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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 7,697
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Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 7,697 |
Quote:
Most users I know and/or read threads on other music forums (Cakewalk/SONAR, Yamaha, Roland, Notion, Guitar Pro, etc.,) don't rely on Windows for MIDI processing (meaning midi-mapper or in/out). In fact, Windows isn't a consideration, given that many (if not most) use a hardware audio and/or MIDI interface and drivers for DAW and basic recording.
Windows isn't a consideration?? People don't rely on Windows for midi processing? What do you think an "interface" and its associated driver is interfacing with? Windows. Of course Windows is doing the processing, it's the OS. If you want to get technical my EMU 1820M has an on board DSP chip for effects like reverb and delays. That relieves the CPU of that task in software so things go faster but Windows still has to process the result. If Windows didn't support midi and the installation of dll plugins then we'd all have squat and everybody would be Mac users. The ASIO drivers that various manufacturers use are drivers for what again? Windows. That's why they're called Windows drivers. If you're trying to say Bill Gates never saw fit to provide us with a good built in driver, and a good basic wavetable instrument sound bank, no argument there. Why didn't he do that? Because we're a very small minority in the PC world of consumers. We're basically on our own.
Everybody except for a very few use a hardware interface and when they don't and report problems what's the first thing we all say? Get an interface. This is routine stuff.
Trust me, John knows what he's talking about. If he's speculating about the future demise of midi, that's an opinion. It could happen.
Bob
Last edited by jazzmammal; 07/14/12 12:29 PM.
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.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 88
Enthusiast
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OP
Enthusiast
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 88 |
Bob, Richard,
Here’s the thing. I previously indicated the misconception of what the ACW did and what it’s intended to do, which Bob so eloquently explained. My response only reflected the usefulness I found in trying to interpret a simple song I had experimented with. The results were not even close to what I know the song to be. The ACW, to me, is as useful as the “Song Title" generator. I mean come on. An app that names your original compositions? Or an app that auto generates chord progressions for you, in addition to one having to find a style that closely resembles the audio file you were trying to replicate. Geez. So what I'm hearing there's a need or use some find with this, great! I guess it's good for those that need
these kinds of things, but for me, I would have preferred to have an upgrade to the notation aspect of BIAB
or the resizing of the style windows, less gui clutter, etc. And please, this was mentioned in the "Wish List" forum, but as Peter G. indicated, there are certain things that would require a total rewrite of the program and would not be cost effective and too time consuming. Trust me, I've seen the ACW video and have produced results (none useful to me) that, well suffice it say, I could've used something else as an app or add on function than the ACW, but that's just me....
I guess this is where things are, in terms of, pushing buttons, looping and using cut & paste functions in creating music. Whatever happened to learning an instrument and writing songs the old fashion way? When’s the last time a Grammy was awarded to someone who used this new technology to make that #1 hit song?
I guess it’s only a matter of time, but the thing I find mostly is underdeveloped functions to sell and make money verses upgrading functions the program was initially created for…midi. Granted, audio is the “now” thing, but I guess I’m one of those that still feel midi is and will always be relevant in the process. IMO, and don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of advancements in the area of computer generated music, it’s just frustrating trying to get the idea out and not getting side tracked with all the phoo- phoo-la, that takes away from the initial purpose of using the technology to make music. Learning curves for some are huge when it comes to time spent just learning how to use software products, let alone remembering why you brought them in 1st place.
As wordy or verbose as this might be, it's an attempt to *DISCUSS* various aspects of BIAB and get feedback from those that can share their experiences and insights, without slandering, attacking or disrespecting one another. That's all.
Wrkit
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 126
Apprentice
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Apprentice
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 126 |
JazzMammal,
Perhaps you misunderstood my statement "...Windows for MIDI processing (meaning midi-mapper or in/out).". You are referring to the OS, while I am referring to modules within the OS. Applications, drivers, and other modules are dependent on the Operating System/environment, to be sure, but one (or an application) doesn't have to use an included vendor's app or module (e.g., Microsoft midi-mapper). And, having worked in the trenches developing software and systems with Microsoft and several other much larger platforms for more years than I'd care to admit (and before Microsoft existed), I have a pretty decent understanding of the subject. As to whose applications, drivers, configurations, etc., I say whatever works for someone provokes no argument. However, my emphasis was with John's "MIDI is dying" statement, that I happen to disagree with, and so does the Music industry. So does PGMusic, else they wouldn't still seek input for new MIDI features.
Richard
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 126
Apprentice
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Apprentice
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 126 |
Wrkit,
I too wish that BBW had additional notation features. Howerver, I never really expected BBW to provide that (not saying I wouldn't like it). I use SONAR (both version 5 and X1 producer) for my DAW (went through several other vendors over the years), and while SONAR does have some decent notation features, BBW does some things SONAR doesn't. Sometimes it helps, sometimes one has to export into another product to refine it. I do use Finale for my final notation products and more recently have started exploring Notion 3 (it's not quite there yet). I don't expect BBW to do what SONAR does. And I don't expect SONAR to do what Finale or Notion 3 does. And the other way around.
For me, BBW gives me a great place and canvas to start, explore several avenues, styles, genres, etc., and do so quickly and easily. It's a great product and I am amazed at what PG Music has accomplished and how they continue to innovate (I've used it since version 2004). I just don't expect it to do it all.
I look at ACW and other similar products that I have purchased as a "rough idea", a "good staring point". A good analogy in the software development world is an automatic code generator, marketed by some vendors. They may come close. Good for prototypes but not the final product.
Richard
Last edited by rich in ca; 07/15/12 06:49 AM.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,045
Veteran
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Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,045 |
Quote:
John,
I almost hate to reply in this thread given the original thought trend by wrkit. But I'm curious as to your statement about "MIDI is dying" and if your main opinion driver is Windows? Here, I'd have to disagree with you, primarily because:
Most users I know and/or read threads on other music forums (Cakewalk/SONAR, Yamaha, Roland, Notion, Guitar Pro, etc.,) don't rely on Windows for MIDI processing (meaning midi-mapper or in/out). In fact, Windows isn't a consideration, given that many (if not most) use a hardware audio and/or MIDI interface and drivers for DAW and basic recording. Additionally, besides keyboard, there are (while fewer in number than keyboard players) who own and use other synth instruments, such as guitar, wind, electronic drums (also recall Peter's recent request for MIDI features).
Sorry for replying in this thread, but I think you are off the mark here.
Richard
I right with you on this Richard. I have participated in many MIDI is dead “discussions” on these forums. These are the only forums I am on where SOME people think MIDI is dead. Of course that is far from the truth. But they have a right to their opinions.
I'm in a fitness protection program. I'm been hiding from exercise.
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
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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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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®!
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!
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 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.
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