Serato has expanded its stem-splitting technology with deeper hardware integration and enhanced creative control for sample-based producers.
Serato has rolled out Sample 2.2.0, a significant update to its flagship sampling plugin that introduces individual stem control and full DAW automation. The update arrives alongside SLAB—Serato’s first-ever pad controller co-developed with AlphaTheta, creating a tightly integrated hardware-software ecosystem designed specifically for beatmakers.
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Sample 2.2.0 builds on Serato’s acclaimed real-time stem-splitting technology, which separates audio into vocals, melody, bassline, and drums. Here’s what’s new:
Stem Levels
Producers can now individually balance each stem within any sample. Vocals, melody, bassline, and drums can be leveled independently, giving you precise control over your sample’s internal mix.
Stem Automation
Stem On/Off and individual Stem Levels are now fully automatable as DAW parameters. This means you can write dynamic mix changes, performance moves, and creative stem manipulations directly into your project timeline.
Native Control for SLAB
The update’s headline feature is native control for SLAB. The Serato and AlphaTheta developed hardware’s dedicated encoders provide hands-on access to stem separation, level adjustments, waveform scrubbing, cue point setting, and pitch/time stretching without diving into menus. For producers working in other DAWs, SLAB’s versatile MIDI mode allows custom mapping to any compatible software, maintaining that tactile control regardless of your production situation.
Mouse Wheel Support
Sample 2.2.0 introduces mouse wheel support for knobs and draggable fields, streamlining the adjustment process for faster, more intuitive editing. Combined with the existing VST3/AU/AAX plugin compatibility, these updates position Sample as an increasingly flexible tool for modern production workflows.
The timing of this update reinforces Serato’s commitment to its stem technology, which the company introduced across its product range in 2022 and 2023 to significant industry acclaim. By pairing software advances with purpose-built hardware like SLAB, Serato is creating a more cohesive ecosystem that bridges DJing and production—two disciplines that blur together more and more in modern music-making.
Sample 2.2.0 is available now as a free update for existing users. SLAB is available through authorised retailers worldwide. More information can be found here.
