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

Using an external mixer with mobile DJ set ups is a MUST. You'll get the best sound out of your mic and speakers, you'll have a ton of channels to handle any situation, and you can use it to live stream for crystal clear direct audio. In this video, I explain in detail why it's absolutely worth the investment, and I talk about the external mixer I use - the RCF F10XR.
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I made this channel to help DJs all around the world. This is the most honest and funny DJ channel on KZbin. Learn every aspect on how to DJ right here! You'll find everything from Wedding DJ Tips, DJ Tips, Wedding and Event vLogs, product reviews and much more. I put it all out there and I never hold back.
Nick Spinelli is a full-time DJ for the SCE Event Group out of New Jersey (USA). He's a National Speaker and Educator, and one of the most sought after high-end Wedding DJs in the NJ, Philly, and NYC markets.
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[@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!

[@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!!

[@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

[@markshepperd45]

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

[@NickSpinelli]

Great to hear! Thanks Mark!

[@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

[@anthonydear3362]

"Reds not turbo" "Grandma just drops" LOL

[@NickSpinelli]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@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!

[@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!

[@akash251]

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

[@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

[@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!

[@billgarriock4771]

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

[@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.

[@Payo1909]

Thank You Nick, You Hit The Right Note and I Finally See The Importance Of The External Mixer Thats A Plus and Not Just Another Equipment To Bring...👍

[@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!!

[@DiscJokeyDarkSigns]

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

[@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.

[@epicevents1939]

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

[@sirforce]

You're putting out great content Nick! Salute!

[@NickSpinelli]

I appreciate that!

[@erichochgesang3070]

Love this! Might pick this mixer up cause you can really customize with the channels! Awesome stuff Nick!

[@NickSpinelli]

You should!

[@craigparry282]

Hilarious and informative at the same time = great combo 🔥🔥🔥

[@brendanmorgan8125]

Thanks Nick , super informative video,featuring every DJ night terror I’ve ever had..Ha! You have completely nailed the subject.

[@pressleyjrgasque493]

I always wondered weather I should get an external mixer.After watching this video I think I will get that same one.Great advice ! 🔥🔥💯💯🤙

[@NICEntertainment]

Great as usual - this is the best topic youve covered yet imo.

[@NickSpinelli]

Much appreciated!

[@johncolon8614]

You totally hit the mark on the subject , i have the mackie 8 channel and it definitely improves overall sound.

[@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.

[@jasonlegister2277]

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

[@bonnieprietojr9979]

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

[@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

[@AutonomousOne]

Great advice! I totally agree. Love your energy and humor...killing me!!!! 🤣🤣🤣🙌🏽🎛

[@NickSpinelli]

Thanks so much!!

[@voiceofreason4399]

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

[@covati]

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

[@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!

[@saulmartinez6382]

Love the energy! Thanks for the tip!

[@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!

[@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!

[@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. 👍

[@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.

[@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!

[@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!

[@stevedub5006]

Props on these videos Nick. Really useful stuff.

[@NickSpinelli]

Glad you like them!

[@indiglorush]

I always run an external mixer, mainly because my Pioneer Ergo's mic input sucks so bad with latency because the Ergo is a non-powered controller. Meaning it relies solely on USB to power it. ( Yes, I need a new controller, it's on my list of to gets ). But I like the head room an external mixer gives you and the clarity of vocal output via the pre amps. I use a Mackie ProFX v3 mixer and it even has built in effects so if you need some delay or reverb for a vocalist or guitarist you got it. Great Post Nick as always! Keep em up!

[@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.

[@DJMichaelKhoury]

Awesome Professional, and comedic genius. Great video, Nick!

[@NickSpinelli]

Thank you kindly!

[@willievaughn6474]

Thank you so much, I appreciate the loud voice. I understand you a lot better. Awesome

[@DeeJPhillyPhil]

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

[@DAMOOSESQUADDJs]

Good stuff I bought me a mixer in September of last year for the cocktail hour and ceremony and cocktail hour it was great the wedding was outside i could not use my subwoofer also had to keep it down but in the end it saved the day i love it also thanks again for good honest advice peace bro

[@victorgonzalez4791]

I just picked up the 6 channel rcf mixer. Thank you for the info 😁

[@NickSpinelli]

Awesome you'll love it!

[@djdarry656]

haha I enjoyed this video so much, thank you so much for your insight man. Certainly convinced me to invest in a mixer.

[@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 .....)

[@13bcoffee]

I got a live sound mixer because on many occasions there would be a singer at the event. The DJ controller mic input just was not good enough. As you mentioned the live sound mixer can cut the LF 80hz and below. The mic preamps also sound better. The other benefit is that I now have like 4 mic input so I get one. I sound better. My announcements cut thru the mix. Also there were several gigs where a band was there and I used my system for the vocalist and it rocked!

[@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!

[@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!

[@oluwagbemilekeosuma846]

The motivation i needed 💯 .... Thanks Boss!

[@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. :)

[@mikebeats7448]

@NickSpinelli well explained 👍 Unexpected advantages you pointed out: Rotary vol. knobs & Pan left right for speakers

[@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.

[@nesentertainments]

GREAT VIDEO NICK THIS LOOKS A GREAT OPTION TO HELP MY DDJSX2 MIC OUTPUTS AND ANY NEW CONTROLLER I UPGRADE IN THE FUTURE. GRACIAS AMIGO

[@NickSpinelli]

de nada!!

[@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

[@OKthatsG00d]

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

[@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! 🔥💪💪🎙🎵

[@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 😂

[@janekclover]

You're legend period.... You've helped me out massively !

[@NickSpinelli]

I'm so glad it helped!!

[@janekclover]

Goat! Spinelli

[@haiguyse]

I do have an external mixer but actually feed that into my DJ controller external input ;-) I absolutely agree that you should have one for mics and your occasion aux you gotta use for a customer or whatever. My DJ controller goes directly into my speakers though. It's got a lot of output. Like Nick suggested though. If I want to run speakers in several rooms, I feed my controller into the external mixer too.

[@Thisisdjhurricane]

I don't know if anyone else in the comments told you but just so you know you can pull the mic out of the booth on the s9. It's in the settings on the s9. Great video!

[@NystromProductions]

Great video man! I was literally going to pull the trigger on a Denon HC4000 and eliminate my mixer from my setup but after watching this I think I might just upgrade my mixer to the one in your video.

[@NickSpinelli]

You'll love it for real!!

[@djcalvin681]

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

[@charlesgarza3993]

So glad I bought one. It’s the Bose t4 complicated but I have plenty of time to master it.

[@eliseoperez05]

Real good video and explanation brother!

[@NickSpinelli]

Glad you liked it!

[@mjolles1976]

Totally agree, I ran an event once without my rack unit which houses my dbx Drive rack, my sound was lacking so much without it. The head room wasn’t there and the low end was no where near to what I was used to. I didn’t know the difference would be as big as it was.

[@DJTeddyg1]

Hey thanks for the tips. I use a an ext mixer for many yrs and it makes a big sound difference. You don't push your speakers and extends the life of the speakers. Its a cleaner sound.

[@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

[@gabrielrosas5173]

Great video man! Very helpful

[@NickSpinelli]

Glad you liked it!

[@lafaders]

Excellent excellent video. Thank you!

[@premiermusicdjs]

I have been sleeping on your videos. Good shit bro

[@NickSpinelli]

Thanks Ty!

[@robertewbank1440]

I agree on this 100% I learned the hard way..

[@Tostyle7]

Great Info Bro!! 🔥🔥🔥💯🔥🔥🔥

[@djjoeykmusic]

Great Video! Great job!

[@ajwillay6888]

That makes sense! Thx Nick

[@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.

[@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!

[@Rickster208]

Thank you for the pointers

[@DJDynablend]

Great tips! You deserve a like ftom me! Yeah im running a Mackie 8ch side mixer, works great. I just bought an Aphex Exciter also to really give my DJ sound that ultimate kick. Cant wait to try it.

[@NickSpinelli]

Thank you! And niceeeee

[@MarioSargeant]

Hey Nick! Great video! I love your straightforward and energetic approach. I subscribed right away! I found you today while searching for answers to a question I've had for a long time and no luck. I have a Numark Mixdeck Express controller connected to a laptop and an Allen and Heath ZED10fx, using Virtual DJ. Playing music with the controller pulling music from the laptop sounds significantly weaker than playing the same files played via a usb drive on the controller. This means though that I can't use the Virtual Dj. Why is this and more importantly how can I fix this to I get better sound?

[@thedestroyermix]

Thanks I really need this video

[@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.

[@brodie1976]

Thank you.... This was helpful

[@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....🤔

[@djac7310]

Great stuff Nick, thank's for the great content you're putting out. i love the part '' there went grandma'' Lol.

[@NickSpinelli]

Haha thanks Ariel!

[@djstylez7392]

Great content Nick. I've only once DJ'ed without an external mixer. Sound was so weak, I was ashamed to ask to get paid aftewards. I use Rane and Numark gear so it wasn't the gear. It's like you said under powered pre amps.

[@NickSpinelli]

correct!! totally agree!

[@josuemejia1163]

love the enthusiasm

[@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.

[@FemHundra]

The videographer part hit me hard man 😂😂😂 great video!!

[@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!

[@haroldtan9340]

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

[@halberkstresser]

psychological

[@Janton_1]

Abolutely excellent video and thanks for all the knowledge. Stock on that mixer is limited right now, what other mixers with room to grow can you recommend?

[@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

[@tonyjefford8449]

Great advice and I totally agree. But on the prime 4 there are 2 mic inputs controlled separately plus a zone out so one of your decks can just play a playlist in another room The mics have auto talk over. I do have and external desk to. Once I get like a mobile command center and mount stuff like that I would use it. But as it adds to the setup I just don't see the value in it. But you are right about the external mixer. You are great to watch man. Thanks

[@scorp888]

I think prior to the Prime 4, nick was spot on, I know from the cheaper controllers, the external mixer gives better sound. However I do think denon upped the game and the value from the external mixer is less with the p2/p4

[@randallmartinentertainment6842]

Rock solid information!