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Native Instruments Traktor Pro
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Native Instruments Traktor Pro
Just1 Just1

«  LE DJ software Pro »

Published on 05/20/11 at 00:59
I tried a bunch of software before falling on Traktor (in other words I did not know anything at all ...), and even software for Linux! In bulk, I have tried: Virtual DJ / Numark Cue, MixVibes Cross, Deckadance, Traktor (not Pro), Serato Itch, Pioneer DJS. Some are designed for aspiring DJs, like Virtual DJ, which I knew to have used a bit.
This time, I was looking for something Pro, a MIDI compatibility (this is not the case with Pioneer for example), but mostly exemplary ergonomics of the interface and features thoughts on Live.
That is exactly what Traktor Pro offers the user!

I am currently using Traktor 1.2.6, but also fairly regularly demo Traktor Pro 2. I think I will soon move to Scratch Pro 2 for mixing with Timecode CDs;)
For now I have a MIDI controller all-in-One (DJ I-Tech Reload Mix) and I managed to get a very satisfactory mapping. To start in the world of DJing semi-pro computer, these types of products are very suitable. Especially as MIDI can extend the possibilities according to the imagination! I have an external sound card Numark DJ iO which works very well with the software, but I am considering a move to 6 HD Audio Native.

Until then, my Traktor works primarily on Windows Vista, and I've never had a surprise. I also tested under Seven: Nothing to report. For my hardware configuration, see below.
Regarding Traktor 2, it looks more resource-intensive systems, so it must be tested on his machine before the Live ...

GETTING STARTED

Installation without any worry, as under Vista Seven. The "Configuration Wizard" asks the hardware at startup, to allow the user to avoid everything is stuck with his hand.

The manual is VERY full (almost too), but the interface is intuitive enough so that we did not refer to it when using "current". However, when one begins to delve into the complicated functions, especially those related to MIDI, users of forums invite us often (rightly) to consult the manual!

SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE

My PC config:
* Notebook 13.3 "
* Intel Core2 Duo T7250 @ 2GHz
* 3 GB DDR2 RAM
* Nvidia GeForce 8400M GS
* 2 USB ports

DJ equipment involved:
* Sound Card USB Numark DJ iO
* USB MIDI Controller

No conflict or instability noted.
(Regarding USB devices, I just bought two LPD8 Akai, and I'll be forced to buy a powered USB hub ON AREA (I stress this point). I could test drive + USB sound card on the same hub: The hard drive does not work! But it is a common problem for "computer DJ.")

OVERALL OPINION

I am a user for two years now, and I must say that I will not leave Traktor anytime soon:) (especially since version 2 really brings a big plus). As I said before, I tried many other software (trial versions) before I lay down, and my choice fell naturally on Traktor. So obviously it's expensive, but I think the price is jusifié.

Actually what is significant in Traktor, it is not certain features. Of course we can talk about the effects, which are really great, synchronization works perfectly (although I'm using hardly any) of "gridding" for detection of tempo, sampler version 2, the 4 decks, and a whole bunch of other things. But what attracts me in Traktor, it's really designed for pro DJ, who happens to live. Finally, and perhaps for many trivial but important to me, you can disable all the automatic and visual aids, to be closer to the mix on CD (for example, "Waveforms" decks are not included, which allows not to rely on the image to whether the two sounds are keyed).

So the question "With experience, you do again this choice?" I say a big YES, of course.