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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24 |
Hi, I need something to enter melody and chords using the RealTracks and Midi Patches. I'm new to Midi, and BIAB, and I was wondering if any of you are useing the M-Audio Axiom 25, and if so, what's your opinion of it. I have a Rolands KR-500, but it's too big for my workspace; my main instrument is guitar, and the amp takes up a good chunk of space. I'd appreciate any advice on Midi controllers or keyboards that you might have. I'm trying to keep the cost down, but I don't want to be frustrated with lack of quality either. I suppose the first question I should have asked is; will it work with BIAB?
Thanks,
Dennis1945
Last edited by dennis1945; 07/30/09 09:39 PM.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,327
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Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,327 |
I think any MIDI controller will be fine with BIAB; just specify it as the input MIDI device in Opt, Pref, MIDI Drivers.
I have an E-Mu Xboard 25 on a test system I use. It measures just under 18" wide, and 9.5 inches deep, so it fits right in front of the screen with no problem. It is two octaves, C to C, but you can easily shift octaves with the Octave Transpose + and - buttons. It also works on Windows 7 using the Vista drivers. It is powered just by USB, has a power supply input jack if you prefer, and has a MIDI Out port. You can send MIDI either by USB or MIDI Out.
I don't play keyboard so I don't benefit from the fact it also has a feature called weighted keys, but a real player would want that feature.
BIAB 2025 Win Audiophile. Software: Studio One 7 Pro, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6, Song Master Pro, Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Presonus 192 & Faderport 8, Royer 121, Slate VSX, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: May 2003
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Make sure it's also velocity sensitive.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,382
PG Music Staff
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PG Music Staff
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,382 |
A good buddy of mine has the Axiom, it has a really nice feel to it... I have the Korg MicroKontrol, which cost twice as much, and prefer his Axiom... M-Audio gear rules.
Nice and sturdy, too... Can't go wrong, considering how affordable they are.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Joined: Jun 2009
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Thankyou very much folks, that is a tremendous help, I at least feel I'm on the right track, no pun intended. The only negative point I've seen mentioned in reviews is that the instructions are a nightmare. This happens with some manuals that are translated straight into English with no regard to grammar.
Thanks again,
Dennis
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,327
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Re: pg kent's comment, watch out for M-Audio that they have drivers for your OS before you buy.
BIAB 2025 Win Audiophile. Software: Studio One 7 Pro, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6, Song Master Pro, Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Presonus 192 & Faderport 8, Royer 121, Slate VSX, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Joined: Jun 2009
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Thanks Matt, appreciate the input. I'll ask about that before buying.
Dennis
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 32
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Dennis, I have an Axiom 49, and it works perfectly with BIAB, Real Band, and PT. It has "semi-weighted" keys, the feel is DEFINITELY not "hammer graded" like a real piano (although the keys are molded to look like an acoustic keybed), but it is usable and I prefer it for modern music. About 9 lb. for the 49-key model. All the controller knobs and dials one could want. I use it in XP, so I cannot vouch for a Vista/BIAB/Axiom combi. M-Audio support is fair. There is a considerable amount of Axiom info on the net.
You might take a very good look at another board I use now -- the newer Yamaha KX series. I have the 49-key version. These are also MIDI controllers. I prefer the KX-49 to the Axiom in almost every way. Lighter (5 lb.? I think) but well made, looks nice, has ample controller knobs, etc. and although this is another "semi-weighted" keybed, it is quite pleasant to use.
Both boards have velocity settings, the Axiom also has aftertouch, which might be important for you. The Yamaha does not. It does, however, have an arppeggiator function built in.
In the $200-$300 MIDI controller price/feature range, I think these two boards are at the top of the pile.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Thanks Lloyd, I have had Yamaha keyboards in yhe past, and had no complaints. I only want enough keys to do some right hand melody and fills mostly, and I don't have a lot of space to play with. I don't mind semi-weighted keys; our Rolands KR500 has weighted keys, and even when I use earphones, my wife can still hear the keys from upstairs, they're noisy. I'll take a look at the model you mentioned though, in fact I was looking the other night to see if they make a 25 key model.
