Mapping Ddj Rb Traktor Pro 3 [extra Quality] May 2026
Here’s a useful, step-by-step write-up for mapping a DDJ-RB to Traktor Pro 3.
The DDJ-RB is natively a Rekordbox DJ controller, but it works great in Traktor Pro 3 once you map the basics (and a few advanced tricks). This guide focuses on creating a reliable, gig-ready mapping.
5. Performance Pads – Smart Mapping Ideas
The RB has 8 pads × 4 banks (via Pad FX buttons). You can map only 2 banks in a simple setup. mapping ddj rb traktor pro 3
Bank 1 (Default): Hotcues
- Pad 1–8 →
Hotcue 1–8 (Deck A)
Bank 2 (SHIFT + Pad FX 1): Loop & Beatjump Here’s a useful, step-by-step write-up for mapping a
- Pad 1 →
Loop Size Select (1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, 4, 8)
- Pad 2 →
Loop Active
- Pad 3–4 →
Beatjump + / -
Pad FX (buttons next to pads) → Use to change pad banks if you want advanced, but for simplicity, map them to:
- FX 1 Button →
FX Unit 1 On
- FX 2 Button →
FX Unit 2 On
Jog Wheel Setup (Important)
The DDJ-RB jogs send two messages:
- Outer ring = rotational CC (for bending/scratching)
- Top plate touch = note on/off (to engage scratch mode)
To map:
- Rotate jog → assign to
Jog Turn (Deck A) – set Type = Encoder and Mode = Relative.
- Touch top plate → assign to
Jog Touch On/Off – set Type = Button, Mode = Direct.
- In mapping, tick Jog Touch Enable Scratch (appears when jog touch is assigned).
Without touch mapping, jog will only pitch bend, not scratch. Pad 1–8 → Hotcue 1–8 (Deck A)
Option 1: Use a Pre-Built Mapping (Recommended for beginners)
- Download a known good
.tsi mapping file (e.g., from Traktor Bible).
- In Traktor Pro 3, go to Preferences > Controller Manager.
- Click Import and select the
.tsi file.
- Ensure the DDJ-RB is in MIDI mode (not Rekordbox mode). You may need to install the DDJ-RB’s MIDI driver from Pioneer.
- Test all functions—some mappings may require minor tweaks.
✅ What works flawlessly
- Decks: Play, Cue, Sync, Shift.
- Tempo Faders: Precise pitch control (use relative mode).
- Channel Faders & Crossfader: Perfect.
- EQ & Gain Knobs: High, Mid, Low, and Trim.
- Jog Wheels: Scratch, Pitch Bend, and Seek (vinyl mode works, albeit without the tension adjust you get on higher-end gear).
- Headphone Cue/Mix: Works as a standard audio interface (see Part 5).
- Performance Pads (Cue mode): Hotcues work perfectly.
How to Get Started
Step 1: Initialize the Mapping
- In Traktor Settings, go to the Controller Manager.
- Click Add -> Generic MIDI.
- Crucial: In the "Device" dropdown, select "Pioneer DDJ-RB".
- Ensure "In-Port" is set to the DDJ-RB and "Out-Port" is set to the DDJ-RB.