Dj Mixing Boards

Amanda Nicholson
13 min readJun 13, 2024

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Get ready to turntable your way through the world of DJ mixing boards! In this article, we’re diving into a roundup of the top DJ mixing boards available on the market today. From beginner-friendly decks to state-of-the-art setups, join us as we explore the features, benefits, and experiences you can expect with each of these DJ mixing boards. Whether you’re a DJ novice or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive review of the best DJ mixing boards that will help you make the perfect choice for your next performance.

The Top 7 Best Dj Mixing Boards

  1. Party Mix Live DJ Controller with Light Show and Speakers — The Numark Party Mix Live DJ Controller elevates your music experience with a brilliant built-in light show, powerful speakers, and impressive pro-grade features, all packed in a compact and portable design.
  2. 8-Channel Pro Audio Mixer with 99 Sound Effects for DJ & Live Streaming — The Kmise 8-channel professional audio mixer offers seamless connectivity, wireless music streaming, and 99 reverb effects, making it versatile for family KTV, band performances, DJ shows, and more.
  3. Professional 4-Channel Sound Mixer with Dual Wireless Mic — Experience smooth, professional audio mixing with the R4-Pro Mixer, featuring 2 wireless microphones and advanced DJ mixing capabilities.
  4. Ultra-Portable Digital Mixer for Tablet DJs — XR18 by Behringer — Experience the ultimate portability and quality of the Behringer XAir XR18, a feature-rich 18-channel mixer designed for seamless DJing and recording in any setting.
  5. Pioneer DDJ-200 Smart DJ Controller for All-in-One DJ Experience — The Pioneer DDJ-200 Smart DJ Controller is a portable and lightweight device equipped with essential features for DJ novices, delivering an engaging and seamless mixing experience.
  6. ALPOWL 4-Channel DJ Mixer Board — Transform your audio experience with the ALPOWL Sound Board Consoles System — perfect for DJs and musicians alike.
  7. Numark Party Mix II: DJ Mixer Board with Light Show — Transform your parties and mixing sessions with the Numark Party Mix II DJ Controller, a perfect blend of pro-grade features, built-in LED light show, and user-friendly jog wheels for an unparalleled music experience!

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I receive compensation through qualified purchases at no cost to you!

Reviews

Party Mix Live DJ Controller with Light Show and Speakers

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Get ready to throw an unforgettable party with the Numark Party Mix Live DJ Controller. Packed with pro-grade features and a built-in light show, this controller allows you to mix and scratch straight out of the box.

The compact design makes it highly portable, and the built-in speakers provide rich stereo sound wherever you go. With a wide variety of useful features, such as a two-band EQ, performance pads, and seamless integration with popular DJ software like Serato DJ Lite and SoundCloud Go, Beatport, Tidal, and more, the Party Mix Live lets you showcase your creativity and set the mood for any event.

Whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes or a seasoned DJ looking for a fun, portable option, the Numark Party Mix Live DJ Controller is sure to light up any party.

8-Channel Pro Audio Mixer with 99 Sound Effects for DJ & Live Streaming

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The Kmise 8 Channel Professional Audio Mixer is a versatile and user-friendly sound mixer that I’ve found to be quite the game-changer in my daily life. With its seamless connectivity options through USB or Bluetooth, I’ve been able to stream music from my phone and tablet directly to the mixer, making it incredibly easy to set the perfect audio environment for any situation.

One of the standout features for me has been the 99 professional reverb effects, which really add an extra layer of depth to the sound and make music more immersive. Additionally, the built-in upgrade chip ensures smooth and non-lagging sound processing, which is a huge plus when you’re trying to create the perfect mix.

Despite its many positives, I will note that the mixer can be a bit tricky to navigate at first, requiring some patience and trial and error to fully understand all the settings. Overall, though, the Kmise 8 Channel Professional Audio Mixer has been an invaluable asset to my daily life, allowing me to create and enjoy high-quality sound in a variety of settings.

