Recording and sharing mixes
How to record a clean DJ mix from a controller or club mixer, set levels without clipping, export the file and choose where to share it.
Why record your mixes
Recording is the single most useful habit for a developing DJ. A recording shows you what your mix actually sounds like, without the excitement of the moment. It is also your demo: promoters and venues usually want to hear a mix before booking you. See getting booked.
Ways to record
| Method | How it works | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| DJ software | Built-in record function | Easy, no extra gear | Only records what the software outputs |
| Controller or mixer into computer | USB audio from the mixer's record output | Captures the real mix | Needs setup |
| Standalone player or mixer with USB recording | Records straight to a USB drive | Simple at gigs | Feature depends on gear |
| Audio interface | Mixer's record or booth output into an interface | Best quality and control | More gear |
| Portable recorder | Line input from the mixer | Easy at clubs | Another device to manage |
Use the mixer's record or booth output when possible, not the main output that drives the speakers, so the level does not change when the sound engineer adjusts the room.
Setting levels
The most common problem with recorded mixes is clipping, which is distortion caused by levels that are too high.
- Set each channel's gain so the channel meter peaks around the recommended level, usually in the upper green or low yellow.
- Keep the master level well below the red.
- In your recording software, aim for peaks around -6 dB to -3 dB. This leaves headroom.
- Never let meters sit in the red. Digital clipping cannot be fixed later.
See mixers for more about gain staging.
Before you hit record
- Plan a rough tracklist and energy curve. See building a set.
- Turn off notifications on your computer.
- Close unneeded programs to avoid audio dropouts.
- Record a short test and listen back.
After recording
- Trim silence at the start and end.
- Check levels. You may apply gentle normalization or light limiting, but avoid heavy processing.
- Export in a high-quality format. A WAV file is the archive copy; a high bitrate MP3 or AAC is fine for sharing.
- Name it clearly, with your DJ name, the mix title and the date.
- Write a tracklist with artist and title for each track.
Where to share
| Platform type | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Mix-focused audio platforms | Long DJ mixes | Platform rules on tracklists and licensing |
| General audio platforms | Reaching listeners | Mixes may be muted or removed for copyright |
| Video platforms | Visual sets | Copyright claims are common |
| Direct links for promoters | Demos | Make sure links do not expire |
Copyrighted music in mixes raises licensing questions. Some platforms have licensing arrangements and others do not. See music licensing basics.
Making a good demo
- Keep it focused: 30 to 60 minutes in the style you want to be booked for.
- Start strong. Promoters often listen to the first few minutes.
- Show smooth technique rather than every trick you know.
- Include a short bio and contact details.
Listen to your recordings on a phone speaker, car stereo and headphones. A mix that sounds good everywhere is a mix that is properly balanced.