Native Instruments announces Traktor DJ for iPad, brings the mix to iOS (video)

DJ apps for iPad? There’s a bunch. But -- if you’re at all familiar with the craft -- there’s a very notable name absent from the crowd. Until today that is. Native Instruments set the high watermark for DJ software with its desktop-based Traktor application, and now it’s available in compact iOS form. Designed by the same team as the full-fat version, aspiring DJs can enjoy two waveform-based decks, with three-band EQ, eight effects (ported over from Trakor Pro) all redesigned from the ground up for the iPad’s touch-based input. The interface eschews the conventional virtualization of a turntable set-up, instead creating a workflow more congruent with the hardware’s form factor. Notably, a new “Freeze” mode stops the waveform from galloping on, letting you tend to cue points, loops etc or slice it into samples for “playable” parts. There’s also interaction between the mobile and desktop versions via dropbox-based media sync, so any tracks loops and so on made on the move can be seamlessly transported to your club performance too. Think an iPad app is nice and all, but want a little more spice? Well, hook it up to one of the firm’s popular Audio 6 or Audio 10 interfaces (via the USB connection kit) you just got proper pre-listen and cue functionality too. Traktor DJ is available today for $19.99, and if you’re still undecided, there’s a demo video after the break that might just swing it for you.