Good day everyone, This is primarily for PG Music, but anyone can answer if you can give me some details.
I have a friend who is an aspiring singer/songwriter. He's done backing tracks and backing vocals for his father, who puts together contemporary Christian music. Neither has used Band In A Box before, to my knowledge. I'd like to get the son to try out BIAB. However, I'm not sure about what makes up a Real Combo. It says there are 850 real tracks in 350 'bands' or combos. Are these real tracks fixed per 'band', or can they be moved around, take the bass line from one and put it another, as we do with regular Real Tracks?
I mean, for someone who has never used BIAB, laying out over $460 for the UltraPak may be a bit much. Obviously, I haven't needed a 'Demo package' for years, but does PG Music even offer a 15 or 30-day trial anymore? I think they used to, but that was some time ago, and memory isn't what it used to be, so maybe they didn't even back in the day.
Anyone who started out with the MegaPak and then later on upgraded to the UltraPak, and I'm talking within the last three or four years. Can you tell me what you thought and whether or not you would recommend going straight to the UltraPak? Finally, if he decides that he likes BIAB, can he upgrade from MegaPak to UltraPak next time we have updates, etc.?
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Gary
I'm blessed watching God do what He does best. I've had a few rough years, and I'm still not back to where I want to be, but I'm on the way and things are looking far better now than what they were!
Hi Gary. This one can be confusing. It's been over a decade that I have used the audiophile version, so I don't know the answer. I do believe one can update from a level to a higher level package the next year for less than full price, and there is always a rather full web page giving these options. I've also seen cases where someone bought the Pro package and contacted Support to update soon after. About the trial version, that is not done; instead they offer the 30-day money back guarantee.
BIAB 2026 Win Audiophile. Software: Fender Studio One 8, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6, Song Master Pro, Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Fender Quantom HD8 & Faderport 8, Royer 121, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors.
Thanks Matt! I hope all is going well for you. Any new albums in the works?
Gary
I'm blessed watching God do what He does best. I've had a few rough years, and I'm still not back to where I want to be, but I'm on the way and things are looking far better now than what they were!
Sadly it isn't a dumb question. PG Music's packages have often caused confusion, so many people end up asking it. I still sometimes struggle to be certain what's included in some packs and what's not.
There's significantly more in the UltraPAK than the MegaPAK ( (++ comparison ++) ). The best advice is usually to get the biggest you're prepared to afford, but that's quite a lot of money (though good value, too, I think). As Matt says, often an entry-ish initial buy and an upgrade can work out cheaper. I think most long term users have the UltraPAK.
(OmniPAK includes, I think, everything that PGM sell).
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
My advice to the new users, especially the young users.
Save your money. Just spend 130 bucks buy a BiaB Pro version. Plus a few XPro Styles Add-on Paks (50 bucks each).
The XPro Styles are tailored to work along with BiaB Pro version, of which doesn't have full RealTracks and MIDI content.
However, BiaB Pro version has the full features as Mega, Ultra, Ultra+ versions.
Also, in BiaB, as long as the Time Signatures are matching, the Feels (ev8, sw8, ev16, sw16) are matching, and the Tempos are close (plus minus 10 bmp), all RealTracks and MIDIs can be used interchangably, regardless of which band they were recorded from.
Spend your first year working hard, learning all the important features of BiaB.
After one year, if you feel BiaB is your thing, then skip Mega and Ultra, go straight to Ultra+, and buy those Xtra Styles Add-on Paks (50 bucks each, a total of 15 of them).
Yes, you are looking at close to $1,500 to spend. But it's worth it.
Ultra+ version is basically Ultra version plus a $100 Songs & Lessons Pak, of which contains Master Solos Series, Riffs & Phrases Series, Fakebook Songs, etc, which is massively powerful to professional music production.
Unless you have unlimited disk space, there's no need to go with the 2 TB size Audiophile version.
