Choosing the right DJ mixer: 5 of the best

When choosing the right DJ mixer, there is a lot to think about. From functional, stripped-down portable mixers, to busier, visual consoles with BPM counters, onboard effects and enough knobs to operate a small car, picking the right mixer to suit your needs requires careful consideration. For this reason, we’ve selected a range of five DJ mixers available today. From budget to high-end and with respect for a range of mixing approaches, including Traktor and Serato integration, there’s something here for everyone.

A short note before counting down. Beyond budget and individual DJing style, one important factor to keep in mind when shopping for a mixer is the number of channels you require. All mixers have at least two channels (one for each sound source) with dedicated strips to control individual track level and EQ. While you’ll only need two channels to get started, as your skills improve, you may want to up the ante with a third turntable or live performance tools like samplers and drum machines. Investing in a four channel mixer, even if you only use two channels to start with, is worthwhile for serious beginners.

PIONEER DJM-250 MK2 2-CHANNEL DJ MIXER

Price: £349

Buy

The Pioneer DJM-250 MK2 2-Channel DJ Mixer has inherited some of the professional features of the popular DJM-900NXS2, such as the Magvel crossfader and Sound Color FX filter. Straightforward controls, a clear layout, and dedicated 3-band isolators let you scratch and mix instinctively.

The dithering technology on this mixer results in warm, high-quality audio from both analogue and digital sources. Plus its built-in sound card lets you connect the mixer to your PC/Mac and use rekordbox dj to perform with CDJs. Or hook up the DJM-250MK2 to turntables and use rekordbox dvs in combination with our control vinyl to scratch and mix with digital files stored on your computer.

CLEAR LAYOUT & MAGVEL FADERS

The clear layout of the DJM-250MK2’s lower half gives you freedom to perform complicated scratch techniques. Our robust Magvel Faders ensure smooth control over long-term use. 2 metal shafts support the fader knobs, while the contact-free magnetic system is designed to endure millions of movements.

SMOOTH MIXING

Precise, fluid mixes are a breeze using the mixer’s channel faders, and the 3-band isolators give precision across the highs, mids and lows. You can use them to totally eliminate each frequency range when you turn the knob all the way to the left.

FLAGSHIP FILTER FX

Each channel comes with its own dedicated Sound Colour FX filter, a feature inherited from the DJM-900NXS2 mixer. Simply turn the knob on each channel to apply the filter, Twist the parameter knob for texture, playing with resonance and tension.

BUILT IN USB SOUND CARD

Connect the DJM-250MK2 to your PC/Mac using a single USB cable. The USB connection supports sound input and output, so you can record your mixes to your computer’s hard drive.

REKORDBOX DJ BUNDLED

You get a free rekordbox dj licence key bundled with this mixer. Simply activate your licence key for our DJ software, connect to your computer via USB, and start DJing.

REKORDBOX DVS BUNDLED

You also get a free licence key for rekordbox dvs included in the box for low-latency scratching with CDJs and XDJs. Or play and scratch with tracks from your rekordbox library using analogue turntables and the Control Vinyl (sold separately).

FEATURES

• 2-Channel DJ Mixer with built-in USB soundcard
• Mixer’s dithering technology ensures optimal audio quality
• Record mixes directly to your PC
• Complete with rekordbox DVS & DJ software
• Dedicated Sound Colour FX Filter on each channel
• Parameter knob allows you to change texture, resonance and tension
• Premium-quality Magvel faders and crossfader
• 2 metal shats support fader knobs
• 3-band isolators on each frequency band
• Two headphone outputs (1/4 inch and 3.5mm)
• Independent microphone section, allows you to use mic and AUX input at same time

PIONEER DJ DJM-450 2-CHANNEL DJ MIXER

Price: £649

Buy

With features and design inherited from the DJM-900NXS2, this 2-channel mixer is ideal to partner with any of our multiplayers or turntables. The Magvel fader combined with smooth EQ and channel fader curves give an assured feel to mixing. Sound Colour FX and Beat FX with parameter control open up new creative possibilities. And thanks to the 64-bit digital signal processer you’ll enjoy warm, high-quality audio from both analogue and digital sound sources.

The DJM-450 is compatible with rekordbox, so you can DJ with tracks stored on your PC/Mac when using turntables and our control vinyl (available separately).

