. Use this for fine adjustments.

Advanced Panel – GRID Page

The GRID page provides control over the Beatmarker, the Beatgrid, and the stored tempo of a track. For more information, refer to Correcting Beatgrids.

TP3_Overview_Deck_Advanced_Panels_Grid.png

Advanced Panel – GRID page.

(1) Move Grid BWD: Moves the Grid backward.

(2) Move Grid FWD: Moves the Grid forward.

(3) Analysis Lock button: Locks all values against future changes by the track analysis and by the user.

(4) BPM Edit Display: Shows the current tempo of the track. A double-click enables manual tempo adjustment.

(5) Set Gridmarker: Sets a Gridmarker at the current playback position.

(6) Delete Gridmarker: Deletes the last set Gridmarker.

(7) AUTO Grid: Calculates the BPM of the current track and sets a Gridmarker next to the current playback position. This function is only available for previously analyzed tracks.

(8) TAP: Sets the BPM based on how fast or slow the button is tapped. The BPM will be adjusted after the fourth tap.

(9) RESET Gridmarker: Resets the set BPM and recalculates it.

(10 BPM x2: Doubles the tempo in the Edit Display.

(11 BPM /2: Halves the tempo in the Edit Display.

(12) Beat Tick: Enables an audible beat tick (metronome) to help align the Beatgrid during playback. In Internal Mixer mode, the Beat Tick is only audible on signals cued over the headphones. In External Mixer mode, the tick is laid over the Deck's Mixer channel signal when Headphone Cue on the Internal Mixer is active.

(13) BPM INC (Increase): Precisely increases the BPM in minor steps. As a result the Beatgrid gets narrower.

(14) BPM DEC (Decrease): Precisely decreases the BPM in minor steps. As a result the Beatgrid gets expanded.

Advanced Panel on the Remix Deck

Each Sample Cell has a set of individual parameters, which are accessible from the Remix Deck's Advanced Panel. The Advanced panel can only be displayed when in Full Deck Layout or Advanced Deck Layout.

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Advanced Panel on the Remix Deck.

(1) SAMPLE PITCH control: Sets the pitch for the selected Sample in semitone steps.

(2) SAMPLE GAIN control: Sets the gain level for the selected Sample.

(3) BPM x2: Doubles the tempo of the Sample.

(4) BPM Edit Display: Shows the current BPM value for the Sample. A double-click enables manual tempo adjustment.

(5) Move Grid Left: Moves the Sample Cell's Beatgrid to the left.

(6) Move Grid Right: Moves the Sample Cell's Beatrgid to the right.

(7) Trigger Type: When activated (Latch mode), a Sample will continue to play after you release the mouse button, either until the end of the Sample is reached (for One-shot Samples) or until it is stopped by some other method (like triggering a new Sample in the same Slot).

The alternative Type is Gate mode, where a Sample will only play while you’re holding down on the mouse button. Upon releasing the mouse button, the Sample will stop playing.

(8) Reverse Playback: Enables reverse playback for the Sample Cell currently being played in the Slot Player.

(9) Play Type: This property determines whether a Sample stops after reaching its end or if it continuously loops. When set to One-Shot (arrow symbol), a Sample will stop playing when it gets to its end. When set to Loop (ellipse symbol), the Sample will automatically return to its start and continue playing indefinitely.

(10) Sync Type: This property determines if the Sample should be synchronized to the Remix Deck’s Tempo or not. When SYNC is on, the Sample’s BPM will match the Remix Deck’s BPM. When SYNC is off, the Sample will play at its original speed.

(11) BPM Increase: Precisely increases the BPM in minor steps. As a result the Beatgrid is expanded.

(12) BPM Decrease: Precisely decreases the BPM in minor steps. As a result the Beatgrid becomes narrower.

(13) BPM /2: Halves the tempo of the Sample.

Mixer

The Mixer is the center of Traktor, used to control and modulate the audio signals coming from the Decks before they are sent to the master output.

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Mixer.

(1) Mixer channel: Contains the controls to adjust the Mixer channels’ volume and to modulate the audio signals’ frequency. Furthermore, you can assign the FX Units to the Mixer channel and route the audio signal to the Headphone Cue channel. For more information, refer to Mixer Channel.

