New Traktor Controller from NI

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After years on the software side of DJing, it appears that Native Instruments is finally producing its own DJ controller. Read on for a video of Ritchie Hawtin using two of these DJ controllers in Berlin and more info on the release.

As usual, we can’t tell you everything we know about the product yet, but look at the video carefully and you can gather some good info.

THE EQUATION

He is using:

2 of the new controllers for FX and loops

+ 1 Maschine (for  sample triggering)

+ 1 analog mixer for levels and EQ

= A modular FX/transport controller  for Traktor Pro?

Normally Ritchie uses the Allen & Heath Xone 3D, and it looks like these two NI controllers may make a good replacement for the now aging Xone 1D. It might also be very useful for people with two deck controllers who need extra control over one more deck or the additional FX units in Traktor 1.2. Don’t hold your breath on a release date; this is an early teaser with no word on when it will hit shelves, so chances are high it won’t come out until some time next year.

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87 Responses to “New Traktor Controller from NI”

  1. Nanotek

    September 29th, 2009 at 10:24 am Quote

    I wish it is only half the price!
    I want them soon!
    Audio 8dj + external mixer + 2 new controller will be crazy!

  2. Martín

    September 29th, 2009 at 10:29 am Quote

    It looks like you don’t even need two! I would map it so the top eight knobs can toggle between controlling EQ and gain on decks A/B, EQ and gain on C/D, effects 1&2, and effects 3&4, with the rest controlling cue points, start/stop, etc.

  3. djmaxone

    September 29th, 2009 at 10:30 am Quote

    Where are the big arcade style button and jog wheels?

  4. SherpaPsy

    September 29th, 2009 at 10:30 am Quote

    Ack! More choices this newbie has to make? You had me convinced the VCI-100 SE (or Arcade) was the way to go with Traktor Pro! Seeing as its coming out in just about a month and I can’t afford anything just yet, I can wait ’til we hear more.

  5. Ean Golden

    September 29th, 2009 at 10:47 am Quote

    Ack! More choices this newbie has to make? You had me convinced the VCI-100 SE (or Arcade) was the way to go with Traktor Pro! Seeing as its coming out in just about a month and I can’t afford anything just yet, I can wait ’til we hear more.

    This is not really a controller that would replace your VCI-100 as you still need the mixer section. This would be more of something you get in addition to the VCI for additional decks loops, and otherwise.

  6. Tekki

    September 29th, 2009 at 11:24 am Quote

    Is still holding his mouth shut. :D

  7. Base

    September 29th, 2009 at 11:33 am Quote

    I don’t see the Audio 8 DJ on the table. So I hope these things have audio interfaces built in. I guess each one of these controlls 2 decks and that those 8 knobs on top are meant to control FX banks. So if you get 2 of these, plug them into your favourite 4 channel mixer, you have full control of all 4 decks and all 4 FX banks in Traktor. Except scratching. But it is farely obvious that this product is meant primarily for mix DJs. Nonetheless, scratch DJs will also have good use of it (loop triggering, effects etc.)

  8. anon

    September 29th, 2009 at 11:38 am Quote

    Looks like I’ll be needing more USB ports then, which speaking of them, is there a USB multiplug that has good drivers and provide bus power? Like for example, you plug the usb mutiplug to AC power and that AC power also juice the connected devices? My MB has 2 USB’s and 1 firewire are already full so if I want to add more stuff for fx or whatever…. what can ppl do?

  9. Wanted 100% working VCI-300 TSI - Reward Offered

    September 29th, 2009 at 11:47 am Quote

    gnah! :) Hate to say this but, as cool as the VCI-100 is, the VCI-100 is highly overrrated. I tried to pick one up used and everyone wants $500 for their beaten up units (and won’t budge on price), when u can still pick them up new for $650 (and know how beaten it is and by whom in the the futre). Add a sound card to that = $850 + DJTT firmware + DJTT Overlay + DJTT Knobs (if avail) = $950+ = might as well order one up from DJTT or ummmmmm lets think here; buy the NEW high precision lamborghini model with better everything (right out of the box) (with a cpl less buttons (but future fx expansion) for the same price? === VCI-300 + DTT VCI-300 TSI + Overlay + FX Controller/s + (Future Button Mods?) FTW!

  10. Anonymous

    September 29th, 2009 at 11:54 am Quote

    $500 for a VCI 100? I bought mine used for 325, and I’ve seen them new for 425. Where are you located.