Thanks,
Dennis
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Posts: 24 |
Lloyd, what is aftertouch, I've never used it as far as I know.
Dennis
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 32
Enthusiast
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 32 |
"Aftertouch" is pressure sensitivity, built into the keybed itself. Permits different responses depending on keystroke pressure. Some players swear by it and use it extensively. I do not. But it is respected and many KB players will not use a board that has only velocity settings. More on this and other terms used with controllers, synths, etc. HERE ... http://www.musiciansnews.com/piano/encyclopedia/92/aftertouch.shtmlPS: the Yamaha KX controller line does include a 25-key model.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
Enthusiast
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OP
Enthusiast
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24 |
Thanks Lloyd. I now have an idea of how it works, and thanks for the link. Years ago I had a Yamaha console organ with two normal keyboards, a portamento strip, and a "floating keyboard," that you could create your own vibrato on like you do on a violin or guitar, and it was realistic; probably the forunner of aftertouch. It also had Leslie rotating speakers, should have kept it.
Dennis
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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.
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Video: New User Interface (GUI)
Join Tobin as he takes you on a tour of the new user interface in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®! This modern GUI redesign offers a sleek new look with updated toolbars, refreshed windows, and a smoother workflow. The brand-new side toolbar puts track selection, the MultiPicker Library, and other essential tools right at your fingertips. Plus, our upgraded Multi-View lets you layer multiple windows without overlap, giving you a highly flexible workspace. Many windows—including Tracks, Piano Roll, and more—have been redesigned for improved usability and a cleaner, more intuitive interface, and more!
Watch the video.
You can see all the 2026 videos on our forum!
Introducing XPro Styles PAK 10 – Now Available for Windows Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!
We've just released XPro Styles PAK 10 for Windows & Mac Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 28 RealTracks and RealDrums!
Few things are certain in life: death, taxes, and a brand spankin’ new XPro Styles PAK! In this, the 10th edition of our XPro Styles PAK series, we’ve got 100 styles coming your way! We have the classic 25 styles each from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, and rounding out this volume's wildcard slot is 25 styles in the Praise & Worship genre! A wide spanning genre, you can find everything from rock, folk, country, and more underneath its umbrella. The included 28 RealTracks and RealDrums can be used with any Band-in-a-Box® 2026 (and higher) package.
Here’s just a small sampling of what you can look forward to in XPro Styles PAK 10: Soft indie folk worship songs, bumpin’ country boogies, gospel praise breaks, hard rockin’ pop, funky disco grooves, smooth Latin jazz pop, bossa nova fusion, western swing, alternative hip-hop, cool country funk, and much more!
Special offers until December 31st, 2025!
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Learn more and listen to demos of XPro Styles PAKs.
Video: XPro Styles PAK 10 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!
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.
Introducing Xtra Styles PAK 21 – Now Available for Windows Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!
Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Windows & Mac Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) is here with 200 brand new RealStyles!
We're excited to bring you our latest Xtra Styles PAK installment—the all new Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher)!
Rejoice, one and all, for Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box® is here! We’re serving up 200 brand spankin’ new styles to delight your musical taste buds! The first three courses are the classics you’ve come to know and love, including offerings from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, but, not to be outdone, this year’s fourth course is bro country! A wide ranging genre, you can find everything from hip-hop, uptempo outlaw country, hard hitting rock, funk, and even electronica, all with that familiar bro country flair. The dinner bell has been rung, pickup up Xtra Styles PAK 21 today!
In this PAK you’ll discover: Energetic folk rock, raucous train beats, fast country boogies, acid jazz grooves, laid-back funky jams, a bevy of breezy jazz waltzes, calm electro funk, indie synth pop, industrial synth metal, and more bro country than could possibly fit in the back of a pickup truck!
Special offers until December 31st, 2025!
All the Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 21 are on special for only $29 each (reg $49), or get all 21 PAKs for $199 (reg $399)! Order now!
Learn more and listen to demos of the Xtra Styles PAK 21.
