I just received mine today. What a great controller and the fact it comes with a full version of the Traktor software was an added bonus. I’m not a professional or anything or need 4 decks so this fit my needs perfectly.
5 years later update: Just did so as well today, and what a great news: With the release of Traktor 4 software, it's included with the controler! What a bang for the buck!
For mobile DJs, there's really nothing better than that sweet, sweet, S2. The key things about the S2 that matters to me and that makes it stand out from the Kontrol S4/S5/S8: This controller runs entirely off of USB, no need for power adapter like on the S4/S5/S8 or a power strip for your CDJs, mixer, etc... Relative to Rekordbox/Serato based controllers, the hardware includes full version of Traktor Pro 3 (no "lite" version, no free trial, etc) and is completely plug-and-play and it _feels_ like professional-grade hardware / audio gear - many times I've seen DJs on boiler room crushing it with the little doink S2. Traktor is amazingly flexible and allows you to connect any Midi controllers you want for more extensive functionality - for example, you can plug in a MidiFighter 3D, add the instant gratification modification to it, and have more access to the internal traktor effects than you would have from an S4 alone. With this controller and a Soundboks, you have a completely mobile DJ setup that is totally capable and completely portable without power.
When I was a teenager I learned to DJ on a numark DJ2go and the free version of virtual DJ that was gimped in so many ways. These kids will never know that struggle.
I can't make my mind up between this and the Pioneer DDJ 400. Any thoughts? One thing that looks interesting on the Pioneer is the keyboard mode on the pads. I suppose the other consideration is Traktor vs Rekordbox. Library preparation is of importance to me too, and Rekordbox has a mobile app for this but is it any good?
Seems to be a great controller. Not sure if it's better than DDJ400 for the price, but definitely a great option. I'm considering to change my Numark Platinum for this one since I always wanted to work with traktor
@David Erlstoke That's funny because I tried out the new S2 and bought the DDJ400. It's better looking and more capable than the new S2. I actually prefer the older version.
@@noahziegler3478 At least in Canada, it's not uncommon for DJ's to bring a small controller, especially when opening and not headlining. Small clubs rarely have their own equipment and often rent when they book someone who actually has a rider.
@@noahziegler3478 Think he means, which controller would be better to prepare himself for a club. In which case that would probably be the DDJ 400 as most clubs have Pioneer CDJs and mixer and the DDJ controllers have been designed to copy that Pioneer club standard layout (e.g. loop buttons at top of decks and effects on left hand side of mixer).
Got a question- are the samples (7:54) included or downloadable or what?:) just wondering about switch from rekordbox and buy this S2mk3 and this is sth interesting. Thx for help!
Best option for the Ipad mixing group. i would like something like this for that moment when i want to use a extra small set up (ipad mini and s2mk3 and bose speaker) i Came back to DJing using S2MK2 two years ago. But since left for serato/rekorbox software/hardware. I love rekorbox and what they are doing with the DVS side of DJing. if you notice they did not announce a Traktor Z3 which is really sad. the Z2 is still one of the best bargains but a new Mixer would of been dope. I want to see how the program is , there was bugs in the program that made me stop using the software. let see if they addressed the issues.
Mr. Jamie your review is very Professional and straight to the point review. Controller does have awesome features, well layout. Might be a good idea to acquire a microphone with an ON/OFF switch since mic volumen is on the back, But is NOT a big deal as least for me. Yes! Good JOB!! Native Instruments.
I was all for buying this, as I have not done any djing for a few years (last time I did it I had to lug all my 12'' records around with me), anyhow, the lack of the effects buttons kind of put me off with this, but should this be a factor when buying? It is a close race between this and the Pioneer DDJ 400, what keeps swaying me into this controller though is the use of Traktor Pro, in your own honesty how would you compare the two controllers and which would you recommend for someone getting back into doing a bit of djing. Thanks in advance.
Thanks for the review. I really looking forward to buy it. Is there any problem with main volume? I read a lot reviews that they say about the main volume is lower than s2 mk2.
I used the S2 Mk2 for about 1 year and was really happy about it, but now switched to the DDJ 100 because the s2 has just not a lot to play with. I dont get it why they didn't put the 6 effect buttons on, a thing that i miss at the MK3 and the DDJ 400. I also wanted to upgrade a little more and stay at Traktor, but there is just the S2 and then the s4(mk3) but the prices just have a huge gap. I would like something between both. Right now I'm pretty happy with my DDJ 400, thanks to your Video also learned a lot. Keep up the good work. I would like to take part in one of your courses but im sorry to say that 100€ is just way to much for me and i just have no idea how it will look. I probably wouldn't pay more than 25€. Keep up the good work on RUclips!
Well hello i have i simple question witch is When i go to samples and settings turn on the remix decks it’s empty how come its not like yours while you are showing us on the video below?
Think this unit is absolutely fantastic value for the bedroom DJ or someone who just likes to put together mixes. Comes bundled with the new Traktor Pro 3 software and can connect to your iPad. Love it. Obviously it's not as feature-rich as some other products, but for £229.99 you really can't go wrong.
i am having a problem with lower volume on deck b on my kontrol s2 mk3. tried the same music/file on both decks (same gain on decks)... on traktor pro 3 and traktor dj. have an idea on what is happening? (i could equalize with the gain button, but deck b is 100% gain e deck a should be around 50-60% gain)
Is it only with Traktor software compatible? Which console under 300$ is more "pro" and less "intro" oriented, Virtual DJ8 "friendly", acoording to your opinion? Thnx !
I have been using the S4 mk1 from the beginning. But now it’s not compatible anymore with my new mac , it’s retired and on the wall! Missing features for me - XLR/ jack out, booth out- loop length led screen - top effect knobs- microphone knob and switch on/off on top- ... Ok for beginners. For me... also ok ;) but will be mapping it big time. Wanted a 2 channel small controller. Price is amazing.
Thank you for this video Jamie. I have curiosity about this new feature with and iPad. Can you recommend any app related to percussion or effects that can actually works with this controller? Thanks in advance mate
It's been a while but the the biggest difference in favor of the MK2 is dedicated master track buttons which I miss in the MK3 version that chooses master for you. There are alternative mappings for the MK3 that help but personally I liked the older one's master buttons and having explicit control over master. The new jogwheels on the MK3 are much nicer and they have a better weight to them. The MK3 has a better experience over USB power and lights up the buttons and so on which the MK2 could not do without power. The layout on the MK3 is overall better, having individual track selection wheel/buttons on each deck is a big improvement and putting the FX section in the middle of the deck makes sense.
Got this, the sound card is highly impressive better then lot of mid range controllers, your get more drive when out via the master, great price and for me this edges ddj 400 , the pitch is ok workable your not going to be able to do scratching like a ddj 400, it's more for club, bar mixing , home mixing combine with maschine mk3 or F1 for remix decks, your getting close to S4 mk3, I've seen it working with maschine mikro mk3
I have a question about the filters - is it possible to have two different filters on the two separate tracks at the same time? Or when you select a filter, is it the same on both tracks? Looking at the mixer, I don't see a way to single one out, like if both tracks are playing, putting the reverb on one and the delay on the other
yup there are 8 just search Traktor Pro 3 Review - some Russian reviewed in 4 separate videos the new filter FX, the timestretching (which is AMAZING), the reverse mode... and something I found unimportant so I didn't remember.
Hi, i purchased this, but have always found there is dead play in the pitch/tempo controls about 0.5cms top and bottom when controlling traktor. What is your like? I have had mine returned and replaced and still the same. Would be interested to find out if this is actually the way all are as its a tiny control already, and major.
Thanks for the nice review. I did bought the Traktor kontrol S2. But i do have a little Problem... I can't load two remix Decks. If i do it, the sample buttons are flashing fast and there is no sound. Thank you for helping. Greetings
Hi crossfader, next video you can map effects via any button effects making it a combo. filter + effects or filter effects+effects+effects. effects combination is unlimited on traktor.
