Ever dreamt of dropping the beat and getting a crowd moving? Maybe you’ve watched DJs spin their magic and thought, “I could do that!” But then you look at all the DJ gear, and it feels like a whole new language. Picking your very first DJ mixer can be super confusing. There are so many buttons and knobs, and you don’t want to waste your hard-earned money on something that’s not right for you.
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! This guide is here to make your DJ journey a lot easier. We’re going to break down what makes a great starter DJ mixer. You’ll learn what features are important and which ones you can skip for now. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident about choosing a mixer that will help you start mixing like a pro.
Ready to take the first step towards your DJ dreams? Let’s dive in and find the perfect mixer to kickstart your mixing adventure!
Our Top 5 Starter Dj Mixer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Starter Dj Mixer Detailed Reviews
1. Numark Party Mix DJ Controller with Lights
Rating: 8.9/10
Ready to throw an awesome party or just learn how to DJ? The Numark Party Mix DJ Controller is your all-in-one ticket to mixing music and creating a fun atmosphere. This cool gadget comes with everything a beginner needs to get started, including lights that flash with the beat and easy-to-use controls.
What We Like:
- It’s a complete DJ system that works right out of the box with your computer.
- The built-in lights add a fun party vibe that matches your music.
- You get two decks to control, plus pads for cool sound effects and loops.
- It lets you stream music from popular services like Apple Music and SoundCloud, so you have tons of songs to choose from.
- Connecting it to speakers and headphones is super simple.
- It’s a great way to start your DJ journey without spending a lot of money.
What Could Be Improved:
- The jog wheels, while touch-sensitive, might feel a little small for experienced DJs.
- While Serato Lite is included, some advanced features found in other DJ software are missing.
- The built-in speakers are not included, so you’ll need your own.
The Numark Party Mix is a fantastic starting point for anyone curious about DJing. It makes learning fun and easy, letting you control the music and the mood of any get-together.
2. VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer
Rating: 9.2/10
Unleash your inner superstar with the VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer! This awesome toy lets kids become their own DJs. They can mix music, create cool sound effects, and even put on a light show. It’s a fantastic way for children to explore their creativity and have a blast.
What We Like:
- The DJ turntable lets kids really feel like they’re mixing.
- There are tons of sound combinations (over 2000!) to keep things exciting.
- Kids can record their own sound effects and mix them into songs.
- Bluetooth and audio cable options mean they can play their favorite music.
- The built-in music game helps them practice their DJ skills.
- Adding light effects makes every jam session a party.
What Could Be Improved:
- The demo batteries might not last long, so you’ll need new ones for regular play.
- You need to buy a music player, audio cable, and headphones separately if you want to use those features.
The VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer offers hours of musical fun and encourages imaginative play. It’s a perfect gift for any child who loves music and performing.
3. Hercules DJ Starter Kit with Starlight Controller
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to unleash your inner DJ? The Hercules DJ Starter Kit with Starlight Controller, Monitor Speakers, Headphones, and Serato DJ Lite Software is your all-in-one ticket to the exciting world of music mixing. This kit gives you everything you need to start spinning tunes right out of the box, making it super easy for beginners to jump in and have fun.
What We Like:
- It’s a complete package, so you don’t need to buy anything else to start DJing.
- The DJControl Starlight controller is small and light, making it easy to take anywhere.
- It has all the important buttons and knobs you need to learn mixing and scratching.
- The included speakers and headphones let you hear your music clearly.
- Serato DJ Lite software is designed for learning, so it’s not too complicated.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for learning, the Starlight controller might feel a bit basic once you get more experienced.
- The monitor speakers are good for starting out, but serious DJs might want bigger, more powerful ones later on.
For anyone looking to start DJing, this Hercules kit is an excellent and affordable option. It provides a solid foundation to learn the ropes and have a blast with your music.
4. Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX Serato DJ Controller with Jog Wheel Displays
Rating: 9.3/10
The Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX is a fantastic DJ controller that’s perfect for beginners and experienced DJs alike. It comes with Serato DJ Lite software, so you can start mixing right away. You can control up to four decks, which gives you a lot of room to get creative. The built-in audio interface means you can plug it directly into your computer and start playing.
What We Like:
- It’s a complete Serato DJ system that’s easy to set up and use.
- The cool jog wheel displays show you important information like BPM and track position.
- You can personalize your mixes with six different effects and eight performance pads for samples and cues.
- You can stream millions of songs from popular services like Apple Music and SoundCloud right inside the software.
- It has all the connections you need, like a microphone input and RCA outputs for speakers.
- The mixer has a 3-band EQ and filter knobs to help you fine-tune your sound.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for learning, more advanced DJs might want deeper integration with Serato DJ Pro.
- The jog wheels, while informative, are not as large as those found on professional-grade controllers.
This controller offers a lot of features for its price point. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of DJing.
