Novation launchpad or Kontrol f1 [Traktor 2.5]

[WalrosZ]

hey there!
I have a dilemma, i want to start using loops more in my routine, now i use:

Traktor s2
Midifighter classic (Instant gratification mapping)

Now i want to add something to control traktor 2.5 remix decks, the question is to either buy an
Novation launchpad or Kontrol f1 i like the Launchpad because you can use it for so much more like FL 10 or Ableton but will i ever be able to properly control the remix decks in Traktor?

i like the F1 because it built for traktor and also it seams to be built better and extra faders and knobs are nice, but then i probably wont have any use for it in FL 10 or ableton also it has less buttons ans costs more and im afraid i wont get full control over the remix decks because i can only afford one.

im driving myself mad with this question, hopefully someone has some good inputs

[Ash Carr]

I'm in the same predicament mate, I'd wait as i'm sure they'll open Traktor up soon enough for everyone to use its remix deck benefits soon enough.

[RockingClub]

i like the F1 [...] but then i probably wont have any use for it in FL 10 or ableton

That's wrong! You can actually use your F1 in MIDI-mode and then you can map it to control every other software like Ableton, FL etc. as well!

If you are looking for a system working right out of the box I would recommend the F1: You get the controller which is already mapped, it comes with some decent sample packages and you're ready to rock out immediately. Nevertheless (using it with Traktor) you will be restricted to Traktor's functionality.

If you're willing to put some effort into creating a system offering more possibilities than Traktor's remix decks you should rather go with a combo of Traktor and Ableton or FL. But this means you need to achieve a smooth integration (running Traktor and Ableton parallel also demands a computer with much processor power!) and you also have to keep searching for samples you want to use. You might probably have to create your own Ableton/FL Studio mapping (no matter if taking the Launchpad or F1 as your controller) but on the other hand you won't be restricted to Traktor's functionality (like the restricted count of samples per Remix Deck or the lack of VST plug-ins to increase FX and sound possibilities).
Also be aware of the fact that Novation's launchpad only gives you the limited edition of Ableton Live. If you do not already own a copy of FL Studio or Ableton you will have to spend some more money if you intend to get the software's complete functionality.

Conclusion: It's a question of which software you want to use (only Traktor or Traktor-? combo) and how much time you want to spend with setting up everything.

[WalrosZ]

i will use traktor 90% of the time and just use the launchpad for producing, but could i really survive on just one F1? the price is pretty steep for my budget, the mapping part is really no problem i dont know how to map myself but im sure there will be midi mappings available that i can use

[RockingClub]

1.) You doesn't sound like you would love to spend a lot of time with setup issues so I would rather recommend the F1. Of course you will only be able to control one Remix Deck at once so this would mean you always to mix out or into a song (track deck) or use the second Remix Deck only using the upper 4 sample slots with your midi-fighter or all sample slots with your mouse.

2.) With the Launchpad (To be honest, I would rather suggest the APC 20 as it comes with hardware faders) you won't be able to control Traktor's Remix Decks at all (only the upper 4 sample slots at the moment). Using only 4 sample slots per Deck in Traktor is not really satisfying (and would already be possible with your midi-fighter). This means you would have to use a Traktor-Ableton/FL combo for performing your loops live. So in the end, the Launchpad's huge amount of buttons won't really help you with Traktor (to control the remix decks). With Ableton it will be a great controller though!

3.) You talk about producing. Are you already in production? If not, are you aware of what production means? Especially considering the costs this is probably one of the most expensive hobbies you can imagine. Besides a very powerful computer this will demand at least 1000$ if you want to sound semi-semi-professional without only using pre-canned loops. And of course it takes a bunch of time to get decent skills.

Conclusion:
Traktor & loop live performance: F1 > Launchpad
Ableton & production or loop live performance with Ableton: F1 < Launchpad

[WalrosZ]

haha, i've been producing for a while in ableton and Fl studio, got a great computer so that's not a problem but i see your point about deeper control in Traktor, i think ill go for a F1 but not entirely sure yet ^^

[WalrosZ]

yes rocking club thanks for your input it makes me think alot

[supraman1120]

The F1 is really nice man. I drove an hour to pick one up today, and it was so completely worth it. Its integration is flawless, as to be expected. The pads have a nice click to them when depressed. The LEDs are VERY bright. Knobs and faders feel great. Overall a highly recommended piece of kit. Nothing bad that I can say about the hardware at all.