Would you be able to test if the tracks skip when you tap the body of the controller? I had an issue with the mk2 where the bass of a speaker system when performing live would vibrate the jog wheels and cause them to skip the track for a few miliseconds. The same issue would happen if you tapped the top of the controller hard enough. Great video!
I've firmly hit the side of and even shaken the controller while music has been playing and it's had no effect. This is likely down to the jog wheels being static. If this gets affected when I DJ next week I'll update but it seems unlikely :)
This is something we figured out after the review. This will play a metronome in your headphones along with the grid of the song. You can use this feature to help you correct any issues with the grid or check its analysed correctly.
I just received mine today. What a great controller and the fact it comes with a full version of the Traktor software was an added bonus. I’m not a professional or anything or need 4 decks so this fit my needs perfectly.
Does it work with the latest Mac update
Yes it’s available for M1
Does it only work for M1’s?
probably the best controller with traktor 😌
5 years later update: Just did so as well today, and what a great news: With the release of Traktor 4 software, it's included with the controler! What a bang for the buck!
This is actually the best channel I found to get into DJing even for people who don‘t live in an english speaking country! Thank you Jamie!
Thats the BEST review on Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 in whole internet!!!
Agree
Effects adjustments are a must.
For mobile DJs, there's really nothing better than that sweet, sweet, S2. The key things about the S2 that matters to me and that makes it stand out from the Kontrol S4/S5/S8:
This controller runs entirely off of USB, no need for power adapter like on the S4/S5/S8 or a power strip for your CDJs, mixer, etc...
Relative to Rekordbox/Serato based controllers, the hardware includes full version of Traktor Pro 3 (no "lite" version, no free trial, etc) and is completely plug-and-play and it _feels_ like professional-grade hardware / audio gear - many times I've seen DJs on boiler room crushing it with the little doink S2.
Traktor is amazingly flexible and allows you to connect any Midi controllers you want for more extensive functionality - for example, you can plug in a MidiFighter 3D, add the instant gratification modification to it, and have more access to the internal traktor effects than you would have from an S4 alone.
With this controller and a Soundboks, you have a completely mobile DJ setup that is totally capable and completely portable without power.
my man
Hey guys! Nice review But tell me one thing… Still worth it in 2022? Or do you guys think that will be better version?
Nice review. I saw the S2 at ADE, but I spent all my time looking at and playing with the S4 ;) But this is a nice entry level controller indeed
I’m really excited to get hands on with the S4... the jog wheels sound promising!
Love your vids DJ TLM ✌️
Kids are spoilt for choice nowdays. Strongly recommend these Controllers. I've used a kontrol S2 mk2 for a few years. Solid piece of kit.
Daniel Oliver Hi ! I want to buy also but I don't now exactly witch one ( mk2 or mk3) .Maybe you can give me an advice ? Thank you !
When I was a teenager I learned to DJ on a numark DJ2go and the free version of virtual DJ that was gimped in so many ways. These kids will never know that struggle.
I can't make my mind up between this and the Pioneer DDJ 400. Any thoughts? One thing that looks interesting on the Pioneer is the keyboard mode on the pads. I suppose the other consideration is Traktor vs Rekordbox. Library preparation is of importance to me too, and Rekordbox has a mobile app for this but is it any good?
Seems to be a great controller. Not sure if it's better than DDJ400 for the price, but definitely a great option.
I'm considering to change my Numark Platinum for this one since I always wanted to work with traktor
Looking forward to a DDJ400 and Traktor s2 mk3 comparison.
@David Erlstoke I don't know how you can say that. The new S2 looks cheap.
@David Erlstoke That's funny because I tried out the new S2 and bought the DDJ400. It's better looking and more capable than the new S2. I actually prefer the older version.
Just bought this thing to learn. Man, thanks a lot. Now I know how some things work :D
You know full damn well there's gonna be an s8. It's gonna be a beast
why "gonna"? S8 exist for 2 years or even more.
Really good intro to this. Thank you!
For a club, which would you choose: ddj 400 or S2 mk3??
