Traktor Kontrol S2 vs Roland DJ-202: Overview of expert opinions

Both the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 have two channels, allowing users to mix and transition between two tracks at a time. This means that DJs can seamlessly blend two songs together, adjusting the volume, EQ, and effects for each track independently.

Having two channels can be advantageous for several reasons. Firstly, it allows DJs to create smooth transitions between tracks, ensuring a continuous flow of music without any abrupt changes. They can gradually fade in and out of each track, adjusting the volume and EQ to maintain a balanced sound.

Secondly, having two channels enables DJs to layer different elements from each track, creating unique and dynamic mixes. They can bring in the vocals from one track while keeping the instrumental from another, or blend the percussion from one track with the melody from another. This adds depth and complexity to the mix, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Furthermore, having two channels can simplify the mixing process, especially for beginners. With fewer tracks to manage, DJs can focus more on their transitions, beatmatching, and overall performance. They can experiment with different techniques and effects without feeling overwhelmed by a multitude of channels.

However, it's important to note that having only two channels may limit the DJ's ability to mix multiple tracks simultaneously. If a DJ wants to incorporate more than two tracks into their mix, they would need to switch between them or use additional equipment, such as a mixer or additional controllers.

In this case, a controller with more channels, like the Traktor Kontrol S4, would be a better option.

In conclusion, both the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 offer two channels, allowing users to mix and transition between two tracks at a time. While this may not provide as much flexibility as controllers with more channels, it still allows for seamless transitions, layering of tracks, and a simplified mixing process.

In terms of effects, both the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 offer a range of options, but there are some differences in terms of quality and versatility.

The Roland DJ-202 has a simple effects section with three buttons to select Serato effects. While it may not have as many advanced effects as the DJ-808, it is still considered effective. The level knob allows for adjusting the intensity of the active effect(s) and can also be used as a beats selector.

However, it lacks some advanced vocal FX like auto-tune.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 offers effects such as Reverb, Delay, and Flanger. The FX controls have been simplified and condensed into the FX Select matrix and one FX knob per channel. The mixer effects, controlled by a big knob under the EQs, are said to sound great and are suitable for most users.

However, it's worth noting that the lack of dedicated FX controls at the top of the unit may take some time to get used to.

In terms of quality, it is difficult to make a direct comparison without personal experience or side-by-side testing. However, both controllers are generally well-regarded and offer good sound quality.

In terms of versatility, the Traktor Kontrol S2 may have a slight advantage due to its range of effects and the ability to control them through the FX Select matrix. However, the Roland DJ-202 still offers a decent selection of effects and the ability to adjust their intensity.

Ultimately, the choice between the two controllers will depend on personal preference and specific needs. It is recommended to try them out or read more reviews to determine which one suits your style and requirements better.

The Roland DJ-202 has a simpler setup with a basic RCA stereo output and a microphone input. It also has a USB port for connecting to a computer and a MIDI out port for syncing with external MIDI devices. This means you can connect the DJ-202 to your computer, speakers, headphones, and microphone.

Additionally, you can connect it to other MIDI-enabled gear such as drum and synth machines from Roland's Aira line.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 offers more connectivity options. It has 2 stereo outputs, one with RCA connectors and the other with a 3. 5mm jack. It also has a 3. 5mm headphone output and a 1/4-inch microphone input. In terms of USB ports, it has two: one for connecting to the host computer and another for bus power or iOS devices.

This means you can connect the Traktor Kontrol S2 to your computer, speakers, headphones, and microphone as well.

In summary, both controllers offer similar connectivity options, including computer connection, speaker output, headphone output, and microphone input. However, the Traktor Kontrol S2 provides more versatility with its additional stereo output option and separate USB ports for host computer and bus power/iOS devices.

Both the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 are considered user-friendly controllers. However, there are some differences in terms of navigating and accessing their features and functions.

The Roland DJ-202 has a spacious and intuitive layout, making it easy for beginners to learn on. The dedicated FX controls at the top of each deck allow for easy control of the inbuilt FX banks in Serato DJ Lite. The built-in drum machine with samples from Roland's legendary drum kits can be easily sequenced and triggered via performance pads.

