|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,122
Expert
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,122 |
If I knew enough I think I'd write one. Lord knows I've felt like a dummy a few times and wouldn't mind paying for a Book that could take me step by step thru each of the gazillion possible functions of every feature.
The great part is you could keep selling updates to the book based on PG music updates. How many copies of Win95 for Dummies do you suppose were sold, then Win98, then Win2000, then and then and then. Geez.
Peter you have a gold mine here me thinks.
I'd buy one, because sadly the printed manuals have been hard to wade thru.
Step by Step is the key for most of us who are not already experts.
toucher
Any thoughts guys?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 886
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 886 |
i5 3.20GHz, 32gb RAM, 1tb SSD OS, 12tb HDD, 4gb gForce vid card, 32" monitor, Audient id44, Win10 x64, BiaB/RB 2023, Reaper 6,IK Multimedia Total Studio 3.5 MAX, Waves 10
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,610
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,610 |
I think, someone like Mac could probably write one of those books. I think he's the most seasoned BIAB user on this site.
How about it, Mac??? <wink>
Cheers,
Mike
Cheers, Mike My Music * Asus ROG Strix G15CF 32 GB DDR4 4TB HDD + 1 TB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 8GB Win 11 AKAI EIE PRO Sound Interface. BIAB/RB 2024 UltraPak Build - Latest
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 141
Apprentice
|
|
Apprentice
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 141 |
A BIAB for dummies with a drawl would definitely be a good idea!
- Jepster
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502 |
I've been asked before.
Maybe now's the time, I seem to suddenly have a lot of time since the hospital trip...
It would be a HUGE undertaking.
--Mac
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 14,576
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 14,576 |
Quote:
I've been asked before.
Maybe now's the time, I seem to suddenly have a lot of time since the hospital trip...
It would be a HUGE undertaking.
--Mac
Mac. If you write the manual some of us could proof read it as you go. Maybe PG could arrange for a beta page to be set up. For those of us who proof read, it would be the same for those who beta test. Just a thought.
Russ Anyday above ground is a good day Computer is Hp Pavillion Vision 6 Ghz quad core AMD processor 8 Gig memory 1 TB hard drive 6 GB hard drive Windows 7 Premium Loose nut behind the keyboard 
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 1,826
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 1,826 |
Hi Mac
If anybody could do this you could although i think that video`s are the way to go,how do you decide which way to go because nearly everybody wants to go in different directions,i belive that only a small amount of musicians read manuals anyway so will they read Biab for Dummies i don`t think so
I purchased Traction 3 and because every thing you read is how easy and simple this program is, i would not read the manual and try to get to grips just by useing, there is one part i can not do and i can`t begin to find out how so i can`t progress untill i fathom out how to do it,it came out last summer and i have given up and i am going to buy a Sva video to help me get to grips with it,
anyway if you did decide good luck,you really need two people to do this, you that knows Biab inside out and someone who knows nothing to show you what is needed
best wishes Dave Hoskins
I always play the right notes but not always in the right order
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,122
Expert
|
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,122 |
Videos are great as well, but it seems to be more memorie friendly if I find it in a manual, then have to read it step by step as I perform the task. My experience as a corporate trainer has proven that for most people, the hands on and looking up the info is the best learning process.
Which is kind of a odd thing since 60% of people claim to learn more by visual stimulation as compared to only 15% who learn better by audio. In most cases it's because human nature is lazy at best, and we hate to look things up for ourselves. Which is why the Dummie books sold and still sell so well. Somebody looked it up for me and showed me how to do it.
Videos are visual, so is reading and looking at diagrams, with the videos you also usually get audo. But by far, still the best is hands on after looking for the answer.
toucher
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,610
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,610 |
Quote:
I've been asked before.
Maybe now's the time, I seem to suddenly have a lot of time since the hospital trip...
It would be a HUGE undertaking.
--Mac
Yes, HUGE. But, I bet Peter could set you up with you book for dummies, so it could be sold through the PG store.
Now, THAT would be awesome. I'd be willing to fork out some money for the book... I am far from even an "experienced" user.
Cheers,
Mike
Cheers, Mike My Music * Asus ROG Strix G15CF 32 GB DDR4 4TB HDD + 1 TB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 8GB Win 11 AKAI EIE PRO Sound Interface. BIAB/RB 2024 UltraPak Build - Latest
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502 |
What about a series that consists of serialized written manual PLUS some screenshot videos?
