How to Audition MIDI Files in Magix Samplitude
If you’re a musician or producer looking to streamline your workflow with MIDI files, Magix Samplitude offers a powerful and flexible platform to bring your ideas to life. In this quick guide, we’ll walk through a simple process to audition MIDI files using a VST instrument in Samplitude—perfect for experimenting with sounds, crafting drum tracks, or building full arrangements. For this example, we’ll use EZdrummer, but the beauty of this method is that it works with any VST instrument you prefer. Let’s dive in!
Watch the Companion Video
Step 1: Adding a VST Instrument
To get started, open your Samplitude project and select the track where you’d like to add your VST instrument. Click on "Add plug-in" in the track’s interface—this opens up a world of sonic possibilities. From there, navigate to the "Plug-in browser" and select "VST" to access your virtual instruments. Scroll through your options and pick the one that suits your vibe—whether it’s EZdrummer for punchy drum sounds or a synth for atmospheric pads. Once you’ve made your choice, hit "OK" to load it up.
Step 2: Configuring Routing Options
Before the instrument is fully integrated, you’ll need to choose your routing options. For simplicity, the "simple" routing works great for straightforward playback, as shown in the video above.
However, if you’re working on something more complex—like mixing a multi-layered drum kit—consider the "multi-channel" option. This gives you individual outputs for each drum element (kick, snare, hi-hat, etc.), making it a game-changer for detailed mixing. Select your preference and click "OK" to lock it in.
Step 3: Importing Your MIDI File
Now it’s time to bring in your MIDI file. Head to the "File" menu at the top of Samplitude, click "Import," and then click "Load MIDI File." A window will pop up prompting you to browse your computer—find the MIDI file you want to audition and click "Open." Once it’s loaded, you’ll see an option called "Single Track." Double-click this to import the MIDI data directly into your selected track, where it’ll sync up with your VST instrument.
Why This Matters for Musicians
This process is a fantastic way to quickly test out ideas or preview MIDI compositions without committing to a full arrangement. Whether you’re a drummer tweaking beats with EZdrummer, a keyboardist layering synths, or a producer experimenting with pre-made MIDI loops, Samplitude’s flexibility makes it easy to audition sounds on the fly. Plus, the ability to switch between simple and multi-channel routing gives you control over how much detail you want to dive into—perfect for both rough sketches and polished productions.
Pro Tip: Enhance Your Sound with Effects
Once your MIDI file is imported, take advantage of Samplitude’s effects capabilities to shape your sound. You can add effects like reverb to create depth and space, compression to tighten up dynamics, EQ to sculpt the tone, and more.
Wrap-Up
Auditioning MIDI files in Magix Samplitude is a straightforward yet powerful technique that every musician should have in their toolkit. With just a few clicks, you can load up a VST instrument, import a MIDI file, and start exploring your creative potential. So grab your favorite VST, fire up Samplitude, and let your imagination fly.
Happy producing!
