Native Instruments Traktor S4 MK3 5-stars Reviews

very good

very good but unfortunately not compatible with djay pro which is my favourite DJ software

Very good quality

For my opinion the best controller for the Traktor

Perfection with a small mapping catch

I began my DJ pursuits as an enthusiast, with the reservation not to dive in headfirst on the flagship product. I picked up the TK S3, as it seemed to have enough of what I needed, with some room to grow. The problem was that I’ve been a (iPad) software DJ for a few years, and the skills I learned had taken me further than I had anticipated.

The only thing I had to learn was juggling 4 decks instead of 2. That happened quite rapidly, and I found myself missing the ability to control the deck FX units (mixer FX are great, if a little limited), and so I picked up the X1 Mk2 to augment the S3. That worked ok, but there was quite a bit of remapping that controller to get what I desired from it.

Approximately 6 weeks after I got the S3 and X1 combo, I caved and bought the TK S4 Mk3. THIS thing is EVERYTHING that I wanted in a deck controller. I LOVE IT, and wish that I had just sprung the extra money for it, from the beginning. Live and learn, I suppose.

The only disappointment I have with this unit is that the customization capabilities are limited, because it is not a MIDI controller, like it’s predecessors. The Mk3 is configured on the HID (human interface device) protocol.

This is a double edged sword. It is the reason the hardware does it’s job as a seamless controller so well. On the other hand, if you think you’re going to use this with Serato, VDJ, or any other DJ software that is not Traktor Pro [release number], you are in for a LOT of work.

In summary, this controller and software combo is the best Native Instruments has to offer, and I recommend it without hesitation to anyone who plans to do this as a serious hobby, or even a career.

That being said, if you are not fully invested in the Traktor Pro platform, I would suggest that you just buy another controller for the other software you utilize, unless you have an abundance of spare time to remap the TKS4 mk3 controller on your own. You can bring external controllers to Traktor, but Native has made it difficult to use this hardware with other software.

S4mk3 - The Greatest

The controller is very good, but I noticed that the place where the faders are located is erased very quickly. It is very suitable for my DJ setup and DJ performance. 5 Stars! Recommended!

Thank you!

An excellent product for both entry-level DJs and those who have been in this direction for a long time.

Quality products with sturdy housings and quality delivery of all control knobs.

It is also convenient for travel and is quite portable in the hands.

Thank you!

Best 4 channel controller for the price

I did a huge amount of research on every 4-channel controller on the market based on functionality, features, build, and FX. The only 4-channel controllers out there better than this are at a significantly higher price point: Denon Prime 4, Roland DJ 808, Pioneer DDJ RZ, Pioneer SX3 (Pioneer XJD-XZ isn't even a standalone 4-channel mixer). Way higher quality build than the (relatively flimsier) Pioneer DDJ FLX6, much more functionality than the Pioneer DDJ 1000 or Numark NV II. Quality and robustness of the hardware is really spectacular.

The only drawback anyone sites (look at any blogs and lists of controllers) about this controller is the underperformance it had upon launch. All of those bugs have now been fixed. I've had it now for 2 years and used it heavily and it's been flawless. Only reason you should pick something else is if you want an all-in-one system. If you don't, this is the controller for you.

quality fun

i had a s2 mk2 before, but this is on a whole other level. i dont use the tactile stuff. but the layout, build quality make me happy. sound is good.

only thing is that the software isnt that stable..

Amazing Product

I am using it in clubs , coffe bars and for many events outdor and it is so much durable. I highly recommend it!

Incredible piece of kit

I was stuck between the Numark NVII and this. If you've used CDJs or other standalone decks and gotten comfortable with them, only then will you understand the feeling of limitations in controllers. The Numark NVII does a good job of trying to be CDJs, the built in screens are just amazing and mean you can keep laser focused on mixing instead of taking your head up to look at a screen. However, Serato seem to be the EA of DJing software - "we have the features you want, but it will cost you extra on top of the original purchase!" You have to pay extra for DVS, FX & filter models in a lot of cases so do your research!

Contrast this to Native Instruments and Traktor. They give you everything, for one initial price. DVS, a massive selection of FX - assignable to 3 tracks for each deck and also a mixer FX section where you have 4 FX switches plus an additional filter switch! There are a nice few filter models which can be changed in Traktor, which I recommend. On first launch, the "EQ Selection" will be set to "Classic". Click the settings cog, go to the "Mixer" tab and experiment. I recommend the "P600" and the Filter Type "Ladder" for that natural resonance sweep without distortion.

The Haptic feedback technology is really, really interesting. The torque is just like a turntable, no joke, it is. However, I haven't gotten used to it enough to be able to truly judge it.

Finally - the unit is really well built, it just has a premium feel. The lighting is well balanced and the controls and commands are more intuitive as you continue to use it.

The only issue I have had so far is sometimes the mini-screen for the waveform and track information just stays saying Traktor until I turn the unit off and back on (while Traktor is running). Reproducible bug and I'm sure it will be solved in time.

It's an extremely honourable offering. I'm just bummed I didn't grab it for €759 before it rose in price to €899!

EDIT (1/10/22): The screen bug doesn't appear to have happened for a while. I have the option to send statistics and reports ON and I recommend you do too, otherwise it's slower for these problems to get fixed!

what an upgrade

just a top piece of kit

Traktor S4 MK3

The best controller from the best shop!!!

Great product

Having already used the S2 Mk3 purchased this and it really is a great bit of kit

Massive step up on the last version.

Most solid one they have built. Faders feel better. Buttons are better.

Combined with the latest Traktor Software, this out does the completion on both price and usability.

There maybe a downside to anyone who uses a subscription service for their music rather than owning the stuff.

Worth the money, the Taptic response on the jog wheels is superb, the motors feel strong and are as sensitive or as tough as you want to make them.

Struggled between this and the S8 as I use Technics decks as well.

Happy with the choice.

Excellent controller

Great sound and functionality. Very strong built. Been using it for 1 year and no problems. The knobs are much stronger and don't get loose like on the previous versions MK1 & MK2.

Just AWSOME

Great quality, like all Native Instruments equipment. Good quality knobs and controls. Very intuitive to use. I highly recommend.

Motorized Jog Wheels with Haptic Drive and much more

Very Good differences between MK2. Motorised Jog Wheels is very useful and fun. Didn't turn off since the day I start to play with this controller.

The channels meters much more detailed (3 yellows and one Red).

The quality sound is better then MK2.

DVS support included. Just use an Traktor Timecode Vinil with my turntables.

LCD display with the essentials for your mix.

Good construction material, more robust than the MK2.

USB port hub included in the controller for connecting other devices (in my case an F1).

Traktor 3 license included. I love the new key lock features, it seams to me that the sound become more "elastic".

Definitely a very good upgrade from MK2 (my previous controller).