In summary: Buy Pro, save money. Go to YouTube, learn it to the full extent. Wait for a year, spend all your money buying the Ultra+ Pak and the sexy Add-ons. You won't be regreted.
A Canadian music producer, singer songwriter, composer, and professional guitarist.
The Ultra and Audiophile packages contain one hundred percent of the package content. The Mega package contains about one third of the available package content and the Pro package contains about one tenth of the available package content. I used the advertised number of audio hours to come up with these percentages.
Content like RealTracks, MultiStyles, Artist Performances, MIDISuperTracks and so on are collected and bundled into sets with each set sold separately. The Ultra and Audiophile packages include all the sets currently released. It costs less to purchase the Ultra PAK than it does to purchase all of the individual sets.
It is important to realize every individual piece has an identification number. As an example RealTrack set number 429 is composed of three Johnny Hiland guitar RealTracks numbered 4187, 4188 and 4189.
The Pro and Mega packages take individual pieces of content from the sets and matches them together to create a band or combo. As an example PG Music may start with RealTrack #4188; "Guitar,Electric,Soloist,CountryBalladSlowJohnny Ev16 065" and pair it with RealTrack #910; "Piano,Electric,Rhythm,SmoothBallad Ev16 065" from set 73, a bass RealTrack from another set, acoustic guitar RealTrack from another set and a RealDrum track to create a five piece band. Then PG Music creates a demo style using the five piece band. In many respects PG Music is doing the same thing most Band-in-a-Box users do everyday, create a band and make a song!
As MusicVillian mentioned the Band-in-a-Box and RealBand programs are the same no matter what package is purchased. I agree with him that the Pro PAK is a great starter package. The Pro PAK offers a little bit of every kind of content PG Music publishes. You can use that content to learn how the Band-in-a-Box program works and what it has to offer. I stayed with the Pro PAK for two years to concentrate on learning all the program nuances before upgrading to the Ultra PAK to acquire all the additional content. Having limited content in the beginning allowed me to concentrate on learning the program. If I had access to all the content in the beginning I likely would have spent more time auditioning content instead of learning the program. Sometimes it's nice to have some restraint.
As I stated, *I* have the current UltraPak. I will take under advisement the input here (which is why I asked for it), but I think that maybe the MegaPak is probably going to be the better solution, but I need to sit down with my friend, demo BIAB for him and help him make his own decision, or even if he wants to buy BIAB (Personally, I think EVERY musician should have this great program) or not.
Thanks, everyone, and please, continue to leave your input.
Gary
Last edited by Gary Curran; 04/11/2309:41 AM.
I'm blessed watching God do what He does best. I've had a few rough years, and I'm still not back to where I want to be, but I'm on the way and things are looking far better now than what they were!
It might be worth noting that it is cheaper to purchase the Pro version and then upgrade to a higher version (like UltraPak) than it is to purchase the higher version from the get go. It's not strongly advertised, but true.
It might be worth noting that it is cheaper to purchase the Pro version and then upgrade to a higher version (like UltraPak) than it is to purchase the higher version from the get go. It's not strongly advertised, but true.
+1. This page of Joanne Cooper is probably the best place for a first purchase.
Last Chance! The Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® Special Ends Today (May 31, 2026) at 11:59pm PDT!
Time really is running out! Save up to 50% on Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® upgrades and receive a FREE Bonus PAK—only when you order by 11:59 PM PDT today!
We've added many major new features and new content in a redesigned Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®!
Version 2026 introduces a modernized GUI redesign across the program, with updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, and a new Dark Mode option. There’s also a new side toolbar for quicker access to commonly used windows, and the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, making it easier to customize your workspace.
Another exciting new addition is the amazing new AI-Notes feature, which can transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI. View the results in notation or play them back as MIDI, and choose whether to transcribe an entire track or transcribe specific parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®.
There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, and much more!
Upgrade your Band-in-a-Box for Mac® to save up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade packages!
