Archive notice: This article was originally published on October 20, 2008. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
The latest TRAKTOR generation offers a substantially improved workflow, a highly optimized interface, extensive sonic possibilities, versatile synchronization and controller functions, and much more. TRAKTOR PRO and TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO were developed with a focus on especially efficient and intuitive operation, making them outstanding performance tools for DJs of every style and experience level.
Now that software-based DJing has fully established itself in the market as a versatile and efficient technology, TRAKTOR PRO and TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO set a new standard for professional DJ technology. With four decks and extensive creative functions, TRAKTOR PRO is an ideal complement to the broad range of DJ controllers on the market. The new TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO additionally combines the TRAKTOR PRO software with the AUDIO 8 DJ interface and a set of timecode records and CDs, enabling direct control using conventional turntables and CD decks.
TRAKTOR PRO features a new, highly optimized user interface that combines modern interface design with the best operating concepts of proven DJ equipment. Its clear, scalable screen layout with crisp, high-contrast elements remains easy to read under all environmental conditions. Every essential performance function, including looping and cueing, has been revised and optimized in TRAKTOR PRO for intuitive, precise use in live situations. Support for cover art and the associated “Crate Flick” function also enables users to browse visually through their music collection in TRAKTOR PRO with particular efficiency.
Sophisticated synchronization functions in TRAKTOR PRO give DJs additional freedom to concentrate on the creative aspects of their performance. Precise beat grids are now generated automatically for every track, while the “Sync Lock” function guarantees that everything stays in time even when multiple decks and tempo-synchronized effects are used. The new “quantized navigation” also allows DJs to jump seamlessly between different loops, cue points or any other part of a track, enabling creative techniques such as beat juggling and spontaneous rearrangement of tracks.
TRAKTOR PRO offers greatly expanded possibilities for creative sound manipulation through an extremely powerful, easy-to-use effects section. Two separate multi-effects units provide more than 20 studio-quality effect types, ranging from DJ standards such as reverb and delay to unusual creative effects including “Mulholland Drive,” “Iceverb” and “Reverse Grain.” Up to six effects can be chained together and assigned flexibly to any deck, and they can also be synchronized to the tempo at any time with ease.
To give DJs optimal control over their sets, TRAKTOR PRO offers extensive MIDI control functions and ready-to-use mappings for every relevant DJ controller on the market. The new “MIDI Modifiers” enable even more flexible control, with dynamic assignments, spontaneous adjustment of parameter resolution and much more. Expanded MIDI synchronization functions in TRAKTOR PRO also allow drum machines, software sequencers and similar equipment to be integrated seamlessly into the mix.
The new TRAKTOR generation also takes integration with Beatport, the leading download store for electronic music, to a new level. Beginning in 2009, all new releases on Beatport will contain the appropriate TRAKTOR metadata, allowing DJs to integrate these tracks into their collection without additional effort.
Further improvements in TRAKTOR PRO and TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO include incremental search, portable collection and settings data, key correction and filters on each deck, a library of loops, effect sounds and scratch samples, and full compatibility with 64-bit operating systems from Apple and Microsoft.
To mark the new TRAKTOR generation, Native Instruments is launching a video series featuring hip-hop pioneer Grandmaster Flash and techno legend Richie Hawtin, who discuss music, DJing and technology across several episodes. The first two installments are already available on the TRAKTOR PRO microsite, with further episodes to be released in the coming weeks.
From November 1, TRAKTOR PRO will be available for €199 and TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO for €599 from authorized retailers and the NI Online Shop. Customers who own both TRAKTOR SCRATCH and TRAKTOR 3 will receive a free software update to TRAKTOR PRO.