PIONEER DJM-750 MK2 4-CHANNEL DJ MIXER

Price: £1119

Buy

Pioneer DJM-750 MK2 4-Channel DJ Mixer takes a step to the DJ booth seamlessly, a 4-channel mixer which inherits key features and design elements from the DJM-900NXS2, creating a club-style setup when combined with our professional CDJ or XDJ multi players.

You can perform seamless mixes on the DJM-750MK2 thanks to the smooth curves on the EQs and channel faders. The Magvel crossfader, inherited from the DJM-900NXS2, gives a precise response and assured feel during even the most complicated scratch techniques.

PRO FX WITH DETAILED CONTROL
Add texture and flair to your mixes with professional FX inherited from the DJM-900NXS2. 2 effects units combine Sound Color FX and Beat FX – including FX Frequency – giving you the freedom to be creative with sound while always in control.

INDEPENDENT SEND/RETURN

Choose from Aux or Insert send/return to connect different types of FX units on iOS devices such as FX apps, synthesisers and samplers, and combine them with the mixer’s internal FX. A simple USB connection will ensure high-quality sound, which you can efficiently record and easily archive via the DJM-REC app on your iPhone or iPad.

PROFESSIONAL SOUND QUALITY

Whether you’re playing with digital or analogue sources, high-quality sound is created by the 64-bit digital signal processor, dithering technology, 32-bit A/D converter and 32-bit D/A converter.

SMOOTH EQS & FADERS

The EQs and channel faders on the DJM-750MK2 feature curves equivalent to those on the DJM-900NXS2, which also inspired the Magvel cross fader. The latter is smooth, accurate and durable for more than 10 million movements and its cut lag has been improved for more assured and responsive performance

REKORDBOX DJ BUNDLED

You get a rekordbox dj licence key bundled with this controller. Simply activate your licence key for our DJ software, connect the controller and start DJing.

REKORDBOX DVS BUNDLED

You also get a licence key for rekordbox dvs included in the box for low-latency scratching with CDJs and XDJs. Or play and scratch with tracks from your rekordbox library using analogue turntables and the Control Vinyl (sold separately).

FEATURES

• 4 channel mixer
• Magvel crossfader
• Smooth seamless EQ’s
• Sound color FX
• Beat FX
• FX Frequency control
• Independant send and return
• iOS connection
• 32 bit A/D and D/A converters
• 64 bit digital signal processors
• XLR terminal: High-quality audio output
• Two headphone outputs: ¼” stereo jack and 3.5-mm mini jack
• Signal GND terminal: Easily attach ground wires from analogue turntables
• Gold-plated RCAs: Premium sound quality on all connections
• Independent Mic section

PIONEER DJM-A9 4-CHANNEL PROFESSIONAL DJ MIXER

Price: £2469

Buy

Stunningly clear sound quality

Your performances will sound better than ever on the Pioneer DJ DJM-A9, which takes the audio quality from the DJM-900NXS2 to another level.

This next-generation club sound comes from extensive development and fine-tuning of existing technology from previous units, plus brand-new components. The channel input section is equipped with an ESS Technology 32-bit high-quality A/D converter for crystal-clear, high-resolution sound, while the master and booth output sections employ 32-bit high-quality D/A converters from the same brand so you can experience sound from the booth monitors that’s the same as the crowd hears on the dancefloor. Even the sound quality of the microphone input and headphone outputs has been improved with carefully selected new parts and design optimization.

Evolved playability

Feel like you’re playing a musical instrument when you get your hands on the Pioneer DJ DJM-A9, which inherits the familiar layout from the DJM range but includes updated controls and components for accurate mixing and instinctive scratching.

Increased spacing around the EQ knobs gives you the room to twist your fingers, and high-grade, bright LEDs in the channel section make it easier than ever to get a visual grasp on sound levels. You can perform more dynamically thanks to the frequency response of the isolators, which have been optimized to make the most of the latest music production traits. And, with higher-quality, slicker channel faders than the DJM-900NXS2, plus the third-generation MAGVEL FADER crossfader, you can enjoy silk-smooth mixing and rapid, stable scratching.