This makes it a great option for DJs who want to focus on loop layering and sample layering while performing.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 is praised for its smooth, reactive, accurate, and reliable physical controls. All the main functionalities are easily accessible from the controller itself, providing a seamless experience. The tight software integration with Traktor Pro 3 makes it feel like an integrated device, enhancing the overall user experience.

In terms of user-friendliness, both controllers have their strengths. The Roland DJ-202 is particularly beginner-friendly with its intuitive layout and dedicated controls for FX and drum machine. It offers a straightforward approach to DJing and performance.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 provides a seamless and integrated experience with its smooth physical controls and tight software integration. It is well-suited for DJs who prefer a more advanced and professional setup.

Ultimately, the choice between the two controllers will depend on the individual's preferences and needs. Both offer user-friendly navigation and access to features and functions, but the specific layout and integration may appeal differently to different users.

The buttons and knobs on the Roland DJ-202 are arranged in a straightforward and intuitive manner. The two-channel mixer has trim pots, filter knobs, and three-band EQs per channel. The top of each deck has dedicated FX controls for the three inbuilt banks in Serato DJ Lite. In the middle section of the mixer, there are knobs for the master level, headphone cue/master, phones level, and sampler level.

The effects section is simple but effective, with buttons to select Serato effects, a button for TAP or toggling between effect modes, and a level knob to set the intensity of the active effect(s) and select beats. The parameter controls can be used for controlling the current loop length and the inbuilt Roland drum machine.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 also has a club-standard layout with a 2-channel mixer. The mixer section includes 3-band EQs with modeling of industry standard mixer EQs. The FX controls on the Traktor Kontrol S2 have been simplified and condensed into the FX Select matrix and one FX knob per channel.

There are 16 RGB pads for triggering hot cues, loops, or samples. The jog wheels are larger than before and have a touch-sensitive top plate and switch-activated performance, offering a classic spin-to-nudge function as well as scratch capability.

In comparison, the Roland DJ-202 has a more extensive range of knobs and controls, including dedicated FX controls for each deck and parameter controls for loop length and the inbuilt drum machine. The Traktor Kontrol S2, on the other hand, has simplified FX controls and a focus on performance features like RGB pads and touch-sensitive jog wheels.

Ultimately, the arrangement of buttons and knobs on each controller will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the DJ.

Both the Roland DJ-202 and the Traktor Kontrol S2 have layouts that are considered beginner-friendly. The Roland DJ-202 has a spacious and solid layout, making it easier for beginners to learn on. It has a user-friendly design that is not overwhelming for beginners.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 is designed to set the entry barrier as low as possible and provides new DJs with everything they need to master the fundamentals of DJing. It has a well-thought-out layout and is very well featured compared to other entry-level controllers.

In terms of intuitiveness, both controllers have received positive reviews from beginners. However, it ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Some beginners may find the spacious layout of the Roland DJ-202 more intuitive, while others may prefer the well-thought-out design of the Traktor Kontrol S2.

It is recommended to try out both controllers if possible and see which one feels more intuitive and comfortable to use.

In terms of the number of buttons and knobs available for customization, the Roland DJ-202 has a total of eight performance pads per channel. These pads can be customized to perform various functions such as triggering hot cues, samples, loops, and effects. Additionally, the DJ-202 has a three-band EQ section with filter and gain knobs, allowing for precise control over the sound.

There are also transport controls and dedicated FX controls at the top of each deck, providing easy access to the inbuilt FX banks in Serato DJ Lite. Overall, the DJ-202 offers a decent number of buttons and knobs for customization, allowing DJs to tailor their performance to their liking.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 has a total of 16 RGB pads. These pads can also be customized to trigger various functions, including hot cues, samples, and loops. The S2 Mk3 also features 3-band EQs with modeling of industry standard mixer EQs, providing DJs with precise control over the sound.

