I'm using BiaB 2012, with a Casio WK-500 using USB midi, I can record melody tracks with no problems, but when I try to use the pitch bend (set to +-2 semitones) while playing back a rhythm, it sounds and gets recorded very jittery, EG, when I move the wheel up or down slowly, I can hear the note bend, then return to initial note, IE, C down would sound the B note then immediately return to C or sometimes the bent note would stick and not return until the playback is stopped, but playing the note while bending when the rhythm is not playing I can hear the bend very smooth.
I'm using the CoolSoft virtual softsynth that uses the FluidR3_GM sound font, I'm not using any VST/DXi synths and because of the huge midi -> soft synth lag, I set the soft synth latency to 0, which stopped the midi lag. I even tried using the Casio on both midi in and out, the pitchbend is still jittery when recording a melody while a realtracks rhythm is being played back.
How do I stop BiaB from recording the pitch bend all jittery?
Welcome to the forums. Experience suggests to me that when things get 'jittery' it's usually a sign that computer resources are being pushed to their limits.
Can you give a bit of information on your computer setup. For example: what memory, what processor speed, what operating system and is it 32bit or 64 bit, what soundcard, etc.
When everything is running smoothly the bends should sound exactly the same as they did when you were monitoring them live.
I recorded a Japanese sounding instrumental several years ago that had a Japanese wooden flute with the classic bends up and down on certain notes common to that genre. Midi recorded and played them back perfectly.
I suspect the issue to be settings related or in the sound card and driver set up.
You can find my music at: www.herbhartley.com Add nothing that adds nothing to the music. You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.
The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.
Experience suggests to me that when things get 'jittery' it's usually a sign that computer resources are being pushed to their limits.
I checked with the performance meter and it showed all cores at or around 8% and memory usage around 32%
Originally Posted By: Noel96
Can you give a bit of information on your computer setup. For example: what memory, what processor speed, what operating system and is it 32bit or 64 bit, what soundcard, etc.
Kind regards, Noel
System is as follows:-
CPU = AMD A6-3650 2.60Ghz APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) Quad Core with on-chip Radeon GFX using shared memory.
System RAM = 8Gb HDD = 1Tb
OS = Windows 7 Home Premium X64
Internal Realtek HD sound
I have no problem with Cakewalk Sonar 8 recording midi pitch bend, Cakewalk records with no jittery at all, and when using Linux (dual boot Ubuntu/Win7) Rosegarden, midi pitch bend is also really smooth, re-viewing or recording, but it's only BiaB that has the problems recording midi pitch bend, I have tried every which way in changing latency, but no change.
I can't use ASIO4ALL as I have to completely disable windows audo because ASIO says the MS wavetable synth is in use, but disabling win audio means I can't use CoolSoft midi synth.
I have also tried a PCIe soundcard, but there's no way of disabling the onboard sound in the PC BIOS, and BiaB always tries to use the onboard sound, with no options to switch to the PCIe soundcard.
The jittery pitch bend sounds like the pitch bend range in BiaB is set to 0, thus resulting in when the bend data is being received by BiaB, it's range is set to 0 resulting in the bend being bounced back to center position, I had the same problem with a VST synth called 'Toxic Biohazard' and I had to set the bend range to the same as the midi keyboard, but I can'r see where in BiaB to set the incoming bend range to match the keyboard's range.
Last edited by usalabs14; 10/18/1311:12 AM. Reason: additional info
Just checked on my setup, BB defaults to a +/- 2 semitones on the pitchbend.
It might be that the volatile files in your BB need to be reset, they can sometimes become corrupted.
Inside BB, under the Options menu, try a Return to Factory Settings, and since MIDI synths are involved select the second choice down, which also reinvokes the MIDI and Audio installation Wizards.
As an experiment, try changing the Pitchbend range on the keyboard itself, one at a time, and then check BiaB's response to each setting.
See if perhaps one of the other settings works.
--Mac
I tried changing the keyboard bend all the way to +-1 octave (+-12 semitones), while testing, I moved the wheel slowly down on middle C, while recording on the melody track, as soon as the notes started to bend the bend immediately springs back to C, no matter how far the note is bent up or down, if the wheel is moved a little faster, the bend actually sounds arpeggio like, and not a smooth bend, but when not recording, and previewing on the Thru channel, the bend is very smooth.
Default recording is on the melody track, but using Thru to listen while recording.
It is futile to become lachrymose at the accidental disgorgement of lactic fluid.
When you get a chance, could you please outline what your setup is? You mention Wavetable above but it would be great to know a little more. Using the "Snipping Tool" found in Windows 7, the easiest way to show us this information would be to capture an image of your Midi/Audio driver setup.
To this, go to "Opt" (#1), select "Preferences". Now click on the "Midi driver" button" (#2) and then save a capture of the screen that pops up (#3).
For example, below is my setup.
To upload the image, use the "File Manager" option found in the "Full Screen Reply" dialogue box.