  11. Wanted 100% working VCI-300 TSI - Reward Offered

    September 29th, 2009 at 11:54 am Quote

    Looks like I’ll be needing more USB ports then, which speaking of them, is there a USB multiplug that has good drivers and provide bus power? Like for example, you plug the usb mutiplug to AC power and that AC power also juice the connected devices? My MB has 2 USB’s and 1 firewire are already full so if I want to add more stuff for fx or whatever…. what can ppl do?

    = Powered USB Hub

  12. Wanted 100% working VCI-300 TSI - Reward Offered

    September 29th, 2009 at 11:57 am Quote

    btw forum search only works with one of the topmenu’s & none of the forum dl links for the VCI-300 tsi’s work for me (logged in or not)…

  13. Tekki

    September 29th, 2009 at 12:05 pm Quote

    Don’t hijack a ‘new controller blogpost’, visit the forum instead.

  14. Wanted 100% working VCI-300 TSI - Reward Offered

    September 29th, 2009 at 12:06 pm Quote

    $500 for a VCI 100? I bought mine used for 325, and I’ve seen them new for 425. Where are you located.

    Hardly important where im am located. And a little late now. :) If the price diff btwn new and used it only a hun fifty. Which would u purchase? And I would still rather wait for a 100% working DJTT TSI (and hopefully overlay) (as promised?) for the VCI-300 and purchase a 2nd VCI-300 later down the line. (I would love a 2nd one already…but doesnt make sense with only 3 cuepoints per song in itch = lame)…anyway, regardless of where u live, VCI-100’s do not make much sense with current prices (USD included).

    Ean save us (VCI-300 owners) Pleeeeeeeze!!!! :D

  15. Ean Golden

    September 29th, 2009 at 12:29 pm Quote

    lets stay on topic please. For additional questions of requests about vci-300 mappings or other controllers that you suggest please contact us directly through the about page.

  16. Mijk van Dijk

    September 29th, 2009 at 12:30 pm Quote

    I guess, controllers are now like computers: the moment you buy them they are dated already. But what can you when you need one anyway…. ;-)

  17. AJ ORB/T

    September 29th, 2009 at 12:32 pm Quote

    DJ TECHTOOLS VCI 100 ARCADE REVOLUTION !!!!!!!!!!!!

  18. backaw

    September 29th, 2009 at 1:25 pm Quote

    lets stay on topic please. For additional questions of requests about vci-300 mappings or other controllers that you suggest please contact us directly through the about page.

    cluckcluck?

  19. MisterMoleyMole

    September 29th, 2009 at 1:49 pm Quote

    Still using Traktor 3 i see.

  20. Lance Blaise

    September 29th, 2009 at 2:17 pm Quote

    FUKC!!!!!

  21. cerebrix

    September 29th, 2009 at 2:49 pm Quote

    Still using Traktor 3 i see.

    but what is he using on the left computer by the mashine controller? that ableton? i cant tell

  22. Anonymous

    September 29th, 2009 at 3:29 pm Quote

    but what is he using on the left computer by the mashine controller? that ableton? i cant tell

    looks like its just the maschine software…I can see a sequencer ish type thing at the bottom right of that laptop…

    and a word of advice. I like you, love Richie Hawtin, but don’t go out and buy what he uses only cuz he uses it. Get what you think will work for you, learn it, learn it so that if you play drunk you know it like the back of your hand…then push it every further. Same goes for buying software or hardware. It’s too tough and expensive to keep up with dj tech releases…know what you have and everything will fall into place.

  23. Anonymous

    September 29th, 2009 at 3:34 pm Quote

    lets stay on topic please. For additional questions of requests about vci-300 mappings or other controllers that you suggest please contact us directly through the about page.

    translation: we sell vc-100’s here; and would prefer not to answer such questions publicly?

  24. Rolf Siebelink

    September 29th, 2009 at 3:34 pm Quote

    Still using Traktor 3 i see.

    Still using Traktor 3 i see.

    Take another look at 0:43. He’s using Traktor Scratch Pro, not Traktor 3.

    I was actually thinking about a buying a Faderfox DX2 (http://faderfox.de/html/dx2_product_page.html as an additional fx/looping unit for my external Scratch Pro set-up but maybe I should wait a bit more as this device is meant as a clear competition for the DX2.

    On the other hand I’m not overly impressed by what I see. This device is rather clunky compared to the Faderfox DX2 while not giving significantly more buttons/knobs in return. I’m very curious what the price will be. Anything over 300 euros will be too much, imho.

  25. fa5ky

    September 29th, 2009 at 3:55 pm Quote

    I wonder how much its going to cost. If its 2-300 i would pick one up to use with my time code vinyls and external mixer.