Thank you 😊
I would choose the DDJ 400 if I where you
Club should have set up already? Since when has that changed am I that old? 4 CDJS and a mixer
@@noahziegler3478 At least in Canada, it's not uncommon for DJ's to bring a small controller, especially when opening and not headlining. Small clubs rarely have their own equipment and often rent when they book someone who actually has a rider.
@@noahziegler3478 Think he means, which controller would be better to prepare himself for a club. In which case that would probably be the DDJ 400 as most clubs have Pioneer CDJs and mixer and the DDJ controllers have been designed to copy that Pioneer club standard layout (e.g. loop buttons at top of decks and effects on left hand side of mixer).
@@OleGunnarStevros If those are the only two choices then you go with the pioneer of course
4 years later, would you still recommend this controller?
Love what NI are doing brilliant 👏
Looking forward to the S4 MK3 review, I'd love to see you compare it with the DDJ 1000, and maybe compare current Rekordbox to Traktor Pro 3
What is the song he plays during the video? Thank you a lot! :)
I am a rapper/producer that has never DJ'd a day in his life... but I just won this on an auction site I frequent for $50. Time to learn!
Paul Adams would you consider selling it?
Good review as always. I was hoping you'd sneak in the Grid button.... We'll learn more on Oct 18 hopefully.
Have you tried changing the default mapping? Are all buttons/knobs/faders/pads fully midi-mappable?
Got a question- are the samples (7:54) included or downloadable or what?:) just wondering about switch from rekordbox and buy this S2mk3 and this is sth interesting. Thx for help!
Best option for the Ipad mixing group. i would like something like this for that moment when i want to use a extra small set up (ipad mini and s2mk3 and bose speaker) i Came back to DJing using S2MK2 two years ago. But since left for serato/rekorbox software/hardware. I love rekorbox and what they are doing with the DVS side of DJing. if you notice they did not announce a Traktor Z3 which is really sad. the Z2 is still one of the best bargains but a new Mixer would of been dope. I want to see how the program is , there was bugs in the program that made me stop using the software. let see if they addressed the issues.
Mr. Jamie your review is very Professional and straight to the point review. Controller does have awesome features, well layout. Might be a good idea to acquire a microphone with an ON/OFF switch since mic volumen is on the back, But is NOT a big deal as least for me. Yes! Good JOB!! Native Instruments.
ddj400 or s2 mk3 for beginner's? 😐
When using the Trakor DJ iPad app is it possible to pre listen a track with headphones?
Will you review the S4 MK3??
Yep as soon as it drops in the U.K.
In your opinion what is a better choice for beginners, traktor kontrol S2 or DDJ 400?
Can you control the remix decks and stems control?
I love your reviews! Thank you! It was really helpful
Can you please share the link for the video about connecting it to the iPad that you talked about here? Thank you!
I was all for buying this, as I have not done any djing for a few years (last time I did it I had to lug all my 12'' records around with me), anyhow, the lack of the effects buttons kind of put me off with this, but should this be a factor when buying? It is a close race between this and the Pioneer DDJ 400, what keeps swaying me into this controller though is the use of Traktor Pro, in your own honesty how would you compare the two controllers and which would you recommend for someone getting back into doing a bit of djing. Thanks in advance.
Perfect price for a back up, I have a Sz2 but this is portable and a decent price. Got a s4 but broke it this week :/
How about the volume for the headphones , is it louder than the mk2 ? That was one of the big issues I had with the mk2 the volume was soft
Thanks for the review. I really looking forward to buy it. Is there any problem with main volume? I read a lot reviews that they say about the main volume is lower than s2 mk2.
The other effects can be used with which button on this controller ?
(I'm thinking of the effects in the right and left corners above)
Great video , how does the sound card on this unit vs the other units? is the sound card good?
What about the sound card? Is it good?
I used the S2 Mk2 for about 1 year and was really happy about it, but now switched to the DDJ 100 because the s2 has just not a lot to play with. I dont get it why they didn't put the 6 effect buttons on, a thing that i miss at the MK3 and the DDJ 400. I also wanted to upgrade a little more and stay at Traktor, but there is just the S2 and then the s4(mk3) but the prices just have a huge gap. I would like something between both. Right now I'm pretty happy with my DDJ 400, thanks to your Video also learned a lot. Keep up the good work.
