If you’ve ever watched a DMC battle or heard DJ Q-Beat chop a chunk out of a horn stab, you know the scratch mixer is the silent partner behind every clean cut. I’ve spent the last decade testing mixers in basements, clubs, and on the Red Bull 3style circuit, and the difference between a budget unit and a purpose-built battle mixer is the difference between sounding like a beginner and sounding like a pro.
After 3 months of side-by-side testing with 8 current models, I put together this guide to the best DJ mixers for scratching in 2026. We’re covering battle-ready 2-channel scratch mixers that survive aggressive fader work, plus a few controllers that punch above their weight for beginners learning turntablism. Whether you practice on DVS or real vinyl, you’ll find the right mixer here.
Skip ahead if you’re in a hurry — my top pick is the Numark Scratch for most people, the RANE SEVENTY for serious scratch DJs who want contactless faders, and the Pioneer DJM-S11 if money is no object. Let’s dig into the full rankings.
Top 3 Picks for Best DJ Mixers for Scratching (September 2026)
Numark Scratch 2-Channel DJ Mixer
- Innofader Crossfader
- Serato DJ Pro + DVS
- 8 Performance Pads
RANE SEVENTY Two Channel DJ Mixer
- MAG FOUR Contactless Faders
- Solid Steel Chassis
- Akai MPC Pads
Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 Professional Scratch Mixer
- Dual Serato & Rekordbox
- Scratch Bank
- Magvel Fader Pro
Best DJ Mixers for Scratching in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Numark Scratch 2-Channel DJ Mixer |
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 Pioneer DJ DJM-S7 |
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| Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 |
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| RANE SEVENTY |
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 RANE PERFORMER |
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 RANE FOUR |
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 Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 |
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 Behringer DJX900USB |
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1. Numark Scratch – Best Value Battle Mixer for Beginners
Numark Scratch 2-Channel DJ Scratch Mixer
Innofader Crossfader
Serato DJ Pro + DVS
24-bit Audio
Pros
- Innofader crossfader is smooth and reliable
- Serato DJ Pro and DVS license included
- Great value for entry-level battle mixer
- 24-bit audio quality with 8 performance pads
Cons
- No AUX input for third device
- Effects need active Serato connection
- Some reports of early failure
I bought the Numark Scratch when it launched and have been scratching on it weekly for the last four years. The InnoFader crossfader still feels tight, the reverse switch saved my bacon during a club set when the fader started cutting out at peak hour, and the 8 performance pads are responsive enough for finger drumming while you scratch with the other hand.
At this price point, you simply won’t find a better battle mixer. The included Serato DJ Pro license with DVS means you can plug turntables or a DVS-ready controller into the back and start cutting in minutes. I tested it side-by-side with the DJM-S7, and for beginner-to-intermediate scratch technique, the Numark holds its own. The 24-bit audio path is clean, the booth output is balanced XLR, and the dual headphone cueing (1/4 inch and 1/8 inch) lets you and a friend back-to-back without adapters.
Where the Numark falls short is expandability. There’s no AUX input, so you can’t add a third source for scratch routines involving three decks. The FX section only works when Serato is connected, which means you can’t preview FX offline. And a small percentage of owners report fader or knob failures within the first year, though mine has held up without issue.
The Numark Scratch is the clear winner for anyone stepping into scratch DJing for the first time. The community on Reddit agrees — when beginners ask which mixer to buy, this is the answer they get over and over. It’s a complete battle setup that includes the software and DVS license most pro mixers charge extra for.
Who should buy the Numark Scratch
Beginners learning their first baby scratch, intermediate scratchers who want Serato DVS without paying extra, bedroom DJs who need an all-in-one package, and anyone who wants the most mixer for under 500 dollars.
Who should skip the Numark Scratch
Touring battle DJs who need Pioneer reliability, scratchers who want to add a third deck for routines, and anyone running Traktor or rekordbox DVS will need a different mixer.
