|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196
Apprentice
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196 |
My long-time favorite MIDI module, the Ketron SD2, is dying. I might buy another, but I see it's no longer available. Anybody have any thoughts on the best midi module for BIAB that's out there now? I'd prefer to spend less than $500, but I could spend more for something that's way better than less costly alternatives.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 1,323
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 1,323 |
For your information, the Ketron SD2 can be replaced by the Ketron SD1000. See the Ketron website for checking the specifications and the demos. This device is in your budget frame and it offers a better sound quality than the SD2.
You can also read the different threads in the forums regarding the SD1000.
Reach for excellence
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 8,491
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 8,491 |
Here is one thing I am ignorant about:
Is there any reason to use hardware when there is so much available in software?
I apologize in advance if the questions is stupid.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,704
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,704 |
My long-time favorite MIDI module, the Ketron SD2, is dying. I might buy another, but I see it's no longer available. Anybody have any thoughts on the best midi module for BIAB that's out there now? I'd prefer to spend less than $500, but I could spend more for something that's way better than less costly alternatives. What do you mean it is dyeing? I have hard synths in my rack that are over 30 years old and still working just fine.
OK, a random thought;
Why does toilet paper need a commercial? Who's not buying it?
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,704
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,704 |
Here is one thing I am ignorant about:
Is there any reason to use hardware when there is so much available in software?
I apologize in advance if the questions is stupid.
That is not a stupid question. The only reason that I can think of, right now that is, is that one's system can't handle it. I have heard some free GM soundfonts that rival some GM hard synths. But since I do not use GM for anything except BiaB, I have only the GM that comes with BiaB.
OK, a random thought;
Why does toilet paper need a commercial? Who's not buying it?
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 12,844
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 12,844 |
My SD-2 is working intermittently as well, so I get that it may be dying.
Why hardware vs. software; well, for one reason, the SD-2 actually has some very good GM (and additional) sounds. The solo flute from my SD-2 fooled a professional flute player when I used it for a flute solo in one of my songs.
I will admit, I haven't had a lot of time to troubleshoot. I have seen that you can maybe reapply the firmware, but I've also seen too many reports of other people's SD-2's getting bricked in the process. I don't think it's the computer, because it just started acting up one day and I get the same results across multiple computers (a mix of Windows 7 and Windows 10).
I may also have to take a look at the SD-1000.
John Laptop-HP Omen I7 Win11Pro 32GB 12TB SSD Desktop-ASUS-I7 Win10Pro 32GB 12TB SATA BB2026/UMC204HD&404HD/Casios/Cakewalk/Reaper/Studio One/Notion/Dorico/Noteworthy/NI/Halion/IK http://www.sus4chord.com (under rehosting/construction)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196
Apprentice
|
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196 |
What do you mean it is dyeing? I have hard synths in my rack that are over 30 years old and still working just fine.
The Ketron's sound has started to fade out intermittently. I've done a bunch of tests to rule out any issue with computer hardware and software, the audio interface, the midi interface, the mixer, cables (audio and midi) and everything else. It's the Ketron, which served me well for years. I also have some older midi modules (Roland and Yamaha stuff bought in the late 90s) and they still work, too. They just don't sound great compared to the Ketron.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 1,685
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 1,685 |
The ketron sd 1000 is an amazing sound module.
Honestly I prefer it when writing songs to the real tracks it has a more natural sound.
I also tried loads of commercial midi files Neil Diamond ,the kinks,elton john etc.
And it blew me away to how near this module gets to original sound of these songs.
Some times I just add a wee pick/strum realtrack and its a peach.
Just cannot praise it enough.
win 10 64 bit 16gb,i7 chip, ssd 500gb, m-audio air, ,Roland BK-7M, 1000,shure sm7b,sonar,acid,mixcraft, variety of plugins.Sample tank 3,Kontakt. TC Helicon Voicelive 3 2 . https://beatmaster1.bandcamp.com/releases
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196
Apprentice
|
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196 |
Is there any reason to use hardware when there is so much available in software?
I'm not all that up on current software. In the past I used orchestras and jazz bands from Garritan and a synth from Native Instruments and probably some others. I liked some of the sounds, but they didn't seem all that easy to use with either BIAB or Logic Pro, compared to hardware. Also, with software, it seems like there can be more of an issue with a company making updates for the latest Mac and Windows operating systems. If the software is discontinued or no longer works with my Mac or PC, I'm out of luck. I haven't been keeping up, though, so some of my concerns may be off base.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 8,491
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 8,491 |
Ok, so I am going to sound like a total Geek, but my favorite software general midi instrument BY FAR is the TTS-1 that came for free with Sonar. I love it. And I have Sample Tank 3, Syntronik, Philharmonik 1 and 2, and all the Garritan Libraries. And the Abbey Road Grand. And I love little TTS-1. I would cry if it stopped working. 
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196
Apprentice
|
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196 |
The ketron sd 1000 is an amazing sound module... Just cannot praise it enough. Thanks. I'll check it out. The only thing I didn't like about my Ketron SD2 is I thought it was a bit noisier than some of my other equipment, though you could rarely hear it in a mix. I ended up patching in a hum eliminator between the Ketron and my mixer, which helped. I take it noise isn't an issue with the SD1000?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,704
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,704 |
The Ketron's sound has started to fade out intermittently. I've done a bunch of tests to rule out any issue with computer hardware and software, the audio interface, the midi interface, the mixer, cables (audio and midi) and everything else. It's the Ketron, which served me well for years. I also have some older midi modules (Roland and Yamaha stuff bought in the late 90s) and they still work, too. They just don't sound great compared to the Ketron.
