[UPDATE: THE FOLLOWING IS AN ARTICLE PUBLISHED BY DOLPHINMUSIC.CO.UK. FOR A LOOK AT OUR CURRENT STOCK PLEASE CLICK THE FOLLOWING LINK: MUSIC SOFTWARE]

Traktor LE 2 or Traktor Pro 2 DJ Software - What's the Difference?

When you purchase an NI controller or mixer, it usually comes with the standard Traktor LE 2 software which is, by all means, a decent piece of software. However, we have found that it can be quite restrictive if you want to push your Native Instruments hardware to the limit. Below you can see that compared to the Traktor Pro 2 software, some essential features are missing - making it clear why professionals regard this as an essential software upgrade. [PLEASE NOTE WE NO LONGER SELL  TRAKTOR LE2 AND TRAKTOR PRO 2, HOWEVER, WE DO SELL NATIVE INSTRUMENTS KOMPLETE WHICH IS THE SUCCESSOR SOFTWARE TO TRAKOR LE 2 AND TRAKOR PRO 2]
FEATURES INCLUDED TRAKTOR LE 2 TRAKTOR PRO 2
# of Track Decks 2 4
TruWave waveforms ✔ ✔
Auto Configuration w/ NI audio interfaces & controllers ✔ ✔
Automatic beat detection ✔ ✔
Auto beat-grinding ✔ ✔
Crate flick cover artwork browsing ✔ ✔
iTunes integration ✔ ✔
Remix Decks included ✗ ✔
Waveform zooming ✗ ✔
Recording ✗ ✔
Loop recorder ✗ ✔
Beatjump ✗ ✔
Cue Points ✗ ✔
Hot Cues ✗ 8
FX Units 2 4
Effects 3 + 30+
It is pretty clear from the comparison table that Traktor Pro 2 is less limited and contains some valuable features to unleash your creativity. But does it justify the £89 price tag? The video below provides a great insight into how it can be used, and may help you decide whether you need to take your DJ software to the next level.
Both the Pro 2 and the LE 2 are auto configured, making setup a breeze. The automatic beat detection included on both allows the LE 2 to create experimental mixes without tempo mishaps, yet the Track Pro 2 offers the DJ much more control over this with features such as cues and loops. Both have a user friendly interface that reeks of pure simplicity, whilst achieving great results. In particular we find the huge amount of extra effects included with Track Pro 2 allows you to create unique mixes, whilst the Loop Recorder enables inspiring on-the-fly remixing in live situations that the LE 2 does not offer. The Remix Decks included in Pro 2 allow you to take live performances to a whole new level, which is where we feel a big divide between the LE2 and Pro 2 is formed.
Our conclusion - if you are serious about DJing, the upgrade to Traktor Pro 2 DJ software is well worth the money.
Traktor LE 2 is a suitable piece of software for the amateur DJ that covers the basics, but is quite limited and consequently this can be reflected in your sets. Traktor Pro 2 provides a more advanced control that professionals would deem essential, especially in live situations and for creating your own unique mixes.
If you can afford the extra £89 for Traktor Pro 2 you will certainly be able to make the most out of your Native Instrument hardware, and for this reason we recommend it. Some NI purchases include free vouchers, which can go towards (or even cover!) the cost of Traktor Pro 2 - check out the X1, Z1 and F1 for more details. Whether you go for the LE 2 or the Pro 2 software, we hope you have a blast!
We are currently offering a free copy of Traktor Pro 2 DJ Software worth £89 with all NI X1 purchases, so if you are looking to expand your DJ kit then now is the ideal opportunity - this offer is for a limited time only!