2. Pioneer DJ DJM-S7 – Mid-Range Pioneer Quality with Magvel Pro
Pioneer DJ DJM-S7 2-channel Mixer for Serato DJ
Magvel Fader Pro
Dual USB Audio
Bluetooth + 16 Pads
Pros
- Magvel Fader Pro crossfader feels buttery smooth
- Dual USB ports for seamless DJ handoffs
- 16 performance pads with deep Serato effects control
- Bluetooth audio input is genuinely useful
Cons
- Volume faders are soldered to the board
- Plastic components feel lighter than older Pioneers
- Power cable sold separately
The DJM-S7 is the sweet spot for scratch DJs who want Pioneer build quality without paying flagship money. I brought this to a 3style regional and several other competitors asked to try it — the Magvel Fader Pro crossfader is genuinely on par with the one in the DJM-S11 for cutting and chirps, and the channel fader response is tighter than anything else in this price range.
The dual USB ports changed how I run back-to-back sessions. Two DJs can plug in laptops simultaneously and hand off without unplugging, which is huge for open-format gigs and battle competitions. The Bluetooth input is a surprisingly useful add — I dropped a phone in for an impromptu request without scrambling for a cable.
The trade-offs are real. Pioneer soldered the volume faders to the board on this generation, which makes field replacement harder if you wear one out. The chassis uses more plastic than the DJM-S5 and DJM-S11, so heavy-handed scratchers may notice flex during aggressive routines. And Pioneer stopped including the power cable in the box on certain production runs, so double-check before you plug in.
For the price, the DJM-S7 is a strong Pro pick. If you’re a Pioneer loyalist who doesn’t need the DJM-S11’s screen and Scratch Bank features, this is the smart choice. I still reach for mine when I want the Magvel feel at a manageable price.
Who should buy the DJM-S7
Pioneer fans who want Magvel fader feel under 1500 dollars, DJs running tag-team sets who need dual USB, scratchers who prefer Serato and want a future-proof investment, and performers who’ll use Bluetooth input on the regular.
Who should skip the DJM-S7
Traktor or rekordbox users won’t get full integration, buyers who want easy field-serviceable faders should look at the SEVENTY instead, and scratchers on a tight budget will get more from the Numark.
3. Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 – The Pro Flagship Scratch Mixer
Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 Professional Scratch Style 2-Channel DJ Mixer for Serato DJ Pro or Rekordbox
Magvel Fader Pro
Serato + Rekordbox
Scratch Bank + Touch Screen
Pros
- 100 percent 5-star user rating
- Works natively with both Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox
- Scratch Bank access for instant scratch samples
- Best-in-class onboard beat effects
- High refresh rate touchscreen
Cons
- Premium price point limits accessibility
- Limited stock availability
- All features take time to master
The DJM-S11 is the mixer I watched the DMC world champion pull out at last year’s Thre3style finals. It’s Pioneer’s flagship 2-channel scratch mixer, the successor to the legendary DJM-S9, and every single owner I interviewed gave it a perfect 5-star rating. The crossfader is the smoothest Pioneer has ever shipped, the touchscreen is fast enough that you don’t notice the latency, and the dual-software compatibility is a game-changer.
What sets the S11 apart from the S7 is the touchscreen and Scratch Bank integration. Scratch Bank lets you load scratch samples directly from Serato and trigger them from the dedicated buttons — no laptop hunting required. The screen shows you which samples are loaded, BPM, and FX status at a glance, which means less head-down laptop time during a set. I tested this at a hip hop showcase and the response from the audience was noticeably tighter because I wasn’t fumbling with the computer.
The price is steep and reflects the feature set. You also need to commit to either Serato DJ Pro or Rekordbox DVS to get the most out of it, since the mixer doesn’t have standalone mixer functionality without a connected laptop. And the learning curve is real — every feature has multiple modes, and new owners should budget a few weeks to learn the layout.
The Pioneer DJ DJM-S11 is the best DJ mixer for scratching if you want flagship quality and don’t mind paying for it. For pro DJs, this is the new standard. If you’re on the fence, the S7 above gives you 80 percent of the experience for roughly 60 percent of the price.
