|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 812
Expert
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 812 |
Hi,
I am in the process of going through a folder of BIAB songs from the internet, the folder has over 7000 tunes. I need a great sounding VST that recognizes GM and will load patches automatically, but also sounds as good as the Keytron SD2 or better. So I'm a little bummed out that Sonar doesnt work for me (windows 7) I have been using the TTS-1 from Sonar as my VST sound module. I don't mind the sounds in the Roland VSC, but i'm wondering if anyone knows of a great sounding VST library that I can use. I have Bandstand, Garritan Jazz and Big Band, etc. But none of these really cut it and they are a pain to program.
thanks for your help and suggestions as usual,
ED
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,616
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,616 |
Check out the VSTSynthFont. Works in BIAB and RB. I don't know what instruments you're looking for but plenty of Soundfonts out there, many are free. I have a post in this thread about the ones I like. http://www.pgmusic.com/ubbthreads/showfl...true#Post229074Rachael
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 7,697
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 7,697 |
Quote:
I need a great sounding VST that recognizes GM and will load patches automatically, but also sounds as good as the Keytron SD2 or better.
This has been the holy grail for years and I don't think it exists. The problem is GM and loading the patches automatically. Really pro sounding softsynths don't use GM at all and the few that include a GM bank like my Emulator X sounds terrible. Before the SD2 came out, Mac had good success loading in his very expensive Gigasamples into the basic Forte player that most of us have but you need to be Mac to do it. Kinda tricky to set that all up. And, it only worked for him because he already had those Gigasamples. That library costs as much as a high end keyboard. All the big name softsynth/sampler developers feel GM is too restrictive regarding midi implementation and it's basically for amateurs. This is why when the Ketron and the Roland Sonic Cell came out a two years ago they created a sensation for us GM users because their GM banks sound pretty good and they also have a bunch of great sounding higher banks if you want to use them. Afaik, the only good sounding GM soundbanks are in hardware synths either modules or keyboards that cost over $2,000. Soundfonts are ok but they're not in the same league as the SD2.
Bob
Biab/RB latest build, Win 11 Pro, Ryzen 5 5600 G, 512 Gig SSD, 16 Gigs Ram, Steinberg UR22 MkII, Roland Sonic Cell, Kurzweil PC3, Hammond SK1, Korg PA3XPro, Garritan JABB, Hypercanvas, Sampletank 3, more.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502 |
Quote:
I need a great sounding VST that recognizes GM and will load patches automatically, but also sounds as good as the Keytron SD2 or better.
It is my opinion that such is unobtanium.
--Mac
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 10,199
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 10,199 |
Yeah,
My feeling on that is if you want the sound of an SD2, buy an SD2. It's an investment that ends up paying for itself in the long run in your pleasure from hearing the music.
Gary
I'm blessed watching God do what He does best. I've had a few rough years, and I'm still not back to where I want to be, but I'm on the way and things are looking far better now than what they were!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 30
Enthusiast
|
|
Enthusiast
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 30 |
You can try SoundStage from Sonivox (www.sonivoxmi.com). For the price, $100, it is a remarkably good GM module. I downloaded the free version and tested it out for a few days, and was generally pleased. My objective was to find something better than my 800MB soundfont collection, and it tempted me.
General MIDI never sounds perfect because it's a compromise of sorts. But if what you want to do is make your freshly-generated BiaB or RealBand tracks sound a bit better, this would do the trick. Because I am a song writer making demos, my goal is to get "close enough" to a good sound, then I will usually substitute selected instruments from a sampler (SampleTank, Kontakt, Kore, etc.).
SoundStage is about 1 gig, which is 4x the size of Sonivox's GM Soundfont set (250 MB), so I don't believe they just repackaged that particular beastie into a new wrapper.
Having said all that.... when I step back and think about what makes me the most productive in producing demos, it's RealTracks. For my money, I will almost certainly allocate any funds toward more RealTracks, rather than more samplers of any type.
Scott Emery
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502 |
Use of Soundfonts can indeed represent a very good way to go when a software synthesizer, or at least a MIDI synth that lives inside the computer, is desired.
Use of one of the Creative cards that run the Soundfonts from their own external engine can open that up even further, emulating a hardware synthesizer in terms of latency (near zero when done right), plus you can try all sorts of available GM, GS and other banks of sounds without resorting to vast expenditure.
With a bit more self-research and education on the subject, one can even learn how to mix and match Soundfonts to create their own custom soundbanks, using programs like the good old (and somewhat complicated to master) Vienna program from Creative, or perhaps start out by finding a copy of the good old easier to use Drag 'n Drop "Soundfont Librarian" program.
The tradeoff is learning curve.
