Native Instruments has released Traktor DJ 2, an upgraded DJ app for computers and the Apple iPad. The app has been enhanced to provide greater accessibility, an easy-to-use interface, SoundCloud Go+ integration, and simple plug-and-play integration with Traktor hardware. The name is somewhat confusing to since their flagship program is also called Traktor. However, this new, free app is positioned as the “on ramp” to more advanced DJ techniques provided by its older brother.
The app has plenty of power to keep the choons flowing since its built-in beat-detection DSP keeps everything in sync. If you want to jump around the track using Hotcues, or loop a section that really hits the spot, then Traktor DJ 2 keeps everything on-beat. That said, if you want to hone your beatmatching skills, you can always turn it off to do things the old-school way.
Adjust the sound of your mix with EQs and a filter on each channel – this means you can cut the bass of one track, for example, and blend in only the vocals and higher frequencies for a smooth and creative mix. Effects let you manipulate your sound and twist up your tracks when things start getting groovy. Hit the snowflake icon on Traktor DJ 2 for iPad to freeze the waveform. The track will carry on playing, but you can tap directly onto the frozen section to play it like an instrument. It’s great for chopping up vocals, or for dissecting interesting drum beats to make them your own.
Twisting knobs and hitting buttons more your thing? Get physical with plug-and-play Traktor Kontrol S2 and Z1 on iPad and desktop. The pocket-sized, punchy Traktor Audio 2 is also ready to play. Put together a house-party setup you can fit in your bag, with enough space left to bring the drinks. SoundCloud is the world’s largest open audio platform, with over 200 million tracks by more than 20 million creators across the world. SoundCloud Go+ integration lets users mix tracks streamed directly from the music platform, enabling access to an ever-growing track collection, and tapping into the cutting-edge of mainstream and underground music. The release of Traktor DJ 2 coincides with the launch of a series of artist-curated playlists exclusive to Native Instruments’ SoundCloud profile. Users can add these to their collections and DJ with them in-app to practice their mixing skills, discover new genres, and to learn new techniques. The playlists reproduce real setlists by top-tier artists across a spectrum of genres, with diverse approaches to both programming and mixing. Current contributors include: Objekt, Forest Swords, DJ SAMA’ ????, Tommy Four Seven, Kornél Kovács, Felix Da Housecat, Lyzza, DJ Rachael, and Gafacci.
During the first month after launch, users can suggest changes and request features via an open forum on the NI website. This feedback will be used by the Traktor team to steer future updates, and to create an app built in collaboration with its users.
Native Instruments’ Traktor DJ 2 is now available for free via the App Store (iPad version), and the Native Instruments website.
Native Instruments