The CoolSoft midi synth is reputed to be the next best replacement for the old Yamaha XG100 which is no longer supported and does not work on windows 7.
I switched to MS wavetable synth and BiaB recorded and played back the full range of the keyboards pitch bend very smoothly, I also tried with a VSTi/DXi synth such as the Cakewalk TTS-1, and including the default Coyote Wavetable DXi, and both record and play back the full bend range nice and smooth, sooo, it looks like it's the CoolSoft synth that's not accepting pitch bend data, if that's the case, it's a pity, because the sound from that synth is better than the Coyote and the TTS-1 DXi synth, mainly because it uses sound fonts, such as the FluidR3_GM sound font, but other SF's can be used too.
I hate to loose it, but I haven't yet found a really decent midi synth that is comparable to the old Yamaha XG, not even the Roland comes close.
It is futile to become lachrymose at the accidental disgorgement of lactic fluid.
Yes, it's a pity that Yamaha didn't keep up with their soft synths and soundcards. It should be possible to record using (say) the TTS-1 and then, once it's recorded, change the synth and play through the Coolsoft one.
Yes, it's a pity that Yamaha didn't keep up with their soft synths and soundcards. It should be possible to record using (say) the TTS-1 and then, once it's recorded, change the synth and play through the Coolsoft one.
All the best, Noel
There is a big problem with recording using DXi, and playing back using coolsoft, if the Coolsoft synth is not processing pitch bends, then playing pack through that synth may work up til the pitch bend data, then the bend will go weird during playback.
Hang on a min,,,, I just had a thought, ok, when nothing is playing back, the coolsoft synth processes pitch bends with no problems, as I can hear it via the thru channel, the bend only gets weird when recording.
I'm preparing another small test file, which uses audacity to capture the output from BiaB when not recording and using the CoolSoft synth during a full octave bend,, I'll attach it here as sson as it's done.
It is futile to become lachrymose at the accidental disgorgement of lactic fluid.
Okay, it sounds like the problem has been narrowed down as belonging to the use of the Coolsoft synth.
You mention that it is a replacement for the venerable old Yamaha softsynth.
Yamaha uses the XG MIDI command set, which is one number off from the standard GM command set. This is because the old Japanese numbering system actually includes zero as being 1.
Try this:
Inside BB, under the GM menu, is a command to tell BB to use XG system instead of GM.
Try toggling the XG to ON, then check synth operation.
The CASIO, BTW, uses the standard GM commands. I have a '500 also, love it for live gigs as a second keyboard. But I think I'd want to use it with its own internal sounds in BB rather than a softsynth such as that Coolsoft anyway. I'm certain it can sound much better.
There are other advantages to using the Casio's internal sounds, as well. Because it is a hardware synth where the sounds are generated outside the domain of the computer, you can enjoy ZERO LATENCY without resorting to having to "trick" the computer timing into making everything come out right, you don't even have to use ASIO sound drivers when using the hardware synth.
Along with the MIDI hookup to the Casio, it is necessary to take the Audio L and R outputs of the Casio and connect them to the Audio Line Inputs of your computer's sound device.
Not only should the Pitchwheel always work as set in the keyboard, all the sounds in the CASIO can be made available for use with BB, even the tonewheel organ.
I realize the CoolSoft synth isn't a direct replacement for XG, I love using XS for the realistic sounds that Yamaha used.
From past experience using midi, I found a lot of soft synths use tone generators and adsr filters, which to my mind is not realistic enough, whereas, digitally sampled sounds from real instruments sound a lot better than tone generated.
I also, used to use my keyboard for live gigs, but hooked up to a Yamaha TG100, and a laptop running the standalone virtual B4 and using the keyboard as a midi controller, simply because the 500 does not have that rich, 'Leslie' Hammond B4 sound that I can get with the virtual B4, using the far left E and F keys for Leslie slow/fast control.
Using an external wave sampling tone generator, has a huge advantage over using the 500's internal sounds, in such that live performance is better with the external generator and practice sessions using the internal sounds, also when using a laptop running various virtual synths, including an ARP2600, I can have the laptop next to the keyboard and using the F keys much like the 500's registration memory, I've performed a 3hr gig that way.
Anyway, being that the CoolSoft synth has problems with processing pitch bend data from BiaB, I found that I can create a rhythm section using BiaB, and export each instrument as a wav file, then import them 1 at a time into Sonar, which Sonar has no problems with the Coolsoft synth, which reminds me,,,,it's only BiaB that has the problem with the pitch bend and CoolSoft synth,,,Sonar has no problems using the soft synth and recording the pitch bend as it should.
It is futile to become lachrymose at the accidental disgorgement of lactic fluid.
Sonar uses the great old Cakewalk MIDI engine and it is full of autodetect routines, it is likely that Sonar is changing its settings to XG behind the scenes.
In BB, we have to do it manually.
Again, try changing to XG send under the GM menu in BB.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean