mixxx
DJ mixing software for live performances
TLDR
Start the Mixxx GUI in fullscreen
Start in safe developer mode to debug a crash
Debug a malfunction
Start Mixxx using the specified settings file
Debug a custom controller mapping
Display help
SYNOPSIS
mixxx [options] [audio_files...]
PARAMETERS
--help
Displays a concise help message detailing available command-line options and exits.
--version
Prints the installed Mixxx version information to the console and exits.
--list-midi
Lists all detected MIDI input and output devices connected to the system, useful for troubleshooting controller setup.
--list-audio-devices
Enumerates all available audio input and output devices recognized by Mixxx, aiding in audio interface configuration.
--list-controllers
Shows a list of all built-in and custom controller presets and mappings available within Mixxx.
--developer-mode
Activates special developer-oriented features and logging, useful for debugging and testing new functionalities.
--enable-debug-log
Enables extensive debugging output, which is often written to a log file for detailed analysis of issues.
--load-library <file>
Loads a specific Mixxx library XML file specified by <file> instead of the default library.
--open-file <file> [...<file>]
Opens one or more specified audio files directly in Mixxx, often loading them into available decks or the library.
--no-library
Starts Mixxx without loading the default music library, resulting in a blank library view.
DESCRIPTION
Mixxx is a powerful and versatile open-source DJ software designed for live mixing and performance. It offers a comprehensive set of features for both beginners and experienced DJs, allowing them to seamlessly mix audio files, integrate with a wide range of DJ hardware, and deliver captivating sets. Key functionalities include advanced beatmatching, looping, cueing, effects, harmonic mixing, and robust syncing capabilities. Mixxx also supports recording mixes and broadcasting live to internet radio streams via Shoutcast or Icecast. Being cross-platform, it is available on Linux, Windows, and macOS, and benefits from continuous development by a dedicated global community.
CAVEATS
Mixxx is fundamentally a graphical user interface (GUI) application. While it offers a few command-line options for specific tasks like debugging or launching with custom configurations, the vast majority of its powerful features and settings are accessed and configured within its intuitive graphical interface. Achieving optimal performance, especially for low-latency audio mixing, often requires careful configuration of the underlying Linux audio system (e.g., ALSA or Jack) and sufficient system resources.
HARDWARE INTEGRATION
A core strength of Mixxx is its extensive support for a wide range of DJ hardware. It seamlessly integrates with most MIDI and HID controllers, providing tactile control over virtual decks, effects, and other parameters. Furthermore, Mixxx offers native support for Digital Vinyl Systems (DVS), allowing DJs to control their digital music collection using traditional turntables and timecode vinyl.
BROADCASTING AND RECORDING
Mixxx empowers DJs to not only perform live but also to share their creations. It includes built-in capabilities to record entire DJ sets directly to the computer's disk, ensuring high-quality archives of performances. Additionally, Mixxx supports live broadcasting to internet radio servers via popular protocols like Shoutcast and Icecast, enabling DJs to reach a global audience in real-time.
HISTORY
Mixxx originated in early 2001 as an open-source project by Tue Haste Andersen, with its first public release in 2002. Since then, it has grown into a highly regarded, professional-grade DJ software. Its development has been driven by a passionate community of volunteers, focusing on robust features, broad hardware compatibility, and cross-platform availability. This collaborative approach has ensured continuous innovation and responsiveness to the needs of modern DJs.