Shifting Gear

[HigherFi]

So, I'm using Traktor and an MC-6000 for pretty much everything. 'Had the chance to demo SC-3900 decks and Denon's 1700 mixer a couple weeks back and now I'm suffering from not really enjoying my TP & controller setup nearly as much. Having command of the large scale hardware just really changed something for me. I felt so much more connected to the music and the audience with the 3900s. Before this experience, I never had any issues getting around with 4 decks on the MC6000. Now, it seems almost claustrophobic and un-engaging. But it's not like my setup doesn't "do" everything the CDJ type system did. Admittedly, I've been more than a little underwhelmed (annoyed, actually) with Traktor since the remix decks came on scene, as they essentially neutered my once all-powerful controller. Nevermind the fact that I just cant find a use for them.

So here I am seeking opinions.

What will I loose if I take the plunge and go with 4 decks of Denon 3900 (or 2900) & Engine vs. Traktor and the controller? Am I crazy? Is there a side of this I'm not seeing? Or is this just me being unhappy with a Vette after driving the Ferrari?

[manchild]

Why not 3900's and Traktor? I'm only asking that because they work awesome w Traktor

[HigherFi]

Do they? I didn't try it. For me, with each release of Traktor, something always ends up askew in my track collection. Beat grids get a little wacky, or remix decks show up, or .tsi mappings are off, et al. Also, I think NI really seem to be writing for their own hardware, anymore. Then there's the question of will I even need it? The Engine iPAD app was great. I'm not ruling out Traktor per se, but, we seem to be moving in opposite directions. I might miss some of the effects, though.

[manchild]

Yeah they def do. They can work as just MIDI controllers, but since Traktor doesnt support rotating platter or HID for these players they also have a Hybrid MIDI mode that basically is timecode/MIDI. The player spits out timecode signal (without the need for timecode cd's) and MIDI commands at the same time. I have mine mapped they way I like, but Denon has a default mapping to. Anyways, if you're not attached to Traktor, then between Engine, the features on the players, and the FX on the 1700 , sounds like you wouldnt be missing much. (On a side note.....My 3900's are up for sale to make space for new gear)

[robdquick]

I am currently looking into the exact same thing. Yes my denon mc6000 with traktor does everything that I need it to do, but after playing on a pair of 3900's I love them. Using traktor has become a bit boring for me to be honest (although as a mobile dj i don't use half of the features on there) but the feeling I got from playing on a proper set of decks was amazing. Didn't get chance to use the ipad engine app but it looks superb.

Now saving up lots of money for 2 x 3900's and a x1600! Gives me the best of both worlds, straight playing using just the 3900's and x1600, or I can connect it all up to traktor if I feel the need to!

[Nicky H]

The 3900 (and the 2900) are so awesome.
The 3900 using Traktor Scratch is the best jog available imo - perfect 1:1 control.

[DirtyNerd]

Hey...I f you feel like it may be a good move. Go for it! Sometimes our setup gets stale. We all need to shake things up a bit from time to time. Of course, that is also a great excuse to buy new gear :-)