Professional 4-Channel Sound Mixer with Dual Wireless Mic

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As someone who enjoys mixing music in my free time, I recently got my hands on the R4-Pro Mixer, a 4-channel audio mixer with a built-in wireless receiving module. It even comes with 2 wireless microphones, USB power cable, USB to USB cable, and RCA to 2 RCA cable.

At first, I was impressed by the compact size and portable nature of the mixer, which made it easy to take on the go. The Bluetooth 5 and USB 2.0 hardware interfaces were also a bonus, allowing me to connect to various audio sources seamlessly. However, what really stood out was the ability to plug in 2 wireless microphones and start using them right away, which made recording and mixing much easier.

On the downside, I found that the XLR audio input wasn’t as high-quality as I expected, and the sound quality suffered a bit when using it. Additionally, the 48V phantom power was a bit on the low side, which might not be ideal for those who need a more powerful audio output.

Overall, the R4-Pro Mixer offers a lot of great features for those who want an affordable, portable audio mixer with wireless microphone capabilities. While there are a few minor drawbacks, it’s definitely worth considering for anyone looking to make music on the go.

Ultra-Portable Digital Mixer for Tablet DJs — XR18 by Behringer

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The Behringer XAir XR18 has become a trusty companion in my daily life, whether I’m performing live or recording from the comfort of my home. Its sleek, compact design makes it perfect for any situation, and the integrated Wi-Fi connectivity is a game-changer — I can control the mixer from anywhere, without being tethered to a physical connection.

One feature that truly stands out is the 16 award-winning MIDAS-designed mic preamps. They provide crystal-clear, professional-quality audio that rivals mixers twice its price. The ultra-fast, bidirectional USB Audio Interface also deserves a shout-out — it makes recording and mixing on my iPad a breeze.

However, there were a few hiccups along the way. Setting up the XAir XR18 for the first time took a little longer than I expected, and I found the Wi-Fi connection to be temperamental at times. But once I got everything up and running, these minor issues were quickly forgotten.

Overall, the Behringer XAir XR18 is a powerful, versatile, and affordable mixer that has dramatically improved the quality of my live performances and recording sessions. Its ease of use and compact design make it a no-brainer for anyone looking to step up their sound game.

Pioneer DDJ-200 Smart DJ Controller for All-in-One DJ Experience

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As a DJ enthusiast looking for an affordable yet reliable controller, I stumbled upon the Pioneer DDJ-200. This smart DJ controller proved to be an excellent piece of equipment for my daily use, boasting features that I found quite remarkable.

One of the highlights of the DDJ-200 is its compatibility with various DJ applications and software, including the free WeDJ app for my smartphone. The lightweight and compact design made it perfect for both beginners and seasoned DJs like me. I loved how the top-notch features, such as the transition FX and phrase sync function, helped me in making smooth transitions between tracks, resulting in a seamless and enjoyable DJ experience. The 3.5 mm jack also offered a reliable connection with my compatible devices.

However, a drawback I encountered was the lack of instructions for a beginner like me. Although the controller boasts many features, the absence of proper guidance made my initial experience challenging. Nevertheless, as I delved deeper into DJing, I developed a knack for overcoming these hurdles.

Overall, the Pioneer DDJ-200 turned out to be an immersive and versatile DJ controller. Its ease of use and affordability make it an ideal choice for both amateurs and seasoned DJs. Despite the minor drawbacks, I highly recommend this controller to anyone looking to take their DJ skills to the next level without breaking the bank.

ALPOWL 4-Channel DJ Mixer Board

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I recently gave this ALPOWL Professional Audio Mixer a try, and let me tell you, it delivered some impressive results. With its 4-channel interface, this mixer proved to be quite versatile, allowing me to fine-tune various audio sources. The quality of the construction was top-notch, as usual for ALPOWL products.

