Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 [ Exclusive First Look ] October/November 2011

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 [ Exclusive First Look ] October/November 2011

Native Instruments today announced TRAKTOR KONTROL S2, a versatile integrated DJ performance system that was designed to set a new professional standard in the two-deck category. Based on a compact version of the market-leading KONTROL S4 hardware, the KONTROL S2 provides a "2+1" setup with sample decks as well as comprehensive mixing and effect features, all based on the included full-featured TRAKTOR PRO 2 software.

To offer DJs a more portable alternative to the professional 4-deck TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 system, the KONTROL S2 is centered around a new compact controller hardware. It provides the same patent-pending high-resolution jog wheels, combined with ergonomic controls for cueing, looping and effects. The integrated 24bit/96 kHz sound card with its dual stereo outputs is based on the award-winning technology of the TRAKTOR audio interface range, and provides the same acclaimed sound quality with its supreme clarity and especially high output volume.

The two full-featured playback decks of the TRAKTOR KONTROL S2 are complemented by the versatile Sample Decks of the latest TRAKTOR PRO 2 software, which can add up to eight simultaneous one-shot samples or beat-synced loops to the mix. This effectively equips the KONTROL S2 system with a third channel that opens up a wide range of additional creative performance techniques beyond the typical two-deck paradigm in its product category.

TRAKTOR KONTROL 2 benefits from the same seamless bi-directional software-hardware integration as the KONTROL S4, featuring convenient plug&play configuration, dynamically backlit control elements and the high-resolution NHL protocol, for maximum efficiency both during the setup and the actual DJ performance.

Good
Very simple loop workflow involves 4 decks without bloating controls
Maintains the same professional mixer spacing of the S4 while trimming size
Can run without a power supply (USB powered)
Separate loop/sample volume knob provides dedicated volume for decks C/D

Bad
The filter knobs are gone
Missing DVS/Audio inputs
Lacks control over effects units 3 and 4

RELEASE INFORMATION
The data we have is that the controllers should be shipping in October. To help out our readers get them first, we have secured a very large batch of S2s that will be shipping promptly upon release.