There are controls for FX, beatgrid adjustment, and jog mode as well. However, the exact number of buttons and knobs available for customization is not specified. According to a product review on DJ Tech Reviews, there are fewer controls for cues and samples compared to the S4 model. However, the Shift button can be used to open up more customization options.

While the S2 Mk3 may have fewer controls compared to the DJ-202, it still offers a decent amount of customization options for DJs.

In summary, the Roland DJ-202 offers eight performance pads per channel, a three-band EQ section with filter and gain knobs, transport controls, and dedicated FX controls. The Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 has 16 RGB pads, 3-band EQs, controls for FX, beatgrid adjustment, and jog mode. While the exact number of buttons and knobs available for customization on the S2 Mk3 is not specified, it still provides a decent amount of customization options.

Both the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 offer a streamlined and efficient workflow for professional DJs, but they have different strengths and features that cater to different styles and preferences.

The Roland DJ-202 excels in its extensive FX capabilities and built-in drum machine. The inclusion of samples from Roland's legendary drum kits allows DJs to easily sequence and trigger loops and samples during performances. This makes it a great choice for DJ/producers specializing in house or techno, where layering loops and samples is a common practice.

The jogwheels, knobs, and buttons on the DJ-202 are also praised for their amazing feel and responsiveness, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable performance experience.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 offers a well-designed mixer section and reliable physical controls. The mixer section provides all the essential features that DJs need, and the controls are smooth, reactive, accurate, and reliable. The touch-sensitive jog wheels and switch-activated performance provide a fantastic sense of timing, making it suitable for DJs who prioritize precise and dynamic mixing.

The simplified and condensed FX controls also contribute to a less cluttered layout, allowing DJs to focus on their performance without being overwhelmed by excessive controls.

In terms of price, the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3 is considered reasonably priced for the features it offers, giving the impression of a higher-priced controller. This makes it a good option for DJs who want a professional-grade controller without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, the choice between the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 depends on the DJ's specific needs and preferences. The DJ-202 is ideal for DJ/producers specializing in house or techno with a focus on loop and sample layering, while the Traktor Kontrol S2 is suitable for DJs who prioritize precise mixing and a well-designed layout.

Both controllers offer a streamlined and efficient workflow, but the features and strengths of each cater to different styles and preferences.

The Roland DJ-202 is primarily made of plastic, which may contribute to its lightweight and slightly hollow feel. However, it is important to note that the plastic used is of good quality and does not feel cheap.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 features a more premium build with a metal surface for added stability. The jog wheels on the S2 are made of aluminum, which adds to its durability and precision.

The rest of the controller is made of high-quality plastic, ensuring a solid construction overall.

In terms of materials used, the Roland DJ-202 is made entirely out of plastic, while the Traktor Kontrol S2 is made of high-quality materials that are not specified in the information provided.

The plastic build of the DJ-202 makes it lightweight and portable, which is advantageous for mobile DJs who need to transport their equipment frequently. However, plastic may not be as durable as metal in some cases, so the DJ-202 may not be as rugged as some other DJ controllers on the market. Despite this, the device is reported to be solid and durable, suggesting that the plastic used in its construction is of good quality.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 is described as having a solid and sturdy build. The high-quality materials used in its construction contribute to its durability and reliability. While the specific materials are not mentioned, the fact that the physical controls are smooth, reactive, accurate, and reliable suggests that the materials used are of good quality.

Overall, both controllers seem to be durable in their own right. The plastic build of the DJ-202 may not be as rugged as the materials used in the S2, but it still provides a solid and durable construction. The high-quality materials used in the S2 contribute to its overall durability and longevity.

Ultimately, the choice between the two controllers may come down to personal preference and specific needs.

The Roland DJ-202 is slightly smaller in size compared to the Traktor Kontrol S2, with dimensions of 478mm x 297mm x 62mm (WxDxH) compared to 486 x 265 x 59mm for the Traktor Kontrol S2.

In terms of weight, the Roland DJ-202 is significantly lighter, weighing only 2.1 kg. On the other hand, the weight of the Traktor Kontrol S2 is not provided in the information given.

