One of the most important components of any DJ setup is the mixer. Mixers are the heart and soul of every DJ booth, as they are what allows music to be mixed and altered. The mixer is what distinguishes a DJ setup from a home music system. We’ll show you how to find the best DJ mixers at various pricing points in this guide.
Because they’re so crucial, it’s worth taking the time to think about what you need as an entry point and what you can afford. Mixers can take a number of shapes and sizes, thanks to the versatility of modern DJ systems. They could be virtual tools integrated into the user interface of your DJ program. Alternatively, you may utilize a DJ controller with a built-in real mixer that serves as both a software control surface and an audio interface.
DJ mixers in the traditional sense – hardware devices having inputs, outputs, and a variety of sound shaping controls – are what we’re talking about here. They’re designed to allow users to blend audio from various ‘players,’ such as turntables or CDJs. We’ll go over everything from basic DJ equipment to high-end tools and the best battle DJ mixers in the sections below.
Pioneer DJ DJM-900NXS2
- 4-channel Digital DJ Mixer with Analog and Digital I/O
- 3-band Switchable Iso EQs
- Dual USB Connectivity
Pioneer DJ is a well-known company that has been around for a long time, and they constantly release best-selling DJ equipment for both home and professional DJs like battle mixers. The Pioneer DJM-900NXS2 is a four-channel digital DJ mixer with Pioneer DJ’s first 64-bit mixing processor. This processor offers additional clarity to little elements in music and gives it a warmer sound. Thanks to enhanced preamp and output circuits, this analog sound is highly natural and free of analog noise.
The DJM-900NXS2 comes with six Sound Color FX (Sweep, Filter, Crush, Dub Echo, Noise, and Space) that may be applied to any channel. A control knob can be used to fine-tune the parameters. The big X Pad may be used to choose from 14 distinct Beat FX, and an OLED display reveals which FX are currently being used.
The DJM-900NXS2 allows you to fine-tune your sound in a variety of ways. For example, you can choose which frequency range to apply FX to, so vocals can have an echo while the bass has a flanger. External FX units, as well as other gear, can be connected to the mixer via the designated AUX input or USB port. The DJM-900NXS2 is made of metal and is finished in a sleek black color. The interface is simple to use and all of the level meter lights are bright. The buttons are all clearly accessible and visible, so utilizing the mixer in the dark at a club will be a breeze.
The Pioneer DJ DJM-900NXS2 is a highly regarded high-end DJ mixer with a wide range of features. Because of the many FX it contains, if you like to modify and warp your mixes, this is a good device for you. Despite its high price, it’s a model that you shouldn’t overlook when shopping for a new mixer. This is something I would recommend to any ultra-creative DJ, whether they are a novice or a master. Without a doubt, this amazing DJ mixer will last you years and years. This is the Best DJ Mixer in 2023.
Allen & Heath XONE:96 Professional 6-Channel Analog DJ Mixer
The Xone:96 is Heath & Allen’s follow-up to their iconic masterpiece, the Xone:92. The Xone:96 is a four-channel analog DJ mixer with digital connectors designed for club use. The Xone:96 includes a 4-band EQ, Xone:VCF filters with CRUNCH harmonic distortion, and a USB sound card, as well as Traktor Scratch full edition.
Allen & Heath is an audio equipment firm that may not be well-known in the audio world, but they do provide some exceptionally high-quality DJing equipment. Xone is Allen & Heath’s DJ mixer range, which includes everything from small, portable mixers to large, complex club mixers.
There are two stereo return channels, two FX sends, four stereo input channels with dedicated 4-band EQs, and two stereo input channels with 3-band parametric EQs. You can connect your other gear to the mixer via a separate master insert. Two USB connections, a MIDI out, and other non-digital inputs and outputs are included. This mixer’s wide range of EQs and large number of them make it ideal for accurately shaping your sound. Thanks to the Xone:VCF filters, you can get some insane sounds out of this mixer and tune your mixes to nearly incomprehensible levels.
The Xone:96 features an industrialized design that makes it particularly durable. You can drop this mixer and it will still work; it is built to withstand the rigors of travelling. The Xone:96’s layout is fairly cluttered because to the numerous knobs and buttons, and it can be daunting for people unfamiliar with it, but the vast club-style layout is necessary to a strong performance. This is one of the Best DJ Mixers in 2023.
