Traktor Kontrol S8 DJ Controller Review and Guide
In the ever-evolving world of DJ technology, standing out means pushing boundaries—and that’s exactly what Native Instruments achieved with the Traktor Kontrol S8. Unlike anything else on the market, this groundbreaking all-in-one DJ controller dares to ditch the jog wheels and instead focuses on a seamless digital experience that encourages creativity, experimentation, and bold performances.
Whether you’re a seasoned club DJ or an ambitious home producer dreaming of your first headline gig, this review dives deep into everything that makes the Traktor Kontrol S8 more than just another controller—it’s an instrument.
Introduction: Rethinking What a DJ Controller Can Be
Native Instruments, the innovative minds behind Traktor, Maschine, and Komplete, broke the mold with the S8. Released as a flagship controller designed to complement Traktor Pro 3, the S8 reimagines the DJ workflow by embracing a touch-sensitive interface, high-resolution displays, and hands-on control over remix decks and stems.
Instead of trying to mimic traditional turntables, it embraces the future of digital DJing—giving you more tools to create an unmistakable, signature sound.
And the result? A transformative experience that enhances your performance without ever taking your hands off the controller.
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
From the moment you unbox the S8, it’s clear this is no ordinary controller. With a solid aluminium chassis, premium knobs, and a spacious layout, the S8 feels like it belongs in a professional studio or a headline DJ booth. Everything is built to endure heavy use.
The two bright, full-color displays immediately grab attention. Each screen shows waveforms, track information, Remix Decks, or Stems without ever needing to glance at your laptop. This alone is a game-changer for live performance, offering a more organic connection to your music.
Key Specs at a Glance:
- 4-channel standalone mixer
- 30 touch-sensitive knobs and faders
- Built-in audio interface
- 2 bright color displays
- Fully integrated with Traktor Pro 3
- Supports Remix Decks and Stem Decks
Innovative Features That Redefine DJing
1. No Jog Wheels, No Problem
One of the most controversial and talked-about features of the Traktor Kontrol S8 is the lack of jog wheels. Traditionalists may raise an eyebrow, but for those who embrace digital performance, it’s a liberating change.
Instead of beatmatching manually, the S8 encourages you to focus on layering loops, effects, and samples using intuitive touch strips. This frees you from the mechanical nature of scratching and nudging, and pushes your set toward creativity and storytelling.
2. Touch-Sensitive Controls
Every fader, knob, and encoder on the S8 responds to touch. When you tap a control, contextual information pops up on the screen—whether it’s filter settings, FX parameters, or EQ levels.
It’s incredibly fluid and allows you to focus entirely on your mix without looking at your computer. You can control effects, trigger cue points, and slice samples, all while staying immersed in your performance.
3. High-Resolution Displays
Each deck has its own crisp, full-color display. The screens are vivid, responsive, and pack a surprising amount of detail. You can view:
- Waveforms (parallel or stacked)
- BPM and key
- Remix and Stem decks
- Browsing and loading tracks
- Loop lengths and cue points
This not only saves precious laptop CPU but also enhances the feeling of a standalone instrument.
4. Remix Decks and Stems Integration
With Traktor Remix Decks, the S8 lets you trigger loops, samples, and one-shots on-the-fly. Each deck acts as a mini production station, perfect for live remixing or building up your own unique version of a track.
Even more exciting is Stem Deck support. Traktor Stems are multi-channel audio files (bass, drums, vocals, and melody) that you can control independently. Want to mix the drums of one track with the vocals of another? It’s effortlessly done on the S8.
Workflow and Performance: A DJ’s Dream Come True
The S8 shines most during performance. The 4-channel standalone mixer is fully functional even without a laptop, making it a great choice for hybrid or analog setups. You can connect turntables, CDJs, synths, and more via RCA and XLR inputs.
Seamless Traktor Pro 3 Integration
Because the S8 is built from the ground up for Traktor, the software integration is deep and flawless. Everything from FX assignments to beat grid syncing is automated in a way that feels invisible. You’re no longer “using software”—you’re just performing.
Creative Potential: Infinite
What sets the S8 apart is its potential to help DJs craft an identity. Whether you’re building polyrhythmic loops, layering acapellas over deep house beats, or blending genres with real-time effects, the S8 gives you room to grow.
You’re not just mixing tracks—you’re building sonic journeys, one stem at a time.
Sound Quality and Audio Interface
Equipped with a 24-bit / 48kHz professional-grade audio interface, the S8 delivers clean, punchy, and dynamic sound. Even when connected to massive club systems, the sound holds up with no latency or distortion.
Key Audio Features:
- 2 x mic inputs with gain
- XLR and RCA main outputs
- Balanced booth output
- Dual headphone outputs
- Built-in USB hub
The built-in sound card is not just convenient—it’s club-ready. No more lugging around an external interface or worrying about driver compatibility.
Price and Value for Money
Here’s the deal: the Traktor Kontrol S8 isn’t cheap. But when you consider what you’re getting, it’s worth every penny.
- Price in the UK: £899 – £949
- Price in the US: $999 – $1,099
While it sits in the premium tier of controllers, the S8 replaces multiple pieces of gear: a mixer, sound card, performance pads, FX units, and more.
If you’re a serious DJ looking for a controller that will grow with you, the investment is absolutely justified.
Who Is the Traktor Kontrol S8 For?
This controller is ideal for:
- DJs who value creativity over tradition
- Producers who want a live performance rig
- Traktor Pro users wanting deeper integration
- Artists looking to expand into stems and remix decks
- Professionals who demand a reliable, gig-ready controller
This controller might not be for:
- Vinyl purists who need jog wheels
- Absolute beginners (unless you’re very ambitious)
What DJs Are Saying
“The S8 changed the way I think about DJing. I’m no longer just blending tracks—I’m building performances.” – Club DJ in Berlin
“It took me a week to adjust, but once I did, I never wanted to go back to jog wheels again.” – Festival DJ from London
“For the price, you’re basically getting a studio in a box. It’s a workhorse.” – Touring DJ/Producer
Final Verdict: The Future of DJing is Here
In a world full of DJ controllers trying to be everything to everyone, the Traktor Kontrol S8 is refreshingly bold. It doesn’t chase trends—it sets them.
From the seamless screen integration to the brilliant remix capabilities and flawless sound, this is a controller that redefines what a live DJ set can be. It’s not for everyone, but for those ready to push the envelope, it opens doors to an entirely new kind of performance.
Pros:
- Innovative, future-forward design
- Touch-sensitive controls and displays
- Incredible Remix and Stem deck integration
- Standalone 4-channel mixer
- Stellar audio quality
Cons:
- No jog wheels (a plus or minus depending on you)
- Premium price
- Learning curve for traditional DJs
If you’re serious about your DJ career—or just obsessed with creating unforgettable live sets—the S8 is more than a controller. It’s your canvas, your studio, and your stage, all in one.
Ready to Transform Your DJ Sets?
The Traktor Kontrol S8 isn’t just a tool—it’s a game-changer. Don’t miss out on the controller that’s redefining the future of DJ performance.
Buy now and start your next chapter:
Purchase the Traktor Kontrol S8 here