Why Every DJ Should Use An External Mixer (DJ TIPS)

[@djangelortiz]

When Nick said “think of your controller/mixer as an instrument...” I felt that. 👍🏼

[@djaywrek]

💯

[@JUDGEMENT1973]

Same

[@Bigpoppaabe8]

not a real musician i'm assuming.

[@djangelortiz]

@@Bigpoppaabe8not a real DJ I’m assuming.

[@djangelortiz]

@@Bigpoppaabe8 the point is as a real DJ who respects and values real musicians we understand why a musician uses their own instruments and cares about their sound output.

[@criderv11]

I've been using a 6 channel mixer and I must concur with Nick; using a mixer enhances your sound and opens up new doors! I've only been DJing for only 3 years and I am surprised that DJs who have been in the game for years still do not use external mixers! I've had other Dj's approach me at events inquiring about my sound & observing my hookup! Thanks for the affirmation Nick!

[@bassmanapprel]

I absolutely agree with Nick on using a external mixer; I use a Yamaha MG10XU 10 channel mixer in my Dj setup as the hub for my controller, turntable, mics, etc. The versatility, headroom and sound quality are greatly enhanced. And I couldn't image not using a external mixer in my live setup.

[@DJ5HY]

Thank you, Nick! This answers a question that I've always had about using a mixer with all these all-in-one controllers. Your information is timely and welcomed. Keep up the good work!

[@NickSpinelli]

Glad to help!

[@Thesuproducer]

Yes you just helped me. Nick you're a beast man. Thanks man

[@lucaswhite3578]

Another pro tip...if you split your 1/4” inputs into their own channel (i.e., Left output from your mixer into Channel 1 and Right output into Channel 2) then you pan the left channel all the way left and the right channel all the way right your tracks will get a great stereo image and make the sound super wide!

[@DJSHaKa]

True. The older Mackie 1402VLZ mixers do this well - and actually bump up each channel by 2 or 3db extra for more headroom when you use this trick. Not sure about their newer mixers.

[@djpete595]

Absolutely! An external mixer is a game changer. I use a Mackie Mix8. Essentially the mixer is a central hub that also acts as a safety net. We've all experienced gear taking a dump in the middle of a set. Laptop or controller crash? No problem. Quickly switch over to your iPad avoiding that embarassing dead air. My mixer has saved my butt a few times. I can't imagine DJing an event without one.

[@markshepperd45]

I've been running an external mixer for years....you are spot on with everything said! Thanks!

[@NickSpinelli]

Great to hear! Thanks Mark!

[@colinfonolleras9918]

Any shot of you doing a follow up walkthrough of what you connect to which input on the mixer?

[@jaygabs14]

Colin Fonolleras +1 for this, where are you plugging in the controller?

[@andinbriwel1092]

plug the output of your DJ mixer or controller into a stereo channel input on the mixer. With the channel fader at 0, Adjust the input trim so that the input signal meters are floating around 0dB when the DJ mixer's output is just touching into the red. (audio engineer for a living)

[@NickSpinelli]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4nKga2vmseVqqs

[@jackinthewoodsii8653]

@@andinbriwel1092 You don't need Unity gain all of the time, and depending upon the quality (or lack thereof) of the controller's EQ I would prefer to EQ the sound via the mixer and keep controller EQ's flat. Shaping the EQ on your mixer for desired sound might require levels lower than Unity.

[@billmccay755]

You covered ALOT of the benefits of using an external mixer. I would also add to those: - The ability to have a back-up rig (iPod, Computer, iPad, etc) already connected to your Sound System in the very unlikely event of a Main Rig malfunction. This has saved my butt a few times. At a minimum, it gives you a chance to Reboot or do quick troubleshooting without missing a beat or any dead-air. - Like your remote speaker example, I will often run a sub via an AUX. I had a sound man recommend that I keep the subs low during dinner and toasts to avoid that "rumble" when you dont really need it. As the event requires, I can raise the level at my discretion. This is also helpful with venues with a Sound Ordinance. Those low frequencies can cause issues. Great Content, keep 'em coming!!

[@NickSpinelli]

Yes thank you for this!! You're 100% right!