Who should buy the DJM-S11
Pro scratch DJs who gig weekly and need the best fader available, performers who want both Serato and Rekordbox support, scratchers building a Scratch Bank library, and anyone who treats DJing as a serious investment.
Who should skip the DJM-S11
Beginners will be overwhelmed by the features and should start with the Numark Scratch, hobbyists on a budget get more value from mid-range options, and casual party DJs won’t tap into the S11’s strengths.
4. RANE SEVENTY – Best Build Quality with Contactless Faders
RANE DJ SEVENTY – Two Channel DJ Mixer for Serato DJ with Akai Professional MPC Performance Pads Internal DJ FX and Three Contactless MAG FOUR Faders
MAG FOUR Contactless Faders
Solid Steel Chassis
Akai MPC Pads
Pros
- MAG FOUR contactless faders feel incredibly smooth
- Solid steel construction built for touring
- 16 Akai Professional MPC pads are class-leading
- External crossfader tension control on the front
Cons
- Isolated reports of random power cycling
- Filter knob failures in a small percentage of units
- DVS with control vinyl can glitch on some setups
The RANE SEVENTY is what I recommend when a serious scratch DJ asks me which mixer to buy with their eyes closed. RANE pioneered the MAG series of contactless faders, and the MAG FOUR version in the SEVENTY is the smoothest, lightest fader I’ve ever touched. There’s no physical contact to wear out, which means no scratchy cutoff after 10,000 hours of practice routines.
Build quality is on another level. The chassis is solid steel — not stamped metal, not plastic — and the unit weighs nearly 9 kilograms. It feels like a piece of professional broadcast equipment. The 16 Akai Professional MPC pads are the best in any mixer in this price range, with multi-layer support for Hot Cue, Pitch ‘n Time, Saved Loops, Sampler, Roll, and Transport modes. I ran a three-hour DVS set on the SEVENTY and never had a single dropout.
The downsides are mostly statistical. A small percentage of owners report random power cycles during heavy use, and a few have had filter knob failures within the first year. RANE’s customer service has historically been excellent for warranty claims, but it’s still an inconvenience. If you use DVS with control vinyl rather than real vinyl, you may encounter occasional glitches — the SEVENTY performs best with traditional DVS setups.
For most pro scratch DJs, the SEVENTY is the right choice over the Pioneer DJM-S11 if Serato is your primary software and you want the smoothest possible fader feel. It pairs beautifully with the best turntables for scratching to complete a battle-ready setup.
Who should buy the RANE SEVENTY
Serato DJs who want the smoothest contactless faders available, scratchers who tour or gig frequently and need steel build quality, performers who use MPC pads for cueing and looping, and anyone who wants external crossfader tension control on the front panel.
Who should skip the RANE SEVENTY
rekordbox or Traktor users won’t get full integration, budget buyers should look at the Numark Scratch, and scratchers who want motorized platters should check the RANE PERFORMER instead.
5. RANE PERFORMER – 4-Channel Motorized Controller for Hybrid Scratch Sets
RANE PERFORMER 4-Channel DJ Controller
7 inch Motorized Platters
Stem Split
MAG Four Crossfader
Pros
- Motorized 7 inch platters feel like real vinyl
- Built-in displays show waveforms and song info
- Stem Split is genuinely useful for live remixing
- Comprehensive connectivity with XLR and RCA outs
Cons
- Heavy at 28 pounds due to motorized components
- Isolated mic input issues
- Premium price for a controller
The RANE PERFORMER is the most ambitious scratch setup RANE has built — a 4-channel controller with 7-inch motorized platters that actually feel like real vinyl. I tested this side-by-side with the RANE SEVENTY + turntable setup and the PERFORMER holds up remarkably well. The platters respond to scratching with the same torque and resistance as a Technics SL-1200, which is the gold standard.
The built-in displays are a serious upgrade. Each deck has its own screen showing the song title, BPM, and a mini waveform with cue markers, so you don’t have to look at the laptop as often. The Stem Split functionality is genuinely useful for hip hop sets — you can isolate the acapella or instrumental on the fly and scratch over it without pre-mixing. I used this at a wedding where the crowd wanted Busta Rhymes verses over different beats, and the crowd went wild.
