Native Instruments ships Traktor Pro, Scratch Pro
updated 04:00 pm EST, Tue November 4, 2008
Traktor Pro ships
Native Instruments has begun shipping its latest digital DJ products, Traktor Pro and Traktor Scratch Pro. The Traktor Pro software features a redesigned user interface, with high-contrast presentation for low lighting conditions, and scalable fonts for distance viewing. A new effects suite has been added, based on Native's Reaktor technology. Beat grids are created automatically when a track is first added to the collection, and after tracks have been synced, a lock function is designed to prevent beat drift.
Traktor Pro features a modular interface and four playback decks, with support for tempo sync to any deck or routing to an external source. Users can create synchronized loops using the Auto Loop tool; other features include incremental search, Crate Flick track browsing, and the ability to source from iTunes or iPods.
The play, cue, jog wheel, hot cue, and loop functions are presented in a similar manner to hardware DJ products. The program offers key correction, and can automatically adjust gain based on perceived loudness. Users can record their set to a hard drive with an integrated recorder that supports both internal and external audio input. Multiple MIDI controllers can be connected, with advanced MIDI assignments and MIDI clock functionality for syncing gear.
Traktor Scratch Pro combines the software with the Audio 8 DJ hardware interface. The device features metal chassis and housing construction, with eight inputs and eight outputs for connecting turntables, DJ CD players, effects hardware, or mixers. Two high impedance phono preamp inputs are provided for use with turntables, along with MIDI input and output for connecting other gear. The Audio 8 DJ connects to a Mac or PC via USB, with a headphone output also provided for monitoring.
The Scratch Pro package also includes multi-core cables that connect the decks' inputs and outputs. Two included vinyl records and CDs feature control signals, which allow digital tracks to be manipulated using standard turntables or CD DJ devices connected to the Audio 8.
The Traktor Pro software is available now, from Native Instruments or resellers, at a price of $230. The Traktor Scratch Pro bundle ships for $670. Both products work with Windows XP and Vista or Mac OS X 10.4 and higher.
