StemRoller review
A free, open-source desktop splitter for vocals, drums, bass, and other stems.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
StemRoller is a free, open-source desktop application for musicians, DJs, remixers, karaoke users, and other creators who need locally generated vocal or instrumental tracks. It separates songs into vocals, drums, bass, and other instrumental audio, then can create a mixed instrumental track from the non-vocal stems. The app is available as downloadable builds for Windows and macOS, with song searches available by title or artist.
Its main strength is a focused set of creative outputs built around four-stem separation. StemRoller uses the Demucs machine-learning source-separation model and can generate vocal or acapella tracks, karaoke versions, and instrumental mixes. YouTube is part of the workflow through online song search, which can help users locate material before processing it. This makes the product a practical fit for users who want a straightforward desktop tool rather than a broader production platform.
The trade-off is a narrower workflow. StemRoller does not provide batch processing, so it suits individual-song work better than larger queues. Its separation output is limited to vocals, drums, bass, and other stems, which may not cover projects requiring more detailed stem categories. Linux is also not officially supported. Pick StemRoller if you want free local separation on Windows or macOS, plus quick karaoke, acapella, and instrumental creation. Choose an alternative if batch processing, broader stem coverage, or Linux support is central to your workflow.
StemRoller pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Separates songs into vocals, drums, bass, and other stems
- Creates karaoke, acapella, and instrumental versions
- Free, open-source Windows and macOS desktop builds
- Where it doesn't
- No batch processing
- Limited to four stem outputs
- Linux is not officially supported
StemRoller fact sheet, pricing and score →
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