New generation DJ controllers now have the combined functions of a player, mixer, and a software control mechanism, as well as many available connections for digital audio, to allow DJs to conveniently create their own high-quality beats and music.
Jan 31, 2014 Home › Forums › Digital DJ Gear › Is the Numark Mixtrack pro 2 compatible with traktor 2? This topic contains 1 reply, has 2 voices, and was last updated by tom cryonicangel 6 years, 1 month ago. Viewing 12 posts - 1 through 12 (of 12 total) Author Posts January 12, 2014 at 11:52 Continued.
What does a DJ controller do?
A full manual DJ setup is usually composed of the following separate components: a basic DJ controller (or another device that plays the audio), an audio interface that exports the audio to an external hardware and software, and a DJ software that provides sound effects and supports the controller with the mixing, aside from the DJ headphones and a good speaker system.
Over time, users found it to be more convenient to have a single device that already does all the playing, mixing, and sound controlling—and that’s where modern DJ controllers come in.
Integrated, all-in-one DJ controllers make it a lot easier for beginners and professionals to pull off a professional DJ set. They do everything from connecting two to four audio decks into the controller’s channels, giving any DJ easy access to different tracks for seamless mixing (with smooth transitions and matching beats between different audio channels) and customization (with the help of high quality equalizers, sound effects, and compatible DJ softwares) while enhancing the audio quality of your music for dance floor speaker systems.
You’ll find many different kinds of DJ controllers varying from a little more than $140 to almost $3,000, but they all typically include many of the same elements to help you deliver an amazing show.
Control Surface
The control surface, or the mixer, covers the biggest area on the controller and gives you full control over settings and software functions. They commonly feature the following elements:
Knobs – A DJ controller typically has multiple sets of knobs. The first set, which is also called Gain or Trim, serves the purpose of manually setting the sound level of its own audio channel, so you can make sure that all channels are of the same overall volume. The second set is usually composed of three knobs (treble/hi, midrange/mid, bass/low) for sound equalization. The rest includes the Booth or Monitor knob, for setting volume levels for the mix; the Master knob, for adjusting volume levels of the Master Out or final sound output; and the Cue knob, for adjusting the headphone volume.
Jog wheel – Also known as a job dial, shuttle dial, or shuttle wheel, the jog wheel is a type of knob, ring, or dial that can be used in order to increase or decrease the speed of your audio or video media when fine-tuning beats (beatmatching).
Pads – Controller pads are the square-shaped buttons usually made of soft, rubbery material. Some controllers replace all jog wheels with pads on the control surface, but are perfectly good for beatmatching, chopping vocals, layering decks on top of each other, slicing through tracks, adjusting the length of slices, enabling loops, or even “finger drumming.”
Faders – Sound signals travel through faders, which act like a faucet and can gradually increase or decrease the level of an audio signal with a horizontal or vertical slide of the knobs. DJs utilize crossfaders when transitioning from one audio track to another or when they want the crowd to hear both tracks, in which case the slider should be positioned in the middle.
Buttons – Buttons on the control surface are usually for selecting which channels you want to hear before bringing it to the floor (also called Cue Mix selection buttons).
Screens – More advanced and full-featured controllers have screens that indicate audio levels and other parameters, which give you more freedom to focus on the controller alone instead of staring at your laptop.
Ports – Audio and USB ports allow you to connect to your channels or give you direct connections to your audio files without an external player.
Audio Interface
Chances are you already know that how you hear audio from your headphones will differ from how your crowd will hear it from the sound systems, because your player or computer is not intended for high resolution output for music production.
The audio interface helps amplify and improve the sound output from your DJ controller or computer by preparing the audio input and ensuring that you get the best version of your music while sampling or recording from more than one source. It may be built into your controller or come as an external device. It may also have outlets for your headphones, computer, or any other sound processor.
External Hardware Control
Some DJ softwares use external devices—such as computer mice, keyboards, touchpads, or even tablet and smartphones—for control. However, it can be time consuming to select and go through menus using such devices, which is why highly integrated DJ controllers make things easier by providing full operational functions and configurations within the device.