[@michaelhwatson]

"Run a sub via an AUX". This is pure gold!

[@JohannesNielsen]

​@NickSpinelli I am in Sydney Australia and going back to DJ'ing for private functions. Allen and Heath and Mackie are the most common mixers here in live sound. Either an Allen and Heath Z 10 or a Mackie Mix 8 are on the top of my list. I will be running a Reloop Mixtour Pro, Novartis Launchpad and Hercules Starlight running Virginia DJ as a backup controller sourcing files off of my Raspberry Pi 5 NAS. Weddings here in Sydney Australia now want Club style DJ's to the point where I am running an Ableton Push II thru my custom built Intel NUK with Ableton 11.3.4 (last known stable build)

[@djceelos5427]

Before I started using the Yamaha MG06 6 Channel Mixer, my levels at event sucked and my microphone levels even worse. But once I added the external mixer, my sound levels sounded even better and my mic levels even better. Having an external mixer gives plenty of options and fuller sound without clipping or a distorted signal.

[@oldschooldjernie]

quit buying Gemini stuff

[@criderv11]

@@oldschooldjernie I concur! Gemini stuff is garbage!

[@worldmusic5811]

Absolutely correct ! I always have when I started using an external mixer and a Mac computer for music everyone thought I was off point to say it mildly that was in the 80s. As a rule regular DJ mixer can't give you the sound like an external mixer can and yours is a great one just wanted to say thanks I'm 50 years in music this year

[@mrpapi7]

Once again Nick, you out did yourself on this video! I been watching your videos through my progression of being a wedding dj. And your videos are always so informative, fun amd straight to the point! Ive just invested to the RCF HDM 45's and i want to get the most out of them. Appreciate the content bro!!

[@elegantcasinopartysbyjd5017]

Lol ur awesome Bro! Johnny Ole Skool here, been Djing since .... wow the Late 70's lol..... I was 12...... love ur shows keep rockin it out! Long Island NY in da house! 🔥💪💪🎙🎵

[@Goldfinger55]

Not only is this video hilarious and entertaining..but everything you are saying Nick is SPOT ON. Keep up the Great Work- it is APPRECIATED

[@NickSpinelli]

I appreciate that!!

[@davidmark9905]

This is the Best advice for a DJ apart from playing to to crowd and not himself... external mixer is the way to go.

[@jesseford1658]

Loved all these reasons, I am sold! Thanks for this video!

[@anthonydear3362]

"Reds not turbo" "Grandma just drops" LOL

[@NickSpinelli]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@markseymour8767]

Hi Nick, I used external mixer when doing a karaoke night cus I needed extra mics....and never went back. After a few tweaks the whole rig sounded soooo much better...And now I'm streaming...awww yes! Total control. Great tips thanks muchly!

[@VideoMusicManiacPlace]

My external mixer has saved my life during a few disasters and thus my dj reputation. My current external has 8 channels with a bluetooth. I back up my music to my phone and used it to finish my sets a few times.

[@partycity55]

Wow best explanation ever! I bought a Mackie 8 channel mixer and tried an event with it and sound was AMAZING - so much better! I could not believe it- you gave me other great reasons also. I saved this to my favorites Bada boom Bada bing Thank You Allan

[@pipsic]

great video and 100 percent true. Getting an external mixer for my set up was the best decision ever! I got the Yamaha MG10Xu, kinda similar to the RCF one.

[@damianhaber4890]

I use that Yamaha too and only mixers costing above $300 can compare!

[@OKthatsG00d]

I'm over here taking notes like I'm back in college. Thanks, Prof!

[@crispa1861]

I miss the old school DJ mixers that had good Mic pres. Denon and Rane, and numark. Good informative vid. Keep up the great work. Much love brother

[@Therealdjvinylrichie]

Thank you for the tip. Your video was informative and fun to watch. Appreciate what you do to educate and personally inspire. 👍

[@nareshangelia-sookrajjr.1365]

I use an External Mixer because my Controller (FLX6GT) does not have an XLR out Balanced Connection. So when I go straight to my speakers from RCA you get noticeable feedback. But also I like it because you really do have more control than just messing with the speaker knobs. You can really fine tune stuff and I love that

[@haroldtan9340]

I took your advice. The sound has vastly improved. No RCF available in my area but I got a Yamaha mixer.

