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Native Instruments has launched Stems – a new multi-track audio format that introduces enhanced performance possibilities for DJs and a new paradigm for the music industry as a whole. The format has been widely embraced throughout the industry, and major online music stores are already set to release hundreds of tracks from top artists and labels in Stems format. To mark the launch of the new technology, Native Instruments is offering special pricing on Traktor Kontrol S8, D2, and F1 – the first Stems-ready DJ controllers.

Developed by Native Instruments, Stems is an open file format providing the ability to freely interact with a track's four different musical elements – such as drums, bass, keys and vocals. Each stem's volume, filter, and effects settings can be controlled independently to create instant new mixes, mashups, instrumentals, a cappellas, and more. Since Stems was announced in May 2015, six major online retailers Beatport, Bleep, Juno, Traxsource, whatpeopleplay, and Wasabeat have officially begun stocking hundreds of releases from prominent artists and labels in Stems format on their respective sites. From some of 2015's biggest albums to favorite hits, the list of labels releasing in Stems format is continuously growing.

Hands-on control of Stem files is now possible with the Traktor Pro 2.9 update – the first DJ software to support Stems. For Traktor Kontrol S8 and D2 the Stems View provides a clear, color-coded overview of a track's four stems as stacked waveforms – granting DJs in-depth, multi-channel control over a single track. DJs with a Stems-ready controller will be able to start playing Stems right away. Three Stems tracks played by Berlin-based DJ-producer NGHT DRPS in a new performance video featuring Stems are now free to download in Stems format directly from the Native Instruments website.

To celebrate the launch of Stems, Native Instruments is offering special pricing on Traktor Kontrol S8, D2, and F1. The offer runs from August 3 until September 30, 2015 at the NI Online Shop and at participating music retailers.

Later this summer, Native Instruments will release the free Stem Creator Tool – a standalone application that opens the door for anyone to create their own Stem files.

For more Infos visit: http://www.native-instruments.com/en/specials/stems/

 

Then Apple and Pro Tools decide that they want their own version that is only compatible with their products...

 

what a pitty that would be for all the djs out there using pro tools in the club.

 

So, it's Summer, 2015 – where's the Stem Creator Tool, already?

At least NI is including developers in the schme with its Developer Toolkit.

Stems might just become an industry-standard format, if DJs and producers adopt it widely. Looks like I'm gonna hafta re-mix all my songs to Stems format – so that people can remove my vocals, heheheheh.

 

Before that happens we are doomed to a lot more of cacophonic mishaps in the club than there are already with wannabe controllerism kids.