That seems to me the best approach, read about it, watch it happen sort of thing.
The "serialization" method would not only allow for bite-sized chunks, allowing someone to just grab a certain portion that they wish to get into, but it also would help me out in the sense that BIAB keeps adding all those "more than 50 new features" every year. It would be a real killer to try to keep up with Peter all in one book, that has been the reason I've put this off in the first place. But with a serialized or more exactly, a sectionalized approach, perhaps something can be accomplished.
If I need a beta test, or more properly an editing forum, I've got my own server space for that, no need to chew up pgmusic resources.
I've started my own list of subjects.
What are some specifics that some of you might like to see covered?
Try to keep it centralized as to the requests if at all possible please.
Ex:
"How to take a song from mp3/CD to BIAB arrangement"
"How to create your own custom style from a good MIDI arrangement"
"How to make your BIAB songs sound more realistic"
"Troubleshooting the BIAB PC"
"How to make use of all those BIAB global preference settings"
"Using BIAB in live performance"
etc.
--Mac
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,610
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,610 |
That's a great approach, Mac ... indiviual "chapters", separated ... available by specific topic. Like the video idea as well. And what you said aboout "keeping up with Peter" - didn't think about that. You're so right about that!
Good thinking!!!
Cheers,
Mike
Cheers, Mike My Music * Asus ROG Strix G15CF 32 GB DDR4 4TB HDD + 1 TB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 8GB Win 11 AKAI EIE PRO Sound Interface. BIAB/RB 2024 UltraPak Build - Latest
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 827
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 827 |
Awesome Mac,
how about "how to get started" for complete dummies like me, something simple but practical. Something that gets some results quickly without the theory, like the first three chords in guitar playing. You haven't a clue what they're called, but you can sing along with about half of popular music. I'd look forward to anything that helps me get into this programm.
Chris
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 1,345
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 1,345 |
Mac...
I'll buy the series. I think it's a great idea.
It's also a win-win-win. (You, PGMusic & the reader)
Mick
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 7,258
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 7,258 |
Quote:
I've been asked before.
Maybe now's the time, I seem to suddenly have a lot of time since the hospital trip...
It would be a HUGE undertaking.
--Mac
I think a collaberation between Russ, Mac & Gary would see one heck of a book ! 
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,122
Expert
|
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,122 |
Mac, I'd say you are on exactly the right track. My inclination would be to start at the beginning for the complete newbie. Just like in the Dummie books. I know so of the more advanced users are thinking wow It'll be years before they get to the really juicy stuff, but by implementing an approach of variations it could serve everyone.
1. This is how to enter chords: Step by step instruction, maybe a scree shot or two, then explain using the chords with shots, holds, etc. Things like C. or C.., C,F,
2. opening midis, the melody track situation, copying tracks, The basic things that most newbies don't even think of. That would give them a jump start, and keep some of the more advanced users entained as well hopefully.
File size could be an issue if there are too many videos, but I think a few videos would enhance the learning experience quite nicely.
toucher
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 928
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 928 |
I'd buy one in a heartbeat.
And if you need "proofing" help, I volunteer.
I certainly qualify as a BiaB Dummy.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,610
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,610 |
Quote:
I'd buy one in a heartbeat.
And if you need "proofing" help, I volunteer.
I certainly qualify as a BiaB Dummy.
DITTO!!!
Cheers, Mike My Music * Asus ROG Strix G15CF 32 GB DDR4 4TB HDD + 1 TB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 8GB Win 11 AKAI EIE PRO Sound Interface. BIAB/RB 2024 UltraPak Build - Latest
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 177
Apprentice
|
|
Apprentice
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 177 |
Great Idea from a self confessed "Dummy".
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 886
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 886 |
Ya know I bet most of the book is already written.... Get 5 or 10 people to go thru all of your past posts here, and weed out all the relevant & most asked answers that apply to the program, and then compile that into an outline of sorts....it seems to me that a lot of the writing is already done....  
i5 3.20GHz, 32gb RAM, 1tb SSD OS, 12tb HDD, 4gb gForce vid card, 32" monitor, Audient id44, Win10 x64, BiaB/RB 2023, Reaper 6,IK Multimedia Total Studio 3.5 MAX, Waves 10
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Off-Topic
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502 |
Only this dumb forumboard search is broken -- or possibly intentionally truncated to save server space, dunno, but you can't find many posts from more than a few months back, much less last year.
--Mac
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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
Topics86,218
Posts802,022
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