A DJ mixer is the centerpiece of any standalone DJ setup, and it’s what connects everything else. Unless you DJ using an “all-in-one” controller or console (and therefore a built-in mixer), you’ll need one of these.
In addition to mixing music sources together, today’s mixers often feature built-in audio interfaces, giving you a way to connect a laptop and use DJ software.
They can also be MIDI controllers, allowing you to control DJ software using knobs, buttons, and faders at times.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the different types of mixers and some of the best DJ mixers on the market today.
Best High End DJ Mixers in 2025
1. Pioneer DJ DJM-A9 4-Channel DJ Mixer
The Pioneer DJ DJM-A9 is a professional 4-channel mixer that raises the bar for club-standard mixers.
Compared to its predecessor, the DJM-900NXS2, it offers improved sound quality, enhanced playability and connectivity, and a host of new features to help take your performances to the next level.
The DJM-A9 maintains the features and layout that have become club standards while being refined into a more emotional and dynamic performance instrument.
This mixer is built to last with its solid metal construction, making it perfect for use in demanding environments such as clubs and concert halls.
It also has a variety of connectivity options, including USB drive input and output, XLR balanced output, booth output, and two microphone inputs.
Create your own audio effects with the onboard Beat FX processor, or sample your sounds using the built-in sampler.
The DJM-A9 also supports Bluetooth, allowing you to easily connect wirelessly to headphones or speakers.
So whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the Pioneer DJ DJM-A9 mixer is perfect for any performance application.
2. Allen & Heath XONE: 96 8-Channel DJ Mixer
A new, no-compromise analog DJ mixer destined to be the heart of your creativity, bone:96 takes the legendary soul of the famous bone:92, enhances it, and brings it back with cutting-edge digital connectivity.
Bone:96 is the long-awaited successor to a true club classic. It’s all here. Massive, detailed, room-shaking analog sound that only Xone can deliver.
Refined, precise 4-band EQ. Unrivaled dual Xone:vcf filters with crunchy harmonic distortion. And dual 32-bit USB sound cards (24 channels at 96kHz) with Traktor Scratch certification.
Connect everything from your laptop and turntables to pedals, synthesizers, and drum machines with Bone:96.
Two dedicated FX sends, four stereo input channels (including 4-band EQ), two stereo input channels with all-new 3-band parametric EQ + two auxiliary stereo return channels.
And a separate master insert for outboard hardware. Explore new possibilities with a familiar layout of beautifully tactile controls.
3. Reloop RMX-95
Reloop’s RMX-95 is worth the money: club-worthy looks and build quality, lots of effects, decent onboard soundcard, and digital connectivity – plus it’s MIDI-mappable and very configurable.
It works best when paired with Algoriddim’s djay Pro software, and we’ve found that when paired with a Denon DJ LC6000 controller deck, it’s a quick and easy full-size club setup for less than the price of a single “pro” CDJ!
However, as of this writing, it’s not compatible with Serato, as expected. This is a major drawback compared to the previous Reloop RMX-90 DVS.
4. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z2
The Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z2 DJ mixer is the perfect choice for pro DJs looking for a solid mixer with advanced features and a solid aluminum chassis that can integrate seamlessly with turntables and CDJs.
This mixer offers two standalone channels and two full Remix channels, making it a versatile option for DJs.
Featuring a solid aluminum chassis with Inn faders, it ensures durability and stability in demanding club environments.
Integration with TRAKTOR SCRATCH timecode vinyl and CD and TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO 2 software with Remix Deck technology provides a comprehensive DJ experience.
The mixer’s ergonomic and intuitive layout, large control surface with faders, 3-band EQ section, and dedicated filter knobs per channel make it the ideal choice for DJs who want innovation and precision in their setup.
5. Allen & Heath Xone:PX5
In addition to delivering the warm, high-quality sound the brand is known for, the Allen & Heath Xone:PX5 offers a range of analog and digital connectivity (probably the best in this section), with each channel having dedicated send controls for external FX processing.
The 4+1 channel ‘performance’ mixer (which means it’s incredibly versatile and can incorporate the most sophisticated setups) has a ton of customizable onboard FX, including reverbs, modulators, flangers, and distorters.
Like the mixer itself, all of this is high quality and intuitive to use!
Despite the PX5’s extensive connectivity options, it’s worth noting that it only has one USB input, which isn’t ideal for DJing.
Overall, if you don’t want a brand-specific setup or want to save a significant amount of money on the DJM-A9, this is a great option.
Not only is it a standalone mixer for everything you want to connect, it also supports DVS control for NI’s Traktor Scratch.
6. Pioneer DJM-V10
This 6-channel digital mixer is aimed at DJs with more complex mixing, routing, and performance needs than the average.
Many DJs show up to the booth with FX pedals and other external gear, “hacking” their existing kit to create their sound live.
These are often DJ/producers who play a hybrid type of set, and this mixer is a godsend.
If you want something that sounds like it, with very flexible routing, a powerful and great-sounding onboard sound card, and enough channels for all your gear or sources, this mixer could be the perfect mixer for you.
(The LF variant does not have a crossfader, but has a longer line fader, hence the “LF”.)
7. PLAYdifferently Model 1
If you are looking for an advanced DJ mixer that offers seamless power transfer in case of mains failure and easy fine-tuning of booth monitor response, the PLAYdifferently Model 1 is the best choice for professional DJs and audio enthusiasts.
This innovative mixer supports dual power supplies to ensure stable and reliable power in various locations.
It features connections for two power supplies (one included, the other available separately), providing seamless power transfer in case of mains failure.
The 2-band booth EQ allows you to easily fine-tune your booth monitor response, with a 10dB boost or cut on the lows and highs, a customizable response to suit your personal preference, and an enhanced monitoring experience.
The front-mounted Record Out also allows you to easily record your set to your personal recorder or device without sacrificing other outputs for recording.
With 6 channels, analog overdrive, resonance filter effects, and a wide range of connectivity options, the PLAYdifferently Model 1 stands out as a top choice for those looking for a cutting-edge DJ mixer.
8. Rane Seventy-Two MkII
Next up is Rane’s flagship 2-channel scratch mixer, the Seventy-Two MkII. Like all Rane gear, it’s built like a tank and designed to integrate tightly with Serato DJ Pro.
Similar to the Pioneer S-11 we just covered, it has a customizable 4.3-inch full-color touchscreen that displays waveforms, allows navigation and track selection, controls FX, and unlocks a ton of other performance tools.
It offers a ton of FX, with up to six Serato FX stacked on top of the onboard FLEX FX (with features like echo, reverb, and flanger built-in).
There are also 16 Akai performance pads (eight on each deck) with independent mode controls for things like accessing scratch banks.
It’s designed to work best with Rane’s digital turntables, but it’s still a standalone mixer, so you can still connect whatever setup you want, whether it’s analog or digital.
And as you’d expect at this price point, it sounds great. Note that there are no Sends & Returns, so you can’t connect third-party FX gear. It does come with a fully adjustable Mag Four crossfader.
9. Pioneer DJ DJM-750Mk2
Pioneer DJ’s DJM-750MK2 sits between the DJM-250MK2, which we covered in the beginner section, and the flagship DJM-A9, which takes the top spot in this section.
Not only does it inherit the build quality and intuitive club layout of the DJM-A9, but it also includes many of the same features, such as Sound Color FX (4 instead of 6), Beat FX (11 instead of 14), Magvel Crossfader, and a dedicated mic section.
It’s half the price of the DJM-A9, but it’s easy to connect external hardware (connectivity-wise, it’s within reach of most DJs).
In addition to having fewer FX, it doesn’t inherit the X-Pad touch strip in the FX section, and there’s only one USB port on the back, making it less convenient to replace your laptop.
Like all three Pioneer mixers in this post, it comes with Rekordbox DJ and Rekordbox DVS licenses as standard.
10. Traktor Kontrol Z2
The Z2 is a 2+2 channel scratch/battle mixer from Native Instruments that is tightly integrated with Traktor Pro software. While the Z2 is still available from some online retailers, it has been officially discontinued by NI.
Since its release over a decade ago, the Z2 has been a huge hit with Traktor users and battle DJs around the world.
With two additional ‘remix channels’ accessible from the software and a 24-bit sound card for high-quality audio, there’s no doubt that this is a great mixer, but it’s more of a compliment than a recommendation to buy.
11. Pioneer DJ DJM-S11
Pioneer DJ’s flagship two-channel scratch mixer and MIDI controller, which works with both Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox DJ software.
Unusually for a scratch mixer, you can also natively control Decks 3 and 4 from the software via the touchscreen (most scratch mixers are strictly two-channel).
That said, while it might be particularly appealing to DJs looking to combine traditional scratch performance with more modern DJ techniques, it might feel a bit too fiddly and complex for everyone else.
(Fortunately, Pioneer DJ also has the DJM-S7, which is a more direct replacement for the iconic DJM-S9, which may be a better choice for many.)
12. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z2
The Native Instruments TRAKTOR KONTROL Z2 mixer is one of the most highly recommended DJ mixers and one of the most versatile.
It offers all the benefits of a modern controller in a 10-inch battle mixer. It’s surprising that more DJs don’t use the Z2 in their DMC DJ Championships.
The TRAKTOR KONTROL Z2 is a perfect blend of digital and old-school analog technology, giving DJs just about everything they could ask for in TRAKTOR DJ software when it comes to mixing.
The only part of TRAKTOR that isn’t fully utilized alongside the standard MIDI map is the Remix Decks feature, but Remix Decks aren’t exactly a feature that’s best suited to the Z2 (there are a number of Native Instruments controllers that you can add to your setup to get the most out of Remix Decks while using the Z2 as your main hub).
As far as specs go, the Z2 has everything a DJ could want in a battle mixer and more.
It has all the basic 2-channel features like EQ, high/low pass filters, phono/line options, mic input with effects, volume control, channel faders, master and booth outputs, headphone cue with volume control, shift, cue points, mini scroll wheel, macro FX with pre and post functions, deck load buttons, sync buttons, and TRAKTOR-specific function buttons like loops.