Pioneer DJ DJM-450 – 2-channel DJ Mixer with Onboard 24-bit Audio Interface
- Professional layout, mixing on the DJM-450 feels instinctive thanks to the layout design, which inherits traits from the DJM-900NXS2 professional...
- Smoother mixing, the EQ lets you balance the high, mid and low frequencies on every channel
- Pioneer's robust Magvel faders ensure smooth control over long-term use
Pioneer DJ is constantly developing new hardware that is an update to existing versions, or they reuse parts from prior models in other products. The DJM-450 is the most recent example of this. The Pioneer DJ DJM-450 is a 2-channel digital DJ mixer with some of the same capabilities as the Pioneer DJ DJM-900NXS2.
This mixer works well with turntables and multiplayer games. It includes many of the same capabilities as the DJM-900NXS2, including Beat FX, Sound Color FX, and more, but it’s in a far more reasonable unit that’s one of the best starter models with a mid-range price tag; the only thing you’re actually giving up are two additional channels. For starters, whether you’re using analog or digital gear, a new and improved 64-bit sound processor will make your music seem warm and clear.
The DJM-450 is compatible with Pioneer DJ’s rekordbox dj software, which you can use instead of Serato or Traktor if you want. The DJM-450 includes a 3-band EQ and isolator for each track for smoother mixing, as well as Magvel faders that can withstand millions of performances and DVS control with low latency.
When it comes to the DJM-450’s layout, it has a natural feel to it that will help you feel more at ease in the future if you update. This mixer also has cue buttons, sends and returns, a mic input, USB input, and line and phono inputs. The volume level meters, as well as the markings and labeling for each of the mixer’s distinct regions, are clearly visible. The DJM-450’s build quality is excellent, with a tough metal body and high-grade faders and knobs.
If you’re looking for a smaller, less expensive alternative to the DJM-900NXS2, the Pioneer DJ DJM-450 is a good choice. The DJM-450 is a good choice for intermediate to advanced DJs, but if you’re prepared to spend the money on a mixer like this, it might also be a good choice for a novice. Put your beginner dj to the test with this one! This is one of the Best DJ Mixer for beginners in 2023.
Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z2 DJ Mixer
- 2 stand-alone channels + 2 full Remix Channels
- Sturdy aluminum chassis, with Inn faders
- Intuitive control of Macro FX, and Flux Mode
Native Instruments makes VST instrument plugins, MIDI keyboards, virtual guitar amps, and even DJ controllers and mixers. The Traktor Kontrol Z2 is the first 2+2 DJ mixer in the world. It features two independent channels and two Remix Deck channels, so it has a total of four channels. The Traktor Kontrol Z2 combines the best of both analog and digital worlds, allowing you to utilize it as a standalone mixer alongside turntables and other analog gear, or as a hub for a controller-based setup. This mixer comes with Traktor Pro 3 software.
The built-in Macro FX settings on the Traktor Kontrol Z2 let you to make your mix absolutely unrecognizable, add a little additional glitter, or do something in between with only one knob. The color-coded trigger pads let you to launch loops, samples, and cues at any moment, and the two Remix Deck channels allow you to control and remix sounds on the fly.
Connecting to the Kontrol Z2 is simple thanks to a variety of analog and digital inputs and outputs (phono, line in, and USB, to name a few), allowing you to utilize this mixer with everything from analog turntables to digital MIDI controllers. A 3-band EQ for each channel is also included, as well as separate filter knobs.
The Traktor Kontrol Z2 features a sturdy metal chassis that will withstand the rigors of travelling. The buttons, faders, and knobs are well-organized and have plenty of space. If you’re a newbie DJ, it’s neither cluttered or daunting to look at. This mixer has a lot of bright lights, which helps with the aesthetic and makes DJing more enjoyable; it’s a wonderful change of pace from the more bland and straightforward mixers.
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z2 is an excellent DJ mixer option. The Traktor Kontrol Z2 is, in my opinion, one of the best DJ mixers for the money, and I highly suggest it for that reason. DJs and music producers will fall in love with this mixer, which works equally well in the studio as it does in the DJ booth.