[@halberkstresser]

psychological

[@joepasqualini931]

My partner and I watched this and bought 2 RCF mixers for our setups. Thx for the video review.

[@NickSpinelli]

That's awesome, you'll them Joe!

[@ballerstew]

just bought one because of this video thanks!

[@johnnyrubio9206]

Nick I have a speaker 🔈 with a built in amp in it the brand is Harbinger can I hook up a external mixer to get a better sound or to make it louder

[@alanhilder1883]

In my rig I have the DJ controller USBed to the laptop with a good quality ( but old ) external sound card. The DJ headphones are the only other thing hooked up to the controller. ( no other audio output there needed ) The sound card goes to an external mixer ( stereo ), 2 other stereo inputs are available and ready to go, someone else brings in their rig I can plug right in, want to use a ipod/cd player/ whatever as background during the meal no problem. At the moment have a "wired" mic and a "wireless" mic connected with a couple of spare channels left. The main output goes to either the speaker management ( eg subs split from the mid/highs etc ) or straight through to the speaker inputs. You can pull in/out the music, pull in/out the mics. You can run the DJ system "internally" while the dinner music is playing without anyone getting blasted with the "test pattern" you are using to set levels. brilliant. There are other outputs possible for other reasons as you said ( Aux mono, headphone level stereo, RCA, which I have not played with but ok, stereo ) but not really letting them know Now, if I could just work out how to pick the music to run the floor....🤔

[@allancarter6473]

I have always had an external mixer in my set ups. As well as what you mentioned I have a spare laptop set up so if controller crashes etc I can continue until I have sorted out problems, without any silence.

[@NickSpinelli]

I like it!

[@guslauzon2513]

Totally agree Nick. I've always preferred a dedicated external mixer. Flexibility and sound quality is the name of the game.. On point my friend..

[@NickSpinelli]

HELL YEAH GUS!

[@DiscJokeyDarkSigns]

Thanks for the amazing tips man! It's refreshing to see someone so excited about mixers :)

[@janmeyer2579]

Hi Nick, is it right that you leave all „instrument“ knobs (DJ mixer input) on your external mixer in neutral „0“ position? Also on your DJ mixer? How do you boost basses or de/increase highs? Best from Germany, Jan😊

[@Djtweezie]

I have pre amp speaker can I still use the mixer it sounds very useful thank you

[@misterchilano6417]

I have a question! I have an xdj-xz, and I run 4 powered subs, and 4 powered tops. I usually run 2 of my subwoofers out of the booth outputs (1/4-xlr) to the left and right, and daisy chain the second 2 subs off of those. And for my tops I run them out of my main out (xlr-xlr) and daisy chain my booth monitors to those and just adjust the levels for the booth on the back of those speakers. I do that to keep the sub levels separate from the tops, but is there a better way to run this setup and get the most out of it?

[@fiomarino647]

Hi, I have a question. is there any external mixer which has also headphones cues for pre-listening to a song on a single channel? thanks

[@cosmic.generator]

Will this also be good to get if you have just an audio interface, Yamaha hs5 monitors and subwoofer

[@MexiMumbles]

I just switched my streaming set up from: DJ Mixer > External Mixer > GO:Mixer > Laptop/OBS, to running my audio straight from my DJ mixer to my GO:Mixer. The mic goes: Mic > External Mixer > GO:Mixer > Laptop/OBS. I made the switch because I felt there were too many ways to adjust the signal (7 volume/gain/master pots across 3 mixers) but you're making me rethink that decision. Thanks!

[@nygadgetgeek]

Nick what’s up brother. I have a sort of complex question. So I was looking at Rick webs video about his rack build. I’m looking to build a rack with wireless, mics power conditioner, external mixer, etc. My question is how should I connect my controller case (power wise)? Should the power cords from my dj controller case run into the rack case?

[@johnpale4027]

Hi nick, what is your take on the rcf 6 channel?

[@jpgion18]

Great stuff, Nick. Thinking about the controller and vocals as separate "instruments" is a brilliant take. Keep it up!

