|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,900
Veteran
|
OP
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,900 |
I have a spare laptop that I have just replaced the hard drive on (the old one failed) and was wondering whether to set it up with Ubuntu / XP / a combination. It is an HP510 with a 250GB HDD and ample RAM. I have another better laptop that I use for music work and recording (HP EliteBook 8730W with 320GB HDD). This laptop will be primarily for internet access, and running the necessary PC software for use as a karaoke / music / video player should I ever get back on the road again. I might also care to use it for gigs with BIAB/RB with the karaoke screen to show me the chords and lyrics. What's your opinion as to which system (or both) to install and why?  Thanks
Follow That Dream Sam Karaoke King -------------------- Turning that corner again - I have to keep following that dream, no matter what
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 8,021
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 8,021 |
I use Ubuntu for email & Internet.It's on an old Dell Inspiron 8100.Ubuntu just always works.No fiddling around,no registry to mess up and secure enough right out of the box to not require any malware software.I do use no script plugin for Firefox.I've been using it straight for many years without ANY issues at all.I wouls suggest you get one of the LTS (long term stable) releases. 10.04 was the last.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,900
Veteran
|
|
OP
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,900 |
The version I have is Ubuntu 8.10 and comes on a double-sided CD (one side is 32bit, the other is 64bit)
Follow That Dream Sam Karaoke King -------------------- Turning that corner again - I have to keep following that dream, no matter what
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,792
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,792 |
Just download the newer 10.4 it has a lot of great updates for the program.
While i do not use Ubuntu, i have been on Fedora for over two years now and going strong. I do no music on that system, but for a general purpose PC it is rock solid.
HP Win 11 12 gig ram, Mac mini Sonoma with 16 gig of ram, BiaB/RB 2026, Reaper 7, Harrison Mixbus 11 , Presonus Audiobox USB96
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 193
Apprentice
|
|
Apprentice
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 193 |
I used Ubuntu and Kubuntu on the old laptop that I couldn't reinstall Vista. Kubuntu was a bit finicky but Ubuntu was solid for general usage. I was wanting to use it as a secondary DAW while on the go but it just isn't quite ready for that in my opinion. I believe it will do quite well for your purposes. I personally wouldn't install XP on it alongside Ubuntu unless there is a program for XP that could not be duped in Ubuntu.
I gave up on it altogether when I got an iPad 3 loaded with lots of great music production apps. And the apps just keep getting better. Still waiting on a MIDI only BIAB app. Hint, hint, Peter :-) .
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 267
Apprentice
|
|
Apprentice
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 267 |
I have been using the various Ubuntu releases for over 5 years and I've had no problems.
The only reason I keep a Windows system is because the Australian Tax Office application only runs on Windows. I've tried to run it on Ubuntu under WINE but only got so far before it crashed.
I've also been running an older vresion of BIAB under WINE on the Ubuntu system without any problems, but then, I'm not a power user of BIAB.
tony
Lenovo lappie, 4Gb RAM, 500Gb HD
Ubuntu 12.04
Running BIAB under WINE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251 |
I ran the newest version of Ubuntu for a couple of months after my old PC died. It's fine for a very basic OS.
However it's not a legitimate replacement for Windows. .........XP or otherwise.
To urge folks to view it as such is "overselling" Ubuntu. If you just want to surf the web and have a word processor, it's fine and its free.
Just my 2 cents, so no flaming please.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,333
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,333 |
The only reason I even have a computer that runs Microsoft anything is to run Band in a Box.
Other than that I run Linux.
I bought my wife an Ipad3 for her birthday yesterday. She'll be very nice to me tonight when she changes the patches.
Windows 8 is going to be great for Band in a Box. But heavy on the touch interface so I know the guys at PG music have been messing with it. 2013 baby.
I'm hoping for a music stand that holds a tablet computer running band in a box.
NOTE: you can download and install windows 8 on that laptop also. I have one laptop running Windows 8 AND Ubuntu. Just for fun.
Have some.
John Conley
Musica est vita
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,126
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,126 |
I use Ubuntu version 10.04 for most computer chores. The web, word processing, photo manipulation, digital video editing, audio recording, audio production, audio mastering. Occasionally I'll deploy a specialty Linux operating system to accomplish a specialty task.
Linux is not a cheap substitute for Windows or Mac. It is a quality tool - but like all quality tools, requires a skilled operator to achieve optimum results.