The Best DJ Controllers of 2018
Numark Mixtrack 3 All-in-One Controller for Virtual DJ
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol F1 DJ Controller
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z1
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2
Allen & Heath XONE:K2 4-Channel Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2
Pioneer DDJ-SR 2-Channel Performance for Serato DJ
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2
Numark NVII Intelligent Dual-Display Controller
Pioneer Electronics RMX-1000-W Remix Station
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8
Pioneer Electronics DDJ-RZX Controller
Traktor Pro 2 Demo
Numark Mixtrack 3 All-in-One Controller for Virtual DJ, (Shop Now)
This Numark DJ controller was specifically designed for aspiring professional DJs, but is also one of the best DJ controllers for beginners. It has new and improved, high-resolution jog wheels, 16 multi-function performance pads, offers multiple FX manipulation, and includes the Prime Loops remix tool kit.
Choose this controller if: You want a trusted all-in-one controller for an affordable price.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol F1 DJ Controller, (Shop Now)
This Native Instruments Remix Decks controller has four volume faders, four dedicated filter knobs, and 16 colorful pads (which also replaces jog wheels) to give you complete control over slicing, looping, editing, and reconstructing audio samples.
It also works seamlessly with the Traktor Pro 2 software.
Choose this controller if: You work better with pads and are a big Traktor Pro fan.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z1, (Shop Now)
The Traktor Kontrol Z1 is a 2-channel mixer, controller, and sound card with a user-friendly work surface that gives full control over volume, sound equalization, effects, and even filters. This NI controller also offers advanced control over remix decks.
Choose this controller if: You want an affordable and compact controller to run Traktor Kontrol with while hooked up to your iPhone or iPad.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol X1 MK2, (Shop Now)
The Native Instruments X1 MK2 controller works with existing Traktor rigs. It can control Traktor FX units and control two decks at the same time. Thanks to its version update, it offers smoother, more precise control over sound effects and more.
Choose this controller if: You have older gear but want to make the most out of Traktor Pro.
Allen & Heath XONE:K2 4-Channel Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller, (Shop Now)
The Xone:K2 has a high quality 4-channel sound card that works with a wide range of DJ softwares, provides up to 171 MIDI commands across 3 layers, saves on computer USB ports by linking of multiple units using its X:LINK feature, allows you to create a customized layout, and even doubles as a stand.
Choose this controller if: You want both portability and high quality in a small MIDI DJ controller box.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2, (Shop Now)
Controllers Compatible With Traktor Pro 2
Despite its higher price tag, this all-in-one Traktor DJ controller is well-loved for its capability to work with Apple devices via its Lightning port. It uses the Traktor DJ app and offers dual hands-on decks with the coveted NI software. Oh, and it has more than 30 FX and can control up to 64 loops with its Remix Deck control.
Choose this controller if: You want iPhone or iPad capability and more FX choices.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2, (Shop Now)
The S4 MK2 is the upgraded and enhanced version of everybody’s favorite classic Native Instruments controller. It has no screen, but it’s well-built, ergonomic, and has iOS support.
Choose this controller if: You’re a 4-channel Traktor user but prefer manual jog wheels.
The Numark NV line was the first to give DJs the convenience of having a screen on their controllers and the second, upgraded version is well-loved for its slimmer size and more affordable price tag.
Aside from the integrated display, this controller offers a wide array of dedicated hardware controls for all of the most essential software functions.
Choose this controller if: You prefer to use the Serato software and focus on the controller instead of your laptop.
The compact RMX-100-W comes in a sleek pearl white body, which offers a refreshing and attractive alternative to the usual black. It boasts of its Scene FX section, where users can choose between five Build Up effects and five Build Down effects, aside from other sections that add a wide variety of unique sound effects.
Choose this controller if: Auto tune apps for windows. You want access to many additional built-in remix sound effects for better control of musical developments.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8, (Shop Now)
Regarded as the best flagship controller that provides the best Traktor integration, this top-of-the-line controller has screens that allow you to go laptop-free, and enables timecode use. While it has lesser jog wheels, this “smart” controller provides flexible standalone options for any serious DJ.
