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DJ Software: Explore the best tools for mixing

DJ software _ women DJ performance
The art of DJing has evolved remarkably over the years, from its humble beginnings in underground parties of the 1970s, where pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Afrika Bambaataa laid the foundation for the hip-hop movement, to its global prominence today. DJs have conquered crowds and created a true musical culture. Today, there are a multitude of DJ tools, ranging from software to MIDI controllers and vinyl turntables. The list of DJ software we’ll present in this article is not exhaustive, as the DJ world offers countless options for every mixing enthusiast.

Each software shares common criteria like mixing, effects, compatibility with digital vinyl and MIDI controllers.The choice of DJ software will depend on your individual preferences, experience level, and how you wish to express your musical creativity. Whatever your choice, the essential thing is to find the one that best suits your needs and style. Don’t hesitate to visit the websites of these software to make the best decision, as it is with this tool that you can elevate your performances and provide a memorable musical experience to your audience. 

1. VirtualDJ: The ideal DJ software for beginners

DJ Software _ Virtual DJ
When it comes to DJ software, VirtualDJ is the world’s most popular choice. It’s recommended by renowned artists like DJ Snake, David Guetta, and Martin Garrix. With a free version available for home use, VirtualDJ is an excellent choice for beginners due to its user-friendly interface. Even in its free version, it offers advanced mixing features and a vast music library. Seamless integration with DJ controllers and wireless control through dedicated Android and iOS apps make VirtualDJ an essential tool for aspiring DJs.
Pricing:
  • Free for home use
  • VirtualDJ Pro: $19/€22 per month
  •  VirtualDJ Business: $99/€110 per month
  • Virtual Pro Infinity, lifetime license: $299/€331
  •  Full Package Business: $166/€184 per month 
Features:
  • Operating Systems: macOS, Windows
  • Streaming Services Compatibility: Beatport, Beatsource, Soundcloud, Tidal (VirtualDJ also offers its own professional content services) 
  • Maximum Number of Decks: 4
  • Compatibility with DVS: Yes
Discover Virtual DJ

2. Serato DJ: Simplicity and power

DJ software _ Serato Interface
Serato DJ is highly acclaimed by world-famous DJs like DJ Jazzy Jeff , A-Trak, and DJ Craze. This mixing software offers advanced features for scratching and mixing, allowing artists to manipulate their tracks with remarkable precision. Serato was also a pioneer in the revolution of timecode vinyl systems in the early 2000s, giving DJs the ability to control digital tracks using specific sound cards. Besides its professional mixing features, Serato DJ has its own hardware, such as the Serato DJ Pro controller, ensuring seamless integration and optimized performance for DJs. Whether for professional DJs or mixing enthusiasts, Serato DJ remains an essential tool in the DJ arsenal.
Pricing:
  • Serato DJ Pro – $249/200€ per year or $9.99/9€ per month 
  • Serato DJ Suite – $449/440€ per year or $14.99/13€ per month
Features:
  • Operating Systems: macOS, Windows
  • Streaming Services Compatibility: Beatport, Beatsource, Soundcloud, Tidal 
  • Maximum Number of Decks: 4
  • Compatibility with Digital Vinyl System (DVS): Yes
Discover Serato DJ

3. Traktor Pro: The DJ software of innovation

DJ softaware _ Traktor RO interface
Traktor Pro , created in 2000 by Native Instruments, is the most favored DJ software among electronic music professionals, used by renowned artists like Richie Hawtin and Carl Cox. Its clean and customizable interface offers a seamless and intuitive mixing experience, while its compatibility with a wide range of controllers allows DJs to personalize their setup according to their preferences. With reliable performance and exceptional sound quality, Traktor remains the top choice for professionals seeking a seamless and professional mixing experience.
Pricing:
  •  $/€ 99
  • Update : $/€ 49
Features:
  • Operating systems: macOS, Windows
  • Streaming services compatibility: Beatport, Beatsource
  • Maximum number of decks: 4
  • Compatibility with  DVS: Yes
Discover Traktor Pro

4. Rekordbox DJ : The harmonious universe of Pioneer DJ software

DJ software _ Interface Rekordbox
Rekordbox, from Pioneer DJ, is DJ software used by famous artists like James Hype and Nina Kraviz. Originally developed as a digital music organization tool for the brand’s CD players, Pioneer expanded it in 2015 to become a comprehensive DJ mixing software, quickly making it one of the industry’s leading products. Rekordbox offers similar features to Serato or Traktor, with well-implemented mixing tools and a continuously expanding feature list. Additionally, Rekordbox provides a dedicated app for phones, offering DJs a mobile solution to manage music and prepare sets anytime.
Pricing:
  • Subscription : Free
  • Core Version: $/€12 per month or $/€120 per year
  • Creative Version: $/€18 per month or $/€180 per year
  • Pro Version: $/ €36 per month or $/€ 360 per year
Features:
  • Operating Systems: Windows/macOS/Linux
  • Compatible Streaming Services: Beatport, Beatsource, Soundcloud, Tidal, Inflyte, iTunes
  • Max Number of Decks: 4.
  • Compatible with DVS: Yes
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5. Mixxx: The open source DJ software

