Previous Thread
Index
Next Thread
Print Thread
Go To
#318986 11/17/15 02:12 PM
Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
P
Phestus Offline OP
Enthusiast
OP Offline
Enthusiast
P
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
I have been away from BIAB for several years now and when I was using it, it was PC ver 11. I have now shifted to Apple Mac and would like to upgrade to the latest version for Mac. Can anyone tell me when the next new version of BIAB for the Mac will be issued. I know they usually upgrade for the PC sometime around December. Does that hold true for the Mac version also? Thanks in advance for any answers I may get.

Best Regards,

Phestus

Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 10,951
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 10,951
Phestus,

Generally speaking, Windows (PC) new versions are released during the month of December while Mac versions are during the month of June.

However, as they say in the commercials, "past performance is no guarantee of future performance". PG Music does not announce new versions beforehand.

The most recent Mac release was updated October 23.


Jim Fogle - 2026 BiaB (Build 1220) RB (Build 7) - Ultra+ PAK
DAWs: Cakewalk Sonar - Standalone: Zoom MRS-8
Desktop: i7 Win 11, 12GB ram 256GB SSD, 4 TB HDD
Music at: https://fogle622.wix.com/fogle622-audio-home
Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
S
Expert
Offline
Expert
S
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
Mid year usually.
http://www.pgmusic.com/bbmac.packages.htm
Upgrade from 2013 or earlier or crossgrade

Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
P
Phestus Offline OP
Enthusiast
OP Offline
Enthusiast
P
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
Thanks to both of you for the answers. Maybe I'm wrong, probably am, but it seems that the PC version may have a few more features than the Mac version. I still have my PC with BIAB 11 on it and could upgrade to the latest PC ver but I would prefer to go the Mac way if there are no major differences. I have looked at the charts and am somewhat undecided. I would like to have the latest version, so I could wait until December for the PC update. Updating to the Mac version now would mean, in the long run, that I have to pay for two upgrades. I'm 78 years old and retired, so I don't want to spend money unnecessarily. I am certainly open to recommendations from those who are a lot more up on such things. Many thanks for reading my ramble. I look forward to your responses.

Phestus

Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 40
W
wbe Offline
Enthusiast
Offline
Enthusiast
W
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 40
Hello, I'm using the Mac-version and can't recommend it. PGMusic is still letting the Mac-version far behind. A lot of features are missing in comparison to the Windows-version. Its is quite annoying that they don't even mention the differences between these two versions on their website.

Last edited by wbe; 11/18/15 08:58 AM.
Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 10,951
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 10,951
I have the pc edition and do not have access to the Mac version so I'm not an authority and can just give my opinion and impressions.

My opinion: If you have the capability to install and run it I suggest you get the pc edition.

Reasons:
Based on the number of forum posts the pc edition is vastly more popular than the Mac edition. More forum users can support the pc edition versus the Mac edition.

The pc edition has more features than the Mac version (so I've read multiple times in various forum posts).

The pc edition ships with RealBand. The Mac edition has no equivalent and RealBand is worth having for the multiriff feature alone even though RealBand can do much more.

I am not aware of ANY feature or Advantage the Mac edition offers over the pc edition.


Jim Fogle - 2026 BiaB (Build 1220) RB (Build 7) - Ultra+ PAK
DAWs: Cakewalk Sonar - Standalone: Zoom MRS-8
Desktop: i7 Win 11, 12GB ram 256GB SSD, 4 TB HDD
Music at: https://fogle622.wix.com/fogle622-audio-home
Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
P
Phestus Offline OP
Enthusiast
OP Offline
Enthusiast
P
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
Hello WBE and Jim,

I really appreciate your response to my questions. You have confirmed what I thought to be the case. The PC edition is much superior to the Mac version. I currently have BAIB 11 installed on an ASUS PC laptop and am very satisfied with everything except the latency problem. I have to find a solution to that before I can be completly satisfied that I will be able to fully use it on a PC. I bought an M-Audio M-Track to try to eliminate the problem but it didn't help at all. I will gladly accept any and all suggestions anyone has for helping me with the latency problem. Again, thanks for the information. You have helped me make up my mind.

Phestus

Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 10,951
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 10,951
I'm not understanding why latency should be an issue, especially since you have a M-Audio M Track interface.

