The 5 best DJ mixers for electronic music sets
No DJ can do without a decent mixer, as a result they are a key element of any DJ setup. Many mixers are DVS-ready too, so you can use one of the major digital vinyl systems integrated into the popular software tools. As such you can control software decks using real hardware. It makes it easy for those who still want to work in a classic way.
Below we give you an oversight of what we consider to be the best DJ mixers, often at decent prices. Your choice should be based on what you need and of course – as we are not all rich kids –  what you can spend. Of course we are sure that you will all welcome offers that have a better price.
Allen & Heath Xone:96
The Allen & Heath Xone:96 is a definite club classic, augmented for today’s use. This mixer was originally released in the early nineties with A&H’s Xone:92 mixer being is an all-time classic. You’ll find it back in the setup of many pro house and techno DJs. In 2018 the mixer finally got an update but remained loyal to its predecessor. Expect great EQs and filters and the addition of an onboard audio interface. Combined with expanded send/return capabilities and extra control over the booth output you are in for a good treat.
You should be able getting one from 1.300 Euro on so basically you can still go betting in Canada to get one of these.
Rane MP2015
Next is the Rane MP2015 which is part of a new generation of high-class rotary mixers but comes with a price-tag of at least 2.300 Euro. You can expect an excellent sound and the use of rotaries rather than faders to blend tracks offers you a good way to offer slower mixing, think deeper house for instance. Avoid doing scratching with this mixer though. The set is finished with a nice set of isolators, adjustable EQs and filters giving you complete control over the frequency of each track
Pioneer DJ DJM-900NXS2
With the Pioneer DJ DJM-900NXS2 you get a true jewel in your hands which is very popular in clubland. The price tag starts from 1.500 Euro onwards. Despite not being the best choice, the mixer is backed by a brand which has years of experience, both design wise and technically wise as it also offers a broad range of features (channel EQs and filters to the dual USB ports and mic inputs). Add to this an extensive range of effects augmented by Pioneer’s Sound Color FX aiding the dynamic transition and build-up of sounds.
Rane Seventy-Two
With Rane Seventy-Two you stay below the 1.800 Euro price. It’s a two channel combined analogue mixer and controller for Serato DJ Pro. Expect multiple inputs for decks and CDJs paired with dual USB connections allowing a good transfer for two Serato DJs. Scratchers should pay attention as this mixer is particularly aimed at them. As a result you get magnetic faders and crossfaders, plus MPC-style performance pads (think sampling and cue point jumping within Serato).
Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2
Pioneer also offer a good entry-level mixer with the Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 at just 400 Euro. This two channel mixer also offers the same look and feel of the pro-material, which might be a good incentive for the starting DJs. You can still show off with it that is. Good to know, it’s rekordbox-compatible and DVS ready, a good choice if you like digital DJing.
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