Mixing, mastering, vocal production & release preparation
File preparation hub
File preparation guides
Export settings, stems & delivery
Great mixes start with great files. Stems, sample rate, headroom and labeling determine how fast an engineer can work and how good the final result sounds.
This hub explains stems vs bounces, DAW export workflows, and the delivery checklist we use on real client projects.
10 guides in this hub · Written by GigTunes engineers
Explore topicsOther knowledge hubs
All Learn hubsFeatured
Essential file preparation guides
Start with what our engineers recommend most — cornerstone reading for this topic.
Pathways
Preparing files for the first time?
A short, ordered path — read in sequence for the fastest understanding.
Problems
Common file preparation struggles
Pick the symptom that sounds like your session — we'll take you straight to the fix.
Library
All file preparation guides
Browse every file preparation article in the GigTunes knowledge hub.
File preparation
How to bounce a track properly
Export a stereo mix or stems with correct format, headroom, start point and naming — for mixing, mastering or delivery.
File preparation
How to export stems in Ableton Live
Export stems from Ableton — resampling, Export Audio/Video, group tracks and correct WAV settings for mixing.
File preparation
How to export stems in FL Studio
Export stems from FL Studio using Playlist render, split mixer tracks and WAV settings for professional mixing.
File preparation
How to export stems in Logic Pro
Export stems from Logic Pro for mixing — bounce settings, track stacks, same start point and WAV format.
File preparation
How to export stems in Pro Tools
Export stems from Avid Pro Tools using Bounce to Disk, soloed buses and WAV settings for mix engineers.
File preparation
How to export stems in Studio One
Export stems from PreSonus Studio One — song export, track transform and WAV settings for professional mixing.
File preparation
Mono vs stereo files
When to use mono or stereo tracks in production, mixing and mastering — and why mono compatibility still matters for streaming.
File preparation
How many stems do you need?
There is no magic stem count — here is how to decide how many tracks to export for mixing based on genre, complexity and budget.
File preparation
What are stems?
Stems, multitracks and stereo bounces explained — what to export before mixing and how they differ from a finished mix.
File preparation
How to prepare stems for mixing
Export your project correctly so your mix engineer can work faster, avoid technical issues, and deliver a better final mix.
Not sure what your track needs?
Start with a professional Engineer Review
Get structured written feedback from a GigTunes engineer before you invest in full production, distribution or promotion.
Need a quote for an EP, album or multi-track release? Request a custom quote.
What you get
- Written feedback
- Release-focused
- Delivered in your inbox
Premium engineer access — delivered as a structured one-time review.
FAQ
File preparation FAQ
What is the difference between stems and a stereo bounce?+
Stems are separate groups (vocals, drums, bass, etc.) so a mix engineer can balance your song. A stereo bounce is one file — fine for mastering, not for a full mix from scratch.
Should I export MP3 or WAV?+
WAV 24-bit for mixing and mastering. MP3 adds lossy compression that engineers cannot undo. Always keep your project file and export lossless audio.
How much headroom should I leave on stems?+
Avoid clipping on any stem; peaks around -6 dBFS on the mix bus is a safe target before mastering. Do not slap a limiter on every stem “just to be loud.”
Do you have export guides for my DAW?+
Yes — we publish stem export guides for Logic, Ableton, FL Studio, Pro Tools and Studio One in this hub and across the Learn library.
Ready to start?
Ready to apply this with an engineer?
You've read the guides — let our team take your file preparation to a release-ready finish.