Best DJ Mixer Picks for 2022: Such an Amazing Selection!

Picking the best DJ mixer for your DJ setup is critical. It doesn’t matter what you’re trying to accomplish with your setup, if you don’t have a DJ mixer, then you’re out of luck. After all, DJ mixers are what allow DJs to mix and manipulate the tracks in their list. Without DJ mixers, your DJ setup is little more than a home music system.

Since a DJ mixer is so valuable, it’s important to think carefully about what you need for your kit. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to the Best DJ Mixers.

We’re going to discuss everything from the top features of the leading and best DJ mixers, to how much you can expect to spend on a sensational system.

DJ Mixer Features

Let’s start by covering what you can expect from the best DJ mixer machines out there.

Your mixer is the device that lets you tap into various components of your software. Some of these tools are made with specific software programs in mind; others are intended for use with multiple programs. It all depends on where you buy.

The core of your DJ mixer will be the crossfade functionalities that allow you to fade in and out of effects as smoothly as possible. You’ll need a 3-band EQ at the very least.

Some of the more expensive pieces on the market are pretty extensive, with a host of diverse tools to choose from. However, these products are also more complex, intended for the advanced DJ. On the other hand, you can also find mixers designed specifically for beginners.

Some of the most valuable features to consider when buying your mixer include:

Channels: How many channels are you going to need? Most mixers come with a minimum of two channels, which means plugging in two different audio sources. Four-channel mixers are also quite common, particularly for those with more experience.

Software: Some mixers come with software included, or they’re attached to a specific software solution. Others give you more freedom to work with a tool you choose.

Effects: Effects on a mixer are what allow you to play around with the way your music sounds, these often include volume controls, EQ, crossfaders, headphone jacks, outputs, and other similar options.

A DJ mixer can also come with a range of other options, like USB connectivity to plug in your tools, filters, and integrated audio interfaces. However, the more features you have, the more you’re likely to pay, so keep that in mind

Identifying the Best DJ Mixer

So, how do you separate the best DJ mixers from the other options?

Well, it all depends on what you need. Most DJ mixers will give you two input channels that you can blend using level controls and cross-faders. The audio you create is then delivered to a main output and a cue headphone output. This means that you can hear the track you’re creating.

If you’re a more advanced user, then you may want to explore options that offer more than this. For instance, four or more input channels often appear on more expensive mixers. Figuring out how many ins and outs or I/O you need means considering your position as a DJ. More I/O means more flexibility and better future-proofing. However, they also mean extra work learning how to use everything, and more cash.

If you’re still in the early stages of your career, or you know you don’t need more than two channels, you may prefer to stick with something more basic. Other points to think about include:

Durability: Your mixer needs to be well-made and reliable. The best device will be strong enough to take with you to any gig within a moment’s notice. Since you’re going to be using it regularly, look for something that can stand the test of time.

Pricing: As mentioned above, DJ mixers come in a range of sizes and formats. Some are intended for professionals, with high price-tags attached. The more features you want, the more you’ll need to pay. However, there is some variance between different brands too.

Purpose: What are you trying to do with your mixer? Do you want something that’s digitally-compatible so that you can make the most of your available application sand software? Do you need something basic for mixing with CDJs and two channels? The purpose of your set-up will make a huge difference in your decision.

Effects: Most DJ mixers will come with some manner of channel EQ, as well as a low/high pass filter. Higher price mixers also come with additional effects, like phasers, rhythm delays, one-shot FX, and more.

Different types of DJ Mixer

Mixers come in many different styles to support different DJs and set-ups. Knowing what kind of DJ system you’re looking for will give you a head start on shopping for the best DJ mixers. For instance:

Digital vs analog DJ mixer

Digital mixers are devices that can take an electrical signal and transform it into a numeric representation. In this format, you can split the sound into different frequencies, and organize it with a computer software system. The digital mixer is basically an extension of your laptop, and they all require computer hardware.

On the other hand, an audio or “analog” DJ mixer is more old-school. These tools don’t offer any digital conversion process, which means that you can set up and go without a laptop. Because the sounds are warmer, and more natural, audio mixers that are “analog” tend to be the preference for audiophiles and people who collect records.

Analog mixers are exceptionally reliable and easy to use, and most DJ software can work alongside these mixers if you need some extra effects. Additionally, vinyl turntables can plug naturally into an analog DJ mixer with no issues. Though analog options are cheaper than their digital counterparts, they can still offer a fantastic experience.

What is a Rotary DJ mixer?

There’s also one other form of DJ mixer that you may need to be aware of when you’re choosing the solution that’s right for you. Rotary mixers are designed to use knobs to control your sound, rather than faders. This means that you twist something, rather than pushing a button up and down.

As DJs continue to move away from heavily digital-focused gear and search for more natural sounds, rotary mixers are gaining steam. Many of these models come with expensive components, high-definition audio, and a huge price tag.