Native Instruments has just launched the new Stems file format that separates tracks into four parts so that new mixing of melodies, vocals, drums, and rhythm can be achieved. NI has now released the free Beta version of the Stem file format creator which will allow users to make their own Stem files of their productions.
Stems Creator Tool Tutorial
We recently reviewed the Traktor Kontrol S8 and we’re currently working on the Traktor Kontrol D2 review where both devices allow you to view and play the Stems files with ease. The Stems Creator tool was the big piece to this new file format puzzle and the success of the entire format hinges upon the adoption of the format by Producers and Record Labels. Now that the Stems Creator tool is finally released to the public, we’ll know sooner or later if we can count on this file format in the future. I am personally excited about this Stems file system because we can now take it back to the old vinyl days where you would get a single with acapella and instrumental to make unique mixes and blends. We will be able to do this once again with Stems files…
The New Stems Creator Tool is pretty easy to use and will be a very easy format for Producers to make when they are finishing up the production process. The Tutorial video above shows that users must simply break their track down into four different parts which are usually something like Drums, Bass, Synths, and Vocals. Then the user makes sure that all four parts are aligned so they play as one single track while making sure they start and stop at the same place. Adjust the overall volume levels so the sum of all parts are no longer clipping, then drag and drop all four wav files and the master wav file into the Stems Creator Tool. Then the compression and limiters are set to make the levels just right and users can add artwork and process and export the final Stems file.
The Stems Beta Creator Tool is available now at