ReviewFinder DJ Controllers

Native Instruments S2 MK2

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4 Verified Hands-On Reviews

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Expert reviews [4]

90
Total expert reviews: 4
  • with a score: 1
  • without a score: 3

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
ReviewFinder: authentic product reviews summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ controller is a versatile and efficient option suitable for both beginner and professional DJs, with a compact size, user-friendly layout, compatibility with a range of software and operating systems, durable build quality, and standout features such as a wide range of effects, multiple inputs and outputs, and precise control over mixes.

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ controller is a versatile and efficient option suitable for both beginner and professional DJs. Its compact size and user-friendly layout make it easy to use, while its compatibility with a range of software and operating systems, including the Traktor DJ iOS app, makes it a versatile option for DJs who want to use their mobile devices.

The S2 MK2 has a durable build quality and is lightweight, making it easy to transport to gigs or performances. Its standout features include a wide range of effects, multiple inputs and outputs, and precise control over mixes. Overall, the S2 MK2 is an ideal choice for DJs who want a compact and easy-to-use controller with high-quality effects and precise control over their mixes.

Features

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ controller is a compact and easy-to-use 2-channel mixer with a wide range of effects and multiple inputs and outputs, making it perfect for beginners or those who prefer a minimalist setup.

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ controller has a 2-channel mixer, making it perfect for beginners or those who prefer a minimalist setup. It comes with a wide range of effects, including filters, delays, reverbs, and modulation effects, which are easy to control with four knobs and four buttons per effect module.

The controller has multiple inputs and outputs, including a headphone output, microphone input, RCA output, and USB and power cable connection. It is easy to navigate and access various features and functions, with transport and mixer buttons similar to the Maschine and Kontrol X1 MK2 buttons. The EQ knobs are well-spaced and easy to adjust on the fly.

The S2 MK2 is ideal for DJs who want a compact and easy-to-use controller with high-quality effects and precise control over their mixes.

How many channels does the Native Instruments S2 MK2 have and how does this impact the user's mixing and track transitioning capabilities?

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 has a 2-channel mixer. This means that you can mix two tracks simultaneously. While this may be limiting for some users who prefer more channels, it is perfect for those who are just starting out or those who prefer a more minimalist setup. With two channels, you can still create seamless transitions between tracks and use the various features and effects to enhance your mixing performance. Keep in mind that having only two channels also means that you won't be able to mix multiple tracks at the same time.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What types of effects are available on the Native Instruments S2 MK2 and how do they differ in terms of quality and versatility?

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ Controller comes with a wide range of effects that are available through two effect banks. These effects include filters, delays, reverbs, and modulation effects such as phasers and flangers. According to a product review on djbooth.net, there are four knobs and four buttons per effect module, and the effects knobs have rubberized coatings and a center click. This design allows for precise control over the effect parameters and makes it easy to determine the middle of the effect parameter. As for the quality and versatility of the effects, it ultimately depends on the user's preferences and needs. However, Native Instruments is well-known for producing high-quality effects and the Traktor Pro 2 software that comes with the S2 MK2 includes a wide range of effects that are widely used in the DJ industry.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How many inputs and outputs does Native Instruments S2 MK2 have and what types of devices can be connected to it?

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ controller has a 1/4-inch headphone output, a 1/4-inch microphone input, RCA (unbalanced) output, 1/4-inch (balanced) output, and a USB and power cable connection. According to a product review on djbooth.net, the RCA output has a small toggle switch next to it which allows the user to assign the RCA output to either the Master volume control knob on the face of the unit or the recessed volume knob on the rear. This update allows the user to have two independent outputs with volume control for monitoring or recording.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

How easy is it to navigate and access the various features and functions of the Native Instruments S2 MK2 controller?