Choose this controller if: You want the most fully-featured and highly integrated controller in the market—and can afford it.
The Pioneer Electronics DDJ-RZX is a premium professional DJ controller that offers 4 channels, two full-sized jog wheels, three 7-inch touchscreen displays, mic output with special effects (Echo, Reverb, Pitch, or V-Tune), and many other additional functionalities and effects that can contribute to a spectacular full-length show or concert.
Choose this controller if: You have serious money to spend for a complete, professional controller set with plenty of add-ons.
Tips for Buying a DJ Controller
Now that you’ve checked out our best DJ controllers for 2018, you may be asking yourself this question: “What DJ controller should I buy?”
Before dropping your hard-earned cash on any of these controllers, you’ll want to make sure that it will actually be worth your money and time. After all, there’s no point in getting a controller that doesn’t fit your needs, as it will simply go unused and you’ll just end up buying one again.
Below are some of the main factors to consider when buying your own DJ controller:
Build Quality and Portability
You’ll want to make sure that your DJ controller is sturdy enough to hold up and last you for a long time. If you’re a mobile DJ who has to lug the controller around to perform at different venues, you’ll definitely want a portable and lightweight controller with durable knobs, pads, buttons, and jog wheels that you won’t have to replace right away.
Whether you’re looking for a controller for recreational or professional use, you may want to consider well-known brands (such as those mentioned above) to ensure that your controller has passed good quality standards for use and build.
Controls
Do you already have a set budget and a preferred brand, but unsure about which model to go for? You can consider the controller’s layout and available controls. Make sure that you can work with its arrangement comfortably and easily. As you progress in your craft, this is one factor that you should never overlook. After all, the best DJ controller for you is the one that you can work best with.
Software and Hardware Compatibility
Today’s controllers typically come with bundled software that has been tried and tested in terms of compatibility. Some DJs use other softwares, but unless you have significant experience in using a different software, you’re better off using the recommended software for a more seamless operation and optimum functionality.
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Compatible Controllers For Traktor Pro 2 Full
You’ll also want to make sure that its audio interface has the right amount of input and output ports, depending on your specific needs. This also greatly depends on whether you’re building a modular set up composed of separate devices or going for an all-in-one controller to make up a full DJ setup, so it’s best to plan ahead in terms of hardware needs.
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This topic has 1 reply, 2 voices, and was last updated 6 years, 3 months ago by .
Awrighty.Just got on the site tonight and instantly need a wee bit help.Been lookin at controllers and decided on the Numark.The reason i’m askin is it compatible with Traktor is because my mate uses it and av kinda got the jist of it you know so kinda wanna stick with what I know.All advice and comments mucho appreciated!!!!
You mean Traktor Pro 2?
Yes its compatible. All you need is a mapping and audio output settings, then it will work. Traktor is buggy sometimes, depends on your version.
Hey Scottyman,
Quite frankly, it sounds like you have minimal experience with Traktor yet. At this point pretty much the learning curve (and the deinvestment in what you already know) will be such that you could still easily switch. There is a big three (or four if you include Mixvibes Cross DJ which I think you should) and they all have their own strengths and weaknesses. More importantly there is no “best” software out there. What is a strength to one type of DJ is irrelevant for another and vice versa.
Going the route of buying a controller (for whatever reason), then deciding what software to use and finally looking at your workflow and the goals you want to achieve is going the wrong way, imho.
Define for yourself what you are trying to do, achieve with DJ-ing. What kind of DJ are you (bedroom, club, genre, mobile, house-party, etx.), are you into really technical stuff like scratching, live FX use and such. From this you can easily determine what your workflow needs to be like and what that means in terms of what you need and want from your DJ software. So that will be the first big choice to make. Compare them, play with test/trial versions if available and decide which fit best.
Now that you know what software you are gonna use (not just cause your m8 has it and you played with it a bit, but because you now have a good idea of WHY that particular software fits your needs best), the next is the bit of hardware to go with it. Take your workflow and wishlist and do the same exercise for a faceless controller. Effectively design what your ultimate controller would look like with your absolutele minimum requirement “must-have” features and what you would really like to have.
