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Sometimes I find several midi files of the same tune. One version might have a killer drum track while another has an outstanding break. Is there a way to make a hybrid from two or more midi files? I was thinking maybe if I could have multiple instances of either BIAB OR RB I could just copy and paste from one to the other....either whole tracks or maybe just a measure or two. Any comments appreciated. Thank you.

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Hi Bert,

While it's possible to open multiple instances of BIAB, using multiple instances to build a composite file would not be as easy as it seems in theory.

Working in Realband, on the other hand, would allow you to construct such files provided the correct tempo information was recorded with the original midi files when they were first made. To use RB, all you'd need to do is to use the import function and load in a number of midi files into a single instance of the program. Since RB allows for 48 tracks, this means that you'd be able to have up to 3 midi files (16 tracks each) available at any one time.

Regards,
Noel


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Just a reminder that you can only open multiple instances of BIAB if the checkbox is checked in Opt., Preferences. It's in the lower right corner.


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Thank you Noel. I'm confused a little bit though. I do realize I would have to convert the midi files to the same Key, to keep from transposing each individual measure but I don't follow you on the tempo thing. Wouldn't RB convert all pasted measures to the same tempo? Can you elaborate so I can get my head around that please.

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Thank you Matt for that tip. That is the very reason I couldn't out to get multiple instances.

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Bert,

Some midi files have been created by people who have played the information in without correctly synchronizing to a tempo. Don't worry too much about this. Simply load in your files and experiment. You'll soon discover if you have any that don't synchronize. Most will. If you get a file that you can't seem to make "fit" with the others, simply discard it and move on to the next one.

Regards,
Noel


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Thank you Noel for making that clear. I think I was assuming everyone entered the midi data by step-sequencing. That's how I have always done it. I didn't consider that some midi files were recorded (live) from a midi keyboard etc.

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Use the load scrap command in RB to add a second midi file in. Delete the unwanted tracks.


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Thanks for the tip Rob. Had not understood that function yet. So much to learn and so little time.

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I get a little confused with the Key when opening midi files in RB. The default always shows the key of C. However, if you bring a midi file in in D, it still shows C in the key box. Not sure that I remember this, but I seem to recall having to do a Key transpose in the Key Box to the midi file key but leaving the melody notation alone. Is this correct?

Sorry OP. Thought you might be interested in this, too.

Stan


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Stan, when importing a midi file the ACW should get you the correct chords and they should appear in the Chord window. Then I check to see if the Key matches the chords. If it doesn't match you can change the key without changing the chords, after which you can then change the key and opt to change the chord sheet along with the key change.

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Key signature in free downloaded MIDI files is often left at the default by the MIDIOT who made the file. The default Keusig Setting in all MIDI creating stuff is the Key of C Major.

Lots of MIDIOTS simply punch MIDI Record and start playing in the parts in realtime, without regard to settring the Keysig -- or the proper Tempo. Those who use step-entry methods to create the file are also largely guilty of this.

The result is that they have created a file that sounds correct, but any software that is used to open up the MIDI file will get the incorrect Keysig and Tempo data. Key of C and 120 BPM are the default values and that's what most of these downloaded files are left at. The actual file may be in any one of the 12 keys, though. It is up to you to find the correct Keysig and change that, same goes for the Tempo.

TIP: The last note that the Bass (or lowest note) plays in a song is almost always the Root of the Key Signature of the song. Scroll to the end and examine that last lowest note, then enter its lettername in the Keysig dropdown.

Tempo may wander in these downloaded files as well -- Many creators of these files do not use a click track or metronome to keep the Tempo even. You might have to resort to the creation of a Tempo Map within your project in order to get things to line up bar by bar.


--Mac

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I found that info useful Mac. Thanks for your input.

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