The only easy multitrack recording you could do at the time was with MIDI, with hardware synthesizers or samplers, and maybe with a Mac or an Atari ST computer attached as a sequencer.
If you fancy being the next top DJ, or just want to have a little fun mixing up your music library, then the best way to get started is to use a free DJ software program.
With this type of music editing tool, you can use your existing digital music files to produce unique remixes. Most free DJ software also lets you record your music mixes to a separate audio file, such as an MP3.
The following free DJ software programs have good basic functionality (some have professional features too) and are easy to get to grips with if you’re just starting out. The main thing is to have fun and practice until you're mixing like a pro!
If you decide to take this art form up as a serious hobby or job in the future, then you can always upgrade to a paid-for option, which tends to have a lot more advanced features.
Mixxx
Whether you’re an amateur or professional DJ, Mixxx has a good set of features for creating music even in live sessions. This open source tool can be used on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
You don’t need any extra hardware to use this DJ program, but Mixxx does support Midi control if you have any external hardware. There's also vinyl control.
Mixxx has a range of real-time effects and you can record your creations in WAV, OGG, M4A/AAC, FLAC, or MP3.
It also has iTunes integration and BPM detection to instantly sync the tempo of multiple songs.
Overall, for a free DJ tool, Mixxx is a feature-rich program and therefore worth a serious look.
MixPad
MixPad is another free music mixing program that makes it easy to access your recording and mixing equipment.
With it, you can mix an unlimited number of audio, music, and vocal tracks, as well as record single or multiple tracks at the same time. Plus, MixPad includes free sound effects and a music library with hundreds of clips that you can use at any time.
Some other things you can do with this free DJ app is adding instruments and effects through VST plugins, use a built-in metronome, and mix to MP3 or burn the data to a disc.
MixPad is free for non-commercial, home use only. You can use it on Windows and macOS.
Best Dj Mixing Software For Mac Free
Audacity
Audacity is a very popular audio player, editor, mixer, and recorder. Become a virtual DJ with this free program for Windows, Linux, and macOS.
You can record live music with Audacity as well as computer playback. Convert tapes and records to digital files or put them on discs, edit WAV, MP3, MP2, AIFF, FLAC, and other file types, plus cut/copy/mix/splice sounds together.
The program interface is easy to understand but not at first. You'll have to click things and try the different options out for the best way to learn how to use Audacity.
Cross DJ
Mac and PC users can enjoy the free Cross DJ app for their mixing needs. Use three effects (more if you pay) and scratch your digital music as if it were right in front of you!
Advanced options like samplers, slip mode, snap, quantize, key detection, MIDI control, timecode control, and HID integration are not available in the free version.
Best Mixing Software For Windows 10
Anvil Studio
Best Mixing Software For Beginners
Only available for Windows, Anvil Studio is a free audio player and DJ program that can record and compose music with MIDI and audio equipment.
With the multi-track mixer, both new and advanced users can find the program helpful.
This program is also able to print sheet music from MIDI files.