What exactly is the difference between stems and multitrack files—and why does it matter when you’re sending a session out into the world?
In this knowledge-packed episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody unravel the often-confused terms and workflows behind project sharing in modern music production.
Whether you’re a solo artist collaborating across the globe, a producer prepping tracks for a mix engineer, or someone just trying not to embarrass yourself on a licensing call—this episode helps you sound like you actually know what you’re talking about.
Learn:
- The difference between stems and multitracks (finally).
- Why clarity matters when you’re collaborating or outsourcing.
- What people really mean when they say “send me the stems.”
- The right time to export, organize, and communicate project files.
- How using the wrong term might derail your mix—or your reputation.
And of course, expect the usual helping of nonsense, some studio banter, and a few Friday Finds worth checking out.
So if you’ve ever hesitated mid-email wondering “Wait… is this a stem or a multitrack?” — this episode is for you.
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Gear we used:
Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E
Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E
Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.
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If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com