Convert NBKT to SF2

Understanding NBKT and SF2 file formats

NBKT files are typically associated with Native Instruments Battery drum kit presets. These files store drum kit configurations, including sample mappings, effects, and settings for use within the Battery software. SF2 files, or SoundFont 2 files, are a widely used format for storing sampled instrument sounds, allowing for playback in various digital audio workstations (DAWs) and MIDI-compatible software.

Why convert NBKT to SF2?

Converting NBKT to SF2 enables you to use your Battery drum kits in a broader range of music production environments, especially those that support SoundFont instruments but not Native Instruments Battery kits. This can be useful for sharing, archiving, or using your drum sounds in different DAWs.

How to convert NBKT to SF2

There is no direct, automated converter for NBKT to SF2 due to the proprietary nature of Battery kits. However, you can perform a manual conversion by following these steps:

1. Open your NBKT file in Native Instruments Battery.
2. Export each drum sample used in the kit as individual WAV files.
3. Note the mapping (which sample is assigned to which MIDI note).
4. Use a SoundFont editor such as Polyphone (free, cross-platform) to create a new SF2 file.
5. Import your exported WAV samples into Polyphone and assign them to the corresponding MIDI notes, replicating the original Battery kit mapping.
6. Save your project as an SF2 file.

Recommended software for conversion

• Native Instruments Battery – to open and export samples from NBKT files.
• Polyphone – a free SoundFont editor for creating and editing SF2 files. Download from polyphone-soundfonts.com.

Summary

While there is no one-click solution for converting NBKT to SF2, using Battery to export samples and Polyphone to build a SoundFont allows you to transfer your drum kits between these formats. This process ensures your custom drum sounds remain usable across different music production platforms.