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#864847 10/12/25 11:07 PM
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I'm thinking about purchasing and I'm just curious about the technology. If I understand correctly, BIAB is able to modify the studio performed loops so as to fit user entered chord sequences. So far, I'm not hearing that there are any limitations on that concept. So does the algorithm do the pitch-shifting etc. on individual harmonically relevant notes within each of those performances? And doing it well enough to sound convincing.


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In short, a RealTrack performance is an audio file where someone is playing an instrument over many chord changes of various lengths (bar, half bar, beat level). However, you never deal directly with RealTracks like this.

Instead, you specify a chord sequence in BiaB interface - basically, like in a spreadsheet. BiaB automatically pulls the chords out of the selected RealTrack to match the order you specify.

The algorithm works at the bar/half bar/beat level, not by working on the material at the note level. It can force the notes to match the chords via pitch shifting, but that's not generally what happens.

Think of it sort of alike automatic loop assembly. Obviously, there are a finite number of chords in any given RealTrack, but they're generally long and diverse enough that it isn't a problem.

As to how well it works, you can check out the demos here: https://www.pgmusic.com/tutorial_realtrackslist.htm


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Good advice above.

Note also that it comes with a 30 day money back guarantee. If you do decide to go ahead, and with this in mind, go for the highest Pak that your budget allows. You won't be disappointed. (The cheapest "Pro" entry-level Pak is quite limited).


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I would add that BiaB also works well with midi and premade loops. It involves a good pitch shift internal plugin to make stuff pretty seamless. It does not always create exactly what you want but it gets you closer than anything else i have used so far.


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Also, welcome to the forums smile


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dcuny #864945 10/14/25 12:19 PM
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Originally Posted by dcuny
In short, a RealTrack performance is an audio file where someone is playing an instrument over many chord changes of various lengths (bar, half bar, beat level). However, you never deal directly with RealTracks like this.

Instead, you specify a chord sequence in BiaB interface - basically, like in a spreadsheet. BiaB automatically pulls the chords out of the selected RealTrack to match the order you specify.

The algorithm works at the bar/half bar/beat level, not by working on the material at the note level. It can force the notes to match the chords via pitch shifting, but that's not generally what happens.

Think of it sort of alike automatic loop assembly. Obviously, there are a finite number of chords in any given RealTrack, but they're generally long and diverse enough that it isn't a problem.

As to how well it works, you can check out the demos here: https://www.pgmusic.com/tutorial_realtrackslist.htm
Excellent explanation David. A couple things I'll add:

RealTracks are more than single audio files - they're multiple performances (between 5 and 70 separate performances) done in multiple keys. Some RealTracks rely on at least some pitch shifting (2 semitones max) while others are recorded in all 12 keys. The amount of audio content for each RealTrack is anywhere from a couple minutes for the simplest ones (Jaw harp) up to over 3.5 hours for the most complex (Vocal oohs and aahs).

Drums are similar, however there are a couple differences. Since drums aren't required to match the chord of the song there isn't any pitch-shifting going on. However, there are often different variations of drum grooves - for example, open hi-hat vs closed hi-hat vs ride cymbal, or snare vs side stick.

This is the full list of chords BIAB supports. We try to record as many as possible, however on some instruments there are many chords that are overly difficult or impossible to play, so in those cases BIAB will substitute something close.


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One thing to note is that while the ProPAK may sound like its the top of the line, it's the EverythingPAK that has, well (most) everything. And the AudiophilePAK has the same as the EverythingPAK, but uses uncompressed WAV (or lossless compressed FLAC files) versus compressed WMA files. The difference between Pro and Everything PAKs are the number of RealTracks, RealDrums, and RealStyles you get. All the PAKs have the same underlying program/engine to process the tracks and styles, however.


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jford #864950 10/14/25 02:49 PM
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Originally Posted by jford
One thing to note is that while the ProPAK may sound like its the top of the line, it's the EverythingPAK that has, well (most) everything. And the AudiophilePAK has the same as the EverythingPAK, but uses uncompressed WAV (or lossless compressed FLAC files) versus compressed WMA files. The difference between Pro and Everything PAKs are the number of RealTracks, RealDrums, and RealStyles you get. All the PAKs have the same underlying program/engine to process the tracks and styles, however.
It's the UltraPAK+ you're thinking of - we haven't used the name EverythingPAK since ~2017 I think. Otherwise yes, each package of BIAB has the same program and features, with the only difference being how much content is included. We tend to recommend the UltraPAK as the best value for the average user.


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Originally Posted by Simon - PG Music
[We tend to recommend the UltraPAK as the best value for the average user.
Of course as a representative the vendor, he would say that. So ...

As a user, and there are very many of us, I would agree, The UltraPAK is what most of us chose, sooner or later.


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Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
Originally Posted by Simon - PG Music
[We tend to recommend the UltraPAK as the best value for the average user.
Of course as a representative the vendor, he would say that. So ...

As a user, and there are very many of us, I would agree, The UltraPAK is what most of us chose, sooner or later.
This is exactly why I say it!


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I would mention that if you are on the fence about it, or even have made up your mind, it would be fair to point out that a new version is usually released at the end of the year.
It may worth considering as it is getting close (again).


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Originally Posted by Simon - PG Music
Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
Originally Posted by Simon - PG Music
[We tend to recommend the UltraPAK as the best value for the average user.
Of course as a representative the vendor, he would say that. So ...

As a user, and there are very many of us, I would agree, The UltraPAK is what most of us chose, sooner or later.
This is exactly why I say it!
Indeed ... I know it's good information.
I am, if you like, balancing what would often be my own cynicism.


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I would suggest that the OP listen to some of the songs on the Usershowcase forum.

Note that his ID is GamoffVex which may mean Game Off Vex. Vex is a series of video games.


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Yes, my mistake. UltraPAK.


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Originally Posted by GamophVex
I'm thinking about purchasing and I'm just curious about the technology. If I understand correctly, BIAB is able to modify the studio performed loops so as to fit user entered chord sequences. So far, I'm not hearing that there are any limitations on that concept. So does the algorithm do the pitch-shifting etc. on individual harmonically relevant notes within each of those performances? And doing it well enough to sound convincing.


What Mario said. Go listen to a number of songs in the forums. You have everything from very basic users to folks who really push the envelope on what this program is capable of doing. It WILL deliver studio quality tracks.


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