Then, and only then, start looking at controllers that are supported by your chosen software, come closest to your ultimate controller and – keeping an eye on available budget – try to get a hands on feel for your top two, max. three, choices. Make your final decision.
You have now made all the right moves to ensure that whatever your goal is, your gear matches what is needed to reach that goal. Obviously your goals may change, your workflow might change, you might find that things you thought were important are not and the other way around. You might find things missing that you didn’t know you needed when you made your initial choice, but which you found out in the process of practicing and growing your skills.
So, whatever you get now most likely won’t be the controller you’ll have forever. And the next one will even better fit your even more precisely formulated needs and wishes.
This is a fun process by the way. I had been DJ-ing a long time before fully stepping into the digital realm and I had played on just about any piece of analogue and lots of (semi)digital gear already. Still, I did just did what I suggested here and ended up with other software and hardware than I initially thought I wanted.
Now, years later, I still have the same controller, which has been a solid choice (for me). Last year I did decide that my choice for software (started with Traktor) was not for me, the most likely alternative (Serato, because of flexible beatgridding) was something I didn’t want because of the hard ties with certain hardware. I ended up with Mixvibes Cross which so far is working out nicely for me.
Bare in mind that it’s highly individual. YOU are the one that needs to feel comfortable with your kit. It’s not crazy expensive anymore (or doesn’t need to be anyway), but it’s not for free. And you don’t want to buy something to find it’s not what you need/want two months down the road.
So do yourself a favor, spend a saturday afternoon or evening doing the inventory and work from there, I can almost guarantee a happy ending :-).
Greetinx.
What can I say. I was on the phone with someone for a while, had some time to kill, rofl!
which one is better numark mixtrack pro numark mixtrack pro 2 numark n4 or pioneer wego/ergo. can u give an advice
Uhm … guess you figured reading that big wall of text was not something you felt like doing? Because it kinda answer the question why we can’t answer your question.
It’s not about which one is better, it’s about which one is better FOR YOU!
And that, my dear friend, is a question only you can answer.
So, please, read the big text earlier in this thread. Answer the question for yourself and I think you will find that the list of 4 controllers you mention will have grown shorter (as they all have their own strengths/weaknesses).
If you want to compare features, Phil’s excellent controller buyers guide over on the blog is the place to start!
Greeetinx.
You are welcome. And I know. But it pays to think before you pay imho 😀
I use a mixtrack pro 2 with traktor. It works great and it really pays to get comfortable with creating/editing your own mappings. For instance, I’ve mapped the top drumpads as VU-meters if they’re not doing anything else. You’ll never get functions like that in other software.
Just my $.02 as a fellow noob…. I have a Mixtrack Pro 2, and am looking to upgrade.  It is a wonderful tool for learning to DJ, and also should be great for house parties and smaller gigs, as it did this just fine for me.  The problem I’m having with the MTP2 arose at a recent gig, full dancefloor, PA cranked up pretty good, and I could not hear the cue for the life of me….  I haven’t got the best headphones, hope to fix that soon, and I haven’t gotten the best ears, but the same headphones get WAY TOO LOUD on my analog mixer, the issue is that the MTP2 is very quiet.  My suggestion, if you plan to eventually play out on the gear you get, look heavily into something with a more “pro” build quality.  Look into things like available cases/bags (have yet to find a hard case set up for the MTP2), decksavers being avail. for that model(if there was one for the MC2000 a couple months ago I would have bought both the MC2000 and the decksaver)  and things that will make a difference when it comes time to play out.   If you’re happy with a tool for learning, playing your first couple small gigs, and likely upgrading controllers down the road…. maybe keep looking at the Numark, otherwise, I would look at the NI controllers if you’re sure you want Traktor, or possibly Denon …. but I wouldn’t consider the MTP2 to be a gig worthy piece of kit, I love mine, but it’s just not up to par for taking out and about, or for using in a LOUD environment…. just my beginner views, let us know what you decide on….
What Controllers Are Compatible With Traktor
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