The Difference Between Stems and Multi-Tracks

What’s the deal?

The terms "STEMS" and "MULTI-TRACKS" get used interchangeably a lot these days, but they actually mean two different things. Using the correct term when working on a project can save you and other creatives you're working with a lot of time.

Stems:

Stems are a group of tracks sub-mixed together, such as all the guitars, or all the backing vocals.
These are usually stereo files that can be used to quickly print different versions of a mix. For example, an instrumental mix, an acapella mix, etc.
Stems can also be helpful when setting up a playback system for certain live backing track situations.

Multi-tracks:

Multi-tracks are the individual audio tracks that make up a session in a DAW such as Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton, or Studio One. These are generally sent as individual wav. files and would allow someone working in another DAW to mix or record parts for the song. For example: Overhead Left, Overhead Right, Acoustic Guitar, Bass, Keys R, Keys L etc.

Save time!

Using the right term will save you time and prevent a lot of back and forth between yourself and others working with you. Happy recording y'all!