Traktor Pro 3 is coming, and the S4 controller is getting 'Haptic Drive' jogwheels

News
By
published

NI's DJ line is set for an overhaul

NI’s DJ mixing application, Traktor Pro, is set to be updated to version 3, bringing new versions of the S2 and S4 controllers along for the ride.

The software is more of a refinement than a significant overhaul. It now has a flatter and more modern interface design that feels a little cleaner than previous versions. Under the hood it benefits from Elastique 3 timestretching, and NI promises improved sound and stability.  

The controllers, meanwhile, have both been redesigned to suit the new look of the software. Both controllers gain updated pads, along with a new Mixer FX section for quickly manipulating the software. The S2 has enlarged jog wheels, which NI claims offer improved sensitivity.

Of most interest, though, are the new ‘Haptic Drive’ jogwheels that are added to the S4. These are high-torque motorised platters which offer a high level of tactile responsiveness for beat matching, adjusting beat grids and scrolling through tracks.

It’s difficult to explain exactly what these are like in use, but suffice to say we’ve had our hands on them and the technology seems really impressive.  

Traktor Pro 3 is set to drop soon priced at $99/£89/€99, with the S2 arriving at the same time and the S4 following on 1 November. The S2 is due to be priced $299/£239€299, while the S4 will be priced at $899/£719/€899.  

Get the full lowdown on the Native Instruments website.

Don't miss:  NI updates Massive, Traktor, Kontakt, Maschine Mikro and more

Ben Rogerson
Ben Rogerson
Deputy Editor

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.