Sound Color FX with world’s first Center Lock

Turn on the brand-new Center Lock feature and, when you’re using the popular Sound Color FX, each knob will stop turning when you reach the center position. This means you can twist the dial as quickly as you like, taking the effect right up to the maximum of the hi or down to the minimum of the low parameter, without the risk of going too far and switching to the opposite parameter. When you turn Center Lock off, the Sound Color FX knobs work in the same way as those on the DJM-900NXS2.

Newly advanced Beat FX

The Beat FX section, a long-time favorite element of the DJM series, has been significantly enhanced for the Pioneer DJ DJM-A9. A new color display helps you to quickly and accurately understand the status of the selected effect, and it features lighting that corresponds with the X-Pad’s horizontal arrangement, enabling more intuitive control with a simple finger slide. You can use the X-Pad to change the Echo and Ping Pong effects to create a unique analog tape-style sound. And, within the 14 total Beat FX, there are 3 new ones you can use to add extra variation to your performances:

• Mobius: Changes the frequency of the oscillator to constantly rise or fall in time with the beat.
• Triplet Filter: Changes the cut-off frequency cyclically for the filter according to the beat (based on 3 beats).
• Triplet Roll: Outputs the recorded sound repeatedly according to the specified beat fraction (based on 3 beats).

Even better, the channel selector is now a dedicated button, enabling you to quickly apply effects to your chosen channel.

Enhanced mic section

In response to the evolving needs DJs have when using microphones during live streams and club sets, the mic section of the Pioneer DJ DJM-A9 has been developed so you can enjoy more control and add extra creativity to your performances on the mic. The phantom powered input means you can connect a high-quality condenser mic directly to the DJM-A9, a feature never seen before on a DJ mixer. And there are 3 new microphone effects, with a dedicated reverb effect so you can change the sound of your voice and hype up the crowd with your vocals:

• Echo: Outputs a delay sound several times while attenuating it to add an echo effect.
• Pitch: Changes the pitch of the microphone sound.
• Megaphone: Changes the microphone sound so it sounds like you’re talking through a megaphone.

It’s quick and easy to turn the mic input on or off with the brand-new Push-to-Talk button when you want to grab the mic and address the audience. The audio from the mic can be excluded from the recording output if you want, so you can MC for the live crowd but record your mix without vocals.

Expanded connectivity

Connect 2 different PC/Mac systems at the same time thanks to the dual USB Type-B and USB Type-C ports (there are 2 of each) for seamless transitions between DJs and easy back-to-back sets. And, with a Bluetooth input which you can route to any channel on the DJM-A9, you can wirelessly drop audio tracks into your sets from other devices such as smartphones and use all the mixer’s features and effects to change the sound. The Multi I/O section has an independent channel selector so external effects can be used separately from Beat FX, giving the DJM-A9 true send capabilities. This means you can route the effected sound from an external unit such as an RMX-1000 or a delay pedal to a separate channel instead of the channel it came from.

Dual independent headphone outputs and booth EQ

Plug in your headphones at the same time as another DJ and enjoy the freedom to monitor the channels you want to. With separate cue buttons, volume knobs, and mix balance knobs for each set of headphones, it’s easy for 2 DJs to cue up tracks during changeovers and back-to-back sets. Plus, with the 2-band booth EQ, you can change the high and low frequencies to complement the master output and match the mood in the booth to the feeling on the dancefloor.

Support for the brand-new Stagehand app and built-in Sound Check function

The DJM-A9 is compatible with Stagehand, the industry-first PRO DJ LINK remote management app for front of house teams. Using an iPad connected wirelessly to the mixer via a LAN router (available separately), an engineer can keep an eye on things such as level meters and the DJ’s use of the mixer’s controls, making it easier to maximize the sound system’s settings and run a smoother, more impactful show without needing to interrupt the DJ’s performance or even enter the booth. To download the Stagehand app, visit the App Store.

Other features

• Support for rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro

Choose your favorite DJ software to use with the DJM-A9, which includes support for the DVS features in both rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro.^*

• DJM-REC app support for reliable recording

Easily record your performances with DJM-REC for iOS/Android. This handy app enables you to share your mixes via platforms such as Mixcloud and stream in real time via services including Twitch.

