Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 Review: Powerful DJ Controller
The world of DJing has never been more vibrant, accessible, and full of promise than it is today. For aspiring DJs and experienced performers alike, tools that simplify yet enhance the craft are essential. One such tool that has truly stood out, even amidst rapid technological advancement, is the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2—a compact, reliable, and extremely capable DJ controller that inspires confidence with every beat.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore what makes the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 not just a smart choice, but a brilliant investment in your musical journey. Whether you’re setting the vibe at your first house party or looking to refine your live performance skills, the S2 MK2 could very well be the best controller you’ll ever touch.
A Legacy of Innovation, Optimized for Today
Native Instruments, the masterminds behind the Traktor series, are no strangers to DJ tech excellence. The Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 builds on the company’s legacy, offering a streamlined yet professional experience that’s both approachable and deep.
From the moment you unbox it, the controller exudes quality. The layout is logical and intuitive, making it easy for beginners to learn while offering all the power and flexibility a seasoned DJ expects. It’s the embodiment of Native Instruments’ philosophy: make music creation both powerful and fun.
Design and Build: Aesthetic Meets Durability
One of the first things you’ll notice is the controller’s sleek, compact design. It feels solid, with a high-quality plastic chassis that’s lightweight yet sturdy. The jog wheels are responsive and touch-sensitive, giving just the right amount of resistance to make scratch techniques feel natural and satisfying.
Each button is backlit—perfect for those dark club nights or low-lit home studio sessions. Faders glide smoothly, and the knobs offer just the right amount of tactile feedback. Every part feels like it was designed with intention, for people who genuinely love music.
And if you’re someone always on the move? You’ll love how portable the S2 MK2 is. It fits neatly into most backpacks and doesn’t demand a massive setup. Ideal for dorm rooms, bedrooms, or mobile gigs.
Traktor Integration: Seamless Software-Hardware Harmony
At the heart of the S2 MK2’s brilliance is its tight integration with Traktor Pro 2 (and beyond). It comes bundled with Traktor Pro 2 software, a powerhouse in DJ software known for its rock-solid performance, advanced looping, effects, and remix decks.
The controller is essentially plug-and-play. The mappings are optimized right out of the box, with smart controls for hotcues, effects, loops, and more. The intuitive layout means you’re not buried in menus—you’re focused on performance.
Key software features include:
- Sync function for smooth beatmatching
- Looping and cueing controls at your fingertips
- Creative FX engines like gater, beatmasher, reverb, and delay
- Remix Decks for live mashups and sampling
The S2 MK2 is also compatible with Traktor DJ for iOS, giving you mobile performance capabilities that are perfect for on-the-go sets.
Performance Capabilities: Small Footprint, Massive Potential
Don’t be fooled by its size—the S2 MK2 punches way above its weight. It features:
- Two full-featured decks
- A 3-band EQ per channel
- Gain control and filter knobs
- High-quality 24-bit/96kHz audio interface
This compact beast gives you studio-grade sound in a live-performance body. The jog wheels are incredibly responsive, allowing for beat juggling and scratching with minimal latency. The cue buttons are tight and reactive, and the dedicated FX controls let you shape your sound with surgical precision.
Plus, there’s a dedicated iOS port, meaning it’s never been easier to integrate with your iPad or iPhone for mobile gigs or practice sessions on the fly.
Beginner-Friendly Yet Deep Enough for Pros
Here’s where the S2 MK2 shines most: accessibility. It’s designed with beginners in mind but doesn’t limit itself to basic functionality. This duality makes it one of the few controllers that can grow with you.
A total novice can get up and running in minutes thanks to clear labeling, well-placed controls, and Traktor’s intuitive software. At the same time, advanced users can unlock deeper functions like custom mapping, creative effects layering, and live remixing.
It’s the ultimate “learn on it, stay with it” controller.
Real-World Applications: From Bedroom to Club Booth
Many DJ controllers claim versatility, but the S2 MK2 proves it. Its high-quality internal sound card makes it perfectly suited for live gigs—just plug it into any PA system and go. The balanced RCA outputs provide clean, powerful sound that translates beautifully across any speaker setup.
Whether you’re:
- Throwing a house party
- DJing at a wedding
- Playing in a small club
- Streaming your sets on Twitch or YouTube
…the S2 MK2 is right there with you, adapting to any environment.
Current Pricing (as of April 2025)
- United Kingdom: Approximately £189 to £219
- United States: Roughly $229 to $249
These prices make the S2 MK2 a steal, especially when you consider it comes with full software and is gig-ready out of the box.
Pro tip: watch out for bundle deals that include headphones, cables, or even Traktor Pro upgrades.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros:
- Plug-and-play with Traktor Pro 2 and Traktor DJ
- Lightweight and portable
- Excellent build quality for the price
- Pro-level features in a beginner-friendly design
- iOS integration for mobile sets
- Amazing value for money
Cons:
- Limited to two decks (might be a deal-breaker for some advanced DJs)
- No standalone mixer functionality
- Not ideal for DJs who don’t use Traktor
But honestly? These “limitations” are context-specific. For 90% of DJs—especially those getting started or gigging in smaller venues—this controller checks every box.
Final Verdict: A Controller That Sparks Joy
There’s something beautifully encouraging about a device that lowers the barrier to entry without compromising on creative control. The Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 does just that. It invites you in with open arms, keeps the learning curve gentle, and gradually opens doors to deeper creativity as your confidence grows.
For many DJs, it’s the first controller they fall in love with—and often the one they come back to time and again for its reliability, simplicity, and power.
If you’re looking for a controller that blends professional quality, inspiring design, and real-world performance—all without draining your wallet—the S2 MK2 is exactly what you need.
Start Your DJ Journey Today
The music world is waiting for your sound. Whether you’re exploring beats in your bedroom or preparing to wow a crowd, the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 is the perfect companion to bring your vision to life.
Don’t wait. Take your creativity seriously—buy the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 now.
Buy Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 on Amazon