Description
TRAKTOR DJ 2 is the latest free-to-download app that allows you to DJ on your iPad or Desktop. This innovative technology allows DJs to play on the go without carrying heavy equipment. What makes TRAKTOR DJ 2 revolutionary is the fact it can sync with SoundCloud Go+, which gives DJs instant access to millions of tracks from new artists.
On the Desktop version, there are three different layouts; Classic, Jogwheel and Waveform. Classic mode displays the two decks, Jogwheel mode has two platters and Waveform mode displays two large waveforms for a larger overview. The iPad app features Jogwheel and Waveform layouts.
In Classic and Jogwheel mode, you can see your collection and playlists along the left-hand side. On the Desktop version, new playlists can be added by pressing the + ‘New Playlist’ button. Tracks can be added to these playlists by dragging them from your music collection to the app or by importing from your TRAKTOR PRO 3 collection. Soundcloud Go+ accounts can be added in either version and your account can be directly accessed. Load tracks onto a deck by dragging and dropping them from your collection, iTunes playlists or Soundcloud Go+ library.
In the middle of the software is the mixing interface; the Desktop version features a three-band EQ, gain knob and filter/FX knob. The FX knob allows you to choose from Filter, Reverb, Delay or Gater. The iPad app has a three-band EQ and a slider that allows you to adjust the Dry/Wet control of the effects. The four effects can be used creatively to enhance a mix and sound every bit as good as TRAKTOR PRO’s 3’s effects.
There’s a Cue button that allows you to Cue your tracks and Play button to start the tracks. Loops can be set on tracks by pressing the numbered Loop button, or you can tap directly into the waveform to create a loop.
Each track in TRAKTOR DJ 2 has beat-grids that are automatically created; these allow you to perfectly sync your tracks together using Sync mode. Occasionally a beat-grid will have to be adjusted and this can be done by clicking the tempo button and finding the downbeat position in the track. The downbeat means beat one of a bar, usually located on the first kick drum in a track. Once you’ve found the downbeat, move the track so the playhead marker is positioned over this section of the waveform. Click the ‘Set Downbeat’ button to set the new downbeat and change the position of the beat grid. Whether you’re mixing at top venues or house parties, it’s a good idea to prep your sets in advance to ensure the beat grids are set correctly.
Another way to use TRAKTOR DJ 2 is on a laptop with monitors connected to the laptop. This is a good option for those who are comfortable DJing on a computer and would be an easy way to start mixing if you don’t own an iPad or hardware. I would personally recommend this setup for practice and home use, and perhaps use an iPad, iPad/controller combo or the desktop version with a controller at a gig. Generally, an audience would like to see you DJing using a medium other than a laptop, although it’s always the performance and music that matters the most. In a pinch this setup will allow DJs to mix tracks in a professional manner, and could be used in a live setting.
What you'll learn
Properly Configure Traktor Pro 2
Basic Techniques
Advanced Techniques
EQ & FX
Loop Recorder
Remix Decks
Record Your Mix
Requirements
Basic DJing knowledge required and a passion for music.