QLooper
Layered loops · Quantized control · MIDI integration
Layers become loop
Loops become music
Build each loop in layers. Combine loopers of different lengths — keep them in sync or let them run independently.
Separate loops
One performance
Play your loops together or individually. Link them to a master loop, keep others independent, and switch control without taking your hands off your instrument.
From verse to chorus
Keep playing
Arrange your sections in the order you need. Switch between them with MIDI, bringing each section’s loopers and effects into play.
Keep your hands playing
Let your feet take control
Record, layer and switch loopers without leaving your instrument. Give taps and holds different jobs, and choose when recording starts — immediately, on the next bar or after a count-in.
Start with our pedal setup
Download the Nektar Pacer A1 preset (.syx). Back up your device first; this replaces A1 only. Assign MIDI actions in your QLooper session as needed. See the setup guide and mapping.
Download Pacer A1 preset (.syx)Our setup
Your starting point
Example actions depend on your QLooper MIDI assignments.
| Pedal | Tap | Hold |
|---|---|---|
| 1 · Overdub | Start / finish overdubbing | Replace while held |
| 2 · Record | Record a new layer and mute earlier layers | Clear and start a fresh recording |
| 3 · Play / Stop | Play / stop the active looper | Clear the active looper |
| 4 · Undo / Redo | Undo the last take | Redo |
| 5 · Play All | Start all loopers in the manager | — |
| 6 · Stop All | Stop all loopers in the manager | Clear all their recordings |
| B · Song | Advance to the next section | Panic / restore audio |
| C · Previous | Switch to the previous looper and invoke its Overdub action | Select the previous looper |
| D · Next | Switch to the next looper and invoke its Overdub action | Select the next looper |
Try QLooper on macOS
RC2 is an early release candidate awaiting studio tests. It includes QLooper and a modified Element host for Apple Silicon Macs. macOS 14 is the build minimum; local testing has been on macOS 26.
Download for Apple SiliconCurrently available for macOS. Windows and Linux versions are possible — contributors to help build and test them are welcome.
Open the DMG and drag QLooper.app to Applications. This build is ad-hoc signed and is not notarized by Apple. If macOS blocks it, verify the download source and use Apple’s Open Anyway procedure in Privacy & Security.
Before testing, save a separate copy of existing sessions: RC2 writes a newer state that older builds cannot read.
Guides and release files
Quick Start PDF · Release notes · SHA-256 checksum · License · Third-party notices · Source · Dependency sources · GitHub repository
A few answers
Before you start
Will QLooper be free?
Yes. The macOS version built on Element is free and open source, with optional support for development.
Which Mac do I need?
RC2 is for Apple Silicon Macs. macOS 14 is the build minimum; local testing has been on macOS 26. Other platforms are not available in this release.
Do I need a MIDI controller?
No. Use the on-screen controls or keyboard shortcuts. A MIDI controller lets you keep your hands on your instrument.
Do I need to install Element separately?
No. QLooper includes a modified Element host, with the built-in looping nodes included.
Can I use my own effects?
Yes. Use compatible plugins in Element to shape your sound before or after the looper. Third-party plugins are installed separately.
Where can I get help or report a problem?
The Quick Start PDF and release notes are available in the Installation section.
More loops
More possibilities
QLooper is free and open source. If you enjoy using it, you can help support its development.
Support on Ko-fi