The Z2 has XLR and RCA main outputs with a ¼” booth output for monitors. It also has two additional USB inputs for external hard drives. Best of all, this mixer is built like a tank, with a solid metal chassis.
No other mixer with a built-in sound card for digital DJing in this price range can compete with what the TRAKTOR KONTROL Z2 has to offer.
If you’re looking to get into the art of turntablism in the digital age, I dare say there are few better options on the market today (and keep in mind that this mixer includes a full version of the TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO 2 software, although it’s not exactly cheap).
As mentioned, if you’re looking to get started with live remixing with Remix Decks and stems, Native Instruments offers a better option with other controllers.
However, if you’re looking to get out there and put on the kind of show that people think of when they hear the word DJ, this mixer is a great choice.
Simply put, the Z2 excels because it accommodates all types of DJs (vinyl, CDJs, and especially digital DJs using TRAKTOR), while still having the build quality to be a battle DJ.
Regardless of your skill level, I highly recommend the Z2.
FAQ
How much does a good DJ mixer cost?
DJ mixers can cost anywhere from $200 to $3,000 at the higher end. How much you spend will largely depend on what you plan on connecting and what type/size of room you plan on using it in.
Even for a more elaborate home setup, you probably won’t need to spend more than $1,000.
What’s the difference between a digital and analog DJ mixer?
In layman’s terms, an analog DJ mixer is made up of all electronic circuitry, which ultimately provides a more ‘natural’ sound.
However, digital mixers must process the electrical signals in binary format, which arguably doesn’t sound as good.
Beyond the sound quality debate, analog DJ mixers also require an external audio interface if you want to connect a computer to DJ software.
What’s the difference between a club mixer and a scratch mixer?
A club mixer has a classic ‘uniform’ four-channel layout with plenty of inputs and outputs, giving it plenty of flexibility for nightclubs.
However, a scratch mixer is typically a two-channel design with a layout and feature set that’s better suited to battle DJs and turntablists.
Can I use a DJ mixer with software like Serato or Rekordbox?
Yes. Make sure your mixer is compatible with your chosen software, and connect it to your computer via USB or another designated interface.
Configure the software settings to allow for seamless DJ integration with digital music files.
What do most professional DJs use?
Professional DJs use a variety of DJ controllers, wireless mixer systems, and professional-grade soundboards to enhance their performance.
These tools offer comprehensive functionality, versatile connectivity, and high-quality sound manipulation.
When choosing the right gear, consider your DJ style, mixer preferences, compatibility with DJ software, and the ability to seamlessly run your turntables and beat-matching skills.
These features are crucial to creating innovative and technologically advanced DJ sets.
Do you need a club-style mixer, a scratch-style mixer, or a professional niche model?
This largely depends on what type of DJ you are or want to be. However, mixer types vary greatly in appearance and use, so it’s important to choose the right one for you.
Do you want analog or digital?
The answer is usually “digital,” but if you don’t plan on using digital features (e.g. you want a mixer for mixing vinyl or you already own an audio interface) or if you simply prefer the analog “sound,” you may want to consider an analog mixer.
Is there a mixer that matches the media player I want?
If so, it may be a good choice, as it may have features that only work when the units are paired, although they are more likely to have interchangeable faders.
Are there interchangeable faders?
You’ll want to look for at least interchangeable crossfaders, but many mixers allow you to swap out all of the faders.
What kind of onboard effects are there?
Some mixers have little or no onboard effects, while others have a comprehensive effects mixer that offers both manual controller effects and “LFO” effects that cycle in relation to the beat/BPM.
How many inputs are there?
If you want to DJ with four decks, make sure the deck you choose allows for four inputs and has four channels to control them. For example, a mixer designed for scratch DJing may only have two basic channels.
Mixers usually have more inputs than channels, because you can usually switch which inputs are processed on each channel at any time.
How tightly can you interface with your DJ software?
If you plan on using your mixer with your laptop, what control over the software will it give you? Some mixers are designed to provide a lot of this functionality, while others don’t.
Do I really need to buy a mixer?
If you already own an older mixer, you can save money by adding an audio interface to “convert” your mixer and your existing turntables or media players to a DVS (Digital Vinyl System) that can be used with your software.
What is Split Cue on a DJ mixer?
Split Cue allows you to mix entirely with headphones. This is very common in professional settings, where monitor quality is poor or there are no monitors present.
In a home environment (or shared living space), Split Cue is great for practicing and recording professional mixes without anyone hearing you, if you can’t make any noise.
What is Record Out on a DJ mixer?
Record Out is a dedicated output connection that allows you to record your DJ set.
This is useful in a live environment where both the Master and Booth outputs are in use. This recording is not affected by volume changes related to the Main or Booth speakers.
Conclusion
Choosing the best DJ mixer for your gig is crucial to upping your DJing game. With a wide range of options available, from budget to high-end, it’s important to consider your unique DJing style and preferences.
By carefully evaluating the key features and considering expert recommendations, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and find the perfect mixer for your needs.