Filming at Fountain LA
Piqued attended and filmed the ArtistMap x POTION Workshop & Industry Mixer at Fountain LA, capturing the lively interactions and energetic atmosphere. The evening included discussions, meet-and-greets with industry experts, and performances by artists using the new features in Traktor Pro 4. Participants were seen networking, sharing their passion for techno music, and eagerly participating in the raffle for prizes.
Drumcell takes center stage
In this workshop, Drumcell shares his extensive experience and insights on utilizing his techno setup for over 15 years. He discusses his unique approach to live performance, incorporating Traktor, hardware drum machines, and external synthesizers to create dynamic and engaging sets. Drumcell emphasizes the importance of staying flexible and responsive to the crowd's energy, using a hybrid performance style that allows for both live elements and DJ techniques. He showcases how his setup has evolved over the years, highlighting the integration of various tools and technologies to enhance his performance.
Exploring the new features of Native Instruments Traktor Pro 4
The workshop also featured an in-depth look at the newly released Native Instruments Traktor Pro 4. The presenters showcased its new features, including the revamped Stems software, flexible beat grids, the Ozone Maximizer, and Beatport streaming. These updates aim to enhance DJ performance capabilities by allowing users to remix tracks on the fly, sync with Ableton and Maschine, and access a vast library of tracks through Beatport streaming. The new X1 controller was also demonstrated, highlighting its improved functionality and integration with Traktor Pro 4.
Revamped stems software
One of the standout features in Traktor Pro 4 is the revamped Stems software. This tool allows DJs to separate tracks into different components like drums, bass, and vocals, enabling more creative and on-the-fly remixing during live performances. By providing greater control over individual track elements, Stems software enhances the ability to mix and match parts of different songs seamlessly.
Flexible beat grids
Flexible beat grids are another powerful addition to Traktor Pro 4. This feature allows DJs to adjust the beat grid for tracks that change tempo mid-song. Whether you are dealing with tracks that speed up or slow down, flexible beat grids ensure that your beats stay perfectly aligned, making it easier to maintain a consistent mix.
The Ozone Maximizer
The Ozone Maximizer is designed to help DJs achieve the loudest, most impactful sound possible without compromising track quality. This tool ensures that your tracks sound polished and professional, even at high volumes. By integrating the Ozone Maximizer into the master fader output, DJs can add layers of sound without causing distortion or loss of clarity.
Beatport streaming
Beatport streaming is a game-changer for DJs, providing instant access to a vast library of tracks directly within Traktor Pro 4. With this feature, DJs can explore and experiment with new tracks on the fly, adding a fresh and unique element to their sets. The ability to stream tracks from Beatport without needing to download them first is a significant advantage for spontaneous and dynamic performances.
The new X1 controller
The new X1 controller was also highlighted during the workshop. This updated controller offers improved functionality and integration with Traktor Pro 4, making it easier for DJs to manage their sets. The X1 controller's enhanced features include better control over effects, loops, and track navigation, providing a more intuitive and efficient DJing experience.
Traktor X1 MK3 DJ Controller
Maximum flexibility and extensive functionality for effects control, playback manipulation, looping, mixer mapping, and more.
Mastering techniques with Master Plan
Additionally, the workshop included a detailed discussion on mastering techniques using the plugin Master Plan. The speakers highlighted how Master Plan helps balance loudness and dynamic range, ensuring high-quality sound. They demonstrated the use of the unity button to adjust loudness without compromising track quality and emphasized volume compensation to avoid common mastering mistakes. The goal of Master Plan is to achieve a loud, impactful sound while maintaining the music's original dynamics and feel.
Balancing loudness and dynamic range
Master Plan is designed to help producers achieve the perfect balance between loudness and dynamic range. Increasing the loudness of a track can often lead to a loss of quality, but with Master Plan, DJs can push the volume without sacrificing the track's dynamic integrity. This balance ensures that tracks are both powerful and clear, providing an optimal listening experience.
Utilizing the unity button
One of the key features of Master Plan is the unity button, which allows users to adjust the loudness of a track without actually increasing its volume. This feature helps maintain the original quality of the track while making it sound louder and more impactful. By using the unity button, DJs can avoid the common pitfall of over-compression and ensure that their tracks retain their dynamic range.
Volume compensation
Volume compensation is another important aspect of mastering with Master Plan. By compensating for volume changes, DJs can prevent unwanted alterations to the track's sound quality. This feature is particularly useful when making adjustments to loudness, as it ensures that the overall balance of the track remains consistent.
