How to Prepare Stems for Mixing (Checklist)

A well-prepared session means faster turnaround, fewer revisions, and a stronger final result. Use the quick checklist below before sending your project.

Quick Checklist (Before You Send)

• WAV or AIFF files (no MP3)
• 24-bit preferred
• Original sample rate (no upscaling)
• All files start at the same timeline position (bar 1 / 00:00)
• No clipping on exports
• No limiter or heavy processing on the master bus
• Clearly labeled tracks
• Include BPM, key, and reference tracks

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1) File Format & Export Settings

Send WAV (or AIFF) files in their original resolution. 24-bit is preferred. Keep the original sample rate (44.1kHz, 48kHz, etc.). Avoid converting to MP3 or upscaling to higher sample rates.

Common mistake: exporting MP3 stems or normalizing files during export.

2) Export Separate Tracks (No Group Bounces)

Export individual tracks whenever possible:

• Kick
• Snare
• Bass
• Guitars
• Keys / Synths
• Lead Vocals
• Backing Vocals
• FX tracks

Avoid sending stereo "Drums" or "Music" bounces unless it’s the only option.

If a sound depends on a specific effect, loop, or printed tone, send it exactly as intended.

3) Make Every File Start at the Same Point

All files should begin at the same timeline position — even if the instrument enters later. Silence at the beginning is completely fine. This ensures instant alignment when importing.

4) What Mixing Does (and Doesn’t) Include

Mixing includes balancing, tone shaping, dynamics, depth, and clarity.

Mixing does NOT include:

• selecting takes
• heavy editing or timing correction
• re-amping
• production or arrangement changes

Please finalize performance and production decisions before sending.

5) Organizing & Naming Your Files

Clear naming speeds up the process. Use names like:

• `01_Kick.wav`
• `02_SnareTop.wav`
• `Lead_Vocal.wav`

Avoid generic names like `Audio_01.wav`.

Recommended folder format:

`Artist - Song Title - BPM - Key`

Example:

`FuzzCube - Neon Drift - 120BPM - Am`

6) Notes & References

Include a short note with:

• BPM and key
• 1–3 reference tracks (links)
• what you like about them (e.g. "warm vocals", "tight low end")
• any important artistic intentions

7) How to Request Revisions Effectively

After receiving the first mix:

• listen from start to finish
• collect feedback from everyone involved
• send notes in one message
• use timestamps whenever possible

Clear communication leads to faster and more precise revisions.