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 controller has a minimalistic design that makes it easy to navigate and access various features and functions. The transport and mixer buttons are similar to the Maschine and Kontrol X1 MK2 buttons, and the effects and pitch buttons are almost identical to the buttons on the original S2. The knobs (EQs, effects, etc.) have a rubberized coating and allow for accurate adjustments that always line up perfectly with the software. The EQ knobs towards the middle of the unit have lots of space and aren’t cramped together, which makes them easy to adjust on the fly. However, some users on djworx.com have mentioned that the customization options are limited, and some functions require deep and frustrating device control menus.
Based on 15 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

User interface

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ Controller is a versatile and user-friendly MIDI controller suitable for both beginner and professional DJs, with a two-channel setup, customizable mapping, and advanced controls for reliable and powerful performance.

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ Controller has a user-friendly layout with simple and easy-to-use controls, making it a good choice for beginner DJs. It has a two-channel setup that is less overwhelming than other four-channel systems on the market. The mixer section is located in the middle of the unit, with EQ knobs that are full-kill when completely turned down.

The oversized Browse knob and Load A and Load B buttons allow for easy file navigation and loading new tracks onto the decks. The S2 MK2 is an all-out MIDI controller that can be customized with mapping to each button, knob, and fader to be configured just the way the DJ wants to the software of their choice.

For professional DJs, the S2 MK2 has all the essential features and controls needed for mixing and beatmatching, with low-latency operation and rubberized coating on the knobs and EQs for accurate adjustments. The Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 also has extensive and advanced controls for DJs right on the face of the unit, allowing for a reliable and powerful performance.

Overall, the Native Instruments S2 MK2 is a versatile and efficient DJ controller suitable for both beginners and professionals.

How are the buttons and knobs arranged on the Native Instruments S2 MK2?

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 DJ Controller has a mixer section located in the middle of the unit, with EQ knobs that are full-kill when completely turned down. It also has an oversized Browse knob and Load A and Load B buttons for file navigation and loading new tracks onto the decks. At the top and in the middle, there are the Master Volume knob and the Remix Deck Volume knob along with the A and B buttons to activate the Remix decks. The Cue/Mix and volume headphone controls for headphone monitoring are found on the front face of the S2 MK2 along with the headphone quarter-inch socket and the microphone on/off button. The bottom four buttons are used for transport controls including Play/Pause, Cue, Sync, and Shift.
Based on 7 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is the layout of Native Instruments S2 MK2 more beginner-friendly compared to other controllers?

According to the review on djbooth.net, the S2 MK2 has a two-channel setup that is less overwhelming than other four-channel systems on the market, making it a good choice for beginner DJs. Additionally, the review mentions that the controls are simple and easy to use. However, as with any DJ controller, there will be a learning curve for beginners to get used to the layout and functionality of the device.
Based on 5 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the number of buttons and knobs available for customization on the Native Instruments S2 MK2 controller?

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 is an all-out MIDI controller that can be customized with mapping to each button, knob, and fader to be configured just the way the DJ wants to the software of their choice. However, I couldn't find a specific number of buttons and knobs available for customization.
Based on 5 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Which features of the Native Instruments S2 MK2 make it a more streamlined and efficient workflow for professional DJs?

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 has all the essential features and controls that a professional DJ needs for mixing and beatmatching. The jog wheel and fader mapping are perfectly integrated with the Traktor Pro software, providing low-latency operation. The rubberized coating on the knobs and EQs allows for accurate adjustments that always line up perfectly with the software, and the EQ knobs towards the middle of the unit have lots of space and aren’t cramped together, making them easy to adjust on the fly. Additionally, the S2 MK2 is an all-out MIDI controller that can be customized with a mapping to each button, knob, and fader to be configured just the way the DJ wants to the software of their choice. Furthermore, the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 has extensive and advanced controls for DJs right on the face of the unit, so DJs can have all the control they need for a reliable, powerful performance.
Based on 12 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Build quality

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 is a durable and reliable controller with a mostly plastic body, metal top surface, and shiny polymer material over the mixer section, suitable for DJs who frequently travel with their equipment.

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 has a mostly plastic body with a metal top surface over the deck/jog wheel sections and a shiny polymer material over the mixer section. The jog wheels have a metal push style surface at the top, and there are reinforcements for the knobs and chassis. The build quality is good and has been proven to hold up under harsh DJ conditions.

