Convert SFZ to REX

Understanding SFZ and REX file formats

SFZ is an open standard file format for defining instrument sounds for software samplers. It is a plain text format that maps audio samples (usually WAV files) to MIDI notes and velocities, allowing for expressive and flexible sampled instruments. REX (Recycle Loop Export) is a proprietary audio loop file format developed by Propellerhead (now Reason Studios). REX files contain sliced audio loops, allowing for tempo flexibility and easy manipulation in digital audio workstations (DAWs).

Why convert SFZ to REX?

Converting SFZ to REX is not a typical or direct process, as SFZ is a sampler instrument definition, while REX is a sliced audio loop. However, you might want to convert the audio samples mapped in an SFZ instrument into a REX loop for use in loop-based music production or to take advantage of REX's slicing and tempo-matching features.

How to convert SFZ to REX

There is no direct one-step converter from SFZ to REX, but you can achieve the conversion through these steps:

1. Extract the audio samples referenced in the SFZ file. These are usually WAV files located in the same folder as the SFZ file.
2. Create a loop from the extracted samples. You may need to arrange or edit the samples in an audio editor to form a continuous loop.
3. Convert the loop to REX format using a REX file creator.

Recommended software for conversion

• Propellerhead ReCycle: The industry-standard tool for creating and editing REX files. Import your WAV loop and use File → Export → REX to save as a REX file.
• Reason Studios Reason: Allows you to import audio, slice it, and export as REX files.
• Audacity (for editing): Use Audacity to arrange and edit your WAV samples before importing into ReCycle.

Step-by-step conversion process

1. Open the SFZ file in a text editor to locate the referenced WAV samples.
2. Gather the WAV files and, if needed, use an audio editor to arrange them into a loop.
3. Open Propellerhead ReCycle and import the WAV loop.
4. Use ReCycle's slicing tools to define the loop points and slices.
5. Go to File → Export → REX to save your loop as a REX file.

Tips and considerations

• SFZ files may reference multiple samples; choose the ones you want to loop.
• REX files are best for rhythmic or percussive loops.
• There is no automated tool for direct SFZ to REX conversion; manual editing is required.