Plus, when you order your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 Mac upgrade during our special, you'll receive a Free Bonus PAK of exciting new add-ons.
If you need any help deciding which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We are here to help!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 Mac Special Offers Extended Until May 31st!
Good news- we've extended our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® special offers until May 31, 2026!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 is packed with major new features, enhancements, and an incredible lineup of new content! The program now sports a sleek, modern GUI redesign across the entire interface, including updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, a new dark mode option, and more. The brand-new side toolbar provides quicker access to key windows, while the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, creating a flexible, clutter-free workspace. We have an amazing new “AI-Notes” feature. This transcribes polyphonic audio into MIDI so you can view it in notation or play it back as MIDI. You can transcribe an entire track (all pitched instruments and drums) or focus on individual parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, and much more!
There are over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®.
When you order purchase Band-in-a-Box® 2026 before 11:59 PM PDT on May 31st, you'll also receive a Free Bonus PAK packed with exciting new add-ons.
Check out the Band-in-a-Box® for Mac packages page to find the best package for you.
Today's the Last Day of the Band-in-a-Box 2026® for Mac Special!
Order before 11:59pm PDT today (May 15, 2026) to save up to 50% off your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® upgrade and receive a FREE Bonus PAK loaded with great new Add-ons to use with this new version!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac - Special Offers End at 11:59pm PDT on Friday, May 15th, 2026!
Order before 11:59pm PDT on Friday, May 15th and SAVE up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® version 2026 for Mac Upgrade packages... and that's not all! With your version 2026 for Mac purchase, we'll include a Bonus PAK full of great new Add-ons FREE! Upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK to receive even more NEW Add-ons including 20 additional RealTracks... that's 222 NEW RealTracks available with version Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac!
Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® today for as little as $49! Check out the Band-in-a-Box® packages page for all available purchase options.
Learn more about the Free Bonus PAK and 49-PAK here.
If you have any questions about which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We're here to help!
202 New RealTracks Released with Band-in-a-Box 2026!
With Band-in-a-Box® 2026, we've released 202 incredible new RealTracks (in sets 468-488) in a variety of genres—featuring your most requested styles!
Jazz, Funk & World (Sets 468-475):
Our new jazz, funk & blues RealTracks include a groovin’ collection of RealTracks and RealDrums! These include more requested “soul jazz” RealTracks featuring artists Neil Swainson (bass), Charles Treadway (organ), Brent Mason (guitar), and Wes Little (drums). There are new “smooth jazz” styles (4), which include a RealTracks first: muted trumpet, as well as slick new smooth jazz brushes options for drums. Blues lovers will be thrilled—there are more “classic acoustic blues” styles, including guitar (5), bass (4), and drums (10) with blues master Colin Linden, featuring understated and tasty background acoustic soloing, plus brushes drums and acoustic bass. There are also new electric blues RealTracks, including electric blues with PG favorite Johnny Hiland (3) and soulful electric slide guitar from Colin Linden (4). If you love funk & gospel, there are great new options this year, including gospel organ (3) from Charles Treadway, as well as new funk, tango, and rock ’n’ roll drums (3) and bass (1). And for big, bold arrangements, we have uptempo soul horns (4) featuring a three-part hip horn section with options for a full mix or stems of each individual horn — plus an accompanying rhythm section (4) of drums, bass, guitar, and electric piano!
Rock & Pop (Sets 476–482):
Our new rock & pop RealTracks bring a powerful mix of requested favorites, fresh genres, and modern chart-inspired styles! We have more of our popular “Producer Layered Acoustic Guitars (15)” featuring Band-in-a-Box favorite Brent Mason. We’ve continued our much-requested disco styles (10), and added new Celtic guitar (5) with a more basic, accessible approach than our previous Drop-D or DADGAD offerings. There are also highly requested yacht rock styles (17), inspired by the smooth, polished soft-rock sound of the late ’70s and early ’80s — laid-back grooves, silky electric pianos, warm textures, elegant harmonic movement, and pristine production aesthetics. Fans of heavier styles will love our new glam metal (13), capturing the flashy, high-energy sound of ’80s arena-ready guitar rock. We also have a set of rootsy modern-folk rock (18), with a warm, organic sound combining contemporary folk textures and driving acoustic strumming. And we’ve added lots of new modern pop styles (16) — the kinds of sounds you’re hearing on the radio today, featuring exciting new drums, synths, and cutting-edge RealTracks arrangements.