(2) Crossfade controls: These controls allow you to make seamless transitions between various Mixer channels. For more information, refer to Crossfade Controls

(3Headphone Cue Vol: Determine the ratio of the cue-signal-to-master-signal in your headphones.

(4) Headphone Cue Mix: Let you adjust the Headphone Cue volume.

(5) AUX control: Controls the volume of the AUX input, which can be fed by an external signal like a microphone. For more information, refer to AUX Control.AUX Control

Notice

The available Mixer controls differ depending on the current Mixing mode and the selected Traktor Layout. If Traktor is used in External Mixing mode, the channel faders, the crossfader, as well as Heaphone Cue controls are deactivated.

Mixer Channel

The Mixer channel contains the controls to adjust the Mixer channels’ volume and to modulate the audio signals’ frequency. Furthermore, you can assign the Mixer channel to the FX Units and route the audio signal to the Headphone Cue channel.

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Mixer channel.

(1) GAIN knob: Controls the pre-fader input level. GAIN is only visible when full size Deck Layouts are activated.

(2) GAIN View button: Enables/disables visibility of the GAIN button. When deactivated, the the pre-fader input level cannot be adjusted manually.

(3) Channel Level Meter: Indicates the current volume of the audio signal in the Mixer channel. It also indicates if the signal is clipping.

(4) HI, MID, LOW EQ knobs: Adjusts the high, middle, and lower frequencies in the audio signal.

(5) HI, MID, LOW Kill buttons: Complete takes out (kills) high, middle, and lower frequencies from the audio signal.

(6) Mixer FX On button: Enables/disables the Mixer FX.

(7) Channel fader: Adjusts the channel volume to be send to the Master output.

(8) CUE channel button: Sends the audio signal to the Headphone Cue channel for preview. For using the Cue function a multi-channel audio device is required. The Cue channel button is only visible when full size Decks Layout is activated. For more information, refer to Using the Cue Channel for Mixing.

(9) Key Lock (Preserve Pitch) button: Locks the current key of the track.

(10) Key knob: When Key Lock is activated the Key Knob controls the key of a playing track without affecting its tempo.

(11FX Assign buttons: Assigns the individual FX Unit to the Mixer channel.

(12) Mixer FX drop-down menuHere you can select the Mixer FX.

(13) Mixer FX Amount knobControls the selected Mixer FX.

(14) PAN knob: Controls the balance between the left and right stereo channel for any Mixer channel individually. The PAN knobs are only visible when the Advanced Panels are opened.

Crossfade Controls

These controls allow you to make seamless transitions between various Mixer channels.

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Crossfade controls.

(1) Crossfader: Enables transitions between Decks by dragging it from one side to the other. The crossfader curve can be adjusted individually in the Preferences.

(2) Crossfader assign buttons: Allow to assign the Mixer channels to be audible either on the left or right crossfader position.

(3) Fade left / right buttons: Let the crossfader move to the dedicated direction step by step.

(4) Auto fade left / right button: Let the crossfader automatically move from one side to the other.

Browser

Traktor’s Browser lets you load tracks into Decks and provides you with tools to organize your Track Collection .

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Browser.

(1) Preview Player: Allows you to preview tracks before loading them into a Deck. For more information, refer to Previewing Tracks in the Browser.

(2) Search field: Provides a live search based on the tags of the tracks in the Collection. For more information, refer to Browsing for Music.

(3) Browser Tree: Displays the content of the selected folder:

  • Track Collection: Contains all tracks imported to your Track Collection. They are automatically sorted by Artist, Release, Label or Genre.

  • Playlists: Contains all your Traktor Playlists.

  • Explorer: Lets you browse your hard drives for tracks. It also contains an Archive folder containing History Playlists.

  • Audio Recordings: Contains all recordings created with the AUDIO RECORDER.

  • iTunes: Provides direct access to your iTunes Library including all iTunes Playlists.

  • History: Contains latest history playlists.

    Each History Playlist is time-stamped and contains the additional columns Start-Time, Duration, Deck for more information about when and how you have played the tracks.

(4) Cover Artwork: Displays the Cover Artwork of the selected track in the Track List.

(5) Status bar: Displays the progress of track analysis, error messages, and the overall status of Traktor.

(6) Track List: Shows tracks depending on the source that is selected (folder, Playlist, search results or tag-based).

(7) Favorites: Provides direct access to favorite Playlists and favorite folders.