What to know
- The S4 also has a built-in soundcard, as well as a number of additional features, such as a loop recorder, a sampler, and a beat-matching function.
- The Mixtrack Pro FX also has a built-in soundcard, as well as a number of additional features, such as a loop recorder, a sampler, and a beat-matching function.
- The Beatpad 2 also has a built-in soundcard, as well as a number of additional features, such as a loop recorder, a sampler, and a beat-matching function.
Native Instruments’ Traktor Kontrol S3 and S4 are two of the most popular DJ controllers on the market. Both controllers offer a wide range of features and functionality, but there are some key differences between the two that you should consider before making a purchase. In this blog post, we’ll take a close look at the Traktor Kontrol S3 and S4 and compare their features, performance, and price.
Traktor Kontrol S3: Compact and Portable
The Traktor Kontrol S3 is a compact and portable DJ controller that’s perfect for mobile DJs or those with limited space. It features a two-channel mixer with three-band EQs, gain knobs, and a crossfader. The S3 also has a built-in soundcard, so you can connect it directly to your computer and start DJing right away.
Traktor Kontrol S4: More Features and Functionality
The Traktor Kontrol S4 is a larger and more feature-rich DJ controller than the S3. It features a four-channel mixer with four-band EQs, gain knobs, and a crossfader. The S4 also has a built-in soundcard, as well as a number of additional features, such as a loop recorder, a sampler, and a beat-matching function.
Comparison of Features
The following table compares the key features of the Traktor Kontrol S3 and S4:
| Feature | Traktor Kontrol S3 | Traktor Kontrol S4 |
| — | — | — |
| Channels | 2 | 4 |
| EQs | 3-band | 4-band |
| Gain knobs | Yes | Yes |
| Crossfader | Yes | Yes |
| Soundcard | Built-in | Built-in |
| Loop recorder | No | Yes |
| Sampler | No | Yes |
| Beat-matching function | No | Yes |
| Price | $499 | $799 |
Performance
Both the Traktor Kontrol S3 and S4 offer excellent performance. They are both very responsive and have low latency. However, the S4 has a slight edge over the S3 in terms of performance, thanks to its more powerful processor and larger memory.
Price
The Traktor Kontrol S3 is priced at $499, while the S4 is priced at $799. This makes the S3 a more affordable option for those on a budget. However, the S4 offers a number of additional features and functionality that may be worth the extra cost for some DJs.
Which DJ Controller is Right for You?
The Traktor Kontrol S3 and S4 are both excellent DJ controllers. The S3 is a great choice for mobile DJs or those with limited space, while the S4 is a better choice for DJs who need more features and functionality. Ultimately, the best DJ controller for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Alternatives to the Traktor Kontrol S3 and S4
If you’re looking for a DJ controller that’s similar to the Traktor Kontrol S3 or S4, but you’re not sure which one is right for you, there are a few other options that you might want to consider.
- Pioneer DDJ-SB3: The Pioneer DDJ-SB3 is a compact and affordable DJ controller that’s perfect for beginners. It features a two-channel mixer with three-band EQs, gain knobs, and a crossfader. The DDJ-SB3 also has a built-in soundcard, as well as a number of additional features, such as a loop recorder, a sampler, and a beat-matching function.
- Numark Mixtrack Pro FX: The Numark Mixtrack Pro FX is another compact and affordable DJ controller that’s perfect for beginners. It features a two-channel mixer with three-band EQs, gain knobs, and a crossfader. The Mixtrack Pro FX also has a built-in soundcard, as well as a number of additional features, such as a loop recorder, a sampler, and a beat-matching function.
- Reloop Beatpad 2: The Reloop Beatpad 2 is a more advanced DJ controller that’s perfect for experienced DJs. It features a four-channel mixer with four-band EQs, gain knobs, and a crossfader. The Beatpad 2 also has a built-in soundcard, as well as a number of additional features, such as a loop recorder, a sampler, and a beat-matching function.
Key Points: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S3 vs S4
The Traktor Kontrol S3 and S4 are both excellent DJ controllers that offer a wide range of features and functionality. The S3 is a great choice for mobile DJs or those with limited space, while the S4 is a better choice for DJs who need more features and functionality. Ultimately, the best DJ controller for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What are the main differences between the Traktor Kontrol S3 and S4?
A: The main differences between the Traktor Kontrol S3 and S4 are the number of channels, the EQs, the gain knobs, the crossfader, the soundcard, the loop recorder, the sampler, the beat-matching function, and the price.
Q: Which DJ controller is better for beginners, the Traktor Kontrol S3 or S4?
A: The Traktor Kontrol S3 is a better choice for beginners because it is more compact and affordable. It also has a simpler layout and fewer features, which can make it easier to learn how to use.
Q: Which DJ controller is better for experienced DJs, the Traktor Kontrol S3 or S4?
A: The Traktor Kontrol S4 is a better choice for experienced DJs because it offers more features and functionality. It also has a larger and more powerful processor, which can provide better performance.