Whether you mix on turntables or on a standalone device, here are the key ways how to record your mixtapes.
Record with your DJ software
Record with a standalone controller
Record with your smartphone
Record from your DAW
Record with your DJ software
Today’s DJ software allows you to record your mixes directly from the software. This is the easiest route, because everything is all-in on one platform, straight from the source.
Serato DJ Pro
On the top bar of Serato DJ Pro, there is a button “REC”. If you press in the middle of the screen an extra bar will appear. From the dropdown menu select “mix” to record your mix. Then press the “REC” button. Check your levels to confirm your audio is coming through and not red-lining in the record panel. When you are finished, make sure you stop the recording and save the mix to a location of your choice. View the tutorial below:
Virtual DJ
In Virtual DJ you can select if you want to record audio or video. Select this in the dropdown menu. Once you set the file name and file path you can hit the record button and start recording your mix.
Traktor Pro 3
On the top right of the Traktor window in the globe section, you can click FX or a tape recorder icon. If you click on the tape recorder, the audio recorder will appear. Click the button with the circle to start recording.
Record with a standalone controller
Not all standalone controllers have the option of recording directly from your device. But some, listed below, allow you to record with a USB stick, SD card, or internal SSD. Here are some of our suggestions:
Pioneer XDJ Series
The Pioneer XDJ series are a popular choice for seasoned DJs, as well as easy to tackle for newbie DJs. Specifically the DJ XDJ-XZ is an all-in-one DJ system that allows you to record with a USB. On the top right is a “Master Rec” button that allows you to store your mixc directly to your USB.
Record with your smartphone
For this option, a really handy piece of gear is the Evermix Box. This functions as a sound card that mediates between your phone and your CDJ or DDJ. It’s portable and plugs into the back of your mixer and into your smartphone. While we know it’s a pricey choice, it’s a great long-term investment for any audio creator.
Another option if you’re using a Pioneer controller, is to use the Pioneer app DJM-REC. This app allows you to record the mix using a USB cable linked to any controller in the DJM series. For more information, visit this Mixmag article.
Lasty, a cheaper and more DIY option is to use a TTRS converter for your phone, and then use a RCA cable to plug into booth (look for TRS).
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.
This is very informative and helpful, thank you.
Informative. Good lookin’