XI File – What is .xi file and how to open it?

Fasttracker 2 Extended Instrument File (XI)

An XI file is a Fasttracker 2 Extended Instrument File, a format used to store musical instrument samples and settings. It is an extension of the Fasttracker 2 (FT2) format, which is a popular tracker format for creating music on computers. XI files contain additional features and support for more advanced instruments than the original FT2 format.

XI files are typically used to store instrument samples, such as drums, bass, and melodies. They can also contain information about the instrument’s settings, such as volume, pitch, and effects. This allows for more complex and realistic-sounding instruments to be created. XI files are commonly used by musicians and producers who create electronic music and video game soundtracks.

Applications Associated with XI Files

The .XI file extension is primarily associated with Fasttracker 2, a popular music tracking software released in 1997. Fasttracker 2 introduced the concept of extended instruments, allowing users to create complex instruments beyond the limitations of traditional sample-based music. XI files contain data related to these extended instruments, including instrument settings, sample mappings, and envelope configurations.

Opening XI Files

To open an XI file, you will need a compatible music tracking software. The most common option for this is OpenMPT (Open ModPlug Tracker), a free and open-source music software that supports a wide range of file formats, including XI. Once you have OpenMPT installed, you can open an XI file by drag-and-dropping it onto the application window or by selecting it through the “File” menu. OpenMPT will load the extended instrument data into its editor, allowing you to edit and modify the instrument as needed.

Additional Information

It’s worth noting that XI files are not compatible with Fasttracker 2 Extended itself, as the software has been discontinued for several years. However, there are community-developed tools available that can convert XI files into other formats, such as WAV or MIDI, making them usable in other music software.

XI File Format

The XI file extension is associated with the Fasttracker 2 Extended Instrument File format, a proprietary audio file format developed by Starbreeze Studios. This file type is specifically designed for use with the Fasttracker 2 music tracker software, a popular tool for creating and editing music in the 1990s. XI files store extended instrument data, such as sample waveforms, envelopes, and effects settings, which are used to create complex and dynamic musical compositions within the Fasttracker 2 environment.

XI files provide a structured and efficient way to organize and manipulate musical instruments within Fasttracker 2. They enable composers to create custom instrument definitions, including the assignment of samples, the configuration of envelopes for volume, pitch, and panning, and the application of various effects such as vibrato, chorus, and distortion. The extended instrument data stored in XI files allows for greater control over the sonic characteristics of each instrument, facilitating the creation of a wide range of musical styles and textures. Additionally, XI files can be shared and exchanged among users, allowing for collaboration and the reuse of instrument definitions in different musical projects.

Other Extensions