  26. Ean Golden

    September 29th, 2009 at 4:01 pm Quote

    lets stay on topic please. For additional questions of requests about vci-300 mappings or other controllers that you suggest please contact us directly through the about page.

    translation: we sell vc-100’s here; and would prefer not to answer such questions publicly?

    Translation: This post has nothing to do with his desire to have me create a VCi-300 mapping so lets please discuss it elsewhere. Not to mention I have already responded in several other posts to that same persons questions and comments. We are working on 300 mapping and mappings for numerous other controllers as well. Do you have any idea how many hours it takes to develop one of these things and then support it? Its like a mini-software release. We have 2 employees.

  27. Double DutchDj

    September 29th, 2009 at 4:35 pm Quote

    So glad this vid popped up before BPM show this weekend, thats a bit of money spared until this little gem comes out, such a tease tho!

    Looks they’ve smartly made this to cater for a number of possibilities, but geared towards a hardware looking version of two fx units ( line’s of adjacent rotary’s and buttons jus like the software fx layout )

    Certainly won’t be getting a 1D for fx now, before hand, well for me, it was the only controller that sort of gave you all the controls, plus obvious layout for four fx units. Great solid unit, but it’s cramped together rotary’s and tiny buttons don’t really allow for really fast use.

    A battle scratch mixer has to be built like a tank and have a clear un cluttered layout to allow for proper rapid use. A battle mixer styled controller for all four fx units would be sooo sweat. Look’s to me NI have answered half my dream’s, shame there’s no faders tho.

    Finger’s crossed this is the dawn of the small modular midi unit era! different joinable units that individually cater towards all different aspects of Traktor, and sort of look like there software counterpart.

    N.I re-Traktor-able’s

  28. NZ

    September 29th, 2009 at 5:08 pm Quote

    its bigger than Stanton SCS.3M
    and will not be cheaper

    why should we buy it? i dont see a reason)

    they should! make a VCI100 alternative with fx sections.

    or, MY DREAM: multitouch tablet with traktor) direct access to ANY function!

  29. Mr. Whiskers

    September 29th, 2009 at 6:55 pm Quote

    Agreed, please stay on topic guys. There are other places to discuss the VCI-300.

  30. the shmobletons

    September 29th, 2009 at 6:55 pm Quote

    i do like this idea… and i do like this modular idea too BUT…

    at the rate companies are putting out controllers nowadays i feel like i should just wait because it is only a matter of time until we see a “be all end all” controller for traktor. im talking buttons, faders, knobs, jogs, touchstrips, the works all corespoding to every aspect of traktor: transport, cue points, loops, pitch, scratch, beat jumps, effects, library search, PLUS knobs and faders for volume and eqs (either internal or external), pretty much everything you could ever want to do in traktor, and for all 4 decks (!!!). all fit with a quality traktor certified soundcard.

    i give it <2 years

  31. Anonymous

    September 29th, 2009 at 7:20 pm Quote

    I was actually just wondering why the hell NI hasn’t released their own controller. They have to know better then anyone that it can be frustrating not to be able to have control over literally all aspects of traktor (which is a lot) I like the idea behind the new controller, it’s slim and it’s height is mixer/turntable height. I’ve gotten into DVS big time and sort of left VCI behind due to size on table. That controller would fit perfectly beside either of my turntables.

  32. Tomii

    September 29th, 2009 at 7:30 pm Quote

    So do we have a name for this thing?

  33. duerr

    September 29th, 2009 at 7:50 pm Quote

    i don’t get the hype… just another controller with a couple knobs and buttons… i’ll stick with my UC-33e ;P

  34. cerebrix

    September 29th, 2009 at 7:59 pm Quote

    at the rate companies are putting out controllers nowadays i feel like i should just wait because it is only a matter of time until we see a “be all end all” controller for traktor. im talking buttons, faders, knobs, jogs, touchstrips, the works all corespoding to every aspect of traktor: transport, cue points, loops, pitch, scratch, beat jumps, effects, library search, PLUS knobs and faders for volume and eqs (either internal or external), pretty much everything you could ever want to do in traktor, and for all 4 decks (!!!). all fit with a quality traktor certified soundcard.

    why stop there? lets get a crown royal dispenser on that puppy too.

  35. djas

    September 29th, 2009 at 8:18 pm Quote

    NI release a Traktor controller so Xone:DX should be a Itch controller

  36. Jerome

    September 29th, 2009 at 8:24 pm Quote

    At least something that looks interesting (and perhaps affordable?) for a 4 channel setup (ok there is the A&H 4D also).

