How To Install Mixxx DJ Software on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

In the world of digital DJing, having reliable software that works seamlessly with your operating system is crucial. For Ubuntu users, Mixxx stands out as a powerful, professional-grade DJ software solution that combines robust features with the freedom of open-source development. Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, the latest long-term support release, offers an excellent platform for running Mixxx with its improved performance and stability. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods to install Mixxx on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, ensuring you can start mixing tracks, creating playlists, and performing live sets with minimal technical hurdles.

What is Mixxx DJ Software?

Mixxx is a feature-rich, cross-platform DJ software application that has been under active development since 2001. As a free and open-source alternative to proprietary DJ software, Mixxx has evolved into a professional-grade tool used by amateur enthusiasts and professional DJs alike. The project is maintained by a dedicated community of developers who consistently work to improve its functionality and performance.

Mixxx 2.5.0, the current stable release as of early 2025, represents nearly two decades of refinement and feature development. What distinguishes Mixxx from other DJ applications is its commitment to open-source principles, ensuring that users always have access to a powerful DJ solution without subscription fees or expensive licenses.

For DJs who prefer Linux systems, Mixxx offers significant advantages over proprietary alternatives. It’s designed to run natively on Linux distributions like Ubuntu, providing access to professional-level DJ tools without the need for compatibility layers or virtualization. This native support means better performance, lower latency, and more reliable hardware integration—all critical factors for live performances.

Features of Mixxx DJ Software

Before diving into installation methods, it’s worth understanding why Mixxx has become the go-to DJ application for many Linux users. The feature set rivals commercial software costing hundreds of dollars, making it an exceptional value proposition.

Core DJ Functionality

Mixxx includes sophisticated beat detection and synchronization capabilities that automatically analyze your music collection and determine the beats per minute (BPM) of each track. This makes beat matching—a fundamental DJ technique—much more accessible for beginners while still giving advanced users manual control when needed.

The key detection system identifies the musical key of your tracks, enabling harmonic mixing techniques that create smoother transitions between songs. The software uses advanced algorithms to detect keys with impressive accuracy, though manual overrides are always available.

Vinyl control support allows DJs to manipulate digital files using traditional turntables with special timecode vinyl, bridging the gap between analog feel and digital flexibility. Mixxx supports multiple timecode standards, including Serato, Traktor, and MixVibes.

Hardware integration is another area where Mixxx excels, with support for over 85 DJ controllers right out of the box. From entry-level devices to professional equipment, Mixxx’s mapping system ensures compatibility with a wide range of hardware.

Advanced Features

The Saved Loops functionality lets you store and recall loops across sessions, perfect for incorporating signature elements into different sets. Each loop can be quantized and fine-tuned to ensure perfect timing.

Effect Chains allow multiple audio effects to be combined and applied to channels, with parameter control accessible through hardware controllers or the software interface. Effects range from basics like EQ and filters to more creative options like delays, reverbs, and bitcrushers.

A standout feature added in recent versions is Engine DJ OS device export support, allowing Mixxx users to prepare music libraries that are compatible with high-end Denon DJ and InMusic hardware. This creates a seamless workflow between home preparation and club performance.

Recording and broadcasting capabilities enable you to capture your mixes or stream directly to platforms like Icecast and Shoutcast servers. This integrated functionality eliminates the need for additional software when sharing your sets online.

Interface and Customization

Mixxx offers multiple interface “skins” including Deere, LateNight, and Tango, each designed for different environments and user preferences. These interfaces can be further customized to show only the features you need.

The software provides resizable waveforms with various display modes, giving you visual feedback on your tracks’ structure and energy levels. High-resolution screen support ensures the interface scales properly on modern displays, including 4K monitors.

Library Management

The comprehensive library management system includes smart playlists, crate organization, and customizable metadata display. Integration with music databases like Discogs, SoundCloud, and LastFM enhances track information automatically.

BPM analysis options range from quick scans for large libraries to detailed analysis for more accurate beat grids, allowing users to balance processing time against accuracy based on their needs.

System Requirements for Mixxx on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

Before installation, ensure your system meets these minimum requirements for running Mixxx effectively:

• Processor: Dual-core CPU at 2.0 GHz or higher (Intel i3/i5/i7 or AMD equivalent)
• Memory: 4GB RAM minimum, 8GB recommended for larger libraries
• Storage: 200MB for the application plus space for your music collection
• Graphics: Any GPU capable of OpenGL 2.0 or higher
• Sound Card: Any ALSA/PulseAudio compatible audio interface (dedicated audio interface recommended for performance)

For optimal performance, particularly when using advanced features like multiple effect chains or four-deck mixing, consider these recommended specifications:

• Processor: Quad-core CPU at 3.0 GHz or higher
• Memory: 16GB RAM
• Sound Card: Dedicated audio interface with ASIO or JACK support

Ubuntu 24.04 LTS supports both AMD64/Intel x86_64 and ARM64 architectures, making Mixxx available for a wide range of hardware platforms from traditional desktops to newer ARM-based systems.

Preparing Your Ubuntu 24.04 LTS System

Proper preparation ensures a smooth installation experience. Before installing Mixxx, follow these steps to prepare your Ubuntu system:

1. Update your existing packages and repositories:

   sudo apt update sudo apt upgrade -y

2. Install essential audio dependencies:

   sudo apt install jackd2 libjack-jackd2-0 pulseaudio-module-jack

3. If you have previous Mixxx installations, consider removing them to prevent conflicts:

   sudo apt remove --purge mixxx mixxx-data

4. For users who plan to use professional audio setups, consider installing the Ubuntu Studio audio packages:

   sudo apt install ubuntustudio-audio

5. Configure your system for real-time audio processing (optional but recommended for performance):

   sudo usermod -a -G audio $USER

After running these commands, consider rebooting your system to ensure all changes take effect properly, especially the group membership changes for audio processing priority.

Installation Method 1: Using the Official PPA

What is a PPA?

A Personal Package Archive (PPA) is a special software repository hosted on Launchpad that allows developers to distribute software outside of the official Ubuntu repositories. The official Mixxx PPA provides the advantage of easy installation and updates directly from the Mixxx development team.

Using the PPA method ensures you get regular updates as they’re released, and the packages are specifically configured for Ubuntu, including all necessary dependencies.

Step-by-step PPA Installation

1. First, install the required software-properties-common package if you don’t already have it:

   sudo apt install software-properties-common

2. Add the official Mixxx repository to your system:

   sudo add-apt-repository ppa:mixxx/mixxx

3. Update your package lists to include the new repository:

   sudo apt update

4. Install Mixxx:

   sudo apt install mixxx

5. Verify the installation by checking the installed version:

   mixxx --version

The installation process will automatically handle all dependencies, making this the simplest method for most users. After installation, you can find Mixxx in your application menu or launch it from the terminal by typing mixxx.

Post-installation verification

After installation, launch Mixxx to verify it’s working correctly. The first launch will prompt you to configure your audio devices and may suggest optimizations for your system. Pay attention to these recommendations, as they can significantly impact performance.

Troubleshooting common PPA issues

If you encounter a “GPG key error” during the repository update, you can manually add the key:

sudo apt-key adv --keyserver keyserver.ubuntu.com --recv-keys <KEY_ID>

Replace <KEY_ID> with the key mentioned in the error message.

For package conflicts, especially if you’ve previously installed Mixxx from another source, remove the conflicting package completely before attempting the PPA installation:

sudo apt remove --purge mixxx mixxx-data sudo apt autoremove

If you see version compatibility warnings, check the Mixxx website or PPA page for supported Ubuntu versions. While the PPA should work with Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, there might be temporary compatibility issues with very new releases.

Installation Method 2: Using Flatpak Package

Introduction to Flatpak

Flatpak is a next-generation packaging format that allows applications to run in a sandboxed environment, isolated from the rest of the system. This isolation provides enhanced security and ensures that applications have all the libraries they need, regardless of what’s installed on the host system.

One major advantage of Flatpak is cross-distribution compatibility—the same Flatpak package works across various Linux distributions. For Mixxx, this means you get the same experience regardless of which Linux flavor you’re using. Flatpak also supports both AMD64 and ARM64 architectures, making it versatile for various hardware configurations.

