Studio tools 4 min read
Download gate: grow your fan list with a free file
Offer a demo, stems, acapella or PDF that fans unlock with their email — every unlock joins your fan list.
Anyone can read this guide. The tool it covers is part of the Studio and Lifetime plans.
- 1
Pick something worth an email
- Unreleased demos, stems, acapellas, sample packs, lyric sheets or tour PDFs all work. The more exclusive it feels, the more emails you collect.
- Files can be MP3, WAV, FLAC, M4A, AAC, OGG, ZIP or PDF, up to 200 MB.
- 2
Set it up
- Go to Dashboard → Smart Links, open the link, then open Studio tools → Download gate.
- Switch on Offer a free download, write a button label (like Free stems) and upload your file.
- Save. The file is stored privately — fans never see a raw link.
- 3
How fans unlock it
- A fan types their email, agrees to your emails and taps Unlock. They get a download button instantly and join your fan list at the same time.
- The download link expires after 2 hours, so it can't be shared around. Each unlock also counts in your Insights.
Tip: Mention the free download in your captions — 'free stems on my smart link' travels well.
- 4
Your fan list
- Every unlock appears on your link's Fans page with the other emails, ready to export as CSV.
- Fans can unsubscribe anytime from any email you send, and their choice is respected everywhere.
Watch out: Only gate files you own or have permission to give away.