[@NickSpinelli]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@oldschooldjernie]

@@NickSpinelli So what you are saying the output sound of even a $2000 S11 sucks balls? Thats cool, spend $2k on something that sounds like sh*t. LOL

[@jeffdubia]

@Old School Dj Ernie pretty sure he is just taking about the Mic preamps.

[@BookDJMatthewToday]

Help me out to understand this better, as I've never done this before & it's literally not making any sense to me how this works. I have a Denon MC7000 controller & my audio from my laptop is via USB to the dedicated plug-in on the back of the controller. How do run my sound through an external mixer while still maintaining my controller connection through my laptop? My guess is I'd still have to use that USB connection for sure. Therefore, how do I get the audio to go through the ext mixer instead of the controller itself? I'm not much of a sound tech guy, so thank you in advance for not jumping all over me for my lack of knowledge in this particular area. I'm trying to figure it out & it's just not making sense. I wish Nick would have gone as far as physically showing us exactly how to accomplish this & if extra cords are needed to do so. I'm more of a "show me how" kind of a guy. Otherwise, it goes in one ear & out the other 🤔

[@DJRickWeb]

DBX Driverack PA2. If you want some more overkill

[@DJSTEFF428]

All this time I’ve had my external mixer and blown speaker after speaker when I should’ve been using my external! Thinking my S9 was good enough.. you 🐐’d

[@covati]

Dude, you are so passionate about this. The info is fantastic, but you earned a sub on pure energy and excitement alone. 😂

[@voiceofreason4399]

Great video! I always learn something new every time I watch

[@Johnnybang916_]

Mine just landed..I can’t wait to hook it up!!!

[@NickSpinelli]

LFG!!

[@Johnnybang916_]

BROOOOOOO THIS THING JUST CHANGED UP MY GAME!!!!

[@VictorVargas-hu2gh]

Had a question so on my mixer I had only ran the left side and only one channel on the external Mixer I didn’t like the sound maybe I was doing something wrong what’s the best option you can give me thanks

[@michaelhamilton4711]

Could you make a couple mini videos on how to use the features like how to run the aux for a videographer, cutting the microphone from the booth, and a couple other things you listed?

[@caseyrice768]

If he didn't make the videos, all you need to do it look up how to use aux's on a mixer fyi.

[@michaelhamilton4711]

@@caseyrice768 I figured a step by step video from him would be useful. I know when I first started I had no idea how to use them and there were no videos back then. He has a pretty big following and someone out there could use the info…just sayin.

[@billgarriock4771]

Totally agree Nick, I only use external mixers. I am currently using a Mackie....great sound and flexibility

[@seanboogie10]

Thanks, this really helped me alot. Im definately going to get an external mixer now. Just have to figure out how to connect it to my DDJ100 and my S11. Thx

[@halberkstresser]

He's not correct

[@musicistheanswer1968]

To mix, i'm using an A&H Xone 92 (UK version). Should i really buy a separate table to use the microphones instead of plugging them in my Xone ?

[@johnnyringo3141]

Glad to see this, I’ve used a mixer since day 1 and had no issues at all. Was thinking I was hopelessly old school 😂

[@DJ.StevoD.Entertainment]

FANTASTIC VIDEO NICK! I actually use a Mackie 1608 Digital mixer with ipad control for the same red isasons you are mentioning. it works very well and is overkill, but I am used to it with running sound for bands. I will chek out your RCF!

[@jasonlegister2277]

Thanks for the good information I've been thinking about an external mixer and why I needed one now I know much obliged

[@ricky_raver5440]

might be a dumb qestion, but does the preamp work with stereo inputs? I noticed no gain nob for that input.

[@djxpress5770]

I've used an external mixer for decades. I use a Behringer 22 track studio mixer. I run my Cerwin Vega tops & Bottoms out of it. Absolutely sounds incredible, especially with the abundance of added professional level equalization control it provides. Plus, I get all the channels to add as much extra items as I may need. I also use a Reloop RMX-90 mixer for even more volume and equalizer control. With that, I also get to hook up more items like CDJs, turntables, cd recorder. I like all the extra options I can get. Is it overkill? Absolutely, except for the best sound I get from my tops & subs, and the ability to add as many mics as I may need, beyond the 4 cordless mics I normally have hooked up.

