Instructional Guide for Preparing and Submitting Audio Stems for Mixing

To ensure a smooth and efficient mixing process, it’s important that your audio stems are prepared correctly. Below are the guidelines you must follow before uploading and submitting your stems. Correct and professional mixing preparation will allow your mixing engineer to provide the best possible result for your project.

1. Ensure Stems Are Unprocessed and Raw

• No Plugins or Processing: All tracks should be free from EQ, compression, reverb, delay, or any other processing. I need the clean, raw sound to work with.

• Remove All Automation: Volume, pan, or any other automation should be bypassed. This allows for maximum flexibility during the mix.

2. Consolidate/Export Each Track from Start to End

• Same Length for All Stems: Make sure every track begins and ends at the same point in your session, even if the stem has silence before or after the audio. This ensures everything stays in sync during the mix.

• No Gaps: Avoid exporting partial clips. Every file should start at zero, so they all line up perfectly in the mix session.

3. Label Tracks Clearly

• Consistent Naming: Label each stem with a descriptive name like Vocals_Lead, Guitar_Rhythm, Kick_Drum, etc.

• Avoid Default Labels: Don’t send files named like Audio_01 or Track_05. This can lead to confusion during the mix.

4. Deliver in High-Quality Format

• Preferred Format: Export all stems as WAV or AIFF files in at least 24-bit resolution and 44.1kHz or higher sample rate.

• No MP3 Files: Please do not send compressed formats like MP3 unless specifically requested.

5. Include a Reference Mix

• Reference Track: Provide a rough mix or demo of your project, so I can understand the overall direction you’re aiming for.

• Link to External Files: If you have a reference track you want to link, make sure it’s accessible (Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.).

6. Double-Check for Clipping

• Avoid Peaking: Ensure none of your tracks are peaking into the red. Keep headroom on each stem (aim for -6 dB as a general guideline).

7. Organize Files Before Upload

• Folder Structure: Place all stems in a single folder and zip the folder for easy transfer. Name the folder with your project name and your name.

• Final Check: Listen through your stems individually to confirm they exported correctly.

8. Provide Notes (Optional)

• Track Notes: Feel free to include any notes on specific elements (e.g., "Make the vocal stand out" or "Add warmth to the bass"). These help me understand your vision better.

For Reference: Here’s a video guide to preparing your stems for mixing: