Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 vs Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SX2

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 vs Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SX2
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 vs Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SX2

If you are a digital DJ who wants an all-in-one MIDI DJ controller, then you simply cannot settle for anything than one of the best DJ controllers. If you have been looking through the top DJ controllers lately, these two controllers have at one point or another stuck out to you.

If you want to purchase an all-in-one MIDI controller, then these two controllers will be excellent options for you to consider.

An in depth comparison of Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 DJ Controller vs Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SX2 DJ Controller

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2

  • 4 channels.
  • 24 bit / 96 kHz soundcard.
  • FX and Loops
  • Traktor PRO 2 software.
  • Size = 24 x 5 x 15 in
  • 11 pounds
  • 4 Stars.

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Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SX2 DJ ControllerPioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SX2 DJ Controller

  • 4 Channels.
  • 24 bit / 44.1 kHz soundcard.
  • 16 drum pads
  • FX and loops.
  • Can be upgraded to include vinyl or CDJs
  • Full version of Serato.
  • 13.5 x 22.9 x 5.2 inches
  • 5 lbs.
  • 4 Stars.

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For more information about each of these mixers, here are full reviews of each product:

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 DJ Controller Review

The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 really is everything a DJ would need in a basic package, and it also comes along with Traktor PRO 2 software. Although the Kontrol S4 MK2 is made for Traktor software, it can also be used in other programs such as Serato.

This controller comes with a soundcard which goes above and beyond the expectations one might get from looking at the price tag, and would prove to be the only soundcard you would ever need. The metal feel to the controller makes sure that your investment stays protected, and in top shape.

Since this controller was built with Traktor in mind, as soon as you take it out of the box and plug it into your computer you will notice flawless functionality. With 4 channels, over 40 loops, and 30 FX, you are bound to be able to create a sound which is unique and original with this controller.

The dedicated loop recorder is one thing that is particularly special about this controller, and serves almost as a fifth channel. At any moment during your set you can record loops on the fly and instantly add them into your mix.

Pros Cons
Durable construction. Platters are a little small.
Traktor Scratch Pro 2 software. Traktor uses 2 remix channels.
4 channels, Loop maker, FX. Not a whole lot of extra MIDI buttons.

Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SX2 DJ Controller Review

With Pioneer products, you typically get a top of the line product for an expensive price tag. It appears Pioneer is finally willing to break this stereotype by offering less expensive controllers to their product list.

The Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SX2 is one of the best DJ controllers, but it too has its own shortcomings. Like the Kontrol S4, it also has dedicated loop makers, but its soundcard fails to provide the same quality sound at a higher sampler rate (only 44.1 kHz).

Since this controller has 16 extra drum pads, you can be creative with your mixes and add in your own sounds and FX, just be sure not to overdo this. This controller is also ready for you to add in extra CDJs or accessories.

Technically if you were to run this controller with your own nicer soundcard you would have an upgraded version of what is already one of the best DJ controllers. Since this product comes with the full version of Serato, the only bad thing to say about this product is the lower sampler rate of its soundcard.

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Pros Cons
4 channels, FX, Loop maker. 44.1 kHZ sampler rate on soundcard.
16 drum pads. Lightweight, easier to break.
Includes full version of Serato. Perhaps a little too expensive.

The Verdict

Since the DJ DDJ-SX2 contains features much like the Kontrol S4 MK2, is more expensive, and has a lesser quality soundcard, we have selected the more durable Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 as the better purchasing choice between these two controllers. However, if you still are not sold on the S4 MK2 and would like to explore more options, we have included three more ideas for you to consider below.

Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2 DJ Controller Alternatives

  1. Pioneer DDJSR Pro DJ Controller Pioneer DDJSR Pro DJ Controller

If you liked the design of the DDJ-SX2, but didn’t think it was worth the amount of money you would need to spend, than you might like the Pioneer DDJSR Pro DJ Controller instead.

The only difference between this controller and its 4-channel brother is the fact that this one only has 2 channels. The soundcard still offers the same decent output that the DDJ-SX2 offers, this controller is just noticeably more affordable.

Other than that, you can still expect the Serato software, and extra drum pads for a touch of creativity to your mixes.

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Pros Cons
Comes with full version of Serato. Only 2 channels.
16 drum pads. 44.1 kHz sampler rate.
FX and Loops. Most DJs would want to upgrade this.
  1. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2  Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2

If you like the Kontrol S4 MK2 but want a slightly cheaper option, then you might like its little brother, the S2 MK2. On first glance you would notice that this controller packs all the same features except the number of channels.

If you would prefer to have two channels and like the design and composition of Native Instruments products, and the Traktor software, then this controller is an excellent choice. However, keep in mind that cheaper is not necessarily always better when it comes to picking DJ controllers, as you may want to upgrade your setup in the future.

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Pros Cons
24-bit / 96 kHz sound quality. Only 2 channels.
FX and Loops. Small platters.
Traktor PRO 2 software. No extra MIDI buttons.
  1. Numark NS7III Numark NS7III

If getting the best DJ controller is what you are most concerned with, then look no further than the Numark NS7III. With 4 channels, extra drum pads, motorized platters, and intuitive screen display this controller is something truly special

Coming with and built for Serato software, the NS7III offers flawless and instant communication with the software, making the screens on the controller reflective of what you would see on the computer.

This controller is one of the closest options you will have to making your setup run like vinyl. The feel of the motorized platters and mixer will feel comfortable for anybody who is used to using turntables for scratching.

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Pros Cons
4-channels with sliders and lights. A little expensive.
Instant screen-software communication. No included software.
16 drum pads, motorized platters, FX, Loops. Only 44.1 kHz sampler rate.
Full version of Serato.

Don’t Make up Your Mind Quite Yet:

Remember that purchasing a controller is one of the most important parts of your setup since it will be the heart and soul of your sound. If you are wanting to pick one of the top DJ mixers for your setup, you will definitely want to consider the options listed above.

If you want to invest in something a little better than the Traktor Kontrol S4 MK2, then consider getting the Numark NS7III. But if you are simply looking for cheaper alternatives then make sure you check out the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 and Pioneer DDJSR Pro DJ Controller.

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