6 Best DJ Mixers for Beginners

The Allen & Heath Xone:23C 2+2-channel VCA DJ Mixer is an excellent option for newly starting DJs to familiarise themselves with standard club set-ups. From my experience playing over the last decade – if it’s not a Pioneer set-up, most clubs use Allen & Heath.

The Xone family has become synonymous with high-quality audio, flawless user-design, and legendary filters that characterize their product line.

The hybrid analog / digital set-up of this beginner DJ mixer creates a beautiful warmth to its sound quality – combined with the iconic filters you have a serious piece of equipment.

Its durable design features responsive, robust faders and dials and its layout is a stripped-back emulation of the other products from the Xone line. This is the best DJ mixer for beginners as their more expensive and complicated market offerings can be daunting.

Number of EQ Bands: 3

FX: Yes

Midi Controller: No

When beginning to DJ, spending slightly more than the entry-level prices may set you up for a product with greater longevity to help achieve your goals. This Behringer Digital Pro Mixer DDM4000 5-channel DJ Mixer provides budding DJs with a lot of room to grow into the mixer as their skill set develops.

On a basic level – this beginner DJ mixer offers users 4 Phono/Line stereo channels with up to 8 signal sources connected in tandem, alongside 2 microphone inputs with Gain, EQ, Talk function and FX.

As the user progresses, this mixer doubles up as a MIDI controller and sampler, and can be mapped to the user’s software of choice. Moreover, having four channels allows users to experiment and build their set-up of choice – factoring in CDJ or Vinyl DJing.

The only criticism I have for this DJ mixer relates to its application for beginner DJs – on initial appearance it may appear daunting with all its knobs, dials, and flashing lights.

Despite this – the DDM4000 packs a serious punch in its accessible price range, versatile application of use as a mixer and MIDI controller, and its one of the best DJ mixers for newcomers to the DJ game.

Number of EQ Bands: 3

FX: Yes

Midi Controller: Yes

This Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol Z2 DJ Mixer offers as much to the beginner as it does the expert DJ. Its robust, well-gripped knobs and faders are durable enough for use at home or in a club set-up.

Having used this mixer on several occasions in home and club settings – I can vouch for its versatility, robust build quality, and enjoyable functionality.

With immediate compatibility to the Traktor Pro software – this beginner DJ mixer allows users to dive right into the world of DJing. With control vinyl records included – users can experiment with the application of CDJ, vinyl, or digital.

With MIDI control compatibility, this mixer can be used as a standalone controller and sampler – mapped to Traktor or the user’s preferred software. This mixer is a perfect avenue for exploring the worlds of MIDI controllers, live-sampling, and the advanced application of FX. Its Remix Decks, effects, filters, and signature Flux Mode leave DJs with an arsenal to hone their performances to an expert level.

While the Kontrol Z2 is perfect for beginners, it offers a plethora of options to play around with at a more advanced level. Its key selling point is how it embodies the best qualities of a mixer, but with added functionality as a standalone controller.

Number of EQ Bands: 3

FX: Yes

Midi Controller: Yes

The Pioneer DJ DJM-450 2-channel DJ Mixer is perfect for new DJs aspiring to evolve into performing at nightclubs and parties. It is an ideal entry-level DJ mixer to the Pioneer family – embodying the signature layout and FX set-up as its more expensive relatives.

Despite its entry-level price – this mixer enjoys some high-end perks associated with the professional standards of DJing. It stands out as a product for beginners thanks to its high-quality XLR output, signal GND terminals to facilitate vinyl link-up, and independent Aux and Mic channels.

With two headphone outputs – ¼-inch stereo jack and 3.5 mm mini jack, this beginner DJ mixer allows users to play b2b with a friend – making the learning process a more sociable and enjoyable experience.

The only downside to this product is its lack of a booth monitor – which would be needed for it to be used when one finds themselves progressing onto club-oriented hardware.

Number of EQ Bands: 3

FX: Yes

Midi Controller: No

Another low-cost investment for beginners – the Numark M2BLACK is a versatile beginner DJ mixer packed with great features. Its two-channel DJ scratch mixer is a must-have mix essential for any DJ setting from weddings to clubs, parties to practice setups

With a three-band EQ, dedicated channel level faders, reverse, and slope controls – this DJ mixer is a great introduction to grasping the basic approaches to DJing.

Its sleek design is a wallet-friendly option for entry-level home use. A criticism is that its output is a little weak on lower frequencies – though this is easily remedied by increasing the low EQs.

Number of EQ Bands: 3

FX: No

Midi Controller: No

The Behringer Pro Mixer NOX101 is a perfect low-risk investment for beginner DJs, its no-nonsense layout will allow rookie DJs valuable time to familiarize themselves with the basics of EQ management.

This is hands down the best DJ mixer for those looking to learn the absolute basics – as its spartan layout is free from flashy distractions.

Despite its basic layout – this is a surprisingly enjoyable mixer to use. Its VCA-controlled cross and channel faders ensure the utmost reliability and noise-free audio. It also includes direction-reverse and adjustable crossfader curve control.

One downside is that you cannot get output signals and cue signals to play on the headphones simultaneously, but a positive of this is it forces the user to hone their cue-to-booth mixing skills.

Number of EQ Bands: 3

FX: No

Midi Controller: No