Both the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 are designed to be portable and easy to transport. However, there are some differences in their build and dimensions that may affect their ease of transportation.

The Roland DJ-202 is praised for its lightweight and transportable design. It is made entirely of plastic, which contributes to its light weight. This makes it a great option for mobile DJs who need to transport their equipment frequently. The plastic build also adds to its durability, as it is less likely to get damaged during transportation.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 is also described as compact and portable. It weighs only 6 pounds, which is relatively light compared to other DJ controllers. Its dimensions are designed to make it easy to carry around, whether you are taking it to a friend's house or to parties.

The S2's compact size also means it can fit easily into a backpack or a DJ bag, making it convenient for DJs on the go.

In terms of transportation, both controllers offer similar ease of use. However, the Roland DJ-202's all-plastic build may provide added durability during transportation, while the Traktor Kontrol S2's compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around.

Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and specific transportation needs.

In terms of carrying cases or bags, it seems that the Roland DJ-202 does not come with one included. However, there are third-party options available for this controller. These third-party options can range from soft cases to hard cases, providing protection and convenience for transporting the DJ-202.

On the other hand, there is no specific information available about whether the Traktor Kontrol S2 comes with a carrying case or bag included. However, like the Roland DJ-202, there are third-party options available for the Traktor Kontrol S2 as well. These options can vary in terms of design, materials, and features, allowing users to choose a carrying case or bag that suits their needs and preferences.

Overall, while the Roland DJ-202 does not come with a carrying case or bag included, and there is no specific information available about the Traktor Kontrol S2, both controllers have third-party options available for users to protect and transport their equipment.

Both the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 are lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport to gigs or events. The Roland DJ-202 has handles for easy carrying, while the Traktor Kontrol S2's compact size allows it to fit into a backpack or small bag.

In terms of usability during a performance or gig, the size and weight of both controllers should not be a major issue. Both controllers have all the necessary features and controls for a DJ performance, so DJs should be able to navigate and use them effectively.

However, it is worth noting that the Roland DJ-202's lightweight plastic build may make it feel a bit flimsy, which could potentially affect its durability. DJs may need to take extra care to ensure it is not damaged during transport.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2's compact design and lightweight build have been praised for their portability and ease of use.

Overall, while the size and weight of a DJ controller can impact its portability and ease of transport, it should not significantly affect its usability during a performance or gig as long as it has all the necessary features and controls. DJs should choose a controller that suits their specific needs and preferences in terms of size, weight, and build quality.

Both the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 come bundled with software that is specifically designed for their respective controllers.

The Roland DJ-202 comes with Serato DJ Lite software, which is a beginner-friendly DJ software that offers basic features for mixing and performing. However, the DJ-202 is also compatible with Serato DJ Pro software, which is a more advanced and professional DJ software with additional features and capabilities.

On the other hand, the Traktor Kontrol S2 comes with Traktor Pro 3 software, which is Native Instruments' flagship DJ software. Traktor Pro 3 is known for its powerful and flexible features, including advanced mixing and remixing capabilities, extensive effects, and a wide range of performance tools.

Additionally, the S2 also supports Traktor DJ 2, which is a simplified version of Traktor Pro 3 designed for iOS devices or MAC/PC.

In terms of compatibility, both controllers are designed to work seamlessly with their respective software. However, it is worth noting that the Roland DJ-202 is primarily designed for use with Serato DJ software, while the Traktor Kontrol S2 is specifically designed for use with Traktor Pro software.

While it is possible to use the DJ-202 with Traktor Pro and the S2 with Serato DJ, it may require additional configuration and mapping to ensure full compatibility and functionality.

Overall, the choice between the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 may come down to personal preference and the specific features and capabilities offered by the software that comes bundled with each controller.

Both the Roland DJ-202 and Traktor Kontrol S2 are compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. This means that users can use either of these controllers with their preferred operating system without any compatibility issues.

Additionally, the Traktor Kontrol S2 also supports Traktor DJ 2 on IOS devices, providing even more flexibility for users who prefer to DJ on their mobile devices.