Dive into our in-depth review of the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3, featuring motorized jog wheels, comprehensive mixer controls, and performance features designed for both beginner and professional DJs.
Introduction
Having first learned to DJ on vinyl, the Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 immediately caught my attention with its promise to merge the tactile feedback of turntables with the flexibility of a controller. The motorized jog wheels are a nostalgic nod, yet they feel futuristic in action. After hands-on testing, here’s my take on build, usability, and unique features.
Build Quality & Design
The S4 MK3’s plastic construction surprised me—it doesn’t have the metallic heft, but the ports, buttons, and rubberized knobs feel robust. The jog wheels steal the spotlight, not just for their metal faceplates, but for the genuine feel they deliver in use.
The controller layout is versatile and well-structured, including tactile performance pads, assignable crossfader curve settings, and up-faders that feel great for both mixing and scratching.
Mixer & Connectivity Features
With RCA/XLR master outs, TRS booth out, phono inputs (with grounding), and multiple mic options, the S4 MK3 is ready for any setup—from mobile gigs to home studios. The USB hub allows hardware expansion, while the four-channel mixer and assignable effects foster advanced mixing and live remixing. The performance pads are RGB-lit, letting you manage hot cues, loops, samples, and stem features with ease.
The addition of mixer effects reminiscent of Pioneer’s ‘color FX’ section is a highlight, offering assignable post-fader reverb/delays and granularity over each deck’s processing.
Jog Wheels & Haptic Drive
The motorized jog wheels are weighted, tension-adjustable, and equipped with “haptic drive” for subtle feedback at cue points or loops. In TT mode, they spin like vinyl platters—great for scratching or “baby” backspins. The tension adjustment is a favorite feature, and haptic feedback signals cue landmarks, though I found the latter more useful for mixing than aggressive scratching.
Other features, like flux mode and reverse, further expand live performance options.
Software Integration
Full functionality requires Traktor Pro 3—especially for connecting external turntables or CDJs. Future firmware promises standalone mixer operation. Hardware controls allow deck switching, library browsing, on-board display feedback, and hot cue/loop management.
User Experience
Mixing on the S4 MK3 feels familiar yet innovative: scratch DJs will love the jog realism, while producers can sink into remix decks and stems. Compared to rivals, Traktor’s workflow emphasizes precision and creative layering.
Conclusion
The S4 MK3 is a highly recommended tool for DJs seeking tactile control, deep remixing, and creative performance. The jog wheels bridge the analog-digital divide, and the price is competitive for its feature set. Traktor’s learning curve may be steep for novices, but perseverance unlocks serious creative power.
If you want a controller that doesn’t just play music but opens new performance possibilities, the Kontrol S4 MK3 delivers—it truly blurs the line between classic vinyl and digital DJing.