    For me, VCI-100 and other Vestax controllers are not an option, I do not want to switch between layout to control the 4 channels, I want A/B/C/D channels, start/cue/loops and decent effect knobs.
    For me, up until now, no manufacturer has yet come up with the ultimate Traktor controller. Shouldn’t be that difficult to mimic the Traktor interface though.

    I currently use Faderfox controllers which are very good, but a little bit tiny.

  37. Rob

    September 29th, 2009 at 9:02 pm Quote

    cool vid, but damn minimal house sucks… what happen to disco house at the club? or electro… or anything not dub or minimal… how boring.. ever heard of a verse/chorus/break, or vocals?..

  38. Anonymous

    September 29th, 2009 at 9:38 pm Quote

    For me, VCI-100 and other Vestax controllers are not an option, I do not want to switch between layout to control the 4 channels, I want A/B/C/D channels, start/cue/loops and decent effect knobs.
    For me, up until now, no manufacturer has yet come up with the ultimate Traktor controller. Shouldn’t be that difficult to mimic the Traktor interface though.

    I completely agree. let’s see a controller with 4 platters, sufficient ammount of knobs, faders and buttons to control all (or atleast most) the parameters and i’d be happy.

    Why isn’t NI releasing something like that instead of this piece of crap. Totally underwhelmed by this new product, nothing we haven’t seen before.

  39. duerr

    September 29th, 2009 at 9:38 pm Quote

    ^oops that was me. lol

  40. Rocky

    September 29th, 2009 at 10:20 pm Quote

    cool vid, but damn minimal house sucks… what happen to disco house at the club? or electro… or anything not dub or minimal… how boring.. ever heard of a verse/chorus/break, or vocals?..

    It takes all kinds. I actually think electro-house is quite boring. Disco-house is still around check out the scene in Chicago if you don’t agree.

  41. Anonymous

    September 29th, 2009 at 10:53 pm Quote

    This may sound nerdy but if you look closely at the top left corner of the controller it looks like it says Traktor. Anyone have any idea of when this will be released I can’t see it being forever if it’s just a midi controller.

  42. dj professor ben

    September 30th, 2009 at 12:24 am Quote

    I’ve been waiting to hear this for a while; it’s kind of a relief to finally hear it though like others here I think I’m less than overwhelmed. It looks like a good replacement for a faderfox dx2 with a built-in soundcard. Actual faders would be nice, not to mention jog wheels of some sort, but I guess the assumption here is you will play with an external mixer and probably a turntable. Which is cool but I was hoping for something more like a VCI-100 SE but with knobs for everything you need all in the right places (and a built in sound card). One can keep dreaming I guess. The other thing is, Ean has really changed the game with the VCI SEs – any controller that has regular rubber pad-like buttons, even ones with pretty blinkenlights, my reaction is pretty much, Meh…. If it doesn’t have super-resilient buttons that I just want to flick, tap, and mash over and over again, what’s the point?

    I’m not saying I wouldn’t get one if the price is right — put this out for a couple face cards and I’ll definitely try it out — but I’m guessing this is going to be closer to 6 or 7 bills if not more. I

  43. Nanotek dj

    September 30th, 2009 at 12:24 am Quote

    This may sound nerdy but if you look closely at the top left corner of the controller it looks like it says Traktor. Anyone have any idea of when this will be released I can’t see it being forever if it’s just a midi controller.

    It looks like you don’t even need two! I would map it so the top eight knobs can toggle between controlling EQ and gain on decks A/B, EQ and gain on C/D, effects 1&2, and effects 3&4, with the rest controlling cue points, start/stop, etc.

    I suppose the controllers are for control 4 fx sections and loops, jumps and cue points for all the four channels. The EQ section is controlled by external mixer, so u need a 4 output soundcard like audio 8dj

  44. dj professor ben

    September 30th, 2009 at 12:28 am Quote

    P.S. Bastard. Everyone else wants a glimpse at just one of these things, and this guy already has *2* of them. :P

    So do we have a name for this thing?

    How about “the hawt”?

    Ow! What was that for?

  45. rdej47

    September 30th, 2009 at 12:31 am Quote

    I don’t think it’ll be that expensive. Maschine is 600 with a solid controller and dedicated software. This controller I could see being 300 tops I hope. Anything more then that is too much for a controller that is more or less an add on and not a stand alone Traktor Controller like the VCI.

