Head-to-head · Audio Mixing Software
Waves eMotion LV1 vs Serato DJ Pro
Waves eMotion LV1 leads on 0 checks, Serato DJ Pro on 0, and 3 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 3 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreWaves eMotion LV1 · 9.2/10
- Free trialonly Serato DJ Pro
Waves eMotion LV1 scores higher on our rubric for audio mixing software: 9.2 against 8.5 out of 10; our editors rank them #2 and #7.
Waves eMotion LV1 is the better fit for professional networked live mixing. Serato DJ Pro is the better fit for professional four-deck DJ mixing.
- Waves eMotion LV1 fits best
Professional networked live mixing
- Serato DJ Pro fits best
Professional four-deck DJ mixing
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Side by side
| Feature | Waves eMotion LV1 9.2/10 Visit ↗ | Serato DJ Pro 8.5/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.2 | 8.5 |
| Ranking | #2 in Audio Mixing Software | #7 in Audio Mixing Software |
| Best for | Professional networked live mixing | Professional four-deck DJ mixing |
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | Not checked yet | $11.99/mo |
| Free plan | Not checked yet | — |
| Free trial | — | 14 days |
| Deployment | Desktop, Mobile | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS |
| Support | Phone, Community, Docs | Email, Tickets, Docs |
| Integrations | 5 integrations | 5 integrations |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise |
| Features Waves eMotion LV1 1/4 · Serato DJ Pro 1/4 | ||
| Surround mixing | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Stem separation | Not checked yet | ✓ (best) |
| Cloud collaboration | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Live audio input | ✓ (best) | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Maximum tracks | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Not checked yet |
| Export formats | .emo session files; multichannel audio recording to external storage | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | Waves eMotion LV1 is a software-based live audio mixing platform for front-of-house, monitor, broadcast and recording work. It is aimed at live-sound engineers, venues, houses of worship, touring productions and broadcast teams that need… Read the review → |
Serato DJ Pro is desktop DJ software for DJs performing with computers and compatible DJ hardware. It runs on Windows and macOS, supports more than 100 pieces of DJ hardware, and combines four-deck playback with cue points, sampler slots,… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
Waves eMotion LV1 — where it wins
- Up to 80 stereo channels and 52 buses with expansion
- Integrated Waves processing with eight-slot channel and mix racks
- SoundGrid networking plus broad remote-control app coverage
Where it doesn't
- Advanced capacity depends on expandable I/O and DSP configurations
- Recording ranges from 16 channels to 128 channels across different setups
- Session import and export use the .emo format
Serato DJ Pro — where it wins
- Four-deck playback with Stems for isolating vocals, melody, bass and drums
- 20+ built-in professional FX, recording, Smart Sync and key analysis
- Integrates with Apple Music, Beatport, SoundCloud, Spotify and Tidal
Where it doesn't
- No free plan; the free Practice Mode is limited
- DVS and video mixing are not included in the base plan
- The full expansion bundle costs more than the core software
- Waves eMotion LV19.2/10 · Paid
A high-capacity live mixer for networked FOH, monitor, broadcast and recording workflows.
Visit Waves AudioFull verdict → - Serato DJ Pro8.5/10 · 14-day trial
A deep four-deck DJ platform with stems, effects, recording and streaming integrations.
Visit SeratoFull verdict →
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All audio mixing software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update