[@djcalvin681]

Yamaha mg12xu and Soundcraft notepad 12fx !! Solid choices ! Great advice Nick !!!

[@donnycollins1797]

I started out as a musician so I've always used an external mixer. I use an Akai APC40 to control 4 decks, cues, levels, effects, etc on DJAY Pro and my rack mounted Mac runs audio to my mixer where the other mics patch in. The high pass filter as you mentioned is great. Many mixers not also have built in compression which when used properly, can really smooth vocal peaks that can get out of hand for speakers who aren't experienced using mics. 4:48 LOL that was great. "Red's not turbo!" LOL!

[@VINZBROWN]

Me too. I'm basically a "musician that now plays pre-recorded music" (rather than calling myself a "DJ"). Haha. And YEAH. I use an ext mixer ... which sounds WAY better than the all-in-one shit from "DJ world". Thats a lesson I first learned over 30 years ago, as a audio buff teen: you get better quality buying separate components. (probably not an ABSOLUTE fact these days, but .....)

[@MrWillham3]

I have a MACKIE PROFX8V2 8-CHANNEL PROFESSIONAL EFFECTS MIXER WITH USB And I'm having issues connecting my s9 speakers to the mixer because the s9 has terrible sound. Xcan you explain to me how to set it up. Thanks

[@darnellgaines2293]

Hey Nick, I know this video's old but glad I came across it! I'm starting out and you're so right about the logic of it all. I'm gonna grab myself a mixer and elevate lol...appreciate you!

[@homiepr8]

Yes you are right. I use smaller controllers with inbuilt soundcards for plug and play in bars. My old denon controller was loud and quality. Modern controllers. Need something extra for quality and volume

[@markcorby8475]

Thank you for this!! I’m a newbie so you’ve saved me time, money, and headaches. Video’s my game and I’ve always had a lot of respect for the audio guy, sound techs. You can use a great camera, but if your audio is crap, guess what? Again, awesome video, tips. 👍

[@masterminddjs]

You're absolutely right - the sound from the controllers is pretty much generic sound. I always setup my equipment with an external mixer and it makes a hell of a difference! Great videos Nick!

[@NickSpinelli]

Exactly!

[@akash251]

Dude with your energy and tips..we all now we’re gonna be bless when we have any sort of gig 🙌🏽🙏🏽

[@mariosellsbarrie]

Thanks for sharing. I wish I a know this information when I started DJing. I was red lighting and pushing my 12.2 using my 1000 controller. I purchased a Yamaha 10-channel mixer mg10xuf. I recently had Mackie Mixer.

[@a.h.1665]

So do i Plug the legt and right Channel of the Controller into one Channel of the Mixer or do i Plug IT into two seperaten Channels of the Mixer ?

[@biggz612]

nick knocked this out the park how I didn't see this video before

[@wirelessmikedj7784]

I do professional AV for a livilng, so when I started DJing....I only use an external mixer...the Mackie ProFX is a great series, and they are tanks WITH some built in reverb etc for Mics/Karaoke.

[@johnnyrubio9206]

Nick can you hook 🪝 up a pre amp speaker 🔊 to the external mixer for a better sound maybe 🤔 it makes your speakers 🔊 louder

[@andinbriwel1092]

I'm an audio engineer. I do medium to large corporate events and network television. Listen to the man - use an external mixer, especially for your mics. Most people are using a controller, not a mixer, anyway, and that's killing your mic sound. That's why you get all that distortion and feedback from your handheld mic. If I DJ, my DJ mixer outputs, all mics and an iphone for background/breaktime music are all fed into a Behringer X32, and that's what feeds the house speakers. Which allows me to time sync all speakers based on placement, EQ everything, do all that fine tune tweaking for each channel, not to mention split out the subs so they're only receiving the bass frequencies and keep the heavy bass out of the top speakers. :)

[@NickSpinelli]

PREACHHHHHH!

[@rjmn1]

Not sure how anyone could dislike you Nick, you crazy bastard😂❤

[@jonstrader9146]

Don’t forget the other most important.. you have a BACKUP mixer in place. Plug another laptop in, an iPad, you’re ready to roll immediately in the event that your computer or controller freezes up.

