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DJ Mixers
Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or professional - there's a DJ mixer suitable for everyone. With a DJ mixer, at least two audio sources are connected to mix tracks and songs together. For this, a crossfader is available, which transitions from one channel to another.
There are many variations when it comes to mixers - there are budget-friendly versions with 2 channels starting from around €100, covering basic functions, up to 4-5 channel mixers with numerous features and their own touchscreen display in the mid-four-digit range.
You'll find out which DJ mixer is right for you in this article.
Channels, Features, and Functions
The best DJ mixer for beginners is a small mixer with 2 channels, as the numerous knobs and controls are often confusing at first and as a beginner, you quickly lose track. 2-channel mixers with a short crossfader are also suitable for Battle DJs, where the focus is on scratching. For this reason, they are also called Battle Mixers, as speed is crucial there, with the crossfader being able to be moved quickly.
With a 2-channel DJ mixer, you can first learn the basics and later switch to one with more channels. However, some DJs do not need more than 2 channels and depending on the genre, they may not need a mixer with more than two channels at all. Even a well-equipped 2-channel mixer can be sufficient for a professional DJ, especially since the new generation can be deeply integrated into existing software. Via USB port, the mixer is connected to the software and serves as an audio interface or can even be used as a MIDI controller.
As a beginner, the question arises of which features and functions will be needed later and which definitely won't be needed. The cheapest entry is made with a purely analog mixer, which may still have an audio interface on board. Here you can already get decent quality starting from €150 and can learn mixing and cutting from scratch.
If you want full flexibility, analog-digital mixers are the right choice for you. Here, analog inputs are combined with all digital possibilities to get the best out of both worlds. For example, you can play classically with turntables, digitally with turntables and control vinyl, or completely digitally by simply connecting 2 CD players.
If you perform live at small or large festivals or clubs, it's worth getting familiar with Pioneer mixers. These DJ mixers are available in 95% of cases and it's important to be able to work with them. They have developed in recent years as club standards and are found at all gigs worldwide.
Effective Mixing
Another criterion that a DJ mixer must fulfill is providing effects. Here, the wheat is separated from the chaff, as not every manufacturer manages to pack quality effect processors into the hardware equally.
The quantity of effects is not crucial, but rather how they sound in the end. Especially reverb effects are subject to extreme sonic fluctuations. The mixer should definitely offer the following effects:
- Reverb - A properly sounding reverb that should be adjustable with parameters
- Delay - A delay effect that should be tailored to the current tempo in BPM
- Flanger - Has become a standard effect and provides twisted echo effects - ideally to the tempo per BPM
Other gimmicks and eccentric effects like Pitch, Sweeps FX, and more can also enrich the live set depending on the genre. However, the focus should be on good quality of the main effects.
Which manufacturers are recommended?
Many of our customers prefer a Pioneer mixer. This manufacturer convinces with their high-end products and is used by the world's best DJs. They have established themselves as the standard, and in every larger club or event, there are Pioneer mixers. The interface is logically structured, and other manufacturers orient themselves around them.
For those who prefer something more affordable, they can opt for a Behringer mixer. These not only convince with their affordable price but also with their high functionality and numerous features. Also, DJ mixers from Gemini can convince with a balanced quality and processing at a fair price.
In the premium segment, there are Allen & Heath mixers. They can score with their first-class sound quality, high robustness, and high processing quality.
But especially Denon and Rane offer an attractive range of DJ mixers that are worth more than a look and can convince across the board with well-considered features and functions.