How to convert WAV files to SF2 (SoundFont)
SF2 (SoundFont 2) is a single binary file that packs the samples and the key mapping together — unlike SFZ, there are no separate WAV files to keep track of. To build an SF2 from WAVs you map each sample to its key range, set loops, and encode everything into the .sf2. Xampler detects pitch, maps the keyboard, finds loops and writes the SF2 for you — one self-contained file you can load in any SoundFont player, built in the browser.
- 1Drop your WAV samples into Xampler (named anything).
- 2It detects pitch, maps each to its key, and finds loops.
- 3Choose SF2 export.
- 4Download the single .sf2 file — everything is inside; load it in any SoundFont player.
01How do I turn my WAV samples into an SF2 SoundFont?
How do I turn my WAV samples into an SF2 SoundFont?
You assign each sample a key range and root note, set loop points, and encode it all into a single .sf2 file. The advantage of SF2 is that it's one self-contained file — samples and mapping bundled together. Xampler builds it automatically from your WAVs, including the mapping and loops.
02What's the difference between making an SF2 vs an SFZ from my WAVs?
What's the difference between making an SF2 vs an SFZ from my WAVs?
SF2 is one binary file with the audio baked in; SFZ is a text file plus separate WAV files. SF2 is easier to share and move (single file); SFZ is easier to edit by hand and tweak. Same samples, different container. Xampler can export either from the same project, so you can make both.
03Is SF2 still worth using, or is it outdated?
Is SF2 still worth using, or is it outdated?
It's old but very widely supported — almost every sampler and many hardware units read SF2, and it's a single file, which makes it convenient. For sharing a simple instrument it's still a solid choice. Xampler exports SF2 alongside SFZ and Korg formats so you can pick what your target needs.
04Can SF2 hold loops and velocity layers like a real instrument?
Can SF2 hold loops and velocity layers like a real instrument?
Yes — SF2 supports loop points and velocity layers (different samples by how hard you play). It's a full multisample format, not just a sample wrapper. Xampler writes loop points into the SF2 so sustained notes hold properly.
05Do I need a SoundFont editor like Polyphone to make an SF2?
Do I need a SoundFont editor like Polyphone to make an SF2?
Not to build one from WAVs — Xampler creates the SF2 directly in the browser, with mapping and loops, no editor needed. A tool like Polyphone is useful if you later want to fine-tune the SF2 by hand. Many people just need the conversion done correctly, which Xampler handles without an install.
06Can I convert WAV to SF2 online without installing software?
Can I convert WAV to SF2 online without installing software?
Yes. Xampler runs in the browser — drop your WAVs, it builds the SF2, you download one file. Nothing is installed and the audio stays on your machine. That's the difference from desktop SoundFont editors, which you have to download and run locally.
07Why choose SF2 over SFZ for sharing?
Why choose SF2 over SFZ for sharing?
Because SF2 is a single file with everything inside — there's nothing to lose or leave behind when you send it. SFZ travels as a folder (the .sfz plus its WAVs), so you have to keep them together. If you're handing the instrument to someone else or moving it between machines, SF2's one-file nature is the practical advantage. Xampler exports both.