One thing I particularly appreciated was its size — it was compact yet powerful, perfect for both beginners and pros. The mixing process was intuitive, thanks to the straightforward layout of the knobs and switches.

However, there were a few hiccups along the way. Connecting the XLR input took a bit longer than expected, and I encountered some occasional crackling noise, which wasn’t ideal.

Despite these minor issues, the ALPOWL Professional Audio Mixer proved to be an indispensable tool for all my audio mixing projects. Its performance was impressive, and I’m confident it would be a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to up their music production game.

Numark Party Mix II: DJ Mixer Board with Light Show

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Experience the ultimate party control with the Numark Party Mix II 2-Channel DJ Controller. This compact, portable unit is packed with pro-grade features, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for you and your crowd. The built-in LED lights dance in sync with your beats, enhancing the party vibe.

With a two-band EQ on each channel, performance pads for hot cues, samples, and loops, seamless integration with Serato DJ Lite, and versatile streaming options, this controller has got you covered for countless musical journeys. Its large jog wheels provide unmatched accuracy and precision when fine-tuning your mixes. Plus, the Numark Party Mix II is compatible with a range of portable devices, giving you even more ways to entertain.

This DJ controller is perfect for every beginner looking to unleash their creativity and make the room come alive.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to creating the perfect DJ mix, having the right DJ mixing board can make all the difference. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll provide you with essential features, considerations, and advice to help you make the best choice for your needs.

Important Features to Look for in a DJ Mixing Board

  1. Channel Count: The number of channels a mixing board has will determine how many sources you can mix simultaneously. Choose a board with enough channels to accommodate your setup, including microphones, turntables, and other DJ equipment. Most DJs require a minimum of 4 channels, but larger setups may need more.

Considerations Before Purchasing a DJ Mixing Board

  1. Portability: If you’re a mobile DJ or often perform at different venues, consider a portable mixing board with a compact design and lightweight construction. This will make it easier to transport and set up at various locations. Look for boards with a durable construction to withstand travel and wear.

General Advice for Choosing the Right DJ Mixing Board

  1. Audio Quality: The quality of your mix depends heavily on the sound quality of your mixing board. Look for boards with high-quality preamps and converters to ensure clear, professional-sounding audio. Also, consider a board with a built-in digital signal processor (DSP) to help you achieve the desired sound more easily.

Additional Features to Enhance Your DJ Mixing Experience

  1. Connectivity Options: A good DJ mixing board should offer various connectivity options, such as USB, MIDI, and different input and output jacks. This allows you to connect various devices and expand your setup. Additionally, consider a board with a built-in mixer or a control unit for additional functionality.

FAQ

What are the benefits of using a DJ mixing board compared to other DJ equipment?

Using a DJ mixing board provides several advantages over other DJ equipment. Firstly, it offers greater control and flexibility over the music being played. DJs can seamlessly blend tracks, alter the tempo and pitch to fit their desired mood, and even create custom sound effects, providing a more immersive and engaging experience for their audience. This is something that other DJ equipment, such as digital turntables or controllers, may not offer to the same extent. Additionally, a DJ mixing board offers a more traditional, tactile experience which can have an emotional appeal for some DJs. Many DJs, especially those who’ve been spinning records for years, value this physical aspect of DJing and enjoy the feel of manipulating vinyl records or a well-crafted mixing board.

Another key benefit of DJ mixing boards is their potential sound quality. High-end DJ mixing boards often feature professional-grade sound processors and high-fidelity sound cards. These offer superior audio control, noise reduction, and clarity for the final sound output, ensuring the DJs’ mix is as clear and vibrant as possible. This can be especially important for DJs performing in large venues or for live recordings, as even subtle sound discrepancies can be noticeable in these settings.

What are the features that make a good DJ mixing board?

A high-quality DJ mixing board should ideally come with several features to improve the user experience. Firstly, a good DJ mixing board will typically have multiple input channels, allowing a DJ to mix different sources of audio simultaneously. This can include microphones, turntables, CD players, and digital file players, among others. Multiple equalizers per channel give a DJ the ability to fine-tune each individual input source, and a built-in sampler can allow for the quick addition of drum rolls, sound bites, and other audio elements into a mix.

