schellingb/TinySoundFont
FreeSoundFont2 synthesizer library in a single C/C++ file
FreeFree tier
About schellingb/TinySoundFont
TinySoundFont is a software synthesizer library that loads SoundFont2 (.sf2) sound bank files and renders audio samples. It is implemented as a single C header file (tsf.h) for effortless integration into C/C++ projects. The library is based on SFZero and requires only standard C libraries (fopen, math, malloc) — with the option to override these via preprocessor defines. It includes example programs that build and play sound on Win32, Win64, Linux, and macOS without additional dependencies. Licensed under the MIT license, TinySoundFont is designed for developers who need a lightweight, portable MIDI synthesizer in their applications.
Key Features
Single C header file (tsf.h) implementation
Loads and renders SoundFont2 (.sf2) sound banks
Based on SFZero with enhanced portability
Minimal dependencies: only standard C libraries (fopen, math, malloc)
Supports custom memory allocation and I/O functions via #defines
Cross-platform examples for Win32, Win64, Linux, and macOS
Permissive MIT license
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely easy to integrate — just include one header file
- Very small footprint with no external dependencies
- Portable across major desktop platforms (Windows, Linux, macOS)
- Open source with MIT license allows commercial and personal use
- Well-documented API in the source header with usage examples
Cons
- Limited to SoundFont2 format; no support for other sound bank formats
- No built-in audio output; user must handle rendering to buffer and playback
- Project explicitly prohibits LLM-generated contributions in issues and pull requests
Best For
Embedded audio synthesis in C/C++ applicationsMusic software and virtual instrumentsGame audio engines requiring SoundFont playbackAudio tool prototypes and educational projectsLightweight MIDI synthesizer for resource-constrained environments
FAQ
What is TinySoundFont?
TinySoundFont is a software synthesizer library that uses SoundFont2 sound bank files. It is implemented as a single C header file for easy integration into C/C++ projects.
What are the system requirements?
TinySoundFont requires only standard C libraries (fopen, math, malloc). It can be used on any platform with a C/C++ compiler. Examples are provided for Win32, Win64, Linux, and macOS.
Is TinySoundFont free to use?
Yes, TinySoundFont is released under the MIT license, which allows free use, modification, and distribution for both personal and commercial projects.
Does TinySoundFont provide audio output?
No, TinySoundFont renders audio samples into a user-provided buffer. The user is responsible for sending the buffer to an audio output device using platform-specific APIs.
Can I use TinySoundFont in my game engine?
Yes, the library is designed for embedding and works well in game engines. It is lightweight, cross-platform, and requires no external dependencies.