I’m sure I’m not the only Android user who likes to toy around with idea of making and mixing music. I’m by no means a professional dj or composer, but I like to play around with creation tools until I make something that doesn’t make my ears bleed. After failing at that, I’ll listen to mashups on Soundcloud.
I’ve pulled five different dj mixing apps together, and each covers an aspect another falters in. If you’re serious about mixing or creation, picking up just one app might not be enough. It’s important to have as much in your toolbox as possible, as long as you can still find what you need without dumping it on the floor.
#1 edjing PRO LE – Music DJ mixer | #2 Cross DJ | #3 Virtual DJ Mixer Player | #4 djay 2 | #5 Music Maker Jam | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Downloads | |||||
| Amazon Downloads | --- | --- | |||
| Google Rating | 4.5 of 5   | 4.4 of 5 | 4.4 of 5 | 4.4 of 5 | 4.3 of 5 |
| Amazon Rating | 4.4 of 5   | 4 of 5  | 3.4 of 5 | ||
| Overall Ratings | 5 of 5  | 4.5 of 5  | 3.5 of 5 | 4 of 5 | 4 of 5 |
| Features | | | | | |
| Help and Support | | | | | |
| Features | |||||
| Easy to Learn |  |  | | | |
| Helpful Interface | | | | | |
| Export and Import |  |  | | | |
| Updated Frequently | | | | | |
| Sleek Appearance | | | | | |
| In-App Purchases | | | | | |
| Help and Support | |||||
| Introduction Video | | | | | |
| Active Developer | | | | | |
edjing PRO LE – Music DJ mixer
This isn’t the first dj app that will claim to make you a pro, but edjing’s aesthetic does make a good case for its claim. The interface for the app large enough to give you plenty of space to work with, and doesn’t feel busy. Additionally, you can customize the interface as you see fit, within the app’s capabilities.
Unfortunately, you can only export live recordings of your mixes if you buy the Pro version for $4.99. However, I think the price tag is worth it for just the recording function alone. Additionally, you receive unlimited Soundcloud access, and Deezer access if you use their (Deezer’s) premium service.
The feature I like the most about edjing Pro is being able to prepare the next track in your headphones while another is playing. The app does handcuff you to limited music libraries if you only use the LE version, but if you’re only performing a test drive, you’ll be fine.
Google Play:JOA:http://joyofandroid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/edjing-pro-2.jpghttp://joyofandroid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/edjing-pro-3.jpg
Cross DJ
Cross DJ is another djing app that’s packed with both style, and substance. You can mix tracks from both your library, and Soundcloud with just the free version of the app. Recording however is still locked behind a paywall. You can either buy the Pro version for $4.99 to get all of the app’s available features, or purchase pieces that you want individually.
In the free version, you still have a 3-band EQ mixer, two turntables, and twelve sample banks with the additional function to record your own. If you don’t mind ads running in the app, and don’t want recordings of your mixes, this is one of the best free dj apps on the market.
The only kicker is that you need to be on Android 4.1 or above if you’re on an older version. If you’re even so much as slightly interested, I urge that you give Cross DJ a chance.
Google Play:Amazon:JOA:http://joyofandroid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/cross-dj-2.jpghttp://joyofandroid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/cross-dj-3.jpgVirtual DJ Mixer Player
Next up we have Virtual DJ Mixer Player, which prefers function over form. If you’re looking for a simple mixing app when you already have a basic idea of what to do, then I can recommend this one. Otherwise, you’ll have a tough time understanding the interface at a glance. Virtual DJ doesn’t impose any restrictions on importing music, so no worries there.
Virtual DJ comes with twelve built in samples, and I don’t see a way to import more. The turntables that are front and center on screen are better left untouched with the sound quality on them being as poor as they are. As mentioned before, Virtual DJ’s saving grace is no limit on importing.
There are better free dj apps on the market, but if you aren’t looking for a flashy interface and just want something simple, this is it.
Google Play:Amazon:JOA:http://joyofandroid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/virtual-dj-2.pnghttp://joyofandroid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/virtual-dj-3.pngdjay 2
This next app, djay 2, is the successor to a previously popular DJ app from the same developer. One of this app’s highly mentioned features is Spotify integration. This is an amazing feature, but it requires Spotify premium to work. Additionally, the app supports many Bluetooth devices, and MIDI controllers.
This can make djay 2 an amazing control center for all of your djing needs in a professional setting, or a casual one. Some features are locked behind the Pro version, but thankfully it’s only a one-time charge of $2.99 that is well worth it.
Google Play:Amazon:JOA:Music Maker Jam
Music Maker Jam almost doesn’t deserve to be on this list, but I can make a case for its place. Even though music creation and music mixing still create an end product, I feel like Music Maker Jam walks the line between them. MMJ is free, but has in-app purchases of upwards to $3.49 per item purchased.
MMJ features multiple samples to use, and eight channel mixer, the ability to edit song structures and mixtures, and share your creations with a built-in community. This app isn’t technically a dj app for mixing music, but you could help create the music you want to mix.
Google Play:JOA:
Conclusion
Mixing music, whether it’s a pastime or a career, is a challenging and enjoyable activity. I’m not great at it, but it’s always been something I’ve enjoyed trying and listening to. If you’ve ever had even a vague interest in music mixing, or music creation, I encourage you to give either, or both a chance.
If you have an interest in djing, when and where did it start? We’d love to know, and if you use your Android phone to do it, in the comments below.
TOM Greene on
Love your music article.
Keep up the wonderful work.
Tom Greene
Dani on
Thank you Tom. Happy to help you.
Keep reading joyofandroid daily