My suggestion: stick with Windows - you're already conditioned to accept its limitations.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 8,021
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 8,021 |
Quote:
I use Ubuntu version 10.04 for most computer chores. The web, word processing, photo manipulation, digital video editing, audio recording, audio production, audio mastering. Occasionally I'll deploy a specialty Linux operating system to accomplish a specialty task.
Linux is not a cheap substitute for Windows or Mac. It is a quality tool - but like all quality tools, requires a skilled operator to achieve optimum results.
My suggestion: stick with Windows - you're already conditioned to accept its limitations.
Right on!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251 |
Quote:
My suggestion: stick with Windows - you're already conditioned to accept its limitations.
Nice job of getting an insult in there Oren. Especially when I said it was "just my 2 cents. No flames please".
Thanks for the cheap shot.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,900
Veteran
|
|
OP
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,900 |
Quote:
My suggestion: stick with Windows - you're already conditioned to accept its limitations.
Is that an insult? I'll have you know I have been actively involved around computers for 30 years and I have a university degree in Business Computing Systems. I don't know what you are implying by 'conditioned to accept...'. Please explain
Follow That Dream Sam Karaoke King -------------------- Turning that corner again - I have to keep following that dream, no matter what
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,926
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,926 |
Sam, I think it's an insult to Windows, not you or anyone else. I read it as encouraging one not to invest time in learning a new OS when you are already familiar with another. Ease up, lad.
"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 4,026
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 4,026 |
And all this time I was pronouncing it like lizard with a R! But I wasn't using Linux or Windows when I did, it was a Mac in a box thang.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,792
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,792 |
Bob, and Sam, I don't think Oren is remotely trying to be insulting. He is responding to Bob's statement that others are "overselling" Ubuntu. As I said above i have been using Linux for over two years, and i am still a novice at it, and far more competent with windows. But even with my limited abilities i can see that Linux is not a cheap/free OS. I have it doing almost everything that a PC can, and many thing far better. Music is one area i do not have it dialed in yet. But obviously Oren does, he is rather advanced at the Linux process.
Look if your going to make bold statements about what others are implying, they will reply in loke kind, don't take it as an insult, but a response.
HP Win 11 12 gig ram, Mac mini Sonoma with 16 gig of ram, BiaB/RB 2026, Reaper 7, Harrison Mixbus 11 , Presonus Audiobox USB96
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251 |
Robh, My "bold statements", as you call them, were addressing Sam's question in the OP. Quote:
What's your opinion as to which system (or both) to install and why?
I found Oren's reply to me to be condescending, but hey, ...that's "just my 2 cents", (just my opinion). The same as my "bold statements" were.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,126
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,126 |
Thanks to those who chose to accept my recommendation in a positive light  An analogy may be helpful: I have absolutely no use for Paul Reed Smith guitars. I wouldn't own one even if they were free. To me, they are cumbersome, uncomfortable, ugly, and they sound bad. Likewise with Parker guitars. The fact is, PRS and Parker make superior tools. I can admire them from a distance, just don't ask me to play one. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Linux is, without question, the most robust, versatile, secure, operating system available today - at any price. And it improves at a rate simply unattainable by proprietary software, because every user has the opportunity to contribute to its development. For security applications, mass transit systems, servers, long-term service, and remote locations - where rock solid performance is essential - it is, most often, the software of choice. Its performance is limited only by the ingenuity of the user. For many, particularly those with a lifelong exposure to Windows, Linux will seem unwieldy, complex, even arcane. These folks might best continue with their current software choice. This is, however, a matter of personal preference, not a reflection of the actual value of the tool. Sam - in my experience, you tend towards a short attention span and have an aversion to hard work. These are not criticisms, just observations, and I could be wrong. If I'm right, you will be best advised to stick with Windows. If I'm wrong (and I hope I am), welcome to Linux.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251 |
Oren,
Let me make sure I’ve got this right.
If you have attention deficit disorder and you’re lazy, ...you should use Windows.
But if you’re smart and hard working, ... you should use Linux.
I’m glad you cleared up your previous condescending remark with one that’s even more condescending.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,126
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,126 |
Bob,
I'll extend you the courtesy of a direct reply, then end my participation in this thread.
You are reaching, and in all the wrong directions. Relax, re-evaluate.
Contribute as best you can to further our understanding of this wonderful craft.
End of story.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,251 |
Oren, Quote:
I'll extend you the courtesy of a direct reply
I guess I should feel honored???
