Today, Native Instruments rolls out the latest round of updates to its Tractor DJ app, which allows iPhone and iPad owners to DJ with Traktor software on their iOS devices. The updated version of the Traktor app features a number of changes, including new sound effects and usability improvements, but the cornerstone of this upgrade involves a new partnership with Mixcloud. The new iteration of the Traktor DJ app, which was "designed for DJs, radio presenters, and podcasters," allows users to send their mixes directly to Mixcloud from the app instead of forcing them to export files and upload them to external platforms manually.This alliance pits the Traktor/Mixcloud camp against the rival digital DJ platform, Serato, which is aligned with Mixcloud's major competitor, SoundCloud. Ableton, the production-focused counterpart to Serato, partnered with SoundCloud around 2012, so its users can now upload directly from the program to the streaming platform or receive SoundCloud membership-related perks when they purchase Ableton programs.This is only the latest development in an ongoing "battle of the mixes." In 2011, a debate broke out on Serato's message boards about whether to upload DJ sets to Mixcloud or SoundCloud. Back then, the pros and cons hinged on the merits of each individual platform: SoundCloud allows listeners to download sets, but often blocks uploads based on suspected copyright issues, while Mixcloud provides a mix-friendly streaming-only service. These days, however, a user's decision to use one platform over another might be influenced by more than just the functionality of the sites in question, as alliances have formed between the leading online streaming platforms and rival DJ software giants.Speaking of a "battle of the mixes," Native Instruments is also unveiling a contest in which Traktorites can submit sets for a chance to win a weekend trip to Ibiza this summer. Any mix uploaded to Mixcloud from within the Traktor DJ app is automatically entered to win the grand prize. Mixmasters A Guy Called Gerald and Nicole Moudaber will select the lucky Traktorite, who scores VIP entrance to all the major clubs on Europe's premiere party island.
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