Mixing & Mastering

Preparing Stems for Mixing

1. Organize Your Project:

   • Name and number all tracks and remove unused ones before exporting stems.

2. Clean and Edit:

   • Ensure your tracks are edited for timing and pitch.

   • Remove any unnecessary silence and ensure clean starts and ends.

3. Solo and Mute:

   • Solo each track/group and mute any unintended noises or tracks not needed in the stems.

4. Include Effects:

   • Keep effects on tracks and consider including dry versions for flexibility.

5. Consolidate Regions:

   • Trim tracks to contain only the desired audio, with no extra silence.

6. Check Volume Levels:

   • Avoid clipping and maintain headroom (around -3 to -6 dBFS).

   • Use 32-bit float files if tracks intentionally clip in EDM production.

7. Export Stems:

   • Export each stem individually as WAV or AIFF files, starting at 0 bars.

   • Use the same sample rate and bit depth as your project.

8. Include Reference Mix:

   • Provide a reference mix or a work-in-progress bounce to convey your vision.

9. Documentation:

   • Create a document with essential details, including tempo, time signature, key, and mixing notes.

10. Compression and Limiting:

    • Avoid excessive compression or limiting unless used creatively.

11. Communication:

    • Discuss your artistic intentions and preferences with the mix engineer in advance.

12. File Transfer:

    • Use a reliable file-sharing service to send stems and documentation.

13. Backup Your Project:

    • Create a backup of your entire project after rendering stems.