3 Ways To Connect DJ Controller To Audio Mixer (And WHY?)

In this video we show you three different ways to connect your DJ controller to an audio mixer. We also discuss the benefits of using an audio mixer, and the differences between line level and mic level.

PRICING FOR EQUIPMENT FEATURED IN THIS VIDEO:

CABLES

AUDIO MIXERS

DJ CONTROLLERS:

EXTRA EQUIPMENT

These are affiliate links, and I may earn a commission from Amazon (and others) on qualifying purchases.

BLOG POST WITH MORE INFORMATION:

CHAPTERS:
0:00 - Introduction
0:22 - Equipment In Video
0:50 - Price & Specs
1:05 - Benefits Of Using An Audio Mixer
3:14 - Line Level vs RCA Level vs Mic Level
5:04 - Option 1 - RCA to 1/4" TS Cable (Unbalanced)
6:05 - Option 2: 1/4" TRS Cable (Balanced)
6:35 - Option 3: XLR-F to 1/4" TRS Cable (Balanced)
7:04 - Final Thoughts

STUDIO EQUIPMENT:

SOFTWARE & TOOLS:

Disclosure: If you purchase an item or service from an outbound link, we may receive a referral fee, which helps to support Kettner Creative.

All information is provided using our experience and research to the best of our ability. Links, videos, and other content are shared for information and discussion only.

Copyright: 2024 Kettner Creative Inc., All Rights Reserved.

[johnnyrowe]

Got a good understanding on balanced and unbalanced cables. Thanks for putting this instructional video together.

[Rugerman]

Thanks for this incredible video! As a DJ I’ve learned so much from this channel over the years. I run Mogami RCA to 1/4 with my Pioneer DDJ-REV1 and Mogami XLR to 1/4 with my RANE ONE.

Even when I DJ’d a small Music Festival I ran audio from my ProFX6v3 into the Audio technician’s connections on stage. I NEVER leave home without my Mackie. I’m looking to add the Yamaha MG06x into my arsenal for Wedding Ceremonies so I don’t have to move my ProFX6v3 or drag my 10 Channel out when I only need a few connections

[DJMaSoySauce]

Thank you very much for the very detailed and thorough explanation. This video was extremely helpful!

[Luigiert]

I'm glad I checked this video before connecting my controller to the mic input. My mixer (Yamaha MG06) does have a pad button which it's supposed to be used to switch between mic and line levels, but I definetely don't want to risk of turning that off or maybe engaging the phantom power as others have mentioned.

[cantaconmigokaraoke]

Thank you for the video I was going crazy but with your detail explanation wow now I know what I'm doing hehe THANK YOU

[deejayshmoove]

Thank you for thinking of us DJ's too. VERY useful information

[tjayweekes]

As both outputs are now hitting the speakers via a mixer, will the signal from the XLR still be louder compared to RCA? Or has the mixer now levelelled them out to the same volume?
Thank you in advance

[williamrivera]

Omg the Yamaha mixer kicks really good I’m in love with it thanks for your info

[wimgolfcoach]

No idea why you are not a bigger channel. Always very informative. I have a rodecaster pro 2, pioneer ddj 800 and speakers. Ddj 800 with left and right xlr master output. My speakers are connected to the rodecaster pro 2. How can I connect the ddj with my rodecaster? Thx for making these high quality content

[sashomedia]

He definitely knows his stuff! As always nice and detailed tutorial showing the stuff in practical.

[TeddyG]

Got some much needed tips I was unaware of. Much appreciated!!!

[WillKenyon]

Can you do RCA to XLR adapter? Why would that not be preferred

[MumbleDnB]

I have the ddj flx6 and am curious if the RCA ro 1/4 into the mixer will still create an unbalance audio? And if so, is it possible to even get it balanced without an XLR direct from deck to mixer to speaker?

[DJClubRevolution]

I have a question. I want to buy a Pioneer flx4 controller and it has an rca output and does it make sense to improve the sound quality since the rca output is on the controller? Doesn't it matter? And the quality will be better? I would like to have a clear, powerful and distortion-free sound. Regards

[polo]

So why don't you recommend connecting XLR to XLR from controller to the mixer? I have a Yamaha mg06x mixer and want to connect that way. If i do, should i press in the pad buttons?

[SAMSYDE]

I was wondering why would manufacturers build most DJ controllers with XLR output, even more commonly on the high end ones, if the signal sent by the hardware is a Line one and is made for 1/4 inputs on mixers? Is it because most people would plug their DJ controller directly in powered speakers via XLR cables? Excuse me in advance if I am completely wrong, I am just beggining to look up to DJing stuff and english is not my 1st language!!

[skysavvydrone]

Hey there, this is great. Can you elaborate on why you wouldn't do xlr to xlr? You made that point at 4:32 but it wasn't entirely clear why that would be the "last choice." Thank you once again for the video!

[vinconssier]

im doing this for the first time and wondering how to correctly adjust the levels and gains betwween my controller and the external mixer, looking for some good videos on that pllease and thanks

[au]

Can you explain how to connect Numark DJ literally to TG 502 mixer please

[steadymanos]

I have a MG10XU, on Channel 1, 2, 3, and 4. It says Mic/Line on it. Can I connect my controller using an XLR balanced cable. You mentioned it may clip, but I have the PAD and HPF pushed out. I don't hear any clipping. Can I use it like that or do I still need a female XLR to 1/4 balance cable?