Native Instruments have released a free update that expands support for their Stem audio files.

Native Instruments (NI) launched Stems last year, a unique audio file that splits up the components of a track. It was lauded by DJs and producers as it made splitting up a track easier than ever, perfect for dissecting and remixing tracks.

This new update, ‘TRAKTOR PRO 2.10.1’, allows use of Stems in all Traktor DJ systems and decks. The beautiful thing about this update is that it implements Stem View into Traktor’s Stem Decks so you can easily view and control the elements in a Stem file. Stem view provides a color-coded overview of the four sections in a Stem file so you can access, tweak and edit each instrument in the Stem file.

Along with Traktor support NI are also making 65 Stem tracks available for free from their website so that you can easily introduce and adjust yourself to the unique format.  NI say: “Derived from selected MASCHINE expansions, these 65 Stems tracks cover a wide range of tempos and genres ranging from techno, house, and funk, to trap, drum and bass, dubstep and more.” In addition you can get 25% off of Stem purchases on Beatport, Bleep, Juno, Traxsource, Wasabeat, and whatpeopleplay until February 29th.

Many DJs have shown their appreciation of Stem files including legendary British house producer Carl Cox, who said: “When I play Stems, my creativity as a DJ goes up through the roof.” Radio DJ Pete Tong also weighed in, saying: “Whether it’s remixing a classic on the fly, adding a personal stamp to a new tune, or being able to re-interpret your own music in a live environment really means the possibilities are endless. Stems are the next level.”

You can find out more about Stem files from NI’s website here and get your 65 free Stem tracks here.

Watch some previews of Stems in use with Traktor in the videos below:

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzEKk0yGsfg?rel=0&w=640&h=360]

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTx6V5X8j-Q?rel=0&w=640&h=360]