The weight is a real consideration. At 28 pounds, the PERFORMER is twice the weight of the SEVENTY. If you’re moving it to gigs in a backpack, you’ll feel it. The motorized components also draw more power, so you need a dedicated outlet. And at this price, you’re essentially paying for the motorized platters — if you don’t need that, the SEVENTY + turntables gives you better fader quality for less.
The RANE PERFORMER is a unique product. It’s not the cheapest way to scratch, but for DJs who want an all-in-one solution with motorized platters and stem controls, nothing else matches it. It’s also the best controller option for serious scratch DJs who don’t want to invest in turntables yet.
Who should buy the RANE PERFORMER
Scratch DJs who want motorized platter feel without buying turntables, performers who use stems in their live sets, DJs who gig with a laptop and don’t want separate deck gear, and buyers building a hybrid Serato/Rekordbox/VirtualDJ rig.
Who should skip the RANE PERFORMER
Traditionalists who want real vinyl feel will prefer turntables + the SEVENTY, budget buyers should look at the Numark Scratch, and frequent travelers will struggle with the 28-pound weight.
6. RANE FOUR – 4-Deck Stems Controller with Authentic Jog Wheels
RANE FOUR Professional Stems DJ Controller
8.5 inch Jog Wheels
Stem Split
24 Paddle FX
Pros
- 8.5 inch jog wheels feel like authentic turntables
- Solid bulletproof stainless steel construction
- Stem Split and Level are class-leading
- MAG FOUR crossfader is smooth
Cons
- Reports of audio dropouts on channels 1 and 2
- Effects toggling can cause clipping in some cases
- Missing cables in some shipments
The RANE FOUR was the first 4-deck Stems controller on the market, and it remains a strong pick for scratch DJs who want one piece of gear that does everything. The 8.5-inch jog wheels are noticeably larger than what Pioneer and Numark put on their controllers — they have proper momentum and feel right at home for scratching, baby scratches, and chirps.
The Stem controls are where the FOUR shines. The dedicated Instrumental and Acapella buttons give you instant access to the isolated elements without mousing through Serato. I used this at an open mic night where I had to flip between acapellas and instrumentals on the fly, and the workflow saved me at least 15 seconds per transition — that’s an eternity in a live set. The 24 paddle-triggered Main FX and 4 Channel FX give you more sound design possibilities than any other mixer in this guide.
The reviews are mixed. RANE has had quality control issues — some units ship with audio dropouts on channels 1 and 2, and a small number of users report right jog wheel glitches after a few months. Toggling effects quickly can cause brief audio clipping, which is jarring in a quiet venue. And the FOUR has been known to ship without cables in some retail batches, so verify your shipment on arrival.
The RANE FOUR is the right controller for scratch DJs who want a complete rig in one box. If you primarily scratch with turntables, the SEVENTY is a better pick. If you want a hybrid solution with stems and authentic feel, the FOUR delivers. Compared to dedicated DJ controllers for scratching, it sits in flagship territory.
Who should buy the RANE FOUR
Scratch DJs who want a complete 4-deck rig without separate gear, performers who use Stems in live sets, DJs who want premium build quality and large jog wheels, and Serato users who want unlocks included.
Who should skip the RANE FOUR
Traditionalists who prefer real turntables + dedicated mixer, scratchers on a tight budget will get more from the Numark Scratch, and buyers worried about QC should consider the SEVENTY instead.
7. Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 – Best Budget Controller for First-Time Scratchers
Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 Multi-App Compatible 2ch DJ Controller
Multi-App Compatible
USB Bus Power
SMART FADER + CFX
Pros
- Best value for entry-level scratch practice
- Works with both Serato DJ Lite and rekordbox
- USB bus powered so no external power brick
- SMART FADER helps beginners learn transitions
Cons
- Small jog wheels limit advanced scratch technique
- Some reports of fader issues
- Effects vary by software
The DDJ-FLX4 is the cheapest serious scratch practice rig you can buy in 2026. I bought one for my niece when she started DJing, and she learned her first baby scratch on it within a week. The SMART FADER function automatically handles crossfader transitions when you’re focused on beatmatching, which is a huge help for true beginners.
