Complete Guide to MIDI Drum Mapping Between Popular Libraries
Published: May 26, 2025
MIDI drum mapping is essential for musicians and producers who work with different drum libraries or virtual instruments. This guide will explore common mapping techniques, compare popular drum libraries, and show you how to efficiently convert between different formats.
Understanding MIDI Drum Maps
MIDI drum maps define which MIDI note numbers correspond to specific drum sounds. The General MIDI (GM) standard assigns specific note numbers to drum sounds (e.g., note 36 for kick drum, 38 for snare), but many virtual instruments and drum libraries use their own proprietary mappings.
This inconsistency creates challenges when you want to:
- Transfer drum patterns between different software instruments
- Use MIDI grooves with a different drum library than they were created for
- Collaborate with others who use different drum libraries
Common Drum Library Mappings
Here's a comparison of note mappings across popular drum libraries:
| Drum Sound | General MIDI | Superior Drummer | Addictive Drums | EZ Drummer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kick | 36 | 36 | 36 | 36 |
| Snare (Center) | 38 | 38 | 38 | 38 |
| Snare (Rim) | 40 | 40 | 40 | 40 |
| Hi-Hat Closed | 42 | 42 | 42 | 42 |
| Hi-Hat Open | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 |
While basic elements often align across libraries, variations occur with specialized articulations, cymbals, and percussion elements.
Remapping Techniques
There are several methods to remap MIDI drum notes:
1. Using our Online MIDI Drum Remapper
Our free online MIDI remapper tool offers the easiest solution:
- Upload your MIDI file
- Select source and target drum libraries from presets
- Fine-tune individual note mappings if necessary
- Download your remapped MIDI file
This approach requires no software installation and works directly in your browser.
2. DAW-Specific Solutions
Many digital audio workstations offer built-in MIDI transformation capabilities:
- Logic Pro: MIDI Transform window
- Cubase: Logical Editor
- Ableton Live: MIDI Effect Rack with Note effects
- Pro Tools: Event Operations window
Best Practices for MIDI Drum Mapping
- Create templates for frequently used conversions
- Document your mappings to maintain consistency across projects
- Test thoroughly after conversion to ensure all articulations translate properly
- Consider velocity mapping alongside note mapping, as different libraries respond differently to velocity values
Conclusion
Effective MIDI drum mapping saves time and preserves the musicality of your drum performances when working across different libraries. Our online MIDI remapper simplifies this process with pre-built mappings between popular drum libraries and a user-friendly interface.
Have questions about MIDI mapping or suggestions for new presets? Comment below or reach out through our contact form.