A DJ mixing board should also offer a range of effects designed to enhance the mix quality. This can include tools for changing the tempo and pitch of a song, effects such as flanger, wah, or delay that help to give a track a distinctive feel, and more advanced effects like reverb and echo that can create a sense of depth and space in a mix. A user-friendly layout, easy-to-use knobs and faders, and an intuitive display can also make a DJ mixing board more enjoyable to use, especially for beginners.

Are DJ mixing boards suitable for both beginners and professionals?

DJ mixing boards can be a great investment for both beginners and experienced DJs due to their range of features and functionality. While many high-end DJ mixing boards are designed with professional DJs in mind, they can also offer a wealth of features that are beneficial for beginners. For instance, many DJ mixing boards come with a user-friendly layout, ensuring that even those new to DJing can quickly become familiar with the equipment. Additionally, many DJ mixing boards offer a range of controls for adjusting tempo, pitch, and sound effects, which can help a beginner gain a better understanding of these fundamental aspects of DJing.

On the other hand, professional DJs may benefit from many additional features that high-end DJ mixing boards provide. These can include more channels for mixing different inputs, a wider range of effects for enhancing and modifying tracks, and even built-in samplers and memory slots for saving favorite mixes. Ultimately, a DJ mixing board’s suitability for both beginners and professionals depends largely on the specific features and capabilities of the board in question, and whether these match the user’s requirements and preferences.

What are the common mistakes that beginners make when using a DJ mixing board?

Beginners may find it challenging to master the art of DJing, and this can make using a DJ mixing board a daunting experience. A few common mistakes that beginners may make include overcomplicating the mix, trying to mix tracks with too much tempo variance, or incorrectly setting the equalizer. These mistakes can result in an unbalanced or distorted sound, which can disrupt the flow of a mix and reduce the overall quality of the performance.

To avoid these errors, beginners should start by familiarizing themselves with the basic functions of the DJ mixing board. This includes understanding how to balance the levels of different input sources, how to adjust the tempo and pitch of a track, and how to apply effects such as flanger or reverb. Also, learning how to read and understand a DJ mixing board’s layout and controls can help, as can practicing simple mixing techniques, such as cueing up a track before letting it play or transitioning from one song to another smoothly.

What kind of maintenance is required for a DJ mixing board?

To keep a DJ mixing board in top condition and ensure its longevity, it should be cleaned regularly and kept from dust and any other damaging elements. DJs should regularly check their equipment and clean it whenever necessary. Ensuring the connectors and cables are in good condition is essential too, as they can be damaged by rough handling and are susceptible to wear and tear over time.

It’s also important to properly store the DJ mixing board when not in use, as excessive exposure to sunlight, humidity, or heat can affect the equipment’s internal workings and potentially shorten its lifespan. To reduce the risk of damage caused by external elements, the equipment should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and in a hard or soft case when moving or traveling with it.

Can DJ mixing boards be used with different types of music?

Yes, DJ mixing boards are versatile pieces of equipment that can be used with various genres of music. The ability of a DJ mixing board to mix and blend different tracks of different genres is what makes it such a popular piece of equipment. This versatility is why DJ mixing boards are the standard equipment for DJs who perform in a variety of settings, including weddings, clubs, and public events.

However, while a DJ mixing board can be used with a wide range of music, some specific features or sound effects may work better with certain genres. For instance, if a DJ is working with hip-hop, using a DJ mixing board to add heavy basslines and rhythmic effects can create an exciting and energetic performance. In contrast, when working with more mellow genres such as jazz or jazz, using a DJ mixing board to create smooth transitions and subtle effects can help to build an atmosphere and set a relaxing mood for the listeners.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I receive compensation through qualified purchases at no cost to you!

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