EDIT – correction: The good news: Native instruments contacted me today to explain that all updates within a major version (e.g. 2.x) are absolutely free of charge for registered users, you´ll be able to download the newest version (2.5) in your Service Center application from May 30th onwards – you won´t have to purchase anything at all. AMAZING!

So most of us probably already know of the impending release of Traktor 2.5, but how many of you are going to make this leap?

It all looks very cool.  The new addition of ‘remix decks’ which seems to be an embellishment of the previous ‘sample decks’ looks great, as does all the fancy colourful buttons on the new F1 controller. But is Traktor taking their amazing DJ software into a realm of technology that will be going above some peoples heads?

Too much Tech?

When I first started DJ’ing, you had less choices and options.  You had to chose which type of turntable you wanted, which mixer and which needles! Now, there are so many DJ choices on the market, that it has become somewhat similar to negotiating a minefield.  But once you’ve chosen your weapons of choice, it’s not just as straight forward as learning how to DJ, you have to learn how to become a technical wizard, or witch.

After my stint with Vinyl, I moved to CDJ’s and then to Traktor Scratch and then incorporated an X1 into my gadgetry collection.  I have recently added Maschine, and now I am faced with an upcoming decision as to what I should do with Traktor 2.5 and an F1 Controller?

As I read the New features page of Traktor 2.5, I find myself scratching my head despite the fact that I have achieved a pretty high level of competence in the realm of “tech-knowledgey”.  This leaves me questioning whether Native Instruments (the makers of Traktor) are leaving a certain market behind?

It is no surprise that certain groups of old Skool wax pushers are unable to adopt the digital DJ world, as you need a degree in electronics to even understand its capabilities, never mind smoking copious amounts of weed before breaking out the decks! Please don’t jump on me here, I am in no way suggesting that all Vinyl users are stoners, or indeed not capable of attaining a degree. But I am simply trying to highlight the complexities of the current world of DJ’ing.

So, where to from here?

The ‘Ease of use‘ page says nothing of how easy Traktor is to use! And NI explain that the X1 nor the Maschine will work to its fullest potential with the remix decks, leaving new adopters and upgrades alike, very little choice but to purchase the F1.

Either Way…

You don’t have to upgrade, you are able to continue using Traktor the way you do.  There will be a demo version available soon. Then if you feel you will be making use of the remix decks, then it’s time to break out the wallet for the reasonably priced upgrade of $44.50 (see correction at top) and the F1 at $279.

What are you going to do?

I am interested to learn what you lot will be doing? Are you excited, annoyed, or couldn’t care less?
What set up are you currently using, will you be upgrading to 2.5 or are you happy with what you’ve got?
I currently feel that I do not need any more controllers, pads, or options in my DJ set, but I will at least have a look at the demo version when it comes out.