Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3: The All-in-One Controller Reviewed
· re:union Radio editorial · 2 min read
Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3: 4-channel controller with Haptic Drive jogwheels and 24-bit/96 kHz interface for Traktor Pro 3.
The Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 from Native Instruments is a fully integrated hardware and software DJ performance system for Traktor Pro 3. The all-in-one controller combines an ergonomic DJ mixer, a built-in audio interface, and a high-resolution control surface in a single unit.
At a glance
- 4 mixer channels (A, B, C, D) for the four virtual Traktor decks
- Integrated 24-bit/96 kHz audio interface
- Motorized Haptic Drive jogwheels with three modes (Jog, Scratch, Grid)
- Two FX units controllable directly on the hardware
Two Decks, Four Channels
Traktor operates internally with four virtual decks. The S4 MK3’s two physical deck sections each control two software decks: the left deck handles Decks A and C, the right handles Decks B and D. In the center sits the mixer with four channels fed by the respective decks, plus the crossfader for blending between Channels A and B.
Haptic Drive Jogwheels with Three Modes
The motorized jogwheels operate in three so-called Haptic Drive modes. In Jog mode they handle braking, nudging, beat-cueing, and scrubbing through the track, with adjustable spring tension and optional haptic tick feedback. Scratch mode is designed for classic turntable scratching, while Grid mode lets you correct faulty beatgrids directly via the jogwheel and cue channel. The outer LED ring around each jogwheel also provides visual playback status.
Built-In Audio Interface for Studio and Club
At its core is the integrated 24-bit/96 kHz audio interface, which also makes the controller usable as the computer’s standard audio interface. For connecting to a PA system, the main outputs (Main Out) are available on the rear panel as both XLR and RCA variants.
Stems and Pad Modes
On Decks A and B the Stems button lights up blue, on Decks C and D orange – a hint that you can work with Stem Decks, where individual track elements (vocals, bass, drums, etc.) can be controlled separately.
“The all-in-one TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 controller gives you an ergonomic DJ mixer, an integrated 24-bit/96 kHz audio interface, and a high-resolution control surface, all perfectly tailored for seamless integration with TRAKTOR PRO 3.”
| Channels | 4 (Decks A, B, C, D) |
|---|---|
| Audio Interface | 24-bit/96 kHz, integrated |
| Jogwheels | Motorized, Haptic Drive (Jog/Scratch/Grid) |
| FX Units | 2, directly on hardware |
| Main Outputs | XLR and RCA (Main Out) |
| Software | Traktor Pro 3 |
If you’re planning a Traktor-centric setup, our overview of the Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX10 offers a comparison from a different software ecosystem, and the piece on the Denon DJ SC6000 Prime presents an alternative for standalone laptop-free operation.
FAQ
Who is the Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 for?
The controller targets Traktor Pro 3 users looking for a complete four-channel mixer with a built-in audio interface in a single box.
What’s the difference between the Haptic Drive modes?
Jog mode handles classic nudging and cueing, Scratch mode delivers the turntable feel, and Grid mode lets you manually correct beatgrids directly on the controller.
Source: Native Instruments – Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3 User Manual