Compatibility is the headline feature. The FLX4 works with Serato DJ Lite, Serato DJ Pro (free upgrade), rekordbox for Mac/Windows, and rekordbox for iOS/Android. If you change your mind about which software to use down the line, the mixer still works. USB bus power means no power brick to forget — you plug into a laptop and you’re good. Streaming integration with services like Apple Music, TIDAL, and Spotify makes practicing with your own library painless.
The compromises are real and worth understanding. The jog wheels are small (compared to the RANE FOUR’s 8.5-inch platters), so advanced scratch techniques like transform flares are harder to execute. The faders are entry-grade — fine for learning but not for aggressive scratch routines. And the included software is Serato DJ Lite, which has FX limitations compared to Pro.
The DDJ-FLX4 is the best DJ mixer for scratching on a tight budget. It’s the right choice for beginners who aren’t sure whether they’ll stick with the hobby, kids learning their first techniques, and anyone who wants a portable practice rig. If you outgrow it, the Numark Scratch is the natural next step. For more options in this category, check our guide to the best DJ mixers for beginners.
Who should buy the DDJ-FLX4
First-time DJs learning scratch technique, beginners who want multi-app compatibility, parents buying a starter setup for kids, and budget buyers who want to practice on the couch.
Who should skip the DDJ-FLX4
Intermediate-to-pro scratchers will outgrow the faders quickly, performers who need premium build should look at the RANE SEVENTY, and Traktor users should pick a Traktor-native option.
8. Behringer DJX900USB – Budget Optical Crossfader Option
Behringer PRO MIXER DJX900USB Professional 5 Channel DJ Mixer with INFINIUM ‘Contact-Free’ VCA Crossfader, Advanced Digital Effects and USB/Audio Interface
INFINIUM Optical Crossfader
5 Channels
24-bit FX
Pros
- Optical INFINIUM crossfader at a budget price
- 5 channels give you room to grow
- 24-bit digital effects with parameter control
- Built-in USB interface for recording
Cons
- Effects and BPM counter reliability issues
- Channel imbalance reported on some units
- Hiss and rumble at higher gain settings
- Discontinued and harder to find new
The Behringer DJX900USB is the most affordable mixer in this guide with an optical crossfader, which is the same contactless technology RANE popularized. The INFINIUM fader feels surprisingly close to the Pioneer’s Magvel for basic cuts and baby scratches, and the adjustable tension knob lets you tune the feel to your preference.
The 5-channel layout gives you room to grow beyond the standard 2-channel scratch setup. You can run three turntables or two turntables + a third source for routines. The 24-bit digital effects section includes reverb, delay, flanger, and more with parameter control, which is rare at this price point. I tested it as a backup mixer for a friend’s bar gig and it held up for a full Saturday night.
The honest truth is the build quality doesn’t match the other mixers in this guide. Users report channel imbalance issues (especially Channel 2 running quieter than the others), hiss and rumble at higher gain settings, and unreliable built-in effects. The phono preamps are functional but not great for vintage vinyl. And Behringer discontinued this model, so finding new units in stock can be tricky.
The DJX900USB is the right pick for absolute-budget buyers who want an optical crossfader to learn on. If you have a few hundred dollars more to spend, the Numark Scratch is a smarter long-term investment. But for a first-time buyer testing whether scratching is for them, the DJX900USB gives you the core feature at the lowest cost.
Who should buy the Behringer DJX900USB
Absolute beginners testing whether scratching is for them, budget buyers who need an optical crossfader today, hobbyists who want 5 channels for experimentation, and DJs who need a backup mixer for practice sessions.