• Lockable power cord^{^}

Relax in the knowledge that the lockable power cord will always stay firmly in place, even if you knock it while connecting or disconnecting other equipment from the mixer.

• Video and lighting app support

With support for TC Supply’s ShowKontrol and the free app PRO DJ LINK Bridge, DJs, event producers, lighting designers, LJs, video creators, and VJs can produce sound and visual coordination with confidence and create shows that captivate audiences.

^*To use Serato DJ Pro, you’ll need to buy a license or subscription.

^{^}In some regions, a non-lockable power cord is supplied.

PIONEER DJM-V10 6-CHANNEL PROFESSIONAL DJ MIXER

Price: £2899

Buy

ELITE SOUND QUALITY

The DJM-V10 provides studio-quality, 64-bit mixing and dithering processing. This is achieved alongside 32-bit high-quality A/D and D/A converters and a low-jitter clock circuit. The result of this is high quality audio, even at high volume with a full low-end, vibrant mids and precise highs.

SIX CHANNELS

The six channels provide a range of connectivity options, allowing you to utilise everything from CDJs and turntables to samplers, synths, and drum machines. Set up is made easy thanks to the vast range of analog inputs that directly line up with the assigned channels.

USB/MIDI TERMINAL

Thanks to the 96kHz/24-bit sound card, it’s easy to input and output up to six stereo channels without compromising the sound quality when connected to Mac/PC. The input of the send and master signals, as well as the input and output of individual channels, can be routed via USB to your computer. To ensure smooth handovers between sets, two laptops can be connected simultaneously.

MULTI I/O TERMINAL

A USB A terminal and a 1/4-inch TS jack are mounted on the top and the rear of the mixer. These can be used to connect to sounds arranged using the RMX-1000 app for iPad or other FX apps. These can also be used to record sets without deterioration in sound quality. It is also possible to route insert-type hardware effect units through the 1/4-inch TS jack connection.

FOUR BAND EQ AND COMPRESSOR

The DJM-V10 offers a newly designed 4-band EQ and built in compressor to apply further sonic adjustments to the audio signal. The four band EQ provides ultra-control over the input signal. Completely isolate the high and/or low and tweak the two mid ranges, which have their own custom curves, to fine tune your mix.

Each channel features an independent compressor knob. This can be used to match old and new tracks with varying degrees of compression for mixing purposes. This can be further affected using the newly developed channel fader allowing for precise level control.

DEDICATED SEND AND FILTER SECTIONS

The send section of the DJM-V10 allows you to send audio to one of four built-in FX and up to two pieces of external equipment. Connect guitar pedals, FX units, and more to the TS jack send/return terminals to create unique sounds and remixes.

The filter section can be used for subtly tweaking audio or to completely alter the sound of a track. Select between high and low pass filters and turn the resonance control knob to alter the cutoff frequency.

BEAT FX

A touch display is provided to control the effects section, allowing for intuitive effects manipulation. These can then be applied to the desired channel via the BEAT FX Assign button on each channel strip. A new Shimmer effects has been added to the DJM-V10, a Beat FX that adds brightness to audio.

Features

• Elite sound quality
• Features the most advanced sound chip set Pioneer DJ have ever used
• 6 channels
• 4-band EQ
• New filter with dedicated knob on each channel
• Send/return FX section
• 3-band master isolator
• Compressor knob for each channel
• Dual headphones output and booth EQ
• Support for external devices, apps, and services
• DIN MIDI out

AlphaTheta Euphonia Professional 4-channel Rotary Mixer

Price: £3249

Buy

The AlphaTheta Euphonia Rotary Mixer produces a euphoric sound with the clarity of digital and the richiness of analog that’s never been heard from a DJ mixer before.
To deliver a clearer sound quality that accurately reproduces the expression of the music, the euphonia uses high-quality 32-bit A/D and D/A converters as well as 96kHz/64bit floating point mixing processing operations in the DSP, utilizing the digital signal processing technology AlphaTheta has developed over many years.

