How to Use a DJ Mixing Board
Updated Nov 13, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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To use a DJ mixing board, connect each music source to its own channel, set the level for each channel, cue the next track in your headphones, then move the crossfader to blend from one channel to the other. The channel EQ shapes each track, and the master output sends the mix to the speakers.
Connect each source to its own channel
Plug each music source into a separate channel input so you can control it on its own fader. The Numark M6 USB has phono, line and mic inputs across 4 channels, plus a USB audio interface for a laptop, while the Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 has a USB input for digital files. The VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer connects by Bluetooth or audio cable. Check that each source plays on the channel you expect before you move on.
Set the level and EQ for each channel
Start with the channel level faders down, then raise one channel and set its gain so the meter stays out of the red. The Numark M6 USB and the Behringer Pro Mixer Dx626 both have 3-band EQ on each channel, so cut or boost the highs, mids and lows to fit the track into the mix. The Behringer also has a 3-band kill EQ, which cuts a band out entirely. Leave headroom on the master output so the mix does not distort.
Cue the next track in your headphones
Use the cue controls to listen to the next track in your headphones while the current track plays for the room. The Numark M6 USB has dedicated cue controls on each channel, and the Behringer Pro Mixer Dx626 has a PFL function with a master/PFL mix option. Match the tempo by ear, then bring the channel fader up when the tracks line up. Keep the headphones on until the blend is done.
Blend with the crossfader
The crossfader sits between the channels and moves the sound from one side to the other. The Numark M6 USB has a replaceable crossfader with slope controls, so you can set how fast the blend happens, and the Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 has a Magvel Fader for smooth cuts. Move the crossfader slowly for a long blend, or cut it fast to switch tracks. The Behringer Pro Mixer Dx626 has a dual-rail crossfader rated for up to 500,000 life cycles.
Add effects, then send the mix out
Effects sit on top of the blend. The Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 has a dedicated Sound Color FX Filter on each channel, worked with a single knob, and the VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer lets you create custom sound effects to mix onto songs, with 15 built-in songs and 2000+ sound combinations. When the mix sounds right, send it out through the master output to the speakers, and use the booth or record outputs on the Numark M6 USB if you need a separate feed.
What you need
VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer
A 2-channel mixer with Bluetooth, 15 built-in songs and 2000+ sound combinations, plus a built-in speaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Built-in effects / amp models
- Bluetooth
- 90-day warranty stated
Numark M6 USB 4-Channel DJ Mixer Built-In
A 4-channel mixer with a built-in USB audio interface, 3-band EQ on each channel, a mic input and a replaceable crossfader.
- Mixer channels / decks: 4
- USB audio to computer
- EQ bands per channel: 3
- 1-year warranty stated
Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 2-Channel DJ Mixer
A 2-channel club-style mixer with a Sound Color FX Filter on each channel, a Magvel Fader and a free rekordbox DVS unlock.
- Mixer channels / decks: 2
- Built-in effects / amp models
- 1-year warranty stated
Behringer Pro Mixer Dx626 Professional 3-Channel Dj
A 3-channel mixer with a dual auto-BPM counter, a 3-band kill EQ and a PFL function with a master/PFL mix option.
- Mixer channels / decks: 3
These come from our ranked list Best DJ Mixer, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
How many channels do I need on a DJ mixer?
It depends on how many sources you play at once. The Pioneer DJ DJM-250MK2 has 2 channels, the Behringer Pro Mixer Dx626 has 3, and the Numark M6 USB has 4, so pick the count that covers your turntables, media players and microphones.
What does the EQ on a DJ mixer do?
The EQ on each channel cuts or boosts parts of the sound, so you can fit tracks together without them clashing. The Numark M6 USB and the Behringer Pro Mixer Dx626 both have 3-band EQ on each channel for the highs, mids and lows.
Can I record my mix with a DJ mixer?
Yes, if the mixer has a USB audio interface or a record output. The Numark M6 USB lets you mix music from a laptop or record your sets to an audio recording application, and it has a record output as well as a master output.
Ranked DJ mixers lists
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.