--Mac
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 8,021
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 8,021 |
Ed,
Am I miss reading this or are you satisfied with the TTS-1 ? It can be used in BIAB.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 812
Expert
|
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 812 |
Hi,
Thanks so all of you for your suggestions. I did download the Sonivox demo, but I found out it has 1 channel only, so that wont work either.
Silvertones, I do like the TTS-1 very much, and if I could just get Sonar to work for me in Windows 7, I would use it again. I only need sounds for a quick review of a tune, once I like it I always use Real Tracks before finishing and converting to MP3.
Take care,
Ed
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 46
Enthusiast
|
|
Enthusiast
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 46 |
OK, not as good as Ketron SD2 (which I own) but Prodipe VE is a relatively new GM software synth. Honestly, I don't use it much but I have it working on the computer we're using just to try Windows 7. I haven't tried BIAB on that computer but the Prodipe works fine with Windows 7 and another sequencer.
The Prodipe box includes a usb dongle which is also a simple audio interface. That turned out to be an advantage because Windows 7 doesn't recognize the computer's internal soundcard. As is recall, Prodipe VE cost around $90 US.
Susan
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 2,498
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 2,498 |
I am way behind and haven’t checked in at Cakewalk in a while so I also bummed to hear about Sonar – not working in Win 7?? (but I’m still in Win XP SP 3 so don’t really care yet and won’t for at least a year)
But since the subject is broached can anyone here give a fairly objective “how does the Ketron SD compare to other GM dedicated boxes like the RolandED SC-8850?” Which I do own and use for scratch work and quick work-ups (I like it better than messing with VSTs or soundfonts – cause I just twist a dial - two feet away) [But since this past Christmas I find myself using more and more realtracks/Realdrums <G>)
Edited- Strike those PS's (I deleted them) I found the samples I think I know the answer to above question
Thanks for any insight here.
Larry
Last edited by Larry Kehl; 08/19/09 02:49 PM.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,448
Veteran
|
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,448 |
Larry, who told you SONAR doesn't work in Windows 7?
It works fine for me.
I am running Win 7 RC 32-bit. If you have Vista drivers for your soundcard, things should be fine. If your soundcard is a firewire device, there is a 'trick' involving legacy drivers; you can write back if you need that info.
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 178
Apprentice
|
|
Apprentice
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 178 |
Susan,
thanks for the heads up on prodipe VE. I hadn't heard of this device but it looks like a really promising product. I wonder if anyone has experience of using it with BIAB? In particular I would like to know whether it will automatically respond to BIABs Midi instructions to change patches for new songs or new sections of songs (a lot of synths with GM capability won't do that). Also any opinions on sound quality versus the VSC and Forte woud be welcome.
The prospect of a better quality GM synth with no latency which works with BIAB as seamlessly as the VSC, and all for 99 Euros would be extremely appealing.
I don't often end up using the VSC sounds in my final compositions (usually substitute them with Sampletank or Halion voices once I move the project to Cubase) but I think that I sometimes might be dismissing some of the midi based styles just because of the quality of some of the VSC voices (particularly guitar).
The long term solution definitely resides with realtracks which are awesome, but I think that the midi styles will still be important until the realtracks library builds out more (2009.5 was a great step in that direction).
Many thanks
Regards, Aubrey
If I hadn't seen such riches I could live with being poor.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 812
Expert
|
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 812 |
Matt,
I'm the guilty party, I mentioned in my original post that Sonar wasn't working for me in Windows 7. I should have added "Because I can't get my interface (Tascam Fireone) to play nice with Sonar."
Actually, I just reinstalled Sonar and I am able to use the TTS-1 with BIAB (Thank God!) I just can't do any further editing in Sonar.
I still want to pick me up one of those way cool Keytron SD2 units. It seems I have to have an emergency meeting with the War Department (Wife) before I can do so.........
Ed
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 46
Enthusiast
|
|
Enthusiast
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 46 |
Aubrey, the Prodipe VE does handle GM patch changes automatically. Keep in mind that I use GM synths primarily for playing midi files written to accompany piano teaching pieces, so my opinion on the sounds may not be entirely relevant to most BIAB users. FWIW, I like the Prodipe VE better than VSC-DXi/VST and Forte but not nearly so well as I like my Ketron SD2. (Except for REALLY HATING the vibrato on the SD2's clarinet and trumpet and not liking the pizz strings very much either, if anyone from Ketron is reading this post).
Susan
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 178
Apprentice
|
|
Apprentice
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 178 |
Thanks Susan,
I have set aside the next few weeks for enjoying the 2009.5 realtracks, but after that I think that i might get Prodipe VE and give it a spin (I have found it for only £38.00 sterling on Thomann.com).
Best regards, Aubrey
If I hadn't seen such riches I could live with being poor.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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®!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forums57
Topics85,738
Posts795,576
Members39,945
| |
Most Online25,754
Jan 24th, 2025
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean