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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24 |
Hi, I need something to enter melody and chords using the RealTracks and Midi Patches. I'm new to Midi, and BIAB, and I was wondering if any of you are useing the M-Audio Axiom 25, and if so, what's your opinion of it. I have a Rolands KR-500, but it's too big for my workspace; my main instrument is guitar, and the amp takes up a good chunk of space. I'd appreciate any advice on Midi controllers or keyboards that you might have. I'm trying to keep the cost down, but I don't want to be frustrated with lack of quality either. I suppose the first question I should have asked is; will it work with BIAB?
Thanks,
Dennis1945
Last edited by dennis1945; 07/30/09 10:39 PM.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,683
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Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,683 |
I think any MIDI controller will be fine with BIAB; just specify it as the input MIDI device in Opt, Pref, MIDI Drivers.
I have an E-Mu Xboard 25 on a test system I use. It measures just under 18" wide, and 9.5 inches deep, so it fits right in front of the screen with no problem. It is two octaves, C to C, but you can easily shift octaves with the Octave Transpose + and - buttons. It also works on Windows 7 using the Vista drivers. It is powered just by USB, has a power supply input jack if you prefer, and has a MIDI Out port. You can send MIDI either by USB or MIDI Out.
I don't play keyboard so I don't benefit from the fact it also has a feature called weighted keys, but a real player would want that feature.
BIAB 2026 Win Audiophile. Software: Fender Studio One 8, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6, Song Master Pro, Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Fender Quantom HD8 & Faderport 8, Royer 121, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: May 2003
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Make sure it's also velocity sensitive.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,382
PG Music Staff
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PG Music Staff
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,382 |
A good buddy of mine has the Axiom, it has a really nice feel to it... I have the Korg MicroKontrol, which cost twice as much, and prefer his Axiom... M-Audio gear rules.
Nice and sturdy, too... Can't go wrong, considering how affordable they are.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Joined: Jun 2009
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Thankyou very much folks, that is a tremendous help, I at least feel I'm on the right track, no pun intended. The only negative point I've seen mentioned in reviews is that the instructions are a nightmare. This happens with some manuals that are translated straight into English with no regard to grammar.
Thanks again,
Dennis
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,683
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Joined: Jul 2000
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Re: pg kent's comment, watch out for M-Audio that they have drivers for your OS before you buy.
BIAB 2026 Win Audiophile. Software: Fender Studio One 8, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6, Song Master Pro, Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Fender Quantom HD8 & Faderport 8, Royer 121, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24 |
Thanks Matt, appreciate the input. I'll ask about that before buying.
Dennis
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 32
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Joined: Feb 2007
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Dennis, I have an Axiom 49, and it works perfectly with BIAB, Real Band, and PT. It has "semi-weighted" keys, the feel is DEFINITELY not "hammer graded" like a real piano (although the keys are molded to look like an acoustic keybed), but it is usable and I prefer it for modern music. About 9 lb. for the 49-