BTW, I’m not reaching in any direction. I don’t need to relax because I’m not upset. On your recommendation, I’ve re-evaluated and reached the same conclusion.
Your last comment cemented my belief of your condescending attitude.
Quote:
Contribute as best you can
I’ll try real hard, … as best I can. 
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ask sales and support questions about Band-in-a-Box using natural language.
ChatPG's knowledge base includes the full Band-in-a-Box User Manual and sales information from the website.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
XPro & Xtra Styles PAK Sets On Sale Now - Until May 15, 2026!
All of our XPro Styles PAKs and Xtra Styles PAKs are on sale until May 15th, 2026!
It's the perfect time to expand your Band-in-a-Box® style library with XPro and Xtra Styles PAKs. These additional styles for Band-in-a-Box® offer a wide range of genres designed to fit seamlessly into your projects. Each style is professionally arranged and mixed, helping enhance your songs while saving you time.
What are XPro Styles and Xtra Styles PAKs?
XPro Styles PAKs are styles that work with any version (Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition) of Band-in-a-Box® 2025 (or higher). XPro Styles PAKS 1-10 includes 1,000 styles!
Xtra Styles PAKs are styles that work with the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box® 2025 (or higher). Xtra Styles PAKs 1-21 includes 3,700 styles (and 35 MIDI styles)!
The XPro & Xtra Styles PAKs are not included in any Band-in-a-Box® package.
The XPro Styles PAKs 1-10 are available for only $29 ea (reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the XPro Styles PAK Bundle for only $149 (reg. $299)! Listen to demos and order now! For Mac or for Windows.
The Xtra Styles PAKs 1-21 are available for only $29 ea (reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the Xtra Styles PAK Bundle for only $199 (reg. $349)! Listen to demos and order now! For Mac or for Windows.
Note: XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2025 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.
The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 19 requires the 2025 or higher UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version as they require the RealTracks included in the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
Supercharge your Band-in-a-Box today with XPro Styles PAKs and Xtra Styles PAK Sets!
Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Mac Videos
With the release of Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac, we’re rolling out a collection of brand-new videos on our YouTube channel. We’ll keep this forum post updated so you can easily find all the latest videos in one convenient spot.
Whether you're exploring new features, checking out the latest RealTracks or Style PAKs, this is your go-to guide for Band-in-a-Box® 2026.
Check out this forum post for "One Stop Shopping" of our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 Mac Videos!
Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Mac is Here!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac is here and it is packed with major new features! There’s a new modern look, a GUI redesign to all areas of the program including toolbars, windows, workflow and more. There’s a Multi-view layout for organizing multiple windows. A standout addition is the powerful AI-Notes feature, which uses AI neural-net technology to transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI—entire mixes or individual instruments—making it easy to study, view, and play parts from any song. And that’s just the beginning—there are over 100 new features in this exciting release.
Along with version 2026, we've released an incredible lineup of new content! There's 202 new RealTracks, brand-new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two new RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!
Special Offers
Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac and save up to 50% on most upgrade packages during our special offer—available until May 15, 2026. Visit our Band-in-a-Box® packages page to explore all available upgrade options.
2026 Free Bonus PAK & 49-PAK Add-ons
Our Free Bonus PAK and 49-PAK are loaded with amazing add-ons! The Free Bonus PAK is included with most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac packages, but you can unlock even more—including 20 unreleased RealTracks—by upgrading to the 2026 49-PAK for just $49.
Holiday Weekend Hours
As we hop into the Easter weekend, here are our holiday hours:
April 3 (Good Friday): 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM PDT
April 4 (Saturday): Closed
April 5 (Easter Sunday): Closed
April 6 (Easter Monday): Open regular hours
Wishing you an egg-cellent weekend!
— Team PG
Update to Build 10 of RealBand® 2026 for Windows®!
If you're already using RealBand 2026 for Windows, download build 10 to get all the latest additions and enhancements.
Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Mac® users: Build 904 now available!
If you're already using Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Mac®, make sure to grab the latest update! Build 904 is now available for download and includes the newest additions and enhancements from our team.
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® users: Build 1237 is now available!
Already a Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Windows user? Stay up to date and download the build 1237 to get all the latest additions and enhancements.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forums57
Topics86,210
Posts801,959
Members40,070
| |
Most Online64,515
Apr 8th, 2026
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean