It has never been easier to record a DJ mix and share it with the world. There are three key reasons why regularly recording and publishing your mixes should be part of your DJ routine:
- Honing your craft – Listening back helps you identify areas to improve.
- Growing your audience – Fresh content keeps your community engaged.
- Promoting yourself – Share mixes with venues and promoters to book gigs.
Whether you’re spinning vinyl, CDs, USBs, laptop-based setups, or standalone gear, this is how to record your DJ mixes.
Record with your DJ software
Recording directly in your DJ software is the easiest method. Most platforms include a built-in recorder, allowing you to capture your mix with just a few clicks.
How to record a DJ mix on Traktor
- Click the tape-recorder icon in the top right of the window (near the globe section).
- Hit the Record button (circle icon) to start.
- Monitor levels and Stop when you’re done.
For more info, Traktor has put together a tutorial of end-to-end instructions.
How to record a DJ mix on Serato
- Click ‘REC’ on the top bar.
- Choose ‘Mix’ from the dropdown.
- Hit Record, monitor levels, and save your file.
Serato have produced a walkthrough for more detail.
How to record a DJ mix on Mixxx
- Click the record icon in the top right.
- Or go to Options > Record Mix.
- Note: Some skins may hide the record button.
Check out Mixx’s beginner’s tutorial for more info.
How to record a DJ mix on Virtual DJ
- Choose to record audio or video.
- Set your file name and location.
- Hit Record to start.
Virtual DJ’s tutorial video will walk you through it.
Record with a standalone controller
Some all-in-one DJ systems let you record mixes without a laptop, using a USB stick, SD card, or internal storage.
How to record a DJ mix on Pioneer
On the Pioneeer XDJ-XZ – a popular choice for DJs – press the ‘Master Rec’ button to record directly to USB. If you get stuck, follow this Pioneer tutorial.
How to record a DJ mix on Denon
On your Denon DJ Prime controller, hold the ‘Master’ button to access recording options. Then, choose USB or SD card as your storage medium. This Denon video can guide you further.
How to record a DJ mix on Stanton SCS
For your Stanton SCS, use the central REC button to begin recording. Make sure you choose the correct drive if using multiple storage options, as explained in Stanton’s tutorial.
How to record a DJ mix with your iPhone or smartphone
An Evermix Box acts as a sound card between your smartphone and DJ setup. Plug into your mixer and phone. This method is perfect for mobile creators.
Another option if you’re using a Pioneer controller, is to use the Pioneer app DJM-REC. This works with any Pioneer DJM controller. Connect via USB and record directly through the app. For more information, Mixmag have got you covered.
Lasty, a cheaper and more DIY option is to use a TTRS converter for your phone. Use a TRRS converter + RCA to TRS cable. Then, plug the converter into the booth out of your mixer. Learn more if you’re stuck.
Record from your DAW
If you are using a DAW (digital audio workstation) like Ableton or Logic, you can record your mix recording hardware like Tascam, or Zoom recorders. Essentially, a DAW is a software that musicians and DJs alike use to record and arrange music. An alternative to this is Reloop Tape, which is a device made with DJs in mind to record from any mixer from REC.
Note, if you plan to record with a DAW you will need to use an audio interface. This is device that mediated between your controller and computer. Some popular ones include Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2, or Steinberg UR22C. Hook up your DJ gear to the sound interface, set the gains correctly, and start recording through the DAW.
Here are some popular DAW platforms. Since DAWs tend to differ from each other we’ll include a link to the manual.
- Ableton – manual
- Audacity – manual
- Cubase – manual
- FL Studio – manual
- Logic Pro – manual
- Pro Tools – manual
- Reason – manual
Record using Mixcloud
You can use Mixcloud Live’s “Save Your Stream” feature to record a DJ mix. Every time you live-stream on Mixcloud, the audio from your stream is saved as a draft show on your channel. You can choose to publish these drafts whenever you like. Mixcloud automatically trims any silence from the beginning and end of your set, and if you don’t want anyone to watch your set while you’re doing it, you can stream ‘Unlisted’.
This is the fastest route to getting a DJ mix uploaded and out into the world. The only downside to this method is that there is no way to edit the mix once it’s happened, so you might want to practice a few times beforehand.
Lastly…
Recording your mix can range from a simple to complicated endeavor. Most of our users combine a few of these options — recording via your DJ software and then editing on the DAW is a common route. But sometimes, the road less traveled by can make all the difference. The more you practice, the more likely you will find a medium and combination that suits you.
Good luck!