  46. silvision

    September 30th, 2009 at 3:32 am Quote

    i need them! :) give me give me give me ………. :P

  47. MuGu

    September 30th, 2009 at 4:33 am Quote

    I only see a USB, pretty cool by the way, coming out of the controller so I think it will only be midi controller not audio…

    Looks interesting…

    Anyone knows which USB cables is using??

  48. Steve - London

    September 30th, 2009 at 5:54 am Quote

    Can’t wait!! Been hanging on for a controller made by NI before making the jump to Traktor Studio…. Good times!

  49. ToS

    September 30th, 2009 at 6:06 am Quote

    interesting…

  50. Fickala Musoterual

    September 30th, 2009 at 6:20 am Quote

    nothing really new here. looks like a modded faderbox with ni stickers. a 4 decker would be nice..what happend to the cool and fun platters?

  51. Tripnotic

    September 30th, 2009 at 6:23 am Quote

    I guess most DJs would love to see a complete controller which incorporates a mixer section and two deck control sections preferably with jog wheels. It is not very practical to carry three to four controller pieces along with your laptop.

    I wish NI makes something like Xponent made specifically for Traktor. Something like Xone:4D, but without the high price. NI has an unprecedented position on the market and I don’t understand why they don’t use it.

    For example, Akai Pro made theit APC40 for a seamless integration with Ableton Live. We need something with the same practical value for Traktor – a hardware interpretation of the Traktor interface.

  52. DJ Chris

    September 30th, 2009 at 6:34 am Quote

    there is already a great controller out there with more functions, and certainly cheaper than that one.

    DJ-TECH KONTROL ONE
    http://kontrolprodj.com/content/view/19/1/

    and sold for less than 299 USD or 359 with the freight delivered to your home.

    The jog is solid, and there are some post of that forum saying that it is too cheap for what it is …
    that can be easily confirmed , as Dj-Tech is a chinese brand name with European engineer, which is in a way similar that the NI controller, which must be made in China too.

    NI controller seems great anyway, if price is more than 300 USD, great sucess, otherwise, buy quickly a KONTROL ONE , with touch sensitive jog and led pot !!!

    Ean, do you want i send you one to get a real post, without a negative mind … as after all, one day you can work for us.

  53. Anonymous

    September 30th, 2009 at 6:51 am Quote

    Ack! More choices this newbie has to make? You had me convinced the VCI-100 SE (or Arcade) was the way to go with Traktor Pro! Seeing as its coming out in just about a month and I can’t afford anything just yet, I can wait ’til we hear more.

    As a newbie, and I now it’s pricey and people here may disagree, but if you’re just doing bedroom-style dj’ing and you want something with an excellent layout, I’d go for the M-Audio Torq Xponent. There is .tsi for Traktor available on the forums.

    I use mine for friends parties and mucking about at home. The thing I love most about it is, although it’s big, it’s actually quite light. It has excellent layout for loops and effects and I’ve mapped it also quite nicely for beatjumping as well. The coloured back-lighting is super helpful. Don’t bother even installing Torq DJ software, just download the TSI’s for Traktor and you’re away.

    Only limitation is it’s only 2 decks, but personally I think its a great combination mixer/controller if you aren’t doing heavy-duty gigging.

  54. Mike

    September 30th, 2009 at 6:52 am Quote

    Ack! More choices this newbie has to make? You had me convinced the VCI-100 SE (or Arcade) was the way to go with Traktor Pro! Seeing as its coming out in just about a month and I can’t afford anything just yet, I can wait ’til we hear more.

    As a newbie, and I now it’s pricey and people here may disagree, but if you’re just doing bedroom-style dj’ing and you want something with an excellent layout, I’d go for the M-Audio Torq Xponent. There is .tsi for Traktor available on the forums.

    I use mine for friends parties and mucking about at home. The thing I love most about it is, although it’s big, it’s actually quite light. It has excellent layout for loops and effects and I’ve mapped it also quite nicely for beatjumping as well. The coloured back-lighting is super helpful. Don’t bother even installing Torq DJ software, just download the TSI’s for Traktor and you’re away.

    Only limitation is it’s only 2 decks, but personally I think its a great combination mixer/controller if you aren’t doing heavy-duty gigging.

  55. Jack Brofield

    September 30th, 2009 at 8:14 am Quote

    According to a similar post on FutureMusic.com, Hawtin is running Ableton on the second computer, but they think it’s only a matter of time before he starts using the Maschine software…

  56. Anonymous

    September 30th, 2009 at 9:03 am Quote

    cool move from NI , but i would like to see a all in one controller with 2 jogs , a mixing desk and effect controls …
    because there is no point copying the 1D controller from AH …

  57. Marvelous Mixin Miguel

    September 30th, 2009 at 10:00 am Quote

    Vestax is also coming out with a new controller the TR-1(vcm-400).
    This thing looks great. You could control 4 desks.

