Techno

Essential Traktor Play DJ App Launches for Just $49

Native Instruments (NI) launched the Traktor Play DJ app, a highly streamlined two-deck application. This release signals a major strategic shift and actively targets beginner and hobbyist DJs. The software lowers the barrier to entry but maintains the professional sound quality the Traktor brand is known for. Priced competitively at $49/€49, the Traktor Play DJ app offers immediate access to the revered Traktor ecosystem.

The biggest news, however, concerns Traktor’s closed ecosystem. Traktor Play breaks this traditional “walled garden” approach. It launches with official, plug-and-play support for popular controllers made by competitors. This includes the highly-rated AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2 and DDJ-FLX4, and the Reloop Buddy and Reloop Ready. Therefore, the move provides a direct, low-cost alternative for new DJs. Most new DJs choose Pioneer DJ-made (AlphaTheta) hardware, and Traktor now directly challenges the Serato and Rekordbox platforms for market share.

Key Features of the Traktor Play DJ App

The Traktor Play DJ app runs on the same pristine sound engine as the flagship Traktor Pro, but it strips away advanced complexity. It offers a concise feature set perfect for learning and casual mixing:

  • Two Decks: It uses a simple, clear interface for two-track mixing.
  • Pro Sound: Traktor’s industry-leading sync, key detection, and a master limiter are included. This guarantees a punchy, distortion-free output.
  • Creative Tools: Users get a simplified version of Stems separation (to isolate drums or vocals). Also, a Pattern Player with an 808 drum kit allows for instant beat-making.
  • Mixer FX: Single-knob control over effects like Reverb and Delay allows for easy transition sweeps.
  • Streaming Integration: Built-in access to Beatport Streaming Previews is a standard feature. Furthermore, every purchase includes a two-month subscription to Beatport Streaming Advanced to kickstart the user’s music library.

Why This Collaboration Matters

For many years, Traktor required users to buy its own branded Kontrol hardware for seamless integration. By embracing controllers from AlphaTheta (Pioneer DJ’s parent company) and Reloop, Native Instruments opens a crucial door to a massive new user base.

AlphaTheta’s CEO, Yoshinori Kataoka, stated:

“opens new creative possibilities and makes DJing even more accessible.”

This reinforces a commitment to an open environment where DJs have the freedom to choose their tools. At its one-time price of $49, the Traktor Play DJ app is well-positioned. It competes effectively against the perpetual license of Serato DJ Pro and the subscription models of Rekordbox. Consequently, this is a complete, professional-grade platform offered for a low upfront cost.

The Traktor Play DJ app will be available starting November 3rd.

For a full comparison of DJ software, read this DJ Tech Tools review on entry-level controllers.

If you’re ready to upgrade your entire setup, check out this review of the Native Instruments Kontrol S4 MK3.

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