The new Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S3 is here

The new Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S3 is the essential four-deck DJ controller with everything you need for DJing.

Native Instruments recently announced their MK3 range of controllers, which featured several big jumps in terms of the technology. The latest S4 update featured new mechanical jog wheels and high-resolution screens, which are great for those who need it – however, it made the price of the Traktor four deck controllers rather pricey. The new S2 is still a good option, however, for those more demanding DJ applications – it just doesn’t cut it. This left a gap in the market for the new Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S3.

The latest addition to the range does away with some of the more advanced features that most of us probably don’t need, making the price-point a lot more attractive. The new Kontrol S3 does away with the much-beloved top-row effects controls, however, they’ve added controls for Traktor Pro 3’s new Filter FX on each mixer channel.

So who is the new Kontrol S3 most suited for?

The new Traktor Kontrol S3 features the same hefty jog wheels as the rest of the range. However, they are not motorized or feature the mechanical haptic feedback from the S4. The Kontrol S3 has balanced outputs, dual headphones and booth outputs alongside a Mic and Line input for plugging in various sources. For those looking for a professional level controller, without all the extra bells and whistles and without the price-tag of the S4, the new Kontrol S3 is a fantastic option.

The new Traktor Kontrol S3 is set to retail at USD $649 (Around R9650 excl. duties) and comes with a license for the Traktor Pro 3 software.