What is Basic Pitch?
Basic Pitch is an audio-to-MIDI converter made by Spotify and released as open source. You record a melody in the browser or upload an audio file, and a machine learning model works out which notes were played and when, then hands you a MIDI file you can drop into any digital audio workstation.
It also detects pitch bends, so slides and vibrato are kept rather than flattened into fixed notes. That makes it handy for capturing a hummed idea, a guitar riff or a vocal line without having to play it again on a keyboard. Everything runs in the web page, and there is no account or payment step.
Main Features
- Converts audio recordings into MIDI notes
- Detects pitch bends as well as notes
- Record straight from your microphone or upload a file
- Download the MIDI file for use in any DAW
- Open source, built by Spotify
- Runs in the browser with no sign-up
How to Get Started with Basic Pitch
- Open basicpitch.spotify.com in your browser.
- Record a melody with your microphone or drop in an audio file.
- Wait for the model to analyse the audio and show the notes.
- Download the MIDI file and open it in your music software.
Basic Pitch Pricing
Basic Pitch is completely free. Spotify publishes it as an open-source project and there is no paid plan.
Who Should Use It?
- Songwriters capturing hummed or sung ideas
- Guitarists who want riffs as MIDI
- Producers building parts in a DAW
- Music students transcribing melodies
- Hobbyists experimenting with MIDI
Basic Pitch Alternatives
- Moises: AI app for separating stems, finding chords and practising songs.
- AudioShake: AI stem separation for music, film and podcasts.
- AIVA: AI composer that writes original music in many styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Basic Pitch free?
Yes. Basic Pitch is a free, open-source tool from Spotify with no paid tier or sign-up.
What does Basic Pitch export?
It exports a standard MIDI file that you can open in any digital audio workstation or notation app, including pitch bend information.
Can I record directly in Basic Pitch?
Yes. You can record audio in your browser with your microphone, or upload an existing audio file instead.