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Working Across Different DAWs 3: Importing Files

Music Production TroubleshootingPublished 2015.06.23Updated 2026.07.17
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When sharing music-production data across DAWs, MIDI and audio files need to be imported correctly. This article explains how to bring exported files into another DAW, transfer large audio files through online storage, keep backups, assign instruments, and set the tempo.

Working with MIDI and audio across DAWs

DAW compatibility

After exporting MIDI and audio in the previous installment, let’s import them into another DAW.
We will also cover points to consider when sending and receiving the files.

MIDI and audio compatibility

1. Understanding DAW structure
2. MIDI and audio compatibility
3. Importing dataThis is the current article.


A note about large files

Small MIDI files can be attached to email,
but audio files are often much larger and may cause an error when sent by email.

Online storage is useful in these cases.

One service recommended in the original article is
GigaFile, which can handle large files. Check its current limits and terms before use.

GigaFile

URL: http://gigafile.nu

Back up your files

Backup

Always keep backups of files you send or receive.
This helps you recover if a file is lost or damaged.

Import files by drag and drop

Working across different DAWs

Both MIDI and audio
can be imported by dragging and dropping them into the DAW’s sequencer.

Then assign instruments and adjust the tempo
to recreate the song. Check the result: sounds, effects, routing and other project settings may need to be recreated separately.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is an easy way to import MIDI into another DAW?

Drag and drop the MIDI file into the DAW’s sequencer, then assign instruments and adjust the tempo. Check the arrangement and sound in the destination project.

Q2. What if an audio file is too large to email?

Use an online file-transfer or storage service such as GigaFile to send and receive larger files. Check the service’s current size limits and terms.

Q3. What should I do to manage received project files safely?

Always back up files you send or receive. Backups can help you recover from file loss or corruption.