DJ Mixers

DJ mixers are an essential part of any DJ's setup, whether they're working with modern digital audio sources or classic turntables. They are perhaps the most powerful weapon in a DJ's arsenal, and should be chosen with great care. DJ mixers not only allow you to combine music signals from different sources with ease, but will also let you try out some really creative mixing techniques.

Thomann's range includes many different kinds of DJ mixer, from simple battle mixers with two channels to professional installation mixers with as many as eight channels. This buyer's guide will tell you everything about how a DJ mixer works. Armed with this knowledge, even novices are sure to find exactly the right device to help them start learning their first mix tricks.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact our expert DJ department at any time by phone on +49 (0)9546-9223-441, e-mail at dj@thomann.de, or our online chat function. You can also find a lot more information on Thomann's huge range of DJing equipment in our online guide to DJ mixers.

And one last thing: Thomann's 30 day money-back guarantee makes every purchase of a new DJ mixer completely risk-free: Once you're satisfied with your new gear, Thomann's 3-year warranty will ensure that you'll be enjoying it for years to come.

Which DJ mixer is right for me?

DJ mixers can be roughly divided into two categories: On the one hand, there are two‑channel mixers, also known as battle mixers or scratch mixers, and on the other, multi‑channel installation mixers, often referred to as club mixers. When you're starting out as a DJ, just aiming to achieve smooth transitions between your favourite songs, an affordable two‑channel mixer with a standard feature set is ideal. For those wanting to use four or more audio sources, and even incorporate effects into their DJ sets, installation mixers are the right choice.

Anyone planning to manage their DJ with sets with one of the many DJ software suites – such as Serato DJ, Traktor, or Virtual DJ – would be well-advised look specifically for a DJ mixer that's equipped with an integrated sound card and dedicated controller functions. These devices make work easier for digital DJs by reducing the amount of gear they need.

How does a DJ mixer work?

First of all, a DJ mixer has to be hooked up to an audio input of some kind, be that a CD player or other media source, traditional vinyl turntables, or even microphones. Each of the mixer's channel strips can be then assigned to a specific input source using the input selector and edited with functions like equalisers and filters. Mixing between different sources (ultimately, different songs or tracks) is what the channel faders and crossfader are for. A mixer's cue system lets you listen to a channel in advance, independently of the fader, so you can check that a mix will work before bringing it in. Finally, the signals from the channel strips can be routed to a number of outputs (Master, Booth) and from there to a sound system.

What are the different components of a DJ mixer?

Housing

DJ mixers almost invariably have a sturdy metal housing, the size of which is determined by the number of channels. Two‑channel battle mixers can often be quite compact, while club mixers with four or more channels require more space; they're often permanently installed in a venue, hence the term installation mixer.

Some DJ mixers are referred to as rack mixers – what does that mean?

Mixers that can be installed in a standard 19" rack are called rack mixers. These mixers are equipped with special rack ears that allow for easy mounting. Rack mixers are popular with mobile DJs in particular because they can be installed alongside an array of playback devices in one rack, making transport simpler.

Channels

A DJ mixer has at least two channels (also called channel strips) – they receive the signals from media players, microphones, and so on. It's best to consider in advance how complicated your setup is, so that you have enough channels for all your equipment.

Gain controls

Gain controls are used to adjust the input levels of the playback devices, which is important to ensure that all tracks in a mix are played at the same volume.

Equalisers

Most DJ mixers offer three‑band equalisers (treble, mids, and bass) for targeted frequency adjustment of a track or section. Mixers with two bands (just treble and bass) or four bands (with dual mids) are less common.

Filters

DJ mixers often use dual‑mode filters – a combination of high‑pass and low‑pass filters – with adjustable resonance settings for more pronounced filter effects.

Channel faders

Channel faders are used to control which source is currently audible in the mix. High‑end mixers allow DJs to individually adjust the fader curves and – useful for certain techniques – even reverse their direction.

Some DJ mixers have no channel faders – what's that about?

DJs playing House, Techno, and similar genres often prefer long, smooth transitions between tracks. Rotary mixers, which use large, wide-sweep volume knobs instead of line faders, make these gradual blends easier to control. In contrast, traditional faders are better suited to quick, rhythmic cuts and sharp transitions.

Crossfader

A crossfader is used to transition between tracks from different channels and also for mixing tricks. Because it's such a crucial part of a DJ mixer, professional devices are designed to allow the crossfader to be replaced if defective, upgraded to a higher‑quality model, and configured individually.

LED meters

To visually monitor channel and output levels, DJ mixers are usually equipped with multicoloured LED meters.

Cue

A button‑operated cue function makes it possible to pre‑listen to tracks through headphones. This function is available on every channel and allows you to get ready for the actual live transition.

Master

The music the audience hears on the dancefloor comes from the master output. The master signal can be controlled separately, as well as being monitored visually. Some mixers include a mono switch, or allow DJs to insert effects to shape and alter the sound.

Booth

To allow DJs to fine‑tune their mixes accurately, professional DJ mixers feature a second output known as the booth or monitor output. This output feeds speakers positioned directly next to the DJ's workspace.

Analogue inputs

DJ mixers are usually equipped with analogue line and phono inputs for connecting CD players, media devices, or turntables. Mixers with large number of inputs ensure that even if you have an extensive equipment setup, you don't need to constantly re‑wire it.

Microphone inputs

Dedicated microphone inputs allow you to connect microphones for making announcements, introducing songs, or actual musical performances. Some mixers also offer a talkover function that automatically lowers the music's volume when you speak, so that announcements are easier to understand.

Analogue outputs

The master and booth outputs are usually equipped with RCA hi-fi sockets on simpler mixers, while professional devices mostly have XLR or 1/4" TRS jacks. Additional outputs allow DJs to record their mixes, for example via USB.

Digital connections

Some DJ mixers are equipped with USB ports and internal sound cards for playing tracks directly from a computer, which also makes DJ software easier to use. Professional mixers feature several USB ports, allowing multiple DJs working on the same set of decks to plug their devices in simultaneously.

Controller functions

Mixers with integrated controller elements send control commands to DJ software suites via their USB ports, so that DJs can use their physical mixer to manage on-screen functions – like loading tracks or adjusting more creative features.

Effects

DJ mixers with internal effects allow DJs to get really creative with their sets: These effects can be used to adjust the signal of any playback device that's compatible with the main mixer, helping to reduce the amount of outboard equipment a DJ needs.