In search of the best, smallest, 4 channel controller(s).
So here’s my situation,
I use traktor, I make mixes and mash ups and just overall play around with traktor a lot.
I have a 4trak, which is pretty full featured. However, it’s big. Whenever I get an idea, I usually just get on traktor on my laptop, on my desk, and don’t have the bulky 4trak in front of me because there’s no space. So, I do my best to test my idea without a controller.
I’m looking for a controller, or a handful of modular controllers, that are small but still 100% full featured when it comes to using traktor. Including the ability to control all 4 decks.
The controller(s) don’t reeeeeally need to be all the nice, because I already have a 4trak which is what I use for gigs and whatnot. I really like the idea of having a Native Instruments Z2, X1, and F1, but I really don’t like the fact that it’s only 2 channels.
I was thinking maybe two Z1s and two X1s? That should give me solid control over all of traktor, minus the remix decks (which is unfortunate, but I really don’t use them anyway.) Another issue would be that I don’t see a way to use headphones with this set up, not to mention that the touch strips aren’t reeeeally good at finding a place in a song… I prefer jog wheels.
I’d also accept any suggestions for a small, four channel full featured controller.
So, any recommendations? I’d like to spend not more than $800.
Here are the options I would have done if I was going totally modular.
Z1, X1 and F1 - Z1 to control Ch 1+2, X1 to trigger Ch 1+2. F1 to use on sample decks on Ch 3+4.
MM1, X1, F1
MM1, X1, two PL1
Really combinations are endless but I love the price point of the Behringer CMD series. Forget the Z2. If you have X1 and F1 it is a really overpriced mixer compared to Z1 or MM1.
I currently have a DB2, X1, two S3700 and TTX, but was thinking of a mobile setup of the X1 and MM1
I can not afford to get an new 4 channel mixer so a 4 channel controller with no jogs is all that I can think of.
after researching, all I could find are the A&H K2 and the Behringer cmd mm1. are there any more alternatives to this? maybe it will also help the OP and many others like me in finding a mixer.
s4 is way out of my budget unless i sell my 1200 and mixer. or i could just buy that 150$ djm500 that is on sale here in my area. lol
There’s nothing wrong with a cheap DJM500/600 or Denon X1500.
Back in their time they were the top of the line. If you aren’t touring and just learning they’re going to be perfect. You won’t lose much when you upgrade.
I use the K2 as a central mixer. Got a reloop contour along with it for gogs (additional deck & fx control) and a F1 for remix deck. I use three track decks (2main, 1 for vocals and soundscapes) and 1 remix deck for additional beats.
Love it.
You could also go for the behringer cmd mixer, but I found myself missing controls and prefer the K2.
However: I don’t use the K2 as an audio interface, because in my opinion it isn’t nealry loud enough (consumer electronics level, even less loud then an ipod). I also experience some problems with the Midi port, but I sent it in for repair, so I’m confident that will be sorted.
More than enough control of everything your mind can think of mapping with jogs.
My personal preference would be 2x k2’s though which would also give you more than enough control and only use one USB port. Encoders can be mapped to be just as effective as jogs for track seeking and bending.
Also with the 2xk2’s you could in theory run all 4 channels into the house mixer and use all the knobs for other things.
