Mixing, stems & printmasters · Working
Audio stem
Also called: stem
ELI5
A grouped submix, such as dialogue, music or effects, delivered separately for control or versioning.
Used in conversation
“Let’s hear the audio stem against picture before the next review.”
Pitch context
You may encounter “Audio stem” in sound, music & voice conversations or materials.
Why it matters: Explains dialogue, effects, atmosphere, music, voice and the technical work of making them intelligible.
Connected terms
- Final mixA stem is an isolated mix component; the final mix combines approved components into the complete soundtrack.
Sources & evidence · 4
Supporting source families. This entry is an editorial synthesis rather than a quotation from one canonical glossary.
- European Broadcasting Union — EBU R 128 Loudness Normalisation and Permitted Maximum Level of Audio SignalsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14
- Dolby — Dolby Atmos Content CreationSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14
- World Wide Web Consortium — Making Audio and Video Media AccessibleSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14
- Netflix — Partner Help Center Delivery SpecificationsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14