Convert SGU to MIDI

Source format

SGU is a song file format used by Band-in-a-Box from PG Music. It stores song data such as chord progressions, style settings, tempo, key, and arrangement information. It is not a finished audio file.

Target format

MIDI is a standard music interchange format that stores performance data such as notes, timing, velocity, program changes, and controller messages. It is widely supported by DAWs, notation software, hardware synths, and sequencers.

How to convert sgu to midi

The most reliable method is to use Band-in-a-Box, because it can open .sgu files directly and export them as MIDI.

1. Open Band-in-a-Box.
2. Choose File → Open and select your .sgu file.
3. Let the song load and generate the arrangement.
4. Export the song as MIDI using File → Save Special → Save Song as MIDI File or the MIDI export command available in your version.
5. Choose whether to export the full arrangement or selected tracks, then save the .mid file.

If you do not have Band-in-a-Box, check whether your version of MuseScore can import the file. However, MuseScore does not natively support SGU files, so it is not a dependable direct converter. For most users, Band-in-a-Box remains the correct desktop tool.

Reputable online converters are uncommon for this proprietary format. If you find a web service that claims to convert SGU to MIDI, verify that it explicitly supports Band-in-a-Box song files before uploading anything. For privacy and reliability, desktop conversion is usually better.

After conversion, you can open the .mid file in software such as Logic Pro, Cubase, Reaper, or FL Studio for editing or notation work.

Quality and limitations

SGU to MIDI conversion is usually good for chord, note, and arrangement data, but it is not always a perfect one-to-one transfer. MIDI does not preserve Band-in-a-Box-specific features such as style metadata, some generation settings, or other program-specific information.

If the SGU uses RealTracks or RealDrums, those audio-based parts may not convert into meaningful MIDI data because they are not originally MIDI performances. In those cases, the export may omit them or replace them with whatever MIDI data is available in the song.

For best results, open the SGU in Band-in-a-Box, confirm that it plays correctly, then export to MIDI and review the result in a sequencer or notation app. Track names, quantization, and controller data may need cleanup after export.