Mixxx vs STEM

Mixxx is free DJ software for performing live mixes with digital music files on Linux, macOS and Windows. It is designed for both people starting with a laptop and experienced turntablists. Four decks provide scratchable scrolling waveforms and whole-song overview waveforms. Mixing controls include beat looping, Sync Lock, hotcues, beat rolls, censor and quantization. Mixxx supports FLAC, WAV, AIFF, MP3, M4A/AAC, Ogg Vorbis and Opus files. It works with MIDI and HID controllers, programmable JavaScript mappings and timecode vinyl control, and can load up to 64 sampler decks. Local music libraries from iTunes, Traktor, Banshee, Rekordbox, Rhythmbox and Serato can be read. Mixxx records mixes in WAV, FLAC and Ogg Vorbis, with MP3 optional, and streams through Shoutcast or Icecast servers. The full version costs nothing, with donations optional and no official paid or pro version. Its source code is published under the GNU GPL v2 or later. The application does not require an account or use telemetry. Beta and development snapshots are not intended for live use and may crash.

STEM is a free web platform for bands and music collaborators to upload, mix and discuss song stems. Its multi-track mixer handles uploaded stems, while invited members can view or work on projects in real time. Timed comment threads can be attached to individual tracks or the master track. Share links use customizable permissions, allowing songs to remain private or become public. Users can render stems to MP3, save mix snapshots and export renders. Songs can be grouped into playable, shareable lists for albums, EPs, setlists or work sessions, and can carry lyrics, chord charts, reference tracks, session notes and other files. STEM is intended for discussion and shared decisions rather than music creation like a full DAW. Certain features require a Google account. The privacy policy says uploaded audio is accessible to the user and explicitly shared people. The Free plan costs nothing, with limited version history.