Sending stems for mixing: the checklist producers actually need
How to bounce stems for a mix engineer: headroom, naming, effects, sample rate, and what to put in the email. Warrington Music Studio mixing from £60/song.
mixing · stems · music production · Warrington · export
A mix engineer cannot fix a folder called final_bounce_3 without context. Good stems turn a mix quote into a fast turnaround instead of a week of emails.
Start with organisation
One folder per song. Label tracks so a stranger knows what they are (lead vocal, verse ad libs, bass DI, kick in, etc.). Include a text file with BPM, key, and any reference links.
Print effects or not?
Unless you agree otherwise, send dry or lightly processed vocals and DI bass or guitar. Heavy reverb on a printed stem cannot be undone. If a effect is part of the sound (distorted 808, creative delay on a hook), note that in the readme file.
Headroom and format
Bounce stems with peaks below -3 dB, ideally more headroom on vocals. WAV at the project sample rate. Do not send mp3 stems for a paid mix unless the engineer explicitly accepts them.
Include a rough mix
A quick level balance helps the mixer hear your intent. It is not the final product; it is a map.
Booking a mix here
We mix from sessions recorded at Evans House or from stems you upload. See mixing and mastering and rates. Recorded here already? Mention the session date when you enquire so we can match tone.
Need the room first? Book recording studio time in Warrington before you bounce stems for mix.