Select a key to find harmonically compatible tracks for smooth transitions
Select a key to see compatible matches
Same key always works for a smooth blend
+1 on the wheel adds energy and builds momentum
-1 on the wheel creates a mellow, winding-down effect
A to B (or B to A) switches between minor and major for mood contrast
Harmonic mixing is one of the most powerful techniques in a DJ's arsenal. By understanding musical keys and how they relate to each other, you can create seamless transitions that sound musical and professional. The Camelot wheel, developed by Mark Davis in the early 1990s, simplifies music theory into a practical system that any DJ can learn quickly.
The Camelot wheel is a color-coded visual representation of the circle of fifths — the fundamental pattern of key relationships in Western music. It assigns a number (1-12) and letter (A for minor, B for major) to each of the 24 musical keys. This notation system makes harmonic compatibility instantly recognizable without requiring knowledge of traditional music theory.
The safest choice. Tracks in the same key always blend perfectly. Use when you want guaranteed harmonic compatibility.
Move clockwise (+1) to build energy, or counter-clockwise (-1) to reduce intensity. These are your most useful transitions.
Switch between major and minor at the same number for dramatic mood shifts. Minor feels darker, major feels brighter.
Using our harmonic mixing calculator is simple. First, find the key of your current track — most DJ software like Rekordbox, Serato, and Traktor analyze and display keys automatically. Then select that key from the grid above to see all compatible options. The tool shows you four types of compatible transitions with color-coded recommendations.
| Camelot | Key | Type | Common Genres |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8A / 8B | Am / C | Minor / Major | Most common keys in electronic music |
| 6A / 6B | Gm / B♭ | Minor / Major | House, Techno |
| 5A / 5B | Cm / E♭ | Minor / Major | Deep House, R&B |
| 7A / 7B | Dm / F | Minor / Major | Disco, Funk |
Build energy throughout your set by consistently moving +1 around the Camelot wheel. Start at 8A and work your way to 12A, then loop back to 1A. This creates a natural energy arc that keeps the dancefloor engaged.
When dropping two tracks simultaneously, use either same key or relative major/minor (A↔B) for best results. Tracks more than 2 steps apart can clash during double drops, so save those transitions for mixing.
When using key lock (master tempo), remember that aggressive pitch changes can affect audio quality. Try to stay within ±4% of original tempo for clean key lock results.
Need to jump across the wheel? Use a bridge track. Move from 8A to 4A by first transitioning to 6A, then to 4A. Two small moves feel more natural than one large jump.
While not mandatory, harmonic mixing significantly improves the musicality of your mixes. Many successful DJs consider it essential, and most DJ software now includes key detection by default. It's an easy way to elevate your mixing.
Some software (like Traktor) uses Open Key notation or standard musical keys. You can convert between systems — our tool shows both Camelot and standard key names. Most software also has settings to switch to Camelot display.
Some tracks (especially those with heavy effects or unusual tonality) may not analyze correctly. You can manually set the key by ear, use an external analyzer, or simply trust your ears — if it sounds good, it is good.
Yes! Switching between A (minor) and B (major) at the same number is called a mode change. It's harmonically compatible and creates a dramatic mood shift. It's great for transitioning between darker and brighter moments in your set.