Native Instruments has\announced Traktor Pro and Traktor Scratch Pro,
the next versions of its digital DJ solutions with MIDI and time-code
control. Traktor Pro touts four full-featured decks, extensive sound
shaping and MIDI control options.

The new Traktor Scratch Pro combines the full-featured Traktor Pro
software with the Audio 8 DJ interface and a set of high-resolution
time-code records and CDs for responsive hands-on control through
turntables and CD decks. Traktor Pro introduces a new graphical user
interface that includes a completely scalable screen layout and cover
artwork support including the Crate Flick" feature that allows DJs to
visually browse their music library.

There are also advanced syncing functions in Traktor Pro. Precise
beat grids are now created automatically for all tracks, and the
"Sync Lock" function is designed to ensure that even multiple decks
and tempo-synced effects never drift out of sync. New "quantized
navigation" also allows DJs to jump between loops, cue points or any
other part of a track without missing a beat.

Traktor Pro also sports a performance effects section. Two separate
multi-effect units offer more than 20 studio-quality algorithms, from
a full range of standard DJ effects to a selection of unusual effect
types like Mulholland Drive, Iceverb and Reverse Grain. Up to six
effects can be chained and freely assigned to any number of decks at
any time.

Traktor Pro offers MIDI controller integration, and comes with
mappings for all relevant DJ controllers on the market, according to
the folks at Native Instruments. New "MIDI modifier" functionality
provides even finer performance control, allowing for dynamic and
multi-layered knob and fader assignments, on-the-fly adjustments of
parameter resolution and more, they add. What's more, new extended
MIDI sync features let users integrate outboard gear like drum
machines and software sequencers into the mix.

With the new generation of Traktor, the integration with the leading
dance music download store Beatport is also enhanced. Starting in
2009, all new releases on Beatport will come with Traktor metadata,
enabling DJs to add newly purchased tracks to their collection
without any additional preparation time.

Further imProvements in Traktor Pro and Traktor Scratch Pro include
incremental track search, portable collection and setting files,
dedicated key correction and filter sections for each deck, an
included library of loops, FX sounds and Scratch files as well as
full compatibility with the latest 64-bit Mac OS X and Windows
operating systems.

Traktor Pro will be available Nov. 1 at a suggested retail price of
US$229, with Traktor Scratch Pro priced at $669. Customers who own
both Traktor Scratch and Traktor 3 will receive a free software
update to Traktor Pro. More information on Traktor Pro and Traktor
Scratch Pro including video tutorials can be found at
http://www.listentoPro.com