In the old days, if you wanted to learn how to DJ, there were no two ways about it – you needed at least two turntables and a mixer to plug them into. That meant a significant investment in equipment before you even thought about buying records to mix to. But in 2021, the best DJ mixers for beginners don’t have to be “expensive” anymore, making it easier than ever to get started mixing. There are many well-featured DJ software apps available to try for free or cheap, from iOS apps like Traktor DJ or Algoriddim Djay to entry-level versions of Serato or Pioneer DJ’s rekordbox.
The learning curve has also been drastically lowered thanks to user-friendly tools like auto-sync and smart track recommendations that can help even complete novices mix. While it’s perfectly possible to master the basics of DJ mixing with just a laptop or mobile device, a controller can give you a more authentic, hands-on experience that makes you feel connected to your chosen DJ application.
In many cases, DJ controllers also offer additional benefits, such as access to additional software features or a built-in audio interface that lets you connect your entire setup to a speaker system, just like a traditional mixer.
Best DJ Mixers for Beginners: List
The Allen & Heath XONE:23
As our number one choice as the best DJ mixers for beginners, we have the Allen & Heath XONE: 23, a DJ mixer with 2 channels/4 decks with not only a great and sleek built but also great features that serve their purpose in the now so good the way too. Allen & Heath is very popular at the moment when it comes to high-end DJ equipment, and although they are usually priced “a bit more” than others, we feel that they are a great mix of quality and affordability with this particular model to give.
Now let’s go into the details. The most striking thing is that the crossfader is nice to scratch. It is compatible with “INNOfader” (an add-on, higher quality fader) if you want to replace it, but the stock-fader is fine as you learn. The built-in 4-channel 96 kHz 24-bit internal sound card gives us a very clear sound quality and also makes it possible to play and record any DJ software of your choice – the mixer also comes with a copy of Mixvibe’s Cross LE software if you do not already have purchased the software.
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Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2
Now we are going to watch the DJM-250MK2 from Pioneer, one of the best DJ mixers for beginners for users who want something higher. The Pioneer brand sells itself because they are supported by some of the best DJs in the world. The DJ DJM-250MK2 is a 2-channel mixer that offers easy operation and a clear layout – both are two important factors for the ordinary beginner. The DJM also comes with special 3-band insulators to make scratching and mixing easier. The clear layout of the DJM gives the user the freedom to perform scrating techniques, while the “Magvel” faders ensure smoother control and long-term durability.
To help you create your own mood for your mixes, each channel has its own extra (but not necessarily required) “Sound Color FX Filter” to add more texture and layers to your music. The Pioneer also comes with a built-in sound card – just connect the mixer to your Mac / PC and you’re ready to record your mixes. As mentioned earlier, the Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 is a bit more high-end, and therefore it is slightly more expensive than other mixers in this manual. However, it is one of the best DJ mixers for beginners.
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Gemini MM1
This is the Gemini MM1, a super cheap 2-channel audio mixer that combines practical functions with a compact design for a very affordable price – our most affordable DJ mixer for beginners in this manual. The MM1 provides you with all the necessary connections for mixers as it has two-line RCA inputs and an RCA main output. This mixer also helps you get your own sound with the 2-band rotary EQ on each channel, so you can skillfully mix the lows and highlights of your tunes. The Gemini also has an individual gain control that gives you more control during your mixing.
For hook-ups, it features a 1/4 “microphone input with dedicated volume control and headphone volume control to adjust the levels heard through the microphone input without having to change the overall mix. The MM1 is designed with a smooth cross-fader for better transitions and a clean mix from one source to another. If you use these functions to preview your songs, your mix will have a smoother and more uniform performance for your audience. Gemini MM1 mixer makes this a viable option for novice DJs who want to keep their setup simple, along with users looking for easy-to-use features. Overall, this is one of the best DJ mixers for beginners.
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Numark M2BLACK
Here we will catch a glimpse of one of the more price-friendly models in case our number would be a bit too expensive, the Numark M2BLACK. The M2 is a 2-channel scratch mixer that has all the essential functions to be one of the best DJ mixers for beginners. The Numark has switchable phono/line inputs for turntables, audio players, speakers and other line sources that make the M2 a reasonably good choice for any DJ setting, from weddings to house parties to clubs, and everywhere in between. There are many reasons that make it one of the best DJ mixers for beginners.
It also has a microphone input with a special EQ and gains, along with a headphone output with crossfader-like cueing, the modern DJ package/setup for most professionals. Each channel has its own 3-band EQ plus crossfader-reverse and slope control, giving you all the tools you need to drive the crowd from behind the stand. With this kind of functions, the M2 is an ideal mixer for scratching DJs (while it can also do the job for other types of spinning of course). The Numark M2 offers good features at a great price for our customers with a limited budget.
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Pyle PMX7BU
Last but not least, we will finish with the Pyle PMX7BU, which is a fairly simple mixer that is relatively easy to learn, which is why it is one of the best DJ mixers for beginners. The Pyle is a 3-channel DJ MP3 mixer with built-in Bluetooth technology for wireless music streaming – allowing you to stream directly from your device to the source. The PMX7BU has independent channel controls and a crossfade that helps you make better transitions and mix cleaner between the 3 channels. The PMX7BU also has 2 AUX inputs that can be easily combined or mixed with Bluetooth and MP3 devices.
With the inputs you can connect any audio source (microphone, phone, MP3 player, etc.) and combine with your Bluetooth audio, USB flash MP3s or any other audio channel in your device – the AUX inputs can also be switched between line level and phono input. The Pyle has a built-in USB flash reader that lets you load your USB device with songs and play them through the mixer – just plug in and access your entire music library. The Pyle PMX7BU combines a very friendly price with a simplistic design for one of the best DJ mixers for beginners.
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