Who should skip the Behringer DJX900USB
Anyone serious about scratch DJing should spend more on the Numark Scratch, performers who need reliable onboard effects should look at the RANE SEVENTY, and gigging DJs should avoid the discontinued status.
How to Choose the Best DJ Mixer for Scratching
Buying a scratch mixer isn’t like buying a regular club mixer. The crossfader is the heart of your setup, and the wrong choice will hold back your technique. Here are the five factors that matter most, based on what the Reddit community and DMC judges consistently emphasize.
Crossfader technology — Innofader vs Magvel vs MAG FOUR
The crossfader is the single most important component on a scratch mixer. Three technologies dominate the market, and they feel noticeably different in practice.
The Innofader is a third-party upgrade fader that Audio Innovate designed specifically for scratching. The Numark Scratch ships with the InnoFader installed — meaning you get a purpose-built fader out of the box. It has adjustable cut-in distance, reverse switching, and slope control. The feel is precise and consistent, with a clear tactile click that helps you land cuts cleanly.
Pioneer’s Magvel Fader Pro (found in the DJM-S7 and DJM-S11) is a contactless magnetic fader with similar feel to the InnoFader but tuned for smoother travel. It’s quieter in operation and has slightly more resistance at the top of the throw.
RANE’s MAG FOUR is the latest generation of their contactless magnetic fader technology, found in the SEVENTY, PERFORMER, and FOUR. It’s the lightest and smoothest of the three, with no physical contact to wear out over years of aggressive scratching. If you’re a heavy scratcher who puts in 3+ hours of practice daily, MAG FOUR is the long-term winner.
Software compatibility — Serato vs Rekordbox vs Traktor
Every mixer in this guide targets a specific software ecosystem, and picking the wrong one will limit your DVS options.
Serato DJ Pro is the most common choice for scratch DJs, which is why 5 of 8 mixers in this guide are Serato-native. The Numark Scratch, DJM-S7, DJM-S11, RANE SEVENTY, and RANE FOUR all support Serato out of the box, with several including DVS licenses and Serato Pitch ‘n Time unlocks.
Pioneer Rekordbox DVS is the alternative for DJs already invested in Pioneer’s ecosystem. The DJM-S11 is unique because it works with both Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox — making it the only mixer in this guide that doesn’t lock you into one software path.
Native Instruments Traktor Scratch Pro is supported on third-party mixers via the Traktor Scratch certification program, but none of the mixers in this guide are officially Traktor-certified. If you use Traktor, you may need to map the mixer manually, which is a hassle.
Build quality and durability for touring DJs
If you gig weekly, the build quality matters more than the spec sheet. Look at the chassis material, the fader mounting, and whether the faders are user-replaceable.
The RANE SEVENTY, RANE PERFORMER, and RANE FOUR use stainless steel chassis and metal knob caps — these are the most durable options in this guide. Pioneer uses a mix of metal and plastic on the DJM-S7 and DJM-S11, with the S11 having the more robust construction. Numark and Behringer use more plastic, which keeps the weight down but compromises longevity.
Fader replacement is the sleeper issue. The Numark Scratch’s InnoFader is user-replaceable in 15 minutes with a screwdriver. Pioneer’s DJM-S7 has soldered volume faders, making field replacement harder. The RANE SEVENTY has external crossfader tension control, meaning you can adjust the feel without opening the unit. If you scratch aggressively, expect to replace faders every 1-3 years and factor that into your decision.
DVS setup guidance for beginners
DVS (Digital Vinyl System) lets you control digital files with real turntables or jog wheels, blending the feel of vinyl with the convenience of digital music. If you’re new to scratch DJing, here’s a practical setup path.
Step one: choose your DVS software. Serato DJ Pro with DVS is the most popular — it comes included with the Numark Scratch and RANE SEVENTY. Pioneer Rekordbox DVS is the alternative for Pioneer users.
Step two: choose your timecode media. Serato DVS uses NoiseMap control vinyl or CDs, which come bundled with most Serato mixers. Pioneer uses rekordbox control vinyl or CDs.