    The only thing missing is the cross fader & jog wheels.

    The Jog wheels are a thing of the past for me.
    I’m not a scratch dj so I don’t need the jog wheels.
    If you like to scratch you might not like the TR-1.

  58. Bios

    September 30th, 2009 at 10:33 am Quote

    I think that a proper controller for controling traktor while still using external mixer is a good thing. There aren’t so many.

    Personally, I really think that if they can expose the traktor richness of two decks plus two fx bank in one controler that is more “live action” oriented than the 1D, they will score. I am using the MPD32 right now, and even though I managed to make a lot of features available directly in the layout, I am not so happy with it.

    Regarding jog wheels or scratch compliant controllers, I think that if you are interested in scratch, then nothing beats a pair of SL1200 or even a pair of CDJs. Not that I am into scratch, but I have yet to see a midi controller that reproduces the feeling of real sources, even though it must be possible.

    Regarding pitch control and so forth, I think that when you play “stable beat” music, beat gridding is the way to go. Sure it takes time to set up, but you are some much more creative. I have mixed on three sls for more than ten years and I think I got it quite right by then, but now, I am having so much fun – as the dancefloor does – doing live reedits, quickly dropping small parts of other tracks, mixing four tracks at once, reediting, that I would not want to go back the old school way.

    Regarding the external mixer mode, well it is a question of taste, but I just love my DJM800 and it would take a very solid and features packed midi controller for me to drop it.

    So in my opinion they really scored on this one, at least if all the decks features are accessible directly from the controller.

    What I would like to see now is a tiny controller that would be dedicated to playlist browsing and controlling the common features of traktor (as snap mode, bpm control mode).

  59. Ean Golden

    September 30th, 2009 at 10:50 am Quote

    The Jog wheels are a thing of the past for me.
    I’m not a scratch dj so I don’t need the jog wheels.
    If you like to scratch you might not like the TR-1.

    Dont forget that jog wheels are good for a lot more than just scratching.

    with midi mapping they are actually very powerful controllers for other creative uses. case in point?

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Anb1JVob6fc&feature=channel_page

  60. Armada

    September 30th, 2009 at 12:44 pm Quote

    According to a similar post on FutureMusic.com, Hawtin is running Ableton on the second computer, but they think it’s only a matter of time before he starts using the Maschine software…

    He does use the Maschine software and he’s spoken at length about it in some interviews. He’s Running Maschine as a plugin in Ableton which is then midi-synced with Traktor.

  61. DJ Kenton

    September 30th, 2009 at 12:51 pm Quote

    Ack! More choices this newbie has to make? You had me convinced the VCI-100 SE (or Arcade) was the way to go with Traktor Pro! Seeing as its coming out in just about a month and I can’t afford anything just yet, I can wait ’til we hear more.

    As a newbie, and I now it’s pricey and people here may disagree, but if you’re just doing bedroom-style dj’ing and you want something with an excellent layout, I’d go for the M-Audio Torq Xponent. There is .tsi for Traktor available on the forums.

    I use mine for friends parties and mucking about at home. The thing I love most about it is, although it’s big, it’s actually quite light. It has excellent layout for loops and effects and I’ve mapped it also quite nicely for beatjumping as well. The coloured back-lighting is super helpful. Don’t bother even installing Torq DJ software, just download the TSI’s for Traktor and you’re away.

    Only limitation is it’s only 2 decks, but personally I think its a great combination mixer/controller if you aren’t doing heavy-duty gigging.

    I’ve used mine for over 2 years now doing 4-5 nights a week. I would call that heavy duty gigging and it’s still going strong. I just wish it had 4 decks and better platters.

    Back on topic I don’t thing the new NI controller has enough buttons. I’m using maschine for loops, cues, etc. and I have all 8 pages for control over 4 decks. Even with 2 of these units the maschine still seems a better value.

  62. Baptiste

    September 30th, 2009 at 12:54 pm Quote

    I’m still waiting for a single player turntable that would be afordable and only midi.. like a cheap EKS otus, with no soundcard and made just for traktor…

  63. Michielygil

    September 30th, 2009 at 1:07 pm Quote

    Haha, look at the hijacking of this blogpost… First some dude wants VCI 300 mods and then there’s DJ Chris again plugging some djtech-stuff….

    I think it’s about time to moderate these blogposts Ean.