5. Numark Party Mix Live DJ Controller with Speakers
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to be the life of the party with the Numark Party Mix Live DJ Controller! This all-in-one system is designed for anyone who wants to start DJing. It includes everything you need to mix music and put on a show. You get two DJ decks, a built-in mixer, and even speakers and lights!
What We Like:
- Complete Serato Lite DJ System: It comes with Serato DJ Lite software, so you can start mixing right away.
- Plug and Play: Connect it to your Mac or Windows computer with a USB cable, and it’s ready to go.
- Built-in DJ Lighting: The lights sync with your music, making every mix look as good as it sounds.
- Built-in Speakers: No need for extra speakers to get started; this controller has them built right in.
- Hands-On Control: You have physical decks, filter knobs, and pitch sliders to control your music.
- Performance Pads: Use the pads to add cool effects, set cues, loop songs, and trigger samples.
- Stream Music: Mix tracks from popular services like Apple Music, SoundCloud, Beatport Link, Beatsource Link, and TIDAL.
- Easy Connections: Connect headphones to practice and other speakers to amplify your sound.
What Could Be Improved:
- Basic EQ: The 2-band EQ is simple but might not offer enough fine-tuning for advanced DJs.
- Lightweight Build: While portable, the plastic construction might feel less robust than professional-grade gear.
The Numark Party Mix Live makes learning to DJ fun and accessible. It’s a fantastic way to jump into the world of music mixing without a big investment.
Your First Steps into DJing: Choosing the Perfect Starter DJ Mixer
So, you want to be a DJ? That’s awesome!
Getting started in DJing is exciting. A DJ mixer is your main tool. It lets you blend songs together. This guide will help you pick the best starter DJ mixer for you. We’ll look at what makes a good mixer. We’ll also answer common questions. Let’s dive in!
Key Features to Look For
What makes a starter DJ mixer great?
- Number of Channels: Most starter mixers have 2 channels. This is enough to mix two songs at a time. Some might have 4, which gives you more room to grow.
- Crossfader: This is a slider that lets you smoothly switch between songs. Look for one that feels good and is easy to use.
- EQ Controls: These knobs let you adjust bass, mid, and treble frequencies for each song. Good EQ helps you make songs sound great together.
- Built-in Effects: Some mixers have cool sound effects like echo or flanger. These can add flair to your mixes.
- Connectivity: Make sure the mixer has the right ports for your speakers and headphones. Most will have RCA outputs and a headphone jack.
- Jog Wheels/Platters: While not always on basic mixers, some starter models include these. They help you scratch and cue songs.
Important Materials
What are these mixers made of?
Starter DJ mixers are often made of sturdy plastic. This keeps them light and affordable. Some might have metal faceplates for extra durability. The knobs and faders should feel solid, not wobbly. Good quality components will last longer.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a mixer good or bad?
- Build Quality: A mixer that feels well-built will be more reliable. Cheap plastic can break easily.
- Sound Quality: Even starter mixers should have clear sound. Listen to reviews or try to test one if you can.
- Ease of Use: The layout of the controls is important. Buttons and knobs should be easy to find and use while you’re mixing.
- Durability: If you plan to move your mixer around, durability is key. Look for mixers with reinforced corners or a metal chassis.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making good DJ gear. Doing a little research can help you find reliable options.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who uses these mixers and how?
Starter DJ mixers are perfect for beginners. They are great for practicing at home. You can learn the basics of beatmatching and mixing. Many aspiring DJs use them for small parties or house gatherings. They are also good for creating mixes for friends or online sharing. The simple controls mean you can focus on learning without getting overwhelmed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of a DJ mixer?
A: A DJ mixer lets you control and blend music from different sources, like two turntables or CDJs.
Q: How many channels do I need for a starter mixer?
A: Two channels are usually enough for starting out. They let you mix two songs at once.
Q: What is a crossfader, and why is it important?
A: The crossfader is a slider that smoothly transitions between two audio sources. It’s key for seamless song changes.
Q: Should I worry about the materials used in a starter mixer?
A: Yes, durable materials like sturdy plastic or metal can make your mixer last longer and handle regular use.
Q: Can I connect my phone to a starter DJ mixer?
A: Some starter mixers might have auxiliary inputs that allow you to connect devices like phones, but check the specific model’s features.
Q: What are EQ controls for?
A: EQ controls let you adjust the bass, middle, and treble sound of each song, helping them blend better.
Q: Are built-in effects necessary for a starter mixer?
A: Built-in effects are not essential but can be fun for adding creativity to your mixes once you’ve mastered the basics.
Q: How do I connect speakers to a DJ mixer?
A: DJ mixers typically have output ports (like RCA) that you connect to your powered speakers or amplifier.
Q: What is “beatmatching”?
A: Beatmatching is the process of aligning the tempo and beat of two songs so they play together smoothly.
Q: Where can I use a starter DJ mixer?
A: You can use a starter DJ mixer at home for practice, at small parties, or for creating mixes to share online.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.