Hey guys! Ever wanted to dive deep into the world of live remixing and DJing with Traktor Pro? Well, you've come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we're going to break down everything you need to know about Traktor Remix Decks, from the basics to some more advanced techniques. Get ready to unleash your creativity and take your DJ sets to the next level!

What are Traktor Remix Decks?

Traktor Remix Decks are a powerful tool within Native Instruments' Traktor Pro software that allows DJs to create and perform live remixes on the fly. Unlike traditional track decks that play full songs, Remix Decks utilize a grid of up to 64 slots, each capable of holding loops, samples, one-shots, or even entire tracks. This gives you unparalleled flexibility to manipulate and rearrange your music in real-time, adding a unique and personalized touch to your DJ sets. Think of them as your personal playground for sound, where you can chop, slice, and dice audio to create something entirely new. They are a game-changer for DJs who want to move beyond simply playing tracks and start truly performing music. Imagine taking the vocal from one track, the drum loop from another, and a synth stab from a third, and weaving them together into a brand new composition, all live and in the moment. That's the power of Remix Decks. They encourage experimentation and allow you to build sets that are completely unique to you. Plus, with the ability to save and load your Remix Sets, you can build a library of customized sounds and arrangements that you can call upon at any time. This means you can prepare your remixes in advance, or even create them on the fly during your set, adapting to the energy of the crowd and the flow of the music.

Setting Up Traktor Remix Decks

Alright, let's get our hands dirty! First, you need to make sure you have Traktor Pro installed and activated. Then, follow these steps to set up your Remix Decks:

1. Deck Layout: In Traktor's preferences, go to the "Deck Layout" section. Here, you can choose which decks you want to be Remix Decks. Simply select "Remix Deck" from the dropdown menu for the deck you want to convert. Remember, you can switch between Track Decks and Remix Decks at any time, so don't be afraid to experiment.
2. Loading Samples: There are several ways to load samples into your Remix Deck slots. You can drag and drop audio files directly from your Traktor browser, or you can use the "Capture" function to grab loops and samples from tracks playing on your other decks. This is super handy for creating remixes on the fly. Another method is to import entire Remix Sets, which are pre-made collections of samples and loops that you can download or create yourself. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for your workflow.
3. Grid Size: Remix Decks can have different grid sizes, depending on your needs. You can choose between 4x4, 8x2, or 16x1 layouts. The 4x4 layout is a good starting point, offering a balance between control and visual clarity. The 8x2 layout gives you more slots in a horizontal arrangement, which can be useful for longer loops and phrases. And the 16x1 layout is great for sequencing and creating rhythmic patterns. Play around with different grid sizes to see which one suits your style.
4. Quantization: Make sure your quantization is turned on! This will ensure that your samples trigger in time with the beat, keeping everything sounding tight and professional. You can adjust the quantization value in Traktor's preferences, but a setting of 1/4 or 1/8 is usually a good starting point.

By following these steps, you'll have your Remix Decks up and running in no time! Now you're ready to start loading samples, creating loops, and building your own unique remixes.

Basic Remix Deck Controls

Okay, so you've got your Remix Decks set up and loaded with sounds. Now it's time to learn the controls and start making some music! Each slot in a Remix Deck has several key controls:

• Play/Stop Button: This one's pretty self-explanatory! It starts and stops the sample in that slot. You can also set the play mode to loop, one-shot, or hold, depending on how you want the sample to behave.
• Volume Fader: Controls the volume of the sample. Use this to blend the sample in with the rest of your mix.
• Filter Knob: Adjusts the filter cutoff frequency. This is great for creating build-ups and transitions.
• FX Sends: Sends the sample to your Traktor FX units. Experiment with different effects to add texture and depth to your remixes.
• Key Knob: Transposes the pitch of the sample. This can be used to create harmonies, or to match the key of the sample to the key of the track you're mixing.
• Slot Type: This determines how the slot behaves. You can set it to Loop, One-Shot, or Trigger. Loop will continuously play the sample, One-Shot will play it once, and Trigger will play it as long as you hold down the button.

Understanding these basic controls is essential for mastering Remix Decks. Practice using them in different combinations to create a wide range of sounds and effects. Don't be afraid to experiment and push the boundaries of what's possible!

Advanced Techniques

Ready to take your Remix Deck skills to the next level? Here are some advanced techniques to try:

1. Sample Capture: Use the "Capture" function to grab loops and samples from tracks playing on your other decks in real-time. This is a fantastic way to create spontaneous remixes and add unexpected twists to your sets. You can capture a drum loop, a vocal phrase, or even an entire breakdown, and then instantly incorporate it into your Remix Deck. Experiment with different capture lengths and quantization settings to get the perfect timing and feel.
2. Creating Remix Sets: Build your own custom Remix Sets by combining your favorite samples and loops. This allows you to create a library of personalized sounds that you can call upon at any time. Think of it as building your own custom instrument. You can organize your Remix Sets by genre, key, or mood, making it easy to find the perfect sounds for your set. You can also share your Remix Sets with other DJs, allowing them to incorporate your sounds into their own performances.
3. Using FX: Experiment with different FX combinations to create unique and interesting sounds. Try using delays, reverbs, filters, and distortions to add texture and depth to your remixes. Traktor's FX units are incredibly powerful and versatile, and they can be used to completely transform your sounds. Don't be afraid to experiment with extreme settings and unexpected combinations. You might be surprised at what you discover.
4. Key Matching: Use the Key Knob to match the key of your samples to the key of the track you're mixing. This will create a more harmonious and professional-sounding mix. Traktor's key detection is incredibly accurate, and it can automatically detect the key of any track or sample. By matching the keys of your sounds, you can create smooth and seamless transitions, and avoid any jarring or dissonant clashes.
5. Live Sequencing: Use the Remix Deck slots to create live sequences and rhythmic patterns. This is a great way to add energy and excitement to your sets. You can use short, percussive samples to create driving rhythms, or you can use longer melodic phrases to create complex harmonies. Experiment with different layering techniques and timing variations to create your own unique sound.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few extra tips and tricks to help you master Traktor Remix Decks:

• Organization is Key: Keep your samples and Remix Sets organized so you can easily find what you need during a live performance.
• Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice with Remix Decks, the more comfortable and confident you'll become.
• Listen to Other DJs: Check out how other DJs are using Remix Decks to get inspiration and ideas.
• Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: The best way to learn is to try new things and see what works. Don't be afraid to make mistakes – that's how you grow and improve.
• Use a Controller: While you can use Remix Decks with just a keyboard and mouse, a dedicated Traktor controller will give you much more hands-on control and make your performances more fluid and expressive. Look for controllers with dedicated Remix Deck controls, such as the Traktor Kontrol F1 or the Traktor Kontrol D2.

Conclusion

So there you have it! A comprehensive guide to Traktor Remix Decks. With a little practice and experimentation, you'll be creating amazing live remixes in no time. Remix Decks are a powerful tool for any DJ who wants to add a unique and personalized touch to their sets. They allow you to manipulate and rearrange your music in real-time, creating new and exciting sounds that will keep your audience engaged and entertained. So go out there, unleash your creativity, and have fun!

Now go forth and remix, my friends! Let your creativity flow, and don't be afraid to push the boundaries of what's possible. The world of live remixing is waiting for you!