Native Instruments has launched Stems – a new multi-track audio format that they say introduces enhanced performance possibilities for DJs and a new paradigm for the music industry as a whole. NI tells us that 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. Here's the details in NI's own words...

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 support the online community of DJs, as well as producers, developers, and industry professionals, www.stems-music.com will act as the official home for important information about playing and creating Stems. DJs can also follow the global discussion online by using and searching for the hashtag #playstems.

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.

A full list of labels, retailers, and distributors, as well quotes from artists and labels releasing music in Stems format are attached as additional press material.

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.

The video features NGHT DRPS performing with Stems on TRAKTOR KONTROL D2s at Watergate Club in Berlin.

Pricing and Availability:
From August 3, 2015 to September 30, 2015, the following pricing applies to Stems-ready TRAKTOR hardware at the NI Online Shop and participating retailers while stocks last:

Traktor Kontrol S8
$999 / 999 € / £699 / ¥ 114,800 / AU$ 1.299

Traktor Kontrol D2
$399 / 399 € / £279 / ¥ 44,800 / AU$ 549

Traktor Kontrol F1
$149 / 149 € / £109 / ¥ 18,800 / AU$ 199

The free TRAKTOR PRO 2.9 update is now available for download via the NI Service Center.

A full TRAKTOR PRO 2 license comes bundled with the purchase of TRAKTOR KONTROL S8 or TRAKTOR KONTROL D2. The software is provided as a download following registration of the hardware.

More information:

• www.native-instruments.com/playstems

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