Mixxx

Pros

• Free
• Intuitive controls
• Saves cue points

Cons

• Minimal help file

Mixxx provides a means to DJ in a digital environment with an array of controls.

When you enjoy DJing, it is important to have a program that allows you to mix your MP3 collection for entertainment. Mixxx is a program that is open-source and free. After completing the simple installation, you simply need to point to the program to your music library. Your collection will then be imported, and within minutes, you will have access to all of your files within the program.

The Mixxx interface can seem intimidating for the beginner, but it is relatively easy to learn. There are two channels, and tracks can be loaded into them with a single right-click. Each of the channels features its own controls. This includes play, pause and tone control. In the center are all of the global controls, such as balance, volume and cross fader. The waveforms are arranged at the top as in other DJ programs with which you may be familiar.

Mixxx allows you to control the program using hotkeys or your mouse. There is a help manual to help you set everything up. If you are a beginner, the help file may not be enough, which means you will need to learn through trial and error. A sync button is featured within each channel, and this can help many beginners with the beats per minute.

One important thing to note about this program is that the mixing will not be done for you. You will still need to start the track in time with the other one that you are mixing in. This is a quality application and has a great BPM estimation. If you have the time to dedicate to playing around with the program, the controls are easy to figure out, and if you have used mixers in the past, this is going to be very easy for you to pick up.

The intuitive interface is ideal for beginners and advanced users, and you will be able to mix for parties, clubs, or simply for your own fun. Mixxx offers a variety of tools, and as you continue to play with them, you will be able to see what each of them does and how you can incorporate them into the music that you are mixing.

The download is very small, so it is not going to take up a lot of your hard drive space. Additionally, there have been no bugs or errors reported with the program. It has been rated very high amongst users and is downloaded by the thousands each month. If you are looking for a DJ mixing software, this is free and open-source, providing you with an array of functions.

It’s worth the download to see whether you like it, and it may just be the program that you have been looking for.

Pros

• Free
• Intuitive controls
• Saves cue points

Cons

• Minimal help file