I would like to take part in one of your courses but im sorry to say that 100€ is just way to much for me and i just have no idea how it will look. I probably wouldn't pay more than 25€.
Keep up the good work on RUclips!
Great review👍 Is it possible to change a reverb effect let's say for an echo effect in traktor settings? Is filter resonance can be changed as well?
Well hello i have i simple question witch is
When i go to samples and settings turn on the remix decks it’s empty how come its not like yours while you are showing us on the video below?
Any reply pls
LOVELY... now I'm waiting for the S4 review
nice, i had traktor s2 but these new features for effect's are nice, i buying it
Does the faders and cross fader actually affect the outgoing sound or are they connect to traktor via midi?
zteve2 they are not analog, they affect traktor itself
@@LiamDriver Thx
Excited to get mine!
Can i know if the mic can be used as a Aux or live input in traktor software when i plug mic to S2?
Think this unit is absolutely fantastic value for the bedroom DJ or someone who just likes to put together mixes. Comes bundled with the new Traktor Pro 3 software and can connect to your iPad. Love it.
Obviously it's not as feature-rich as some other products, but for £229.99 you really can't go wrong.
Connection to IPad is not possible but there is not App.
Traktor DJ isn’t working!
Do you know the name of the song
is there a way to change the A and B l.e.d. meter to display master volume in the software options ?
i am having a problem with lower volume on deck b on my kontrol s2 mk3. tried the same music/file on both decks (same gain on decks)... on traktor pro 3 and traktor dj. have an idea on what is happening? (i could equalize with the gain button, but deck b is 100% gain e deck a should be around 50-60% gain)
are those fader hall effect faders, or even the volume, dont wana buy carbon that easily sands itself out
Is it only with Traktor software compatible? Which console under 300$ is more "pro" and less "intro" oriented, Virtual DJ8 "friendly", acoording to your opinion? Thnx !
upppp
@@fernandovasquez385 what ?
Explain the GRID button option and what is the uses?
Thanks. Bought! Great vid.
Great video! It was really useful to finally decide which controller I will buy
Does anyone know how to mute the vocals or viceversa?
Is the sound card updated?
Michael K. Lopez Yep.
I just got the S2 this week, so exiced to start playing music. Thanks a lot for the video!! Do you have more tutorials?
I have been using the S4 mk1 from the beginning. But now it’s not compatible anymore with my new mac , it’s retired and on the wall!
Missing features for me - XLR/ jack out, booth out- loop length led screen - top effect knobs- microphone knob and switch on/off on top- ...
Ok for beginners.
For me... also ok ;) but will be mapping it big time.
Wanted a 2 channel small controller. Price is amazing.
How much
thinking about this since all seratos controllers now have a fee to use the good software
cau u use more effects at the same time on one song???
Strange why the master volume on the pro 3 doesn't light up and work with the s2 mk3 controller.
Are you going to make a video for the S4 mk3?
I'm yet to see a review really showing us what this thing is about and if it's worth the buy
We are as soon as it drops in the U.K. apparently early to mid November.
Thank you for this video Jamie. I have curiosity about this new feature with and iPad. Can you recommend any app related to percussion or effects that can actually works with this controller? Thanks in advance mate
Hi there, I have the traktor s2 but yes I have a question about the Fx effect, what should I have to buy to introduce it to the mix
hello, can I use my spotify playlist with this controller ? TY !
I'ma treat myself to this and a midi fighter. Gotta get my finguh drummin' skillz back!
did i understand it correctly it is powered by USB? So in fact you do not need the 15 V adapter?
Yes, powered by USB. The power adapter is for ipads, etc.
Thanks for showing ins and outs. Other reviews left that out. Is that the same improved soundcard that in s4mk3?
what are the differences between s2 mk2 and s2 mk3? thanks !