Country, & Americana (Sets 483–488):
Our new country & Americana RealTracks deliver a rich collection of acoustic, electric, and roots-inspired styles! We have new country pop (9) with legendary guitarist Brent Mason. There is also a potpourri (14) of bouzouki, guitars, banjo, and more, perfect for adding texture and character to contemporary acoustic arrangements. We’ve added funky country guitar (5) with PG favorite Brent Mason, along with classic pedal steel styles (5) featuring steel great Doug Jernigan. There are more country songwriter styles (8) that provide intimate, rootsy foundations for storytelling and modern Americana writing. Finally, we have “background soloing” acoustic guitar (12) with Brent Mason — simpler, but still very tasty acoustic lines designed to sit beautifully behind vocals or act as a subtle standalone solo part.
And, if you are looking for more, the 2026 49-PAK (for $49) includes an impressive collection of 20 bonus RealTracks, featuring exciting and inspiring additions to add to your RealTracks library. You'll get new country-rhythm guitar styles from PG Music favorites Johnny Hiland and Brent Mason, along with modern-pop grooves that capture today’s radio-ready sound! There are also new indie-folk styles with guitar, bass, 6-string bass used as a high-chording instrument, acoustic guitar, and banjo. Plus, dedicated "cymbal fills" RealDrums provide an added layer that work very well with low-key folky styles with other percussion.
The 2026 49-PAK is loaded with other great new add-ons as well. Learn more about the 2026 49-PAK!
2026 Free Bonus PAK & 49-PAK for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®!
With your version 2026 for Mac Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, Audiophile Edition or PlusPAK purchase, we'll include a Bonus PAK full of great new Add-ons for FREE! Or upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for only $49 to receive even more NEW Add-ons including 20 additional RealTracks!
These PAKs are loaded with additional add-ons to supercharge your Band-in-a-Box®!
This Free Bonus PAK includes:
The 2026 RealCombos Booster PAK:
-For Pro customers, this includes 27 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles.
-For MegaPAK customers, this includes 25 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles.
-For UltraPAK customers, this includes 12 new RealStyles.
MIDI Styles Set 92: Look Ma! More MIDI 15: Latin Jazz
MIDI SuperTracks Set 46: Piano & Organ
Instrumental Studies Set 24: Groovin' Blues Soloing
Artist Performance Set 19: Songs with Vocals 9
Playable RealTracks Set 5
RealDrums Stems Set 9: Cool Brushes
SynthMaster Sounds Set 1 (with audio demos)
iOS Android Band-in-a-Box® App
Looking for more great add-ons, then upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for just $49 and you'll get:
20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums with 20 RealStyle.
FLAC Files (lossless audio files) for the 20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums
MIDI Styles Set 93: Look Ma! More MIDI 16: SynthMaster
MIDI SuperTracks Set 47: More SynthMaster
Instrumental Studies 25 - Soul Jazz Guitar Soloing
Artist Performance Set 20: Songs with Vocals 10
RealDrums Stems Set 10: Groovin' Sticks
SynthMaster Sounds & Styles Set 2 (sounds & styles with audio demos)
One of our representatives will be happy to help you over the phone. Our hours of operation are from
6:00AM to 6:00PM PST (GMT -8) Monday thru Friday, and 8:00AM to 4:00PM PST Saturday. We are closed Sunday. You can also send us your questions via email.
One of our representatives will be happy to help you on our Live Chat or by email. Our hours of operation are from
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