Stems on Z2

Ximil

Hello everyone,

I'm new to using the Traktor Kontrol Z2 and I want to start working with stems. Can someone explain to me how to use stems on the Z2?
Also, what additional hardware do you recommend for better performance with stems?

Lastly, does anyone know when a new version of the Traktor Kontrol Z2 will be released?

Thanks a lot for your help!

Maxim

tomnacho

My questions exactly. Anyone from NI with an answer? :)

lord-carlos

F1 is probably the best hardware for stems.

No one knows about new hardware.

maniacintosh81

New version of Z2? Won't expect a Z2 Mk2 at all. The first generation isn't available for years now. If NI would have considered a sucessor to Z2 we could buy it already for years.

I second @lord-carlos with the F1 as hardware for stems.

TurnedTables

https://community.native-instruments.com/discussion/34174/stems-on-z2

Try this stems map: https://maps.djtechtools.com/mappings/13545 it gives you basic on/off control of stems on the z2.

As others say, the F1 is the best for stem control, you can pick one up second hand fairly cheap.

Notanon

F1 Mk2 seems most likely in terms of modular controllers, IMO, particularly for the stems and pattern player finite controls it would likely bring (IMO, one X1 Mk3 in the middle with two F1 Mk2s on either side would suit this arrangement best). Maybe a S2 Mk3 and S4 Mk4 would be the likely main full-sized controllers next, if I had to guess.

Z2 Mk2 is a long-shot, if it all, IMO. Same with a Z4.

vinnieramz

With regard to using stems with the Z2 (greatest mixer accessory ever made to directly integrate with Traktor) you will have to map the stems controls to a midi button or fader nob. I found this article to be helpful in understanding the midi mapping options. I assume that since you are using the Z2 you are either using turntables or cdj controllers. The Z2 has limited options from a midi mapping perspective if you want to maintain the direct mappings that are already present.

<https://support.native-instruments.com/hc/en-us/articles/210295045-How-Can-I-Control-the-Individual-Stems-on-a-TRAKTOR-Stem-Deck#:~:text=Stem%20volume%20control%20via%20the,between%20FILTER%20and%20FX%20SEND).>

If you want to use buttons on the Z2 to control your stems you will have to sacrifice something that is already mapped. I considered using the 1-4 pads on decks C&D for this as I don't use decks C&D. I think the most logical setup for stems is to map the "slot mute on" to a button on your controller that will toggle the mute of a stem on or off. The volume level of each stem layer is not something I care to control independently as I either use stems to create instrumentals or acapellas. This can be easily mapped to pads 1-4 using the article I referenced above, be sure to match the slots to each pad and enable toggle.

I use a pair of Reloop RP8000 turntables which can be used as a generic midi controller with Traktor. In this configuration I have setup 4 of my turntable pads to control the mute on/off of the 4 stems, 4 pads on the left turntable for deckA, and likewise on the right turntable for deckB. The downside to this is that it is a configuration specific to my turntable setup. If I switch to another set of turntables I loose the stems control. The plus side of this is that I like to have the stems controls in reach without having to toggle to the C or D decks to control pads 1-4. I can trigger a cue point for a loop and also kill the vocals to create an instrumental loop in a mix without skipping a beat. I have never adopted the X1 with a turntable setup as it winds up out of reach and I prefer to have my controls all on the Z2 mixer or the turntable.

I feel like not iterating on the Z2 with newer version such as an MKII, etc. was a missed opportunity for NI. They should consider adding some dedicated stem controls on a newer version of the Z2, as most Serato controllers are now taking stem controls into consideration with their designs.

ilove1981

I've played a few gigs with this setup and a pair of Technics 1210 and I love it. I know I don't need the X1 but it's a backup if I need it. The F1 is perfect for playing Stems; mine has a whole new lease of life now. I'm also glad I have a pair of Kontrol Stands for these babies. They are priceless now.

Sûlherokhh

Those aluminium stands/containers are gold. Too bad they don't fit the X1MK3.

viper9711

Does the Z2 work with the latest MAC OS 15.1 Sequoia ?