The most popular and comprehensive Open Source ECM platform
Let us know more
File Formats: New Open Source Audio File Format Enables Easier Track Mixing
A new audio file format has been introduced by German-based-company Native Instruments. The new open source format is called Stems and is unique because it allows an audio recording to be split into separate tracks or “stems”, like for bass, drums, melody, and vocals. The format allows easy editing of the individual stem components while providing a mixed version of the audio that’s compatible with standard MP4 audio playback devices and software.
Because the individual tracks are available, it’s possible for performers and producers to easily interact with the elements contained on the individual tracks that make up the complete recording.
When a Stems file is opened in an application like Native Instruments’ Tracker DJ suite, the individual tracks of the song become available and can be edited. When it’s opened by traditional media player software, the song plays as standard Mp4 audio. Because the format is open source it can be used freely by by musicians, labels and other hardware and software manufacturers. Success of the new format will depend on adoption.
