This must be explained somewhere, but I can't find it.
I've some a VST on the Bass track. The instrument plays two octaves below the MIDI notes, so I've pitch-shifted it via Prefs->Channels to get the played notes correct.
I generate and play the song and I hear my Bass, but I still hear also the default MIDI patch, playing at the two-octaves higher pitch. I select "no MIDI patch" and try again, but I still get the original instrument playing.
How does one stop it playing please?
BTW, I notice also that the original instrument is playing something like a quarter second after the VSTi.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
Is that MIDI also being routed to the 'default' synth somehow?
I imagine so.
Yes, MIDI and in case it helps RINGS.STY.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
I've just just discovered that the mixer volume controls affect the VSTi, but does not control whatever other synth is running. I can fade my wanted instrument to nothing, but the unwanted one just keeps playing.
Here's an additional curiosity ... If I solo the other two tracks and try fading out the VSTi, the one with the VSTi also plays the original instrument, but the one that's re-routed to the other does not.
Oh goods grief ... this is so confusing.
If I set all the VSTi track volumes to zero and regenerate I get the some VST instruments only. I get the bass (VSTI) and strings (re-routed to guitar track VSTi), but not the guitar track VSTi itself.
If I set all the VSTi track volumes to non-zero and regenerate I get both default and VSTi on the bass and guitar tracks but no default instrument on the strings (re-routeed to VSTi) track.
At the moment this all appears completely out of control.
I seems like there are multiple interactions between volume faders, regenerations, VSTis, synths and MIDI re-routes that are quite difficult to tie down.
Taking a break.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
Half the trouble is that so many things appear to be interacting, that it's hard to say what causes what.
I now have: Kontact VSTi on bass track. Kontact VSTi on Guitar track. Kontact VSTi on Strings track.
Each is its own copy of Kontact. Each are set to re-route MIDI to channel 1. None are set to re-route to MIDI plugin.
If I set the volumes of al tracks to ~90 and regenerate I get both VSTi and another instrument on most, though at the moment I have no VSTi playing on the Guitar track ... I know not why ... the instrumnent shows keys playing.
If I set the volumes to zero and regenerate, then raise the volumes, I get the VSTi playing, but not the other instrument, except that guitar track which now remains silent.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
The type of behavior you describe can happen if there's been an audio file rendered of the BIAB song. The audio will automatically load and play along when you open and generate the song.
Did you try muting your audio track to see if that gets rid of the unwanted bass sound?
What I do in situations like this is to mute every track and then listen to each track individually, one by one. Eventually I discover which track is causing the problem and so then I start working out how to solve it.
Did you try muting your audio track to see if that gets rid of the unwanted bass sound?
Hi Noel,
No I didn't, but the bass track mute button mutes it, so I think it's not an audio track.
OK, exit lazy mode ... I just tried it and no, muting the audio track makes no difference.
Incidentally, as I hadn't bothered to save the song, I quickly set it up again from scratch, individual VSTi on each track, re-route as my images, and the behaviour is the same. Volumee non-zero for regenerate, I get the two default instrument on all VSTi tracks, volkume zero at regenerate, I get only the VST instruments as I'd have expected. I haven't yet done a factory reset.
It isn't just the bass, it's doing the same on every track with a VSTi. It isn't so intrusive on the other tracks as they're low-ish in volume and at the same pitches, but it really notices with the base because it's played the two octaves high(*).
(*) I'm using Bolder Sounds' "Roots Upright Bass", which has the notes shifted up two octaves, so that the notes can be played in the right hand and the articulations can be handled with the left hand.
BiaB 2022, build 912. I thimk this is likely a bug. I can't see it mentioned in subsequent updates, but I may update to check. I've taken the philosophy this year of updating only when there appears an imperrative.
BTW, I've just set the default synth from Coyote to None, but that makes no difference.
Hmm .. I just did RTFS Most, set the volumes up, started a regenerate and had a bunch of crackling and a BiaB crash. Restarted BiaB, repeated the aetup, OK the second time.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
I set up VirtualMIDISynth and default synth again; First regenerate completed, but BiaB crashed after playing a few bars.
Restarted, set up the VSTis again, generates and plays again now, but the problem remains.
It's Monday morning, so I'll guess that PGM will find this thread soon, otherwise I'll report it via support.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
Although it is very likely, this is a user forum, and there is no guarantee that PGM staff will review the thread. So 'belt-and-braces' it may be worthwhile to mention it to support also.
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.
Yes, sensible; I only need a short note and the URL. It'll give a pertinent heads-up, not increase the workload. --- Done.
Last edited by Gordon Scott; 02/14/2202:02 AM.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
Could it be harmony. I think that with the Harmony tool it can bet set to No Harmony. It should stop. Worth the try...
Good thought, but I'm pretty sure not. I did check and it was already set to no harmony.
The other instruments all appear on the same tracks as the VSTi and I think Harmony gets written to only either the Melody or the Soloist tracks.
Both VSTi and the other instrument are muted by the mute button on their track, but the volume slider affects only the VSTi.
