Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8chat_bubble_outlineFrom real comments

The remix deck and touch strip system impressed users who wanted a creative, laptop-free workflow. Multiple commenters highlight running up to 10 simultaneous audio sources across remix decks with loops, describing beatmatching via touch strips as effective without sync. Long-term owners still call it the most expressive or advanced controller years after release, and it integrates well with timecode vinyl, CDJs, and other gear like Maschine or a Polyend Tracker without issue.

Dropping jog wheels split opinion sharply between scratch DJs and remix/production-focused users. Many commenters defend the decision, saying jog wheels waste space and aren't needed unless scratching, recommending turntables or CDJs instead. Others strongly disagree, calling the omission a dealbreaker for old-school DJs and turntablists, with some also missing a pitch fader, arguing NI is redefining DJing away from its traditional roots.

Price and software reliability were recurring points of friction for buyers. Several users call the roughly $1200 price too steep for just a controller, even as others argue high-end pro gear at that price is reasonable. One detailed complaint describes persistent audio pops, freezes, and slowdowns with no fix and poor customer support, while another asks the community whether crashing or lag issues are widespread or isolated.