It's been a while but the the biggest difference in favor of the MK2 is dedicated master track buttons which I miss in the MK3 version that chooses master for you. There are alternative mappings for the MK3 that help but personally I liked the older one's master buttons and having explicit control over master. The new jogwheels on the MK3 are much nicer and they have a better weight to them. The MK3 has a better experience over USB power and lights up the buttons and so on which the MK2 could not do without power. The layout on the MK3 is overall better, having individual track selection wheel/buttons on each deck is a big improvement and putting the FX section in the middle of the deck makes sense.
Got this, the sound card is highly impressive better then lot of mid range controllers, your get more drive when out via the master, great price and for me this edges ddj 400 , the pitch is ok workable your not going to be able to do scratching like a ddj 400, it's more for club, bar mixing , home mixing combine with maschine mk3 or F1 for remix decks, your getting close to S4 mk3, I've seen it working with maschine mikro mk3
Where can I see more of this??
do you recommend buying?
I have a question about the filters - is it possible to have two different filters on the two separate tracks at the same time? Or when you select a filter, is it the same on both tracks? Looking at the mixer, I don't see a way to single one out, like if both tracks are playing, putting the reverb on one and the delay on the other
You can put different effects on each channel even the mic
Is it possible to customise the 4 default effects?
yup there are 8 just search Traktor Pro 3 Review - some Russian reviewed in 4 separate videos the new filter FX, the timestretching (which is AMAZING), the reverse mode... and something I found unimportant so I didn't remember.
Do these effects work post fader?
The reverb and delay both work post fader yeah! Apologies for not mentioning that in the review.
Np. Great review anyway 😊
Very best demonstration 🤗
the best demo review Thz !
Hi, i purchased this, but have always found there is dead play in the pitch/tempo controls about 0.5cms top and bottom when controlling traktor. What is your like? I have had mine returned and replaced and still the same. Would be interested to find out if this is actually the way all are as its a tiny control already, and major.
Would this work with logic or would another DAW be better?
Thanks for the nice review. I did bought the Traktor kontrol S2. But i do have a little Problem... I can't load two remix Decks. If i do it, the sample buttons are flashing fast and there is no sound. Thank you for helping. Greetings
Just got it. Hate that the browser button is at the top. My wrist always hits the jog wheel
thank's i just bought one .
Hi, does the s2 mk3 still comes bundled with traktor pro 3 software license in 2023? Thank you.
Yes
Thanks I find this information very interesting and informative would consider buying this :)
Good review buddy, keep it up
Does the song still pauses when there is a massive vibration?
Can you Chang the filters ?
I'm going to give my honest opinion, this really explanes everything a synthesizer does. Keep up the good work!
Thats a Controller dude :DD
Thanks for the review. Very informative.
Hi crossfader, next video you can map effects via any button effects making it a combo. filter + effects or filter effects+effects+effects. effects combination is unlimited on traktor.
What would u recommend for a complete beginner to make tracks with
Would you be able to test if the tracks skip when you tap the body of the controller? I had an issue with the mk2 where the bass of a speaker system when performing live would vibrate the jog wheels and cause them to skip the track for a few miliseconds. The same issue would happen if you tapped the top of the controller hard enough.
Great video!
I've firmly hit the side of and even shaken the controller while music has been playing and it's had no effect. This is likely down to the jog wheels being static. If this gets affected when I DJ next week I'll update but it seems unlikely :)
Great review!....but what about GRID button?....thank you!
This is something we figured out after the review. This will play a metronome in your headphones along with the grid of the song. You can use this feature to help you correct any issues with the grid or check its analysed correctly.
When you hold the button...
THANK YOU!!!@@Crossfader
Is it similar to the Ddj rr or what other controller do you think?🤔
just picked my s2 mk3, great piece of kit. $329 in the US fyi.
I own a S2 MK2. Watching the video I don't see a real benefit switching to the S2 MK3.
Or what do you think?
a perfect simple controller for beginners
Hey Jamie! I've just bought one :) Do you know any case/bag for this baby? Cheers
Awesome reviews as always :D
yea, traktor s2mk4 vs ddj 440? which ones worth buying
is the traktor included a software freee with the s2?