Video: Xtra Styles PAK 21 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!
Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 21 requires the 2025 or higher UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version because they need the RealTracks from the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
Introducing XPro Styles PAK 10 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!
We've just released XPro Styles PAK 10 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 28 RealTracks and RealDrums!
Few things are certain in life: death, taxes, and a brand spankin’ new XPro Styles PAK! In this, the 10th edition of our XPro Styles PAK series, we’ve got 100 styles coming your way! We have the classic 25 styles each from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, and rounding out this volume's wildcard slot is 25 styles in the Praise & Worship genre! A wide spanning genre, you can find everything from rock, folk, country, and more underneath its umbrella. The included 28 RealTracks and RealDrums can be used with any Band-in-a-Box® 2026 (and higher) package.
Here’s just a small sampling of what you can look forward to in XPro Styles PAK 10: Soft indie folk worship songs, bumpin’ country boogies, gospel praise breaks, hard rockin’ pop, funky disco grooves, smooth Latin jazz pop, bossa nova fusion, western swing, alternative hip-hop, cool country funk, and much more!
Special offers until December 31st, 2025!
All the XPro Styles PAKs 1 - 10 are on sale for only $29 ea (Reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the XPro Styles PAK Bundle for only $149 (reg. $299)! Order now!
Learn more and listen to demos of XPro Styles PAKs.
Video: XPro Styles PAK 10 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!
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.
Introducing Xtra Styles PAK 21 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!
Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) is here with 200 brand new RealStyles!
We're excited to bring you our latest Xtra Styles PAK installment—the all new Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher)!
Rejoice, one and all, for Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box® is here! We’re serving up 200 brand spankin’ new styles to delight your musical taste buds! The first three courses are the classics you’ve come to know and love, including offerings from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, but, not to be outdone, this year’s fourth course is bro country! A wide ranging genre, you can find everything from hip-hop, uptempo outlaw country, hard hitting rock, funk, and even electronica, all with that familiar bro country flair. The dinner bell has been rung, pickup up Xtra Styles PAK 21 today!
In this PAK you’ll discover: Energetic folk rock, raucous train beats, fast country boogies, acid jazz grooves, laid-back funky jams, a bevy of breezy jazz waltzes, calm electro funk, indie synth pop, industrial synth metal, and more bro country than could possibly fit in the back of a pickup truck!
Special offers until December 31st, 2025!
All the Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 21 are on special for only $29 each (reg $49), or get all 21 PAKs for $199 (reg $399)! Order now!
Learn more and listen to demos of the Xtra Styles PAK 21.
Video: Xtra Styles PAK 21 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!
Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 21 requires the 2025 or higher UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version because they need the RealTracks from the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Windows is Here!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows 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 60 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 Windows and save up to 50% on most upgrade packages during our special offer—available until December 31, 2025. 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 Windows packages, but you can unlock even more—including 20 unreleased RealTracks—by upgrading to the 2026 49-PAK for just $49. Browse the full contents of each package and listen to demos here.
XPro and Xtra Styles PAKs Special Extended Until August 31st!
XPro & Xtra Styles PAKs Special Extended Until August 31st!
The XPro Styles PAKs and Xtra Styles PAKs special offers are now available until August 31st at 11:59pm PDT!
Ready to take your Band-in-a-Box® 2025 experience to the next level? Now’s the perfect time! Expand your style library with XPro and Xtra Styles PAKs—packed with a wide variety of genres to inspire your next musical creation.
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 1-9 includes 900 styles!
Xtra Styles PAKs are styles that work with the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box® 2025 (or higher). With over 3,500 styles (and 35 MIDI styles) included in Xtra Styles PAKs 1-20, the possibilities are endless!
Get the XPro Styles PAKs 1 - 9 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 Windows or for Mac.
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.
Get Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 20 are on special for only $29 each (reg $49), or get all 19 PAKs for $199 (reg $399)! Listen to demos and order now! For Windows or for Mac.
Note: 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 because they need the RealTracks from the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
Don’t miss this chance to supercharge your Band-in-a-Box setup—at a great price!
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