[@NickSpinelli]

True I forgot about the OH SHIT option!

[@graxjpg]

I’m trying to go as analog as I can, that way I minimize the places that moment could appear.

[@alessandroraisaro165]

I have a Ddj flx4 working with rekordbox, do I need to buy a mixer compatible with rekordbox (pioneer) or can I connect any mixer to the consolle and still use Rekorbox?

[@EddieFromTheBatcave]

Can show us how to set it up.. can you play windows player and the serato mixer

[@djjerryg_soundexpressenter5874]

Hello Nick, I know this video is a couple yrs old. How do you setup your external mixer with your Dj furniture.

[@djflash3030]

i have been using an external mixer for awhile! i was looking at the behringer 8 flow! would you recommend this digital mixer rather than an analog mixer! i love this mixer! Thank u11

[@GilbertPatino-n2i]

You never got back to me I have this same mixer you have because you recommend it. but you never got back to my question. Mr question is how do you hook up the cables from my dj s9 mixer. I'm getting air so I think i can hook it up a better way

[@ericcox4448]

Is there certain spot you should place your mixer or microphone power supply? That will help you with feedback

[@SuperAlphaMale]

love your videos sir nick ❤

[@DeeJPhillyPhil]

Thanks! The advice was Straight Awesome Juice.. Get one is next on my list..

[@djtucha]

I actually needed this video. Thanks for the information

[@StonedSoldado]

Thanks for the info brother, I've soaked up a lot of game from you. Peace and continued prosperity to you and yours!

[@NickSpinelli]

Thanks so much Jimi!

[@hvince67]

Just looking/doing some research and into building my fist mobile DJ set. I'm glad I watched this video, Thanks! I was more biased towards faders rather than pots but you completely changed my mind, that's great advice!

[@moisesfarje7413]

i have simple mackies c300z speakers can i directly hook up to the speakers to the external mixer? the speakers are not amplified

[@NickSpinelli]

As long as the speakers are powered, you absolutely can!

[@bonnieprietojr9979]

Thank you Nick...Very nice and PRECISED explanation...Thank you so much..More power to you...

[@epicevents1939]

Great content/info brother. Extremely helpful to a lot of DJ's. Keep up the good work.

[@josehumbertorodriguez5755]

Do you have a video how connect your complete system ?

[@fijihunkinca]

So I run an external mixer with the RCF Evox J8's and the Yamaha M10XU. For some reason, one is always lower than the other. I have changed channels, cables but still the same, everytime. Any suggestions

[@mmxximusic]

THANK YOU for this. I knew I needed one, but I wasn't sure I wanted to make the investment. You've convinced me.

[@soundtasticevents3602]

Yes yes nick great video i use the yamaha mg12xu love it thought about the rcf but when I bought this rcf just started doing desk mixers so happy for now. Stay safe thank you.

[@deejaywaiyah4178]

Hi bro good content can the external mixer hook with serato for mic recording

[@messoastmusic]

Completely agree I'm using external mixer since beginning

[@lpliangproductions]

Nick, you really crack me up with your videos. Everything you say it TRUE !!!. I use a Soundcraft Ui16 Digital Mixer and the things you can do with that is amazing. When this is all over (COVID-19 shit). I will stream all my weddings with the iRig Duo plug into my Aux from the mixer and stream the peak hour of each wedding using my iPhone 11 Pro Max and DJI Oslo 3 Gimbal over a tripod. Great videos man, always enjoy watching. Wedding here are always massive, 350 pax minimum and people go crazy with the music. Greetings from Guatemala, C.A. :)

[@giovannirocksdahouse1858]

Great energy and simple way of advising others . I am a true believer of Qual sound and use boards to reinforce my sound at every venue. God bless

[@DaveSweeten666]

What if your speakers have built in mixers? They would essentially function the same way, correct?

[@micrasheep]

Great video - can anyone point me in the direction of a quality external mixer with mic talk-over feature as its totally essential for what I do

[@alexgonzalez5815]

Can you explain the master level and channel levels suppose to be at?

[@exmixah]

No lies told !!!! 👍🏻👏🏽👏🏽