Stems vs. Multitracks: What You Think You Know Could Cost You a Gig
Whether you’re collaborating with a producer across the globe, handing off a session for mixing, or prepping files for licensing, knowing the difference between stems and multitracks is more than semantics—it’s about sounding like a pro. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody clear up the confusion and break down how to share projects properly, the right way.
You’ll learn:
- When to send stems vs. multitracks
- How to prepare files for remote mixing or mastering
- What clients or collaborators really mean when they ask for “the stems”
- Why understanding terminology can help avoid embarrassment—and lost opportunities
Plus, some real-world stories from the trenches, a few laughs, and your weekly Friday Finds.
Whether you’re working in your bedroom or a commercial room, this episode gives you the edge you need to speak the language of studio professionals and avoid costly mistakes in project handoffs. And yes, there’s probably going to be a little nonsense along the way (you’ve met Chris & Jody, right?).
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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