Denon DJ X1850 PRIME – Professional 4 Channel Digital DJ Mixer
- Personalize Your Mix: 3 band EQ section with normal and isolation modes, frequency-controlled band-isolation, Lo/Hi Pass Filter with 4 Sweep FX, 16...
- Mix Essentials: Superior rugged build handles any performance setting; 4 smooth 60mm throw line faders, plus Denon DJ contour adjustable Flex-Fader...
- Dual USB Connections: 2 USB ports easily connect to your laptop, provide a second port for a back-up laptop or let you run two DJ applications in...
The Denon DJ X1850 Prime is, in my opinion, the best DJ mixer available in 2023. Denon DJ is known for producing high-quality digital DJing equipment, and the X1850 Prime is no exception.
The X1850 Prime is a 4-channel digital DJ mixer designed to be the focal point for creative DJs. There are multi-assignable inputs on each of the four channels, as well as a 3-band EQ with normal and expressive isolation modes. A crossfader control is also included on the X1850 Prime for smooth transitions. Sweep FX is a set of four effects that you can use to add extra dynamics to your mix. With a low and high pass filter, these Sweep FX shape frequencies. There are 16 Pro Club BPM FX and a Time Division Touch Strip to further customize your tracks. You can also quantize FX to make sure your settings match your audio.
The X1850 Prime has an OLED screen, which is a nice feature. You may modify your workflow and edit your Pro Club FX from this screen. In terms of connectivity, the X1850 Prime has a variety of inputs and outputs, including analog gear, microphones, USB connections to a computer, and even a LAN port for connecting to other compatible devices. For convenient monitoring of the separate channels, these inputs and outputs have distinct cue buttons. The X1850 Prime’s design is built of metal and is incredibly tough and durable. It can withstand being flung around and knocked around during performances while on tour. Even in low light, the lights and other markings are visible, and the arrangement is simple to navigate and understand.
The Denon DJ X1850 Prime is the best new DJ mixer list on the market. It offers a wealth of capabilities in a simple-to-use system, as well as a wide range of compatibility for performing in clubs or at home, and it’s tough enough to handle the rigors of travelling. I would strongly recommend it to any professional DJ on the road who performs in larger clubs.
Mixars DUO MKII 2-Channel Mixer for Serato DJ
- 2-channel battle style mixer designed for Serato DJ + DVS
- upgraded w/ exclusive GALILEO crossfader co-designed by Pro X Fade
- integrated 24-bit/96kHz audio interface
The Mixars DUO MKII is a two-channel mixer created with scratch DJs in mind. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to take a mixer out of the box, plug it into their turntables and computer, and begin making music with Serato Pro software right away.
The Mixars DUO MKII is made entirely of metal and has a somewhat streamlined layout. When scratching, having easy access to all settings is critical, and Mixars has done an excellent job of keeping everything properly situated and clearly well thought out. The front panel includes a pair of headphone output (14′ and 18′), an AUX input, and all channel and crossfader curve controls. A rec output, two XLR and RCA master outputs, a pair of 1/4′′ booth outputs, and a couple of switchable phono/line inputs are all included on the back.
During testing, our resident scratch specialist was blown away by the mixer’s responsiveness as well as the sounds it created. The crossfader is damped, giving it a silky, crisp feel. While the overall amount of control is lower than other styles of mixers at the same price, the Mixars DUO MKII excels at what it was created to do: make scratching as enjoyable as possible!
Rane MP2015
- Four analog deck inputs, each is Phono-CD-S/PDIF switchable
- Each port can stream 24 channels of low-latency 24-bit audio at 44.1, 48, or 96 kHz
- Connect up to four turntables, four CD decks, or two of each
Rotary mixers aren’t for everyone, although they’re popular among DJs. The use of rotaries rather than faders to blend tracks favors a particular style of mixing, which is typically slower. As a result, these tools are more commonly associated with deeper house and techno DJs, and aren’t the logical choice for scratching.
Rotary mixers are also often associated with high-quality audio, and Rane’s newest does not disappoint. Isolators, adjustable EQs, and filters allow you a lot of control over each track’s frequency, which is great for long, smooth mixes.