Thanx for letting me know. So both you and John are having the same problem. That would make me wonder if I would want to buy another synth from them or not! I hear you about those older synth sounds. They are dated for sure and a lot of progress has been made in sampling since then. But they still work, i.e. Yamaha, Kawai and Roland synths.
OK, a random thought;
Why does toilet paper need a commercial? Who's not buying it?
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 2,499
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 2,499 |
OK just a thought: does anyone know with certainty if a SD-2 does or does NOT have a CR-2032, CR-2016, BR-2325, or similar internal battery?
Almost ALL these modules, even just small ROMplers/synths (e.g., Alesis Nanosynth and Roland SC-8850) have them. As well as almost every other piece of rack gear and keyboards I own (multi-Fx units, MIDI patch bays, all my ROMplers, keyboards and synths). I change batteries every 5-7 years no matter what in ALL my gear even though they say they will last for 10 or more years and they SHOULD but you never know so I apply the "why wait for disaster" rule - yes it is overkill.
IF, again I say IF, the SD-2 does have a battery it MIGHT be getting too weak, or more likely it is actually DEAD and these "intermittent" SD-2s are caused because by applying power you simply bring back partial functionality when nonvolatile ROM functions and memory load - but zero information that might be maintained in volatile battery backed flash RAM.
Again just a thought
Larry
Last edited by Larry Kehl; 03/20/18 04:37 PM.
Win10Pro,i9,64GB,2TBSSD+20TBHDDs,1080TI,BIAB'24,Scarlett18i8,Montage7,Fusion 8HD,QS8,Integra7,XV5080,QSR,SC-8850,SPLAT,FL21&others,Komp.14,IK suite&others, just a guitar player-AXE FX III &FM9T, FishmanTP, MIDIGuitar2, GK2/3'sw/GI20
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 1,685
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 1,685 |
jholman I don't hear any sort of hum any, more than I do from my roland jv2080. And then I need to turn volume way up. The ketron sd-2 is still on sale at thomanns,, https://www.thomann.de/gb/ketron_general_midi_sound_modules.html
win 10 64 bit 16gb,i7 chip, ssd 500gb, m-audio air, ,Roland BK-7M, 1000,shure sm7b,sonar,acid,mixcraft, variety of plugins.Sample tank 3,Kontakt. TC Helicon Voicelive 3 2 . https://beatmaster1.bandcamp.com/releases
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 1,685
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 1,685 |
sound on sound review for those wondering software/HARDWARE. https://www.soundonsound.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4884
win 10 64 bit 16gb,i7 chip, ssd 500gb, m-audio air, ,Roland BK-7M, 1000,shure sm7b,sonar,acid,mixcraft, variety of plugins.Sample tank 3,Kontakt. TC Helicon Voicelive 3 2 . https://beatmaster1.bandcamp.com/releases
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 2,147
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 2,147 |
another vote for the TTS-1 although I've got the edirol hypercanvas version. apart from one of the kick drums not responding to velocity changes it's great.
but it is getting old and I worry about replacing it if ever it proves incompatible with updates. I like some of the Forte Dxi sounds but not all so I tend to stick to the Edirol.
lots of soft synths available but none I can find that are simple GM2
Last edited by Bob Calver; 03/21/18 01:37 AM.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 1,685
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 1,685 |
I have the tts-1 as I have sonar pro, I have changed my computer and been setting up all my gear on the new one.
Can anybody tell me where to direct biab to find the tts-1, I have tried but cannot seem to find it..?
win 10 64 bit 16gb,i7 chip, ssd 500gb, m-audio air, ,Roland BK-7M, 1000,shure sm7b,sonar,acid,mixcraft, variety of plugins.Sample tank 3,Kontakt. TC Helicon Voicelive 3 2 . https://beatmaster1.bandcamp.com/releases
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 12,844
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 12,844 |
Larry, that's a good point about the battery. I haven't taken mine apart yet, but I plan to. Too many competing priorities has kept me from troubleshooting as much as I like.
John Laptop-HP Omen I7 Win11Pro 32GB 12TB SSD Desktop-ASUS-I7 Win10Pro 32GB 12TB SATA BB2026/UMC204HD&404HD/Casios/Cakewalk/Reaper/Studio One/Notion/Dorico/Noteworthy/NI/Halion/IK http://www.sus4chord.com (under rehosting/construction)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,704
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,704 |
Gentlemen, from what I have read yes the Ketron SD-2 does have a rechargeable battery. However I would think that the power supply would negate the battery. Have you checked the power supply output? You might check it at the start and when the unit starts to act up.
OK, a random thought;
Why does toilet paper need a commercial? Who's not buying it?
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196
Apprentice
|
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 196 |
OK just a thought: does anyone know with certainty if a SD-2 does or does NOT have a CR-2032, CR-2016, BR-2325, or similar internal battery?
I just took my SD2 apart, having nothing to lose at this point. I don't see a battery. There is a fuse and a thing I thought at first was a battery, but it's actually a small 1000uF 16V capacitor which I messed up. (Took me a while to figure that out -- electronics isn't my thing). Here's a picture of what's inside the SD2 if anybody's curious. A sticker says it was tested back in 2007. So it lasted at least 10 years. 
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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