DJ software _ Interface Mixxx
Mixxx is a versatile and intuitive DJ software used by renowned artists like DJ Qbert and DJ Angelo. As a free and open-source music creation application, Mixxx offers comprehensive mixing features, including control over four decks, EQ, pitch, and key control of tracks. Integration with various controllers is a major advantage, although some devices may require specific configurations. Mixxx’s compatibility with Linux makes it a preferred choice for users of this operating system. Thanks to its DVS (Digital Vinyl System) features, Mixxx also offers an authentic vinyl control experience without an initial cost.
Pricing:
  • Free
Features:
  • Operating Systems: Windows/macOS/Linux.
  • Compatible Streaming Services: None
  • Max Number of Decks: 4
  • Compatible with DVS: Yes.
Discover Mixxx

6. Mixvibes Cross DJ : Performance and accessibility

Mixvibes Cross DJ is a versatile and intuitive DJ software used by renowned artists like Nadia Struiwigh and Bob Sinclar. With its live mixing feature, it allows DJs to easily synchronize and mix tracks, adjust tempo, and apply real-time effects. Compatible with a wide range of audio formats, it offers seamless integration with MIDI controllers for a personalized mixing experience. Equipped with advanced features like quantize and automatic loops, Mixvibes Cross DJ is loved by both professional DJs and mixing enthusiasts. Its clean and customizable interface makes it an ideal choice for DJ beginners.
Pricing:
  • Cross DJ 3.4.3 – $/€45
  • Cross DJ 4 Pro – $/€99.90
  • Cross DJ 4 – $/€49.90
Features:
  • Operating systems: Windows/macOS
  • Compatible with streaming services: None
  • Maximum number of decks: Not specified
  • Compatible with DVS: No
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7. Ableton Live: Exceptional live electronic performance

DJ software _ Ableton Interface
Ableton Live, used by artists like Diplo and Flume, is a mixing and track editing software with perfect audio manipulation tools. Its key feature, the Session View, allows DJs to launch audio samples, MIDI clips, and synchronized tracks for dynamic performances. Live is also appreciated for its flexibility, providing built-in instruments, effects, and the ability to control the software with different controllers. The integration of Link technology facilitates wireless synchronization with other applications and devices, adding an extra dimension to the mixing experience.
Pricing:
  • Live 11 Intro : $99/€79
    • Live Standard :$/€34
    • Live Suite : $749/€599
Features:
  • Platforms: Windows/MacOS
  • Compatible with streaming services: None
  • Maximum number of decks: Not specified
  • Compatible with DVS: No
Discover Ableton

Next-level DJ performances: Exploring new tools

DJs often seek captivating visual elements that complement their mixing and create an immersive atmosphere during performances.

1) HeavyM: The magical fusion of music and mapping

STAK kit at the back home festival

This is preisely HeavyM comes in, a professional video mapping software that brings music to life through stunning visuals.

With HeavyM, visuals can be automatically synchronized with live music, creating a harmonious audiovisual experience for the audience. Whether displaying mesmerizing visual patterns, graphic animations, or lighting effects, HeavyM offers flexibility to create personalized visual decorations that perfectly match the mix’s atmosphere.

HeavyM also enables DJs to collaborate with a VJ (Video-Jockey) during performances. In the world of entertainment, the collaboration between DJs and VJs leads to breathtaking audiovisual performances. While the DJ mixes music and creates an engaging sound atmosphere, the VJ controls visuals in real-time, perfectly synchronized with the music. HeavyM’s compatibility with all MIDI controllers allows the VJ to manipulate HeavyM’s visual elements along with the DJ’s music.
Discover HeavyM Software

2) Scenic kits: Elevate your performances with ready-to-use stage designs

The question that arises is, “How can I add a touch of novelty to my performances?” We offer two solutions: HeavyM’s stage kits, Olga and Stak. These kits provide prefabricated stage designs that can transform any venue into a visual spectacle.

Stak and Olga kits offer DJs a hassle-free solution to add visually striking elements to their performances. These ready-to-use stage kits are simple to assemble and disassemble infinitely, customizable, and lightweight. They allow DJs to unleash their creativity by creating shapes as they please.

The main difference between these two kits lies in their size; indeed, the Stak kit is larger than the Olga kit. The choice depends on the desired result. Whether in a club, at a festival stage, or during a private event, these stage kits offer an easy way to create stunning visuals that complement the music and leave a lasting impression on the audience.
Discover Stak kits
Discover Olga kits

Conclusion

In conclusion, the list of DJ software we presented is not a ranking, but rather an overview of the available options. The choice of the best tool depends on your preferences, skill level, and musical style. Take the time to explore the different possibilities and visit the websites of the software to make an informed decision. To further deepen your knowledge, you can explore other DJ projects created with HeavyM and draw inspiration from them. May your journey into the world of mixing be filled with creativity and success!

Stage DJ design by Kinetic 2

DJ stage made with HeavyM by @Kinetic.pe at BUDX Lima in Peru

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