Despite its archaic appeal, there are several modern features, like a built-in audio interface for use with a computer. Serato Scratch is also supported by the MP2015. This mixer’s design isn’t for everyone, but for those looking for quality and style, this is one of the best DJ mixers available.
Pioneer DJ DJM-S9
- MAGVEL FADER PRO Pioneer’s durable magnetic crossfader delivers a smooth response
- Customizable FX Buttons.Software system requirements : Windows 8.1/7(CPU) Core i3, i5 or i7 1.07 GHz, (Memory) 4GB
- Filter FX. Rotate the dial to add a high/low pass filter to FX on each channel, or use Serato DJ to switch to other filter FX like DUB Echo, Noise and...
The DJM S9 was created exclusively for Serato DJ, a popular DJ program. It integrates effortlessly and functions as a two-channel battle mixer. It works as a fully MIDI assignable DJ controller and connects to your computer through USB.
It has a fully configurable Magvel Pro cross-fader as well as six customisable FX buttons and pads, giving it a versatile tool for shaping your own DJing style. The sensation dial can be adjusted to gain control over operational load and to change the curve and reverse settings. The hot cue, roll, slice, and loop functions are all triggered by the pads. They can also be set up as a remote trigger for Serato’s function mapping. Everything is easy kept track of thanks to the EL display, which shows modes that you may color-code from Serato to keep a visual reminder.
On the beat FX and Pro FX buttons, you can activate preset beat effects, and with two additional memory banks, you can easily map all of your favorites. Other filters such as Dub, Echo, Noise, and Pitch can be rotated in using the FilterFX dial. The increased distortion-free mic input and clip display for monitoring levels against peaks are also noteworthy additions.
Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2
- 2-channel Digital DJ Mixer with 3-band Isolator EQs
- Replaceable Magvel Crossfader
- Sound Color FX Filters
Pioneer DJ is, without a doubt, the most well-known brand in professional DJ equipment these days. Their CDJs are practically standard issue for clubs all over the world, and while their audio interfaces mixers aren’t quite as well-known, their higher-end offerings can still be found at big venues and festivals. One of the key advantages of this two-channel mixer for newbie DJs is that it has the same appearance and feel as professional devices at a lower price.
With two audio channels and a USB interface, the Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 is a simple DJ mixer. It has the same sound quality and durability as the two preceding items on this list, but without the overabundance of features. The Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 is a decent mixer with a strong build and superb sound, according to users. It contains a Magvel crossfader, which is ideal for scratching and mixing. Some users suggest that if you plan on playing at large events, you should look elsewhere; however, if you only play in small places, this is the one for you.
This mixer is ideal for those who know exactly what they’re searching for in a DJ mixer. Although the capability is restricted, the price tag more than makes up for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a DJ Mixer?
It is a gadget that you may map to the different important functionalities of your software in terms of digital DJing; occasionally they are specifically designed with receptive software packages in mind. As you can see in the case of the Pioneer products we tested, which were intended specifically for use with Serato DJ’s core functionalities, or the Native Instruments AIs designed for use with Traktor software.
A mixer’s fundamental functionality will be its cross-fade capabilities, which you’ll want to be able to smoothly slide in and out of. Expect 3-band EQ to determine the amount of low, high, and mid in the mix. DJ mixer market has gotten so competitive, modern devices can be very hardcore pieces of gear with a wide range of features. Any MIDI controller may be mapped to operate whatever function you want, so don’t get too excited if your budget doesn’t allow for all of the higher-end versions’ bells and whistles.
What Is The Best DJ Mixer For Beginners?
If you’re new to mixing, a software-only mixer is definitely a good choice; it will instantly map your sound and provide you hands-on control. Beginners may become overwhelmed by a mixer with too many features aboard.
What Is A Rotary DJ Mixer?
A rotary DJ mixer is a type of mixer with dials that is more traditional. When laptop DJs started experimenting with beat pad cues, they went out of style. Due to the fact that DJing is a fairly hands-on job, some people choose dials for manual control. A rotary mixer may perform some impressive tactics if the methods are followed correctly, but they are more difficult to use than some of the newer versions, which offer modern conveniences and autonomy.
