Are they listening to their surveys?

BMAC16
BMAC16 Member Posts: 13 Member
in Traktor Software & Hardware

I love Traktor Pro but in my opinion what is holding Traktor back is it's hardware and 3rd party hardware support. With Rane and Pioneer coming out with new controllers, I would love Traktor to be compatible with these controllers similar to Virtual DJ, DJay Pro and Serato. I don't know anyone that is looking at these new modular controllers as "the future" or would switch back to Traktor because of these, very frustrating. One modular item I do love is the D2 (Still have mine) and that was discontinued (What the heck). Also, if you are going to do Modular controller why not do something different than updated old tech and make a modular platter/D2 combination…now that would be exciting. These recent updates with the X1 Mk3 and Z1Mk2…meh..underwhelming

Traktor used to be the innovator in this space and now everyone has blown past them!

Comments

  • PK The DJ
    PK The DJ Member Posts: 2,073 Expert

    Traktor has always been primarily for NI's own hardware though. NI make the controllers, and the software is designed for (and included with) the hardware.

    Same deal with Rekordbox. It's Pioneer's software, for their hardware.

    The other software you mentioned is from companies that don't make hardware - so their software has to be more open.

  • BMAC16
    BMAC16 Member Posts: 13 Member

    Understood but to compete with the other software company's and gain their marketshare back to where it was in the 2000's…they need to do something different. this isn't working. The goal is to grow your business not restrict it.

  • maniacintosh81
    maniacintosh81 Member Posts: 762 Guru

    I consider Traktor Pro as one of the most open DJ softwares. It supports ANY audio interface that works with your operating system. Even with DVS support if it features enough inputs and outputs. You can map any controller to Traktor Pro as long as it works with your operating system and speaks MIDI.

    Try this with Serato DJ Pro. DVS? Well just with matching unlocking devices. And for some devices even only if you have our subscription (or bought DJ suite.) Price tag $449. You get a full licence for Traktor Pro 4 three times for that price. And you just can just use hardware blessed by Serato for that price. Xone:96? No Serato DJ Pro for you. Model 1 with a fancy audio interface? No Serato DJ Pro for you. Some surprising move was the support for S2 Mk3 and S3 though. They even unlock DJ Lite.

    With rekordbox it looks a bit better: They don't say it officially but as I understand it they don't lock out third party hardware if you have a subscription. But you have to map third party controllers yourself.

    Virtual DJ always had the approach to support everything - even your toaster, microwave and dish washer if it has USB and enough buttons. Someone managed to get even S4 Mk3 working with it - without screens and motorized plattes but it works.

    And Algoriddim… Well they were the newcomer, don't make own hardware. So you need broad support if you want to gain market share.

    NI has own hardware. If we can discuss if the offered range is good. But their approach to offer modular controllers side by side with all-in-one S-Series makes sense. Modular controllers can also be great add-on controllers for DVS users with turntables. I love my X1 Mk2 to control loops and FX. With TP4 I start enjoying my F1 and consider getting a second one to get better control over stems. Don't see comparable add-ons to my Xone:96 and 1210s from anyone else.

    Don't get me wrong. Better support for third party devices would be great sometimes. But this needs - in times of many HID controllers - also support from the manufacturer. NI needs protocol specifications for a good integration in Traktor Pro. On the other hand no one stops AlphaTheta or Denon DJ to offer .tsi files for their hardware. Native Instruments wants to sell you hardware and software not only the software if possible. Especially as they just offer perpetual licence at the time being and not subscriptions I almost expect that their business case isn't selling Traktor licence in the first place. The fact that all new controllers come now with full Traktor Pro 4 licence instead of LE versions or vouchers to get a full licence at reduced prices are another hint to support my expectation.

  • BMAC16
    BMAC16 Member Posts: 13 Member

    Nicely written. I believe Traktor is still one or the best software programs out there. They were ahead of the game 8-10 years ago with their stems and remix decks. I just believe whole heartily that a partnership with Pioneer (like the old days) or someone like Rane/Denon can open up market share opportunities for them. This business model wouldn't preclude them with making their own hardware and would bring in more Traktor users.

  • dj_estrela
    dj_estrela Member Posts: 167 Pro

    same here. I just bought a Rane Performer and will have to map the jogs with BOME
    also have a brand new Reloop mixtour Pro
    also have DDJ-1000 and DDJ-SZ

    spot the pattern here?

    NI doesnt make hardware I'm interested in. And yet they insist that route.

  • BMAC16
    BMAC16 Member Posts: 13 Member

    Agreed DJ Estrela and the numbers don't lie. If you look at the marketshare they had around 2010 compared to what they have now it's clear to me that's its because of lack of 3rd party hardware support. I'm going to bet that Djay Pro will gain more market share then them in the coming months and years due to listening to their customers and finally adding 3rd party support such as with the Rane Performer. Traktor PLEASE listen to ensure this software doesn't become more irrelevant because it still is great in my opinion. You can make MORE money by young DJ's buying the software and growing with it to build out your base then you will making these modular controllers that are aimed at such a niche group. Just my 2 cents

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