KEY FEATURES

Specially developed rotary fader makes you feel at one with the music
When you touch the faders on the euphonia, you won’t want to let go. To enhance its intuitive mixing experience, the unit is loaded with rotary faders that feature a brand-new carefully developed design to give you the feeling that you and the mixer are one. After extensive testing, the perfect knob sizes were chosen, with an elastomer applied to the outer circumference of each to ensure a comfortable and reliable grip as well as a high level of vibration absorption. The uniquely developed mechanism for the faders also benefits from optimum weighting. You’ll notice a difference in the feel of the knobs when you turn them at different speeds, as a higher load is applied when you turn a knob slowly for delicate fine-tuning and a lower load level is applied when you turn a knob quickly to instantly reach your intended volume level. And the fader volume curves have been optimized through feedback from numerous DJs, enabling smooth and natural mixing without equalizing, so you can concentrate on volume control. This innovative fader allows for musical expression that will move your audience and enhance your performance.

Energy Visualizer for understanding overall sound at first glance
Get an instant visual grasp of the status of your mix and the balance of track volume levels by glancing at the euphonia’s Energy Visualizer. Conventional VU meters only have 1 needle meter, making it difficult for DJs to grasp multiple channel levels at the same time. The euphonia’s uniquely developed Mix Level Meter features a needle meter for each channel so you can visually check the levels for all channels and mix smoothly while keeping the groove going. You can even keep an eye on the balance of the Master output by looking at the Spectrum Analyzer, which helps you keep your mixes sounding consistent and smooth, even in a long set, as you “watch” the euphonia’s output and adjust it to create your perfect sound.

Next-generation 3Band Master Isolator that transforms sensibility into sound at your will
Enjoy a more sensory level of control over your music with the 3Band Master Isolator which was specially built for the euphonia.

•Highest-quality isolator
The size of the isolator knobs is perfect for rapid turns from center to maximum or minimum, and the torque load is perfectly balanced for both quick operation and fine sound quality adjustment, with a luxurious feel that’s not too light. The cut-off frequency and slope are set to control and highlight the kick, melody, and rhythm bands in a natural yet sharp manner.

•Brand-new Boost Send for one-handed effects application
Add one of the built-in Send Effects, or an effect from an external unit, to the sound of any of the Master Isolator frequency bands. Press the Boost Send button for the low, mid, or high band and, as you turn the isolator knob, the effect will be applied to that band. This enables you to apply effects with a single hand in a way that previously needed two, leaving the other hand free for mixing another track.

•Boost Level to help you express your style
Pick the Boost Level setting that suits your playing style, and the volume level of each frequency band will be increased by the relevant amount. Choose +12dB for dynamic performances, +6dB for sound quality adjustments, and 0dB for reverb effects without any volume boost.

Built-in Send FX to bring depth and breadth to your sound
The AlphaTheta Euphonia Rotary Mixer features 5 built-in spatial effects and a high-pass filter, so you can easily add depth and breadth to your music. These are: Delay, Tape Echo, Echo Verb, Reverb, Shimmer, and HPF (high-pass filter). There’s also a Send/Return section which gives you the option to connect external effects units. A dedicated knob on each channel enables you to adjust the send level going to the selected effect, so you can apply just the right amount. And the Time knob, which allows you to adjust the effect delay and reverb time, has a proprietary mechanism developed specifically for this unit that automatically switches between a clicking sensation and no-clicking sensation depending on the effect you’ve selected. When using Delay, Tape Echo, and Echo Verb, the knob clicks according to the BPM, so you can quickly apply effects. When you use Reverb and Shimmer, there’s no clicking, so you can turn the knob freely to perform smooth sweeps or make tiny adjustments to find the perfect setting.

Design that embodies a new era of rotary mixer
The AlphaTheta Euphonia Rotary Mixer was designed to signal a new era of rotary mixers, with a “two-tone, two-layer” look symbolizing tradition and innovation. The channel strip section, which comprises traditional mixer elements, is distinguished from the innovative display section by matte and gloss textures, resulting in a crisp design that combines analog and digital elements. The copper color of the primary knobs conveys the warmness of analog sound, and the wood side panels are painted black to blend in with the overall aesthetic.

Other features
•2 options for connecting external effects units (Send/Return and Master Insert)
•Digital (coaxial) in terminal
•Built-in USB Type-C audio interface for PC/Mac
•Compatible with rekordbox DJ software
•Compatible with Serato DJ Pro DJ software (license needed)
•2Band Booth EQ
•Lockable Power Cord (not available in some regions)