KAR vs MID: Karaoke MIDI Format Comparison

Compare KAR karaoke and standard MIDI formats.

KAR as Extended MIDI Format

KAR (Karaoke) is functionally an extended MIDI format. KAR files use the same MIDI structure and encoding as MID files, but with additional lyric data embedded using MIDI text events. A KAR file is essentially a MID file with lyrics. Standard MIDI players can play KAR files musically (ignoring lyrics). Karaoke players read both MIDI and lyric data, displaying lyrics while music plays.

Lyric Integration Mechanism

KAR files embed lyrics using MIDI text meta-events. Lyrics are time-synchronized to music: each lyric or syllable is tagged with the MIDI timestamp when it should appear. MIDI specification allows arbitrary text events; KAR leverages this for lyrics. MID files typically do not include text events (or include minimal non-lyric text). KAR files are heavily populated with text events for lyric display.

File Structure Equivalence

At binary level, KAR and MID files are structurally identical: both use MIDI format with tracks, events, and meta-events. The difference is content: MID focuses on musical notes. KAR includes extensive text events for lyrics. A MID file with embedded text events is functionally a KAR file; the extension distinction is organizational.

Playback Device Support

Standard MIDI players (like synthesizers or sequencers) play KAR files musically but ignore text. Karaoke players understand KAR format, read text events, and display lyrics while playing. Modern multimedia players often support both MID and KAR. Smartphones and computers with karaoke apps play KAR files with lyrics. MID files require dedicated MIDI players; KAR files can be played by general multimedia software with karaoke support.

Use Case Specialization

MID files are for music composition, production, and playback. KAR files are specifically for karaoke: singing along to instrumental music with lyric display. MID is general-purpose music. KAR is karaoke-specific.

Lyric Quality Considerations

KAR files quality depends on lyric accuracy and timing. Professionally created KAR files have carefully synchronized lyrics. Amateur KAR files may have timing errors or typos. MID files focus on musical quality; lyric accuracy is irrelevant (no lyrics present). KAR quality has musical component (same as MID) plus lyric component (unique to KAR).

Creation and Editing

MID files created with any DAW or MIDI editor. KAR files require karaoke-aware software that can add and synchronize lyrics to MIDI. Creating KAR requires either specialized karaoke editors or manual MIDI text event insertion. MID creation is more straightforward.

File Size Difference

KAR files are slightly larger than equivalent MID files due to lyric text overhead. A typical MID file: 10-50 KB. Same song as KAR: 15-60 KB (15-50% larger). Size difference is negligible on modern systems.

Legacy Format Status

Both MID and KAR remain relevant but are legacy formats. Modern music uses audio formats (MP3, AAC) with separate lyric files or streaming service lyrics. MID/KAR represent older approach to music with integrated data. Both persist in niche applications: MIDI in music production, KAR in karaoke software.