It is recommended to purchase an additional bag or carry case if the controller will see a fair share of travel during usage. Overall, the S2 MK2 is a durable and reliable controller that is suitable for DJs who frequently travel with their equipment.

What materials are used in the construction of Native Instruments S2 MK2?

According to reviews on djbooth.net and djworx.com, the body of the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 is mostly made of thick plastic, with a metal top surface over the deck/jog wheel sections and a shiny polymer material over the mixer section. The jog wheels now have a metal push style surface at the top, and there are some reinforcements for the knobs and chassis.
Based on 7 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the material used in Native Instruments S2 MK2 affect its overall durability?

According to product reviews on djbooth.net, the body of the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 is made up of mostly thick plastic with a metal top surface over the deck/jog wheel sections and a shiny polymer material over the mixer section. The durability of the S2 MK2 has been proven to hold up under very harsh DJ conditions over the last few years. The build quality is good, and it is expected to last just as good as or better than the original S2. However, it is recommended to purchase an additional bag or carry case if this controller will see a fair share of travel during usage.
Based on 6 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Size and portability

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 is a compact and lightweight DJ controller that is easy to transport, but it is recommended to purchase an additional bag or carry case for frequent transportation.

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 has a compact footprint and is lightweight, making it easy to transport in an average-sized controller bag. It does not come with a carrying case or bag, so it is recommended to purchase an additional bag or carry case if it will be frequently transported.

The size and weight of the S2 MK2 should not have a negative impact on usability during a performance or gig, and the build quality is solid. Overall, the S2 MK2 is a portable and convenient option for DJs who need to transport their equipment to gigs or performances.

What are the dimensions and weight of the Native Instruments S2 MK2?

According to the product information on the Native Instruments website, the dimensions of the S2 MK2 are 438 mm x 261 mm x 64 mm and it weighs 2.7 kg (6 lbs).
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How easy is it to transport the Native Instruments S2 MK2?

According to product reviews on djworx.com and djbooth.net, the Kontrol S2 MK2 has a compact footprint and can easily fit into an average-sized controller bag for easy storage and transport. Additionally, the Kontrol S2 MK2 isn't overwhelmingly heavy, making it easy to carry in a bag with your laptop. However, some reviewers recommend purchasing an additional bag or carry case if this controller will see a fair share of travel during usage.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Native Instruments S2 MK2 come with a carrying case or bag for convenient transportation?

According to the review on djbooth.net, the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 can easily fit into an average-sized controller bag for easy storage and transport. However, it does not come with a carrying case or bag, so it is recommended to purchase an additional bag or carry case if this controller will see a fair share of travel during usage.
Based on 5 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the size and weight of Native Instruments S2 MK2 affect its usability during a performance or gig?

According to reviews on djworx.com and djbooth.net, the Kontrol S2 MK2 has a compact footprint and is not overwhelmingly heavy, making it easy to carry in a bag with your laptop. The build quality is good, and the unit feels solid to the touch. The size and weight of the S2 MK2 should not have a negative impact on usability during a performance or gig.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Compatibility

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 is a versatile DJ controller compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, and comes with Traktor Pro 2 software and is also compatible with the Traktor DJ iOS app.

The Native Instruments S2 MK2 is a DJ controller that is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. It comes with the Traktor Pro 2 software, which is fully compatible with the controller. The S2 MK2 is also compatible with the Traktor DJ iOS app, making it a versatile option for DJs who want to use their mobile devices.

Overall, the S2 MK2 is a great choice for DJs who want a reliable and versatile controller that is compatible with a range of software and operating systems.

Which software is compatible with Native Instruments S2 MK2?

The Native Instruments Traktor Pro 2 software is included with the S2 MK2 and is fully compatible with it. Additionally, the S2 MK2 is also compatible with the Traktor DJ iOS app.
Based on 15 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

What operating systems is Native Instruments S2 MK2 compatible with?

According to the product information on the Native Instruments website, the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems.
Based on 15 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

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Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all DJ controllers.

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Traktor Kontrol S2
5
1
7
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3
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12
2
- $299
Pioneer DDJ-FLX4
1
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1
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Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500
2
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6
2
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1
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2
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