The audio interface will combine the sound you are sending to the interface (typically microphone or instrument) with the sound coming from the computer (Band-in-a-Box instrument tracks audio output) and blend the two audio signals together for you to hear through the headphones. This is taken from the M-Audio website:

"Improved Monitoring for Better Recordings
M-Track offers ultra-low latency monitoring of the input signal—either through the speakers or via headphones. The monitor mix knob adjusts the balance between the direct inputs and the playback from your computer software. In addition, the input signal(s) can be monitored in stereo or mono using the convenient Stereo/Mono switch. This makes it easy to record new parts or add parts to an existing composition. The Headphone output offers its own level control."


Jim Fogle - 2026 BiaB (Build 1220) RB (Build 7) - Ultra+ PAK
DAWs: Cakewalk Sonar - Standalone: Zoom MRS-8
Desktop: i7 Win 11, 12GB ram 256GB SSD, 4 TB HDD
Music at: https://fogle622.wix.com/fogle622-audio-home
Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 887
I
Expert
Offline
Expert
I
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 887
I have the Mac version only because I use a Mac for most of audio work. I also do some audio production such as mixing and recording and some sound design. I find the Mac version to be pretty good but I can understand why the Windows version is better since most people have a PC.


Computer: Macbook Pro, 16 inch 2021
DAWs: Pro Tools, Logic, and Maschine
plays drums, percussion, bass, steel pan, keyboard,
music producer/engineer
Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
P
Phestus Offline OP
Enthusiast
OP Offline
Enthusiast
P
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
Hello Jim and Islansoul,

Thanks to both of you for your replies. Got a long way to go before i feel somewhat competent with BAIB.

Jim. Thanks for the info on M-Audio M-Track. I have d/l the manual and will get back at it this afternoon. I'm sure I have been doing something wrong in my setup. Hopefully, I can get it running as it should. Now, all I have to do is wait for the 2016 version to come out. Then I'll be off and running. Thanks again for your help. BTW, since I now plan to be working with the PC version of BAIB I will shift my attention to the Windows part of the forum and this will be my last post to the Apple Mac forum. See you on the PC forum!

Thanks Everyone,

Phestus

Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
S
Expert
Offline
Expert
S
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
The Win version is way head of the Mac at the moment, but there are die hards that only want "Mac", put Win down but don't mind using Intel, but will only use Mac religiously so that's what they are stuck with until it catches up with WinBB and WinRB. But if you are ambidextrous you can use the Win and Mac without feeling unloyal or guilty or embarrassed or infidelity, you can use Mac with WinOnX or Parallels Desktop or Boot Camp or a 2nd HD with Win on.
Apple now don't have any qualms using the Intel, developed by all the Windows users, I have an old G5 sitting beside me that weighs 10 ton and an Intel Mac that I can lift with one finger.

Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
S
Expert
Offline
Expert
S
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
If you have decided to use another hard drive in your Mac or Boot Camp
rEFIt


Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 40
W
wbe Offline
Enthusiast
Offline
Enthusiast
W
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 40
It has not nothing to do with "using the Mac religiously" , that I use the Mac. I wouldn't use a Mac , if it would not be the better audio-computer and a lot ot other people are believing the same. E.g. you don't need a Asio -driver , which makes a lot of troubles (my experiences). You don't have a antivirus-program, which is slowing down the system etc. So, PGMusic is doing no good to treating the Mac-community worse than the Windows.

Last edited by wbe; 11/23/15 09:18 AM.
Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
S
Expert
Offline
Expert
S
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
Sorry wbe it was not aimed at you, I agree having Mac also that it is behind but the win version has taken decades to build to where it is now, I think they are working very hard to catch up in what must be a absolute nightmare to do. I think making the move to offer BB to Mac is a good one, even though this has stopped the a new version of BB & RB for Win being released twice a year. The suggestions above only gives you more "Options" for using the Win version on Mac. I have a friend with an Mac Retina 15" Laptop who uses it for photo work and I suggested getting a 28" 4K LED Monitor (3840 x 2160) UHD resolution for $400, but the Apple Geniuses said she would be better paying $1400 for An Apple 27"(2560x1440) QHD resolution. Sorry I just get this all day long that's why I'm a bit sharp on these things lol.

Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 20,947
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 20,947
Hi Phestus

Re: Latency Issue

Maybe you are using MME drivers and not ASIO drivers for your audio. MME may give latency issues. Switching to ASIO may resolve this.

From the Help file:
Now there’s almost no latency (delay) for audio or software synths! By using an ASIO audio driver, software synths like the Coyote WT will play with almost no latency (delay is only 5-10ms). So you’ll hear the sounds instantly, and be able to play along using MIDI Thru with the same ultra-low latency.

