User Manual

Stem Files
A Stem File is a track in the file format .stem.mp4 that contains four audio tracks (Stem
Parts). Each Stem Part represents one of the key elements e.g. drums, percussions, synths, vo-
cals, of the entire track. By default when a Stem File is played back in TRAKTOR all Stem
Parts are audible and result in an entire track.
Stem files must be analyzed before loading and playback. Due to the large amount of
data that must be read from a Stem File, it is currently necessary that Stem Files are
analyzed before loading into a Stem Deck. It is not possible to load and play a Stem File
before it has been analyzed. For more information on how to analyze tracks or Stem
Files, refer to the TRAKTOR Manual.
Stem Deck control on the F1
In the TRAKTOR software the Stem Deck looks identical to a conventional Track Deck. Only
the TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 and the TRAKTOR KONTROL D2 are able to additionally show the
four waveforms of the Stem Parts on their displays.
When a Stem File is played back using the F1 controller, the Pads will function as level meters
for visualizing the output volumes of the Stem Channels: as the Stem Channels become louder
the more the Pads will illuminate. If a Stem Channel provides no audio signal the Pads remain
unlit. In addition, the Slot Volume faders and Filter knobs of the F1 control the four Stem
Channels of the Stem Deck.
3.8.1 Loading a Stem File into the Stem Deck
Before you can load a Stem File into a Deck you need to set the Deck Flavor to Stem Deck in
the TRAKTOR software.
On the Deck controlled by your F1 controller:
1. Click on the Deck Focus “Icon” to display the Deck Flavor context menu.
Tutorials and Workflows
Using F1 for Stem Deck Control
TRAKTOR KONTROL F1 - Manual - 55