Discover why the Numark Party Mix Live is one of the most affordable and fun DJ controllers for beginners. This in-depth review covers its features, setup process, performance, and why it’s a top pick for first-time DJs and parents shopping for their kids.

Numark Party Mix Live Review: The Best DJ Controller Under $150

The Numark Party Mix Live is one of the most fun and accessible DJ controllers ever made for beginners. Retailing under $150, it combines simplicity, portability, and integrated speakers for instant mixing anywhere. Whether you’re a teenager getting your first taste of DJing, a parent buying a kid’s first controller, or just want to mess around with music at home, this compact device delivers everything you need to get started.

What’s in the Box

Inside the box, you’ll find:

The Party Mix Live controller (or Party Mix 2, depending on which version you got)
USB connection cable
AUX cable for connecting external speakers
Power supply (for the Party Mix Live only)

The primary difference between the Party Mix 2 and the Live version is the inclusion of built-in speakers and an external power input. The Party Mix 2 operates over USB only, while the Party Mix Live can run on its own power, giving it a bit more volume and better flexibility for portable use.

Setup and Software Compatibility

Setup is straightforward. Plug in the USB, open your DJ software, and you’re ready to mix. The controller is compatible with:

Serato DJ Lite (free download)
Serato DJ Pro (paid upgrade)
Algoriddim djay (works on iPad, iPhone, or Mac)
Virtual DJ

For beginners using a laptop, Serato DJ Lite is a great start—it includes Beat Sync, Hot Cue, and Loop modes. For those wanting more advanced performance features later, upgrading to Serato DJ Pro unlocks recording, FX banks, and multi-track cueing.

The Party Mix Live is also uniquely compatible with mobile DJ apps. With a USB-to-Lightning adapter, you can plug it directly into an iPad or iPhone running Algoriddim Djay, turning your phone into a fully functional DJ rig.

Design and Build Quality

The Numark Party Mix Live may be affordable, but it’s surprisingly well-built. The lightweight chassis balances durability with portability, and the layout mimics professional controllers.

Key design highlights:

Dual jog wheels with touch sensitivity
Compact mixer section with 2-band EQ
Built-in speakers with volume control
RGB backlit performance pads
Integrated LED light show

The three rear disco-style LED domes are a signature feature of the Party Mix line. Positioned at the top of the deck, they project colored beams synced to the beat—perfect for a living-room rave.

Built-in Speakers That Actually Sound Good

The standout feature of the Party Mix Live is its integrated speakers. While small, they are impressively clear and pack enough bass for bedroom-level mixing. The on/off switch lets you toggle built-in vs external audio, ensuring you can connect RCA or AUX outputs when playing through larger speakers.

Realistically, these speakers aren’t made for a full crowd, but for home practice or small get-togethers, they genuinely perform better than expected considering the price.

Core DJ Functions and Controls

Despite the small size, the Party Mix Live includes all essential mixing tools.

Transport and Sync

Each deck includes play/pause, cue, and sync buttons at the bottom. The large tempo fader on each side gives precise BPM control for manual beat-matching, or you can hit sync for instant alignment.

Performance Pads

Each deck includes four rubberized pads that switch between modes:

Hot Cue – Jump to stored points in a track.
Loop – Create 1, 2, 4, or 8-beat loops.
Sampler – Trigger built-in DJ sounds and samples.
FX – Apply effects such as reverb, echo, or filter.

These modes mirror the layout of professional controllers, allowing beginners to learn skills they can transfer to advanced equipment later.

Streaming Service Integration

Don’t have a downloaded library? No problem. Through DJ software, the controller supports major streaming platforms including:

TIDAL
Beatport LINK
Beatsource
SoundCloud GO+

This opens access to millions of tracks directly within your DJ app. As long as you have a stable internet connection, you can mix any song on demand—making this controller perfect for casual users without existing music collections.

Lighting Effects Mode

The built-in LED light system deserves its own mention. By toggling the light button on the side, you can cycle between multiple patterns:

Beat-synced pulsing
Continuous color rotations
Ambient slow fade mode

When combined with the music, these lights transform a small room into a fun, party-ready space. For kids or casual setups, it’s a big part of the appeal.

Compatibility with iPads and Mobile DJs

One of the most underrated features of the Party Mix Live is its smooth integration with mobile devices. By connecting to Algoriddim Djay on iPad or iPhone, users gain touch control and physical mixer functions simultaneously. This makes it a brilliant option for DJs on the go, educators, or younger users accustomed to iOS music apps.

Who It’s For

This controller isn’t built for clubs—but it doesn’t try to be. Where it shines is in affordable accessibility:

Beginners learning beatmatching, mixing, and transitions
Parents buying their child’s first DJ setup
Casual hobbyists who want instant fun without complicated gear
Mobile DJs looking for an ultra-light backup unit

Advanced DJs will quickly outgrow its two-channel layout and limited EQ section, but as a starting point, its feature set is unmatched for the price.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Built-in speakers with great clarity	Not loud enough for full events
Works with laptops, iPads, and phones	Plastic build feels lightweight
RGB pads and LED light show	Only 2-band EQ
Affordable and easy to set up	No microphone input
Multiple streaming integrations	Smaller jog wheels might limit precise scratching

Final Verdict

The Numark Party Mix Live and Party Mix 2 are hands-down the best sub-$150 DJ controllers on the market. They deliver a complete starter experience—software integration, physical mixing control, sound output, and even lighting—all in one compact box. While it’s not a professional deck, it’s perfect for beginners or casual DJs who want simple, reliable fun right out of the box.

Verdict: 9/10 for beginners, bedroom DJs, and kids exploring DJing for the first time.