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GlobalSound Review of the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4
The Traktor Control S4 is the world's first software and hardware DJ system and is available at GlobalSound. The all in one software/ controller/ audio interface is based on sound and reliable Native Instruments technology.
GlobalSound now has the full review. It has fully integrated four channel mixer. It has 24 bit 96 killahertz sound card built inside the the hardware, the traktor Pro S4 software as well as new sample decks and loop recorder.
Having the four channel mixer allows you to run four decks. Each channel has ias own deidicated 3 Band EQ as well as its own dedicated filter which we, at GlobalSound, think is awesome.
Hardware/Software Integration
The Kontrol S4 is inovative as it is the first 4-deck controller by Native Instruments to is specifically designed for the Traktor Pro platform which is very popular product at GlobalSound.
The Pro S4, which is on sale at GlobalSound, has a greyscale aesthetic which improves the visibility and has an easier to use master clock section.
One of the best features of this Native Instruments product (GlobalSound offer many Native Instruments products) are the two sample loop decks that can stand in for the 3rd and 4th track decks. The loop recorder also allows for layered recording which greatly enhances live improvosation.
The Kontrol S4 can also be used as a MIDI controller for other software, but 30 times more data transfer than MIDI is employed when the NHL protocol communicates with the S4 software. GlobalSound also offer many other MIDI controllers.
Hardware
Surprisingly the unit only weighs about 3.3 kilograms despite the size of the unit. The unit is highly durable and transporting it around is easy. It would be advised by GlobalSound to purchase the protective gear that is available for this product too to protect your investment when going to gigs.
The unit comes with sleek LED meters which indicate the pre-fader level for each channel. The filters and EQ sound amazing and they both have great high resolution action.
Jog Wheel
The jog weel is ideal for scratching. the top plates are touch sensitive and switch activated, so scratching with them allows accurate timing when releasing. The wheels are high resolution, with incredible responsiveness.
The jog wheel's outer rims are rubberized and this provides great grip for tempo bulding. If you want meticulous tempo bulding then the magnetized resistance on the Kontrol S4 jog wheel is for you.
GlobalSound Review Pros: Moves beyond emulating a traditional DJ setup to embrace new techniques and live remixing. Fully-featured Traktor Pro S4 software with new Sample Decks and loop recorder. MIDI compatibility for third-party gear, but much higher resolution control over Traktor Pro S4. Two analog inputs. Excellent sound quality.
GlobalSound Review Cons : No discount for licensed Traktor Pro users. USB bus power greatly reduces LED brightness. No group saving of sample sets. Version 1.0 not compatible with DVS systems (NI says that is coming soon).
GlobalSound Review of the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4