Step-by-step Flatpak Installation

1. Install Flatpak support on Ubuntu 24.04:

   sudo apt install flatpak gnome-software-plugin-flatpak

2. Add the Flathub repository, which hosts thousands of applications including Mixxx:

   flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

3. Restart your system to ensure the Flatpak integration is complete.
4. Install Mixxx using Flatpak:

   flatpak install flathub org.mixxx.Mixxx

5. Launch Mixxx using:

   flatpak run org.mixxx.Mixxx

For hardware access, particularly audio devices and MIDI controllers, you might need to grant additional permissions:

flatpak override --user --device=all org.mixxx.Mixxx

Advantages and limitations of Flatpak

The Flatpak installation offers several benefits, including automatic updates through the Flathub repository and containment of all dependencies within the package. This method works particularly well on systems where you want to keep the base installation clean or when you need to run multiple versions of an application.

However, Flatpak applications may have slightly higher resource usage due to their contained nature, and hardware access (especially for specialized DJ controllers) might require additional configuration. For most users, these limitations are minor compared to the benefits of simplified installation and updates.

Installation Method 3: Using DEB Package

For users who prefer traditional package management without adding extra repositories, installing Mixxx using a DEB package directly from the official website is a straightforward option.

Finding and downloading the official DEB file

1. Navigate to the official Mixxx download page.
2. Select the Linux section and choose the Ubuntu/Debian option
3. Download the appropriate DEB file for your system architecture (usually amd64 for most modern systems)
4. Save the file to an accessible location, such as your Downloads folder

Installation methods for DEB packages

Using the GUI (beginner-friendly):

1. Navigate to the downloaded file in your file manager
2. Double-click the DEB file
3. When Ubuntu Software opens, click the “Install” button
4. Enter your password when prompted
5. Wait for the installation to complete

Using the command line (more control):

1. Open a terminal window (Ctrl+Alt+T)
2. Navigate to the directory containing the downloaded file:

   cd ~/Downloads

3. Install the DEB package using APT:

   sudo apt install ./mixxx_2.5.0_amd64.deb

   (Replace the filename with your actual downloaded filename)

This method will automatically resolve and install dependencies, similar to the PPA method.

Handling dependencies and potential issues

If you encounter dependency issues during installation, you can try:

sudo apt -f install

This command tells APT to fix any broken dependencies, which often resolves installation problems with DEB packages.

For missing libraries, you might need to enable the universe repository if it’s not already enabled:

sudo add-apt-repository universe sudo apt update

Verifying installation success

After installation, verify that Mixxx works correctly by launching it from the application menu or by typing mixxx in the terminal. Check that all features function as expected, particularly audio playback and controller recognition.

Installation Method 4: Building from Source Code

Why build from source?

Building Mixxx from source code gives you access to the latest features, even those not yet available in official releases. This method also allows for custom compilation options, such as optimization for specific processors or inclusion of experimental features.

For advanced users, source compilation provides the ability to modify the code directly, enabling customization beyond what’s possible with pre-built packages. This approach is particularly valuable for developers or users with unique requirements.

Prerequisites for source compilation

Before compiling, install the necessary build tools and dependencies:

sudo apt install build-essential git cmake qttools5-dev qttools5-dev-tools libqt5svg5-dev libqt5opengl5-dev libqt5xmlpatterns5-dev libqt5x11extras5-dev libprotobuf-dev protobuf-compiler libusb-1.0-0-dev libfftw3-dev libmad0-dev libid3tag0-dev libportmidi-dev libchromaprint-dev librubberband-dev libsoundtouch-dev libhidapi-dev libmodplug-dev libvamp-hostsdk3v5 liblilv-dev lv2-dev

Step-by-step build process

1. Clone the Mixxx repository:

   git clone https://github.com/mixxxdj/mixxx.git cd mixxx

2. Create a build directory and navigate to it:

   mkdir build cd build

3. Configure the build using CMake:

   cmake ..

4. Compile the application (adjust -j based on your CPU cores):

   make -j4

5. Install the compiled application:

   sudo make install

The compilation process may take 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on your system’s specifications.

Troubleshooting compilation errors

Common issues include missing dependencies, which can usually be resolved by installing the required packages. If you encounter errors about missing libraries, search for the corresponding development packages in the Ubuntu repositories:

apt search library-name-dev

For build errors related to specific features, you can disable problematic components using CMake options:

cmake -DENABLE_FEATURE=OFF ..