As an aside, I think the volume of the other instrument may vary from generate to generate or possibly from program run to program run. Today the non-VSTi instruments on the guitar and strings tracks are almost inaudible, so I wouldn't normally have noticed them. They have certainly been louder before. Oddly so far, the bass track non-VSTi always seems to be quite loud.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
I've just bumped to 918 as requested for a different issue, so retested this. The problem remains the same.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
I wonder if you are getting some cross talk between the Kontakt tracks. I know that it shouldn't happen but just maybe it is happening. Here are a couple of things that I would try if it was my problem:
1- Assign each Kontakt track a different channel. Some thing like bass #2, guitar #3 and strings #4. Stay away from channel #1 in all cases.
2- Add each Kontakt track one at a time. Start from scratch then add the bass. Any problems? Then add the guitar. Any problems? Then add the strings. I would do this with all tracks set to channel #1.
I would like to think that suggestion #1 would work.
I don't use Kontakt in BiaB, I use it in Studio One Pro, but at times I have had Kontakt reset its volume to a lower setting. In order to eliminate that I place a CC7 at the start of the track.
I hope this helps and good luck.
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
1- Assign each Kontakt track a different channel. Some thing like bass #2, guitar #3 and strings #4. Stay away from channel #1 in all cases.
Good thought, but no, it does the same with MIDI channels 2, 3 & 4.
Originally Posted By: MarioD
2- Add each Kontakt track one at a time. Start from scratch then add the bass. Any problems? Then add the guitar. Any problems? Then add the strings. I would do this with all tracks set to channel #1.
Hmm, just the bass alone still does the same. I changed it to MIDI channel 2, but to no avail.
Originally Posted By: MarioD
I don't use Kontakt in BiaB, I use it in Studio One Pro, but at times I have had Kontakt reset its volume to a lower setting. In order to eliminate that I place a CC7 at the start of the track.
I hope this helps and good luck.
I've been presuming that it's not a Kontakt issue, but you've prompted me to try a different plugin instead. I tried PianoTeq (on bass) and I also get the same result with that.
Extending that further, I put sforzando on the guitar track and Reaktor on the strings track. Both of those also do the same.
What's becoming increasingly perplexing is that nobody else has confirmed this, which suggests that the problem really is only on my system. Mind you, most people seem to build a bunch of stuff on BiaB and then transfer to a DAW, so maybe other people don't see it.
I've alwqays built this song from scratch as it's easy to do and I always know the starting point. I've just decided to save it: "VSTi Blues"
Oh! ... OK ... I've just tried something else that's stopped it doing this. I just changed the MIDI Output Driver from VirtualMIDISynth to <no MIDI/Sound output>, enabled VSTi/DXI Synth (CoyoteWT) and the problem goes away.
Presumably it isn't VMS itself causing this as it must be being sent the MIDI, but it does give a pointer to why I'm seeing it and nobody else appears to be.
OK, next test, use the Microsoft GS wavetable synth. Oh, interesting; That doesn't do it either.
Finally back to VirtualMIDISynth and the problem reappears. That's really rather bizarre.
Last edited by Gordon Scott; 02/15/2208:23 AM.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
I did come across something similar, managed to sort it out somehow, I cannot remember what I did. However I recall that I did change something in the preferences (thought it was the harmony).
Could it be the "Output Chords on Channel"? I got it set off, as in the illustration below:
Gordon, great detective work. I'm glad you found and corrected your problem.
PS - I'm one of those guys who do most all of my work in my DAW and not in BiaB. I get out of BiaB as fast as I can. However I use BiaB in a much different way then others as I work mostly in MIDI.
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
I did come across something similar, managed to sort it out somehow, I cannot remember what I did. However I recall that I did change something in the preferences (thought it was the harmony).
Could it be the "Output Chords on Channel"? I got it set off, as in the illustration below:
That looks like a good thought, though my settings are as yours, except for the Output MIDI Sync info, which I have unchecked.
I may explore some further areas like that.
Thanks.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
Gordon, great detective work. I'm glad you found and corrected your problem.
PS - I'm one of those guys who do most all of my work in my DAW and not in BiaB. I get out of BiaB as fast as I can. However I use BiaB in a much different way then others as I work mostly in MIDI.
Hi Mario,
I haven't really sorted it, because I wanted to use a better synth than CoyoteWT and VirtualMIDISynth still has the peoblem.
In another thread it was suggested that I should move vst3 programs and posssibly VSTSynthFont64 back to the default locations. That's a bit frustrating because they're all over the place, but I guess I'd best do it. If I do, maybe VSTSynthFont64 will work again and resolve the issue that way. Ho Hum.
This kind of detective work is part of what I've spent my life doing. The hardest part of fixing a bug is reliably beoing able to reproduce the bug.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
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!
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.
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.
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.
One of our representatives will be happy to help you over the phone. Our hours of operation are from
6:00AM to 6:00PM PST (GMT -8) Monday thru Friday, and 8:00AM to 4:00PM PST Saturday. We are closed Sunday. You can also send us your questions via email.
One of our representatives will be happy to help you on our Live Chat or by email. Our hours of operation are from
6:00AM to 6:00PM PST (GMT -8) Monday thru Friday; 8:00AM to 4:00PM PST (GMT -8) Saturday; Closed Sunday.