How to Recognize a Faulty Fader on Your DJ Mixer [Repair Tips for DJs]

How to Recognize a Faulty Fader on Your DJ Mixer [Repair Tips for DJs]

Whether you're mixing on a Technics or Pioneer DJ mixer, a broken fader can ruin your entire set. Luckily, with a few quick checks, you can easily find out if it's time to replace the fader. In this blog, we’ll show you how to spot the signs—and what to do next.


🔎 What Does a Fader Actually Do?

The fader is the slider on your mixer that controls volume or the transition between two channels. There are usually two types:

  • Line faders – control the volume per channel

  • Crossfader – blends between two decks

Especially with heavy use, faders can wear out or break. But how do you know when your fader is worn or faulty?


⚠️ Symptoms of a Broken Fader

Watch out for these signs:

  • Crackling sound when moving the fader

  • Volume drops out at certain positions

  • Fader only works in one direction (common with crossfaders)

  • Fader feels stiff, jerky, or doesn’t glide smoothly

  • Audio peaks or distorts randomly

If you recognize one or more of these issues, there’s a good chance your fader needs replacing.


🔧 Can You Replace a Fader Yourself?

In many cases—yes. Especially if you're using popular mixers like:

  • Pioneer DJM-250, DJM-750, DJM 800 DJM-900 Nexus

  • Technics SH-EX1200 or SH-DJ1200

These models often have faders attached with screws or clips. With some basic technical skill (and a good YouTube tutorial), you're good to go. Always use high-quality replacement parts for best performance.


🛠 Which Fader Fits Your DJ Mixer?

At Your DJ Shop, we offer a wide range of original faders for Pioneer and Technics mixers. All in stock, ready to ship, and we’re here to help with installation tips.

Looking for something specific, like:

  • Pioneer DJM-900 crossfader

  • Technics SH-DJ1200 line fader

  • Fader knobs with color accents

We’ve got you covered.

👉 [View all DJ faders in our shop]


📦 Fast Delivery & EU Shipping

We ship from stock with fast delivery across Europe. Order on weekdays before 17:00: Your order usually ships the same day.


🤝 Need Help with Your DJ Mixer Repair?

Send us a message via our [contact page] We’re happy to help with part matching, installation advice, or alternatives.


📌 Quick Summary: How to Spot a Broken Fader

Symptom Possible Cause
Crackling sound Dust or worn rails
Volume cuts out Poor internal connection
Uneven transitions Dirty or worn crossfader
Jerky fader movement Mechanical wear


Don’t let a faulty fader ruin your DJ set—check your gear regularly and replace parts in time.

Terug naar blog