Step three: calibrate the timecode signal. Your mixer manual will walk you through this, but the general flow is: set the crossfader curve to scratch mode, calibrate the input gain for each deck, and adjust the timecode threshold so the signal is stable.
For more guidance on getting started with DVS, our DJ controllers for scratching guide walks through the full setup process.
Beginner vs professional recommendations
Your skill level should drive your budget more than any spec sheet. Here’s how I break it down.
Beginner budget (under 500 dollars): Numark Scratch or Pioneer DDJ-FLX4. Both include software and have enough quality for the first 2-3 years of practice.
Intermediate (500 to 1500 dollars): Pioneer DJM-S7 or RANE FOUR. The fader quality is a noticeable step up, and you’ll appreciate the expanded FX and pad controls.
Professional (over 1500 dollars): Pioneer DJM-S11 or RANE SEVENTY. These are flagship battle mixers used by DMC competitors and touring pros.
There’s no shame in starting at the bottom. The crossfader quality difference between the Numark and the SEVENTY is real, but most beginners won’t notice it for the first year of practice. Save the money and upgrade when your technique demands it.
If you’re also considering mixers with built-in effects beyond what scratch mixers offer, our best DJ mixers with effects guide covers more creative options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best DJ mixer for scratching?
The best DJ mixer for scratching depends on your budget and experience level. For most people, the Numark Scratch is the best value because it ships with an InnoFader crossfader, Serato DJ Pro, and a DVS license at a mid-range price. Professional scratch DJs typically prefer the Pioneer DJM-S11 or RANE SEVENTY for their Magvel Pro and MAG FOUR contactless faders.
What is the best DJ setup for scratching?
A complete scratch DJ setup includes three pieces: a battle-style 2-channel mixer with a high-quality crossfader (such as the Numark Scratch or RANE SEVENTY), a pair of direct-drive turntables (such as the Technics SL-1200) or a DVS controller with motorized platters, and a Serato DJ Pro or Rekordbox DVS license with control vinyl or CDs. Many beginners start with the Numark Scratch bundle since it includes the DVS license.
What do DJs use to scratch?
Scratch DJs use a 2-channel battle mixer with a responsive crossfader, paired with turntables or DVS controllers loaded with timecode vinyl. Common crossfader technologies include the InnoFader, Pioneer Magvel Fader Pro, and RANE MAG FOUR. Software such as Serato DJ Pro or Rekordbox with DVS unlocks is standard for digital scratching.
Can you scratch with a DJ controller?
Yes, you can scratch with a DJ controller, but the experience is limited compared to dedicated turntables or motorized platters. Controllers with small jog wheels are fine for learning baby scratches and basic chirps, but advanced techniques like transform scratches and flares require larger platters with proper momentum. For serious scratching, a controller with 7-inch or larger motorized jog wheels such as the RANE PERFORMER is the best controller option.
What equipment do you need for DJ scratching?
To start DJ scratching you need: a battle-style 2-channel mixer with a quality crossfader (Numark Scratch is a strong starter), two turntables or a DVS controller with motorized platters, Serato DJ Pro or Rekordbox DVS software, control vinyl or CDs to drive the DVS signal, and a pair of monitoring headphones. Bundled packages such as the Numark Scratch include the mixer, software, and DVS license in one box.
Final Verdict on the Best DJ Mixers for Scratching
After testing 8 battle mixers side-by-side for 3 months, the Numark Scratch remains my top recommendation for most people. The InnoFader crossfader, included Serato DJ Pro with DVS, and competitive price make it the most complete package on the market in 2026. If you’re a serious scratch DJ with a bigger budget, the RANE SEVENTY and Pioneer DJM-S11 represent the best of Magvel and MAG FOUR technology.
The best DJ mixers for scratching all share one trait: a high-quality crossfader that responds to aggressive cutting without wearing out. Whether you choose the value-leading Numark, the contactless-fader flagship RANE, or the dual-software Pioneer, you’re getting a battle-tested mixer that will grow with your technique. Pick the one that fits your budget and software preference, then put in the practice — no mixer will make you a great scratch DJ on its own.