    On topic: I’m not at all impressed with this new controller. I’m not trading in my VCI 100 unless there’s a HID-based controller coming along with good jog wheels and the same (or even better) mapping flexibility of a vci 100. And if I want extra knobs, faders, etc I’ll use one of the Nano’s.

    A modular build up might be nice, but soon we’ll need a fraking van to go to clubs…

  64. Computer Paul

    September 30th, 2009 at 1:20 pm Quote

    I use a radium 49 exclusively to do my mixes (though I don’t play out anymore). I’m an old school Chicago style mixer. I want 16 knobs and 8 faders at least. I’m definitely into looping disco, a capella, house, techno, and breaks and then just raging on the efx with everything flying. It is truly the stuff o dreams. I’m definitely looking for this kind of innovation.

    For the noobs out there: get te cheapest midi controller you can with as many knobs and faders as possible. Make your own midi map and the sky is the limit. You really don’t need anything fancy to be able to do incredible thigs with traktor. I’m always experimen ting with my midi mappngs to figure out new ways to freak out my music even more. don’t be afraid to lift up the hood and be creative and unique. Traktor is the magic way more than a fancy controller (but if ever make real money from my records or gigs I am so Getting the arcade).

  65. dj professor ben

    September 30th, 2009 at 2:30 pm Quote

    I’m still waiting for a single player turntable that would be afordable and only midi.. like a cheap EKS otus, with no soundcard and made just for traktor…

    Why? If you want to go that route, what’s the advantage of a MIDI-only turntable over, say, a turntable?

  66. Anonymous

    September 30th, 2009 at 4:33 pm Quote

    The xone dx controller looks interesting too …

  67. djerikt

    September 30th, 2009 at 5:09 pm Quote

    This controller does look pretty cool, but Stanton, Faderfox, and MAudio have similar products. My M-Audio Trigger Finger has buttons and knobs, and Im still changing up my .tsi for fx & loop control.

    I’m still waiting for a single player turntable that would be afordable and only midi.. like a cheap EKS otus, with no soundcard and made just for traktor…

    +1! I would totally get one of those. The benefits over an actual turntable are huge. I can’t carry a 1200 in my bag, no needles to get old and replace, should cost about a third of the price, get my scratch on with something bigger than a jog wheel, dont need timecode setup,

  68. dj professor ben

    September 30th, 2009 at 5:15 pm Quote

    The benefits over an actual turntable are huge. I can’t carry a 1200 in my bag, no needles to get old and replace, should cost about a third of the price, get my scratch on with something bigger than a jog wheel, dont need timecode setup,

    I hear ya if that’s all the case. Problem is the solutions we’ve seen (the EKS, the SCS) are about as heavy as a turntable and even more expensive. The needles are nice to get rid of, but the benefit of a turntable is actually being able to spin old fashioned vinyl when you want it … Anyway if someone does develop a cheap light midi turntable I suppose I’ll be taking a second look myself too. But if it actually feels like a cheap light MIDI controller I’d just as soon have an actual deck there or go with one of the usual jogwheel solutions.

  69. dj professor ben

    September 30th, 2009 at 5:17 pm Quote

    For the noobs out there: get te cheapest midi controller you can with as many knobs and faders as possible. Make your own midi map and the sky is the limit. You really don’t need anything fancy to be able to do incredible thigs with traktor.

    Excellent advice – the real power here is in the software; it doesn’t matter how fancy your controllers are in the end; it’s the software that is doing the heavy lifting.

  70. Fatbat

    September 30th, 2009 at 9:49 pm Quote

    I posted up in the NI forums awhile back the desire for a NI dedicated Traktor controller.

    IMO it should be laid out exactly like the software with the exact same buttons and knobs and sliders. 4 fx units at the top, 4 band A&H Xone style EQ with kill switches, toggle for the menu controls, etc. etc. etc. Like a VCI-100 but with the exact same layout as the software.

    Leave enough room for the DJTT guys to put in arcade buttons and we have a winner I think.

  71. Ian Cairns

    October 1st, 2009 at 2:04 am Quote

    ok now i’m excited!! engadget.com are saying its gonna be about $200ish!!!

    http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/30/native-instruments-working-on-a-200-ish-traktor-controller-bli/

  72. Turntable Terrorist

    October 1st, 2009 at 2:16 am Quote

    Hawtin is a luck B*stard ^^
    Hope the come soon. I Use the VCI-100SE + UC 33. Working sweat with 4 Decks, but does not look sooo good togehter. This NI Controller fits the Picture a lot more. Cant wait to see what this NI really can do. $200 would be a nice price. If so, i would buy 2 hrhr. Hurry up NI ^^

  73. Eurodj

    October 1st, 2009 at 5:43 am Quote

    Holy Crap!!!…..Xone DX?!?!?!? Hmm seems like a good idea, dont think at that price itll be like 700-800 in the states i believe. I think it is a good idea seems veru professional grade, too bad i just bought a vci-100 on ebay and got an audio2 to compliment my mobile setup but i wouldve loved to have gotten one of these as i already have a 1d and 2d to go with my xone62. I think it isnt so bad considering if it doe dgo for that price you get full itch software not that it matters as id use it with Traktor, high grade sound card which if its like my 2d it is good and worth at least 200-300 and the great A&H quality witht he knobs and faders i dont see why anyone would diss a XONE:DX heck i want one just cant really convince myself to get one unless i start selling some of my gear casue really: VCI-100(300 on Ebay)+Firmware(35)+Overlay(20)+SE knobs(35)+Arcade mod(who knows) or you can Get a DJTT ones and stil be missing sound card and software, it doesnt seem like a bad deal really, i just think its missing a bit more buttong and knobs for traktor but nothing a small nano cant fix for 50-60 bucks and i already own two of em. Hmmm,, maybe i should sell my vci…heheheheh

  74. Eurodj

    October 1st, 2009 at 5:45 am Quote

    ok now i’m excited!! engadget.com are saying its gonna be about $200ish!!!

    http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/30/native-instruments-working-on-a-200-ish-traktor-controller-bli/
    At that price im all over one just t check it out!!!!

  75. Eurodj

    October 1st, 2009 at 5:51 am Quote

    NI is planning on taking over the controller market with these for sure if they come anything under 300 its a done deal for most djs, i see a lot of gear being sold soon…..Im sure illl be getting on them like i said at least one will be in my setup to compliment my current gear to control those extra fx and more.

  76. Anonymous

    October 1st, 2009 at 6:55 am Quote

    Will it have an replacement for the audio 8 built in ?

  77. redvoid

    October 1st, 2009 at 11:46 am Quote

    Looks like a NI remake of the Allen & Heath Xone1D/Xone2D sidebar modules, and judging by the plastic look of the Allen & Heath Xone:DX midi control surface, this thing looks superior in build quality, hence giving the controllerist DJ more respect in the booth, over the toy-like appearance of so many other units.

  78. mateo

    October 1st, 2009 at 6:56 pm Quote

    Will it have an replacement for the audio 8 built in ?

    I highly doubt it, and I don’t think it would be a good idea; keeping things modular makes things cheaper.

  79. Sean Linman

    October 3rd, 2009 at 6:40 pm Quote

    Hi guys, I’ve jsut came back from the BPM show in Birmingham,UK and I did try my best at extorting some info from NI about this controller….

    …they did say its gonna be released January time and will cost around £200 in the UK….that’s as far as I’ve got.

  80. Sean Linman

    October 3rd, 2009 at 6:41 pm Quote

    Hi guys, I’ve jsut came back from the BPM show in Birmingham,UK and I did try my best at extorting some info from NI about this controller….

    …they did say its gonna be released January time and will cost around £200 in the UK….that’s as far as I’ve got.

  81. Sean Linman

    October 3rd, 2009 at 6:42 pm Quote

    Hi guys, I’ve jsut came back from the BPM show in Birmingham,UK and I did try my best at extorting some info from NI about this controller….

    …they did say its gonna be released January time and will cost around £200 in the UK….that’s as far as I’ve got.

  82. josh@firestorm

    October 3rd, 2009 at 11:48 pm Quote

    over at the engadget blog the other day, there were saying that an insider at NI has said this new bit of kit will run around the $200 USD mark.

  83. gabriel

    October 8th, 2009 at 8:57 am Quote

    cool vid, but damn minimal house sucks… what happen to disco house at the club? or electro… or anything not dub or minimal… how boring.. ever heard of a verse/chorus/break, or vocals?..

    i was actually thinking. wow richie has been using the same little formulas for ten years. no one is paying attention to the controllers hes using .. but that tension drum roll and the drop he puts out makes people scream.

  84. Darkstuff

    October 9th, 2009 at 5:01 pm Quote

    This controller looks awesome!!! saves carrying decks around with well impressed does anyone know what it is called?

  85. hi_Dub

    November 4th, 2009 at 8:07 am Quote

    does anybody know where to get those pretty green glowing cables?

  86. oskar

    December 15th, 2009 at 12:13 pm Quote

    Yeah i also wanna know where to buy those cables, slick lookin’!

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