Replace FEATURE with the specific component causing issues.

Initial Configuration and Setup

After installing Mixxx using any of the methods above, proper configuration ensures optimal performance and usability. The first time you launch Mixxx, the setup wizard will guide you through essential configurations.

First-time startup procedures

1. Launch Mixxx from your application menu or terminal
2. The first-run wizard will prompt you to:
   • Choose your language preference
   • Set up your music library location
   • Configure audio devices
   • Scan for DJ controllers

Complete each step carefully, as these settings form the foundation of your Mixxx experience.

Audio setup and optimization

For optimal audio performance, access the preferences dialog by pressing Ctrl+P or selecting “Preferences” from the menu.

In the Sound Hardware section:

1. Select your audio interface from the dropdown menu
2. Choose the appropriate output channels for your headphones and main output
3. Adjust the buffer size—lower values reduce latency but may cause audio glitches
4. Set the sample rate (usually 44.1kHz or 48kHz depending on your hardware)

For systems with dedicated audio interfaces, consider configuring JACK audio for the lowest possible latency:

sudo apt install qjackctl

Launch QjackCtl to configure and start the JACK server before running Mixxx.

MIDI controller configuration

Mixxx supports a wide range of DJ controllers, with many supported automatically:

1. Connect your controller before launching Mixxx
2. In Preferences > Controllers, your device should appear in the list
3. Select it and choose the appropriate mapping
4. Use the “Learning Wizard” for controllers without pre-existing mappings
5. Test all functions to ensure proper communication

For troubleshooting controller issues, verify that your user has proper USB device permissions:

sudo usermod -a -G plugdev $USER

Log out and back in for the changes to take effect.

Library setup and music importing

Configure your music library by:

1. Adding your music folders in Preferences > Library
2. Enabling BPM and key detection for newly added tracks
3. Configuring auto-DJ features if desired
4. Setting up crates and playlists for organizing your collection

For large libraries, the initial scan may take significant time, but subsequent scans will be much faster.

Testing Your Mixxx Installation

Before diving into a live performance, thoroughly test your Mixxx installation to ensure everything functions as expected.

Start with basic audio testing:

1. Load a track to each deck
2. Play each deck independently
3. Test crossfading between decks
4. Verify headphone cueing works correctly

For controller testing:

1. Ensure each button performs its mapped function
2. Test jog wheels for scratching and track searching
3. Verify that sliders and knobs respond smoothly
4. Test performance pad functions if your controller has them

Common post-installation issues include audio dropouts (often fixed by increasing buffer size) and controller mapping problems (resolved by selecting the correct mapping or creating a custom one).

If you encounter persistent issues, the Mixxx user manual (accessible via Help > Manual) provides comprehensive troubleshooting information.

Updating Mixxx DJ Software

Keeping Mixxx updated ensures you have access to the latest features and security improvements. The update process varies depending on your installation method.

For PPA installations, updates are managed through your standard system updates:

sudo apt update sudo apt upgrade

Flatpak installations can be updated using:

flatpak update org.mixxx.Mixxx

Or simply flatpak update to update all Flatpak applications.

For DEB package installations, you’ll need to manually download and install newer versions as they become available.

Source code installations require pulling the latest code and recompiling:

cd mixxx git pull cd build make clean cmake .. make -j4 sudo make install

To access beta features, consider using the development branch when building from source, or check if the Mixxx team provides development PPAs for testing purposes.

Uninstalling Mixxx

If you need to remove Mixxx, the process depends on your installation method.

For PPA installations:

sudo apt remove --purge mixxx mixxx-data sudo add-apt-repository --remove ppa:mixxx/mixxx

For Flatpak:

flatpak uninstall org.mixxx.Mixxx # To remove runtime dependencies if no longer needed: flatpak uninstall --unused

For DEB package installations:

sudo apt remove --purge mixxx mixxx-data

For source builds:

cd mixxx/build sudo make uninstall

User data is typically preserved in ~/.mixxx/. To completely remove all traces of Mixxx including your configurations and database:

rm -rf ~/.mixxx

Consider backing up this directory before removal if you have customized controller mappings or settings you wish to preserve.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Mixxx. Thanks for using this tutorial to install the latest version of the Mixxx DJ Software on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official Mixxx website.