HTH
Trev


BIAB & RB2026 Win.(Audiophile), Windows 10 Pro & Windows 11, Cakewalk Bandlab, Izotope Prod.Bundle, Roland RD-1000, Synthogy Ivory, Session Keys Grand S & Electric R, Kontakt, Focusrite 18i20, KetronSD2, NS40M, Pioneer Active Monitors.
Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
S
Expert
Offline
Expert
S
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,827
Originally Posted By: VideoTrack
Hi Phestus

Re: Latency Issue


Yes you are right there Trev, Jim sorted it for him in the other forum http://www.pgmusic.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=319284

Band-in-a-Box for Macintosh
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
P
Phestus Offline OP
Enthusiast
OP Offline
Enthusiast
P
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 68
Just came back to check on things with this thread and find there have been more answers posted. A very big thank you to all who have posted to this query. I hope there have been others,like myself, who have benefitted from all the good info posted here. I agree that audio and video are probably much better served by having an Apple. However, since I already have BIAB11 in use on my PC, I will also load 2016 onto the PC and go from there. I hope I'm not making a mistake but if I am I'll just have to live with it. What I really like about this forum is that there are many users of both systems and they are all ready and willing to answer questions and share their experiences. A novice like me can use all the help he can get. Many Thanks To All...


Phestus

Previous Thread
Next Thread
Go To

Link Copied to Clipboard
ChatPG

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.

PG Music News
Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Windows Special Offers End Tomorrow (January 15th, 2026) at 11:59 PM PST!

Time really is running out! Save up to 50% on Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® upgrades and receive a FREE Bonus PAK—only when you order by 11:59 PM PST on Thursday, January 15, 2026!

We've added many major new features and new content in a redesigned Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®!

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 new AI-Notes feature, which can transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI. You can view the results in notation or play them back as MIDI, and choose whether to process an entire track or focus on specific parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.

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, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!

Upgrade your Band-in-a-Box for Windows to save up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade packages!

Plus, when you order your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 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 for Windows® Special Offers Extended Until January 15, 2026!

Good news! You still have time to upgrade to the latest version of Band-in-a-Box® for Windows® and save. Our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® special now runs through January 15, 2025!

We've packed Band-in-a-Box® 2026 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 process 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, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!

There are over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.

When you order purchase Band-in-a-Box® 2026 before 11:59 PM PST on January 15th, you'll also receive a Free Bonus PAK packed with exciting new add-ons.

Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® today! Check out the Band-in-a-Box® packages page for all the purchase options available.

Happy New Year!

Thank you for being part of the Band-in-a-Box® community.

Wishing you and yours a very happy 2026—Happy New Year from all of us at PG Music!

Season's Greetings!

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy holiday season—thanks for being part of our community!

The office will be closed for Christmas Day, but we will be back on Boxing Day (Dec 26th) at 6:00am PST.

Team PG

Band-in-a-Box 2026 Video: The Newly Designed Piano Roll Window

In this video, we explore the updated Piano Roll, complete with a modernized look and exciting new features. You’ll see new filtering options that make it easy to focus on specific note groups, smoother and more intuitive note entry and editing, and enhanced options for zooming, looping, and more.

Watch the video.

You can see all the 2026 videos on our forum!

Band-in-a-Box 2026 Video: AI Stems & Notes - split polyphonic audio into instruments and transcribe

This video demonstrates how to use the new AI-Notes feature together with the AI-Stems splitter, allowing you to select an audio file and have it separated into individual stems while transcribing each one to its own MIDI track. AI-Notes converts polyphonic audio—either full mixes or individual instruments—into MIDI that you can view in notation or play back instantly.

Watch the video.

You can see all the 2026 videos on our forum!

Bonus PAK and 49-PAK for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®

With your version 2026 for Windows 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)
  • Android Band-in-a-Box® App (included)

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)

Learn more about the Bonus PAKs for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®!

Forum Statistics
Forums57
Topics85,578
Posts793,534
Members39,917
Most Online25,754
Jan 24th, 2025
Newest Members
Smithin, Gjsmal, JacksGuitar, Gibson J45 Banner, GJones
39,916 Registered Users
Top Posters(30 Days)
MarioD 167
DC Ron 105
jpettit 84
Noel96 82
rsdean 69
DrDan 64
dcuny 64
Today's Birthdays
Guido Huckball, J. Canty, yadah37
Powered by UBB.threads™ PHP Forum Software 7.7.5