TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 integrated DJ system announced
August 17, 2010
TRAKTOR KONTROL S4, a state-of-the-art integrated DJ system, has just been announced by Native Instruments.
Based on ten years of digital DJing expertise, it features advanced performance capabilities and intuitive tactile control.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 combines a special version of the TRAKTOR PRO software with an advanced hardware controller, both developed in unison to give DJs of all genres unparalleled creative possibilities with supreme work flow and ease-of-use.
The full-featured controller combines a four-channel mixer section with ergonomically laid-out high-quality control elements and an integrated audio interface, all designed to professional specifications. All relevant functions including looping, cueing, effects control and track browsing are immediately accessible on the robust and portable hardware, while dynamic multi-colour backlighting, LED status displays and comprehensive level metering allow DJs to focus on their performance rather than on the computer screen.
The included TRAKTOR PRO S4 software offers the full feature set of TRAKTOR PRO, further expanded through powerful new performance functions and an optimised user interface that offers superior usability under all conditions. Two flexible Sample Decks can add up to eight simultaneous one-shot samples or beat-synced loops to the mix, opening up creative remixing and mash-up possibilities that go far beyond conventional DJing techniques. The unique Loop Recorder also allows DJs to capture and overdub audio loops from the live mix, cue signal or an external input on the fly, and drop them back into the mix at any time.
The dual touch-sensitive jog wheels on the KONTROL S4 hardware offer extremely precise and responsive deck control due to a new patent- pending electromagnetic technology, complemented through Native Instruments’ high-resolution NHL protocol that provides superior performance over conventional MIDI. The integrated low-latency 24bit/96kHz audio interface is based on the acclaimed AUDIO 4 DJ, and provides professional signal quality to match the most high-profile club systems. External time-code control via turntables and CD decks will be enabled through a future software upgrade. To accommodate touring DJs, a professional flightcase that doubles as an adjustable performance stand will also be available as an accessory for TRAKTOR KONTROL S4.
TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 will be available this winter for a suggested retail price of $999 / €899. The TRAKTOR KONTROL Case will be available at the same time for $189 / €169.
Novation intros Dicer: Cue point and looping control for the digital DJ
June 9, 2010
I hold my hands up because this isn’t strictly “synth”, but to be honest DJing is a secret passion of mine (I didn’t say I was good) and I see a lot of crossover between synth and DJing anyway. So here goes.
Novation has just introduced its Dicer solution for DJs. Developed with Serato Scratch Live, Dicer is a palm-sized bit of hardware that sits on the side of turntables, CDJs, mixer or laptop so it’s instantly available in a convenient location when you need it.
The Dicer site describes it:
Plug Dicer in, slot it on your turntable/CDJ, and you can instantly set cue points and use them to trigger ‘Hot Cues’. Or, flip Dicer into ‘Auto-Loop’ or ‘Loop Roll’ modes, to trigger loops, or ‘roll’ sections of the track to create climaxes, drops and glitchy breaks. Each ‘mode’ illuminates Dicer’s pads a different colour, so you can instantly see what mode the pads in, even in dark clubs and venues.
Dicer’s buttons can also ‘learn’ other software functions. So, you can assign different FX to the pads, or trigger samples over the top of your mix, or even browse tracks in your iTunes library!
Dicer was designed by Novation in collaboration with Ean Golden – DJ and curator of DJ Tech Tools. Ean came up with the concept of a controller that fits on the turntable, and his contribution has been crucial in helping Novation design and develop Dicer.
Good to see Novation continuing to launch innovative products.
Pacemaker creates demo video for its portable digital DJ system
April 2, 2009
If you’ve not come across Pacemaker portable deejaying system yet, this video will give you an introduction, and it’s even got some colourful characters dancing around to keep you company as you explore.
