Kontrol S4 Mk1 vs Kontrol S3

joman116

Hi Everyone

New here!

I have the Tractor Kontrol S4 (Mk1) I bought almost 10 years ago which I use with Traktor Pro 2

There is the newer S3 which appears to be a little bit smaller (which is appealing to me)

My question:

What is the PRIMARY difference between Kontrol S4 (Mk1) and the Kontrol S3 (aside from size)?

I DO NOT use any of the top effect knobs with my S4. Is it worthwhile to jump to the S3 purely on size/weight?

Whats important: Ability to use MIC in, connect a line in, size, weight.

Sûlherokhh

Main difference, as far as i know, is the top fx unit control section and the center loop recorder controls. Also the S3 has a weak headphone output. That's from other users' experiences.

The S3 also uses qml code, which is useful for modding the controller if you are so inclined.

The S4Mk1 is also not supported anymore, so the newer operating systems will not have a driver for it.

The S3 has got a stereo line in and a mic input, both going to channel D.

The S4Mk1 has got two stereo line inputs to decks A and B and one mic input about which i don't know anything.

If you get an S4, i recommend get at least a Mk2.

maniacintosh81

I cannot say anything to build quality as I never owned a S4 Mk1 and had the S3 under my hands only in store shortly.

In essence S3 lacks controls for FX units but adds controls for mixer FX, has 8 pads per deck but omits the displays for loop size. The overall layout is different: Club style deck alignment instead of mirrored alignment.

Keep in mind that Mic and Line inputs are both Input D therefore you cannot use them at the same time but you can connect both and switch between them.

joman116

https://community.native-instruments.com/discussion/comment/175818#Comment_175818

Thanks for the info. I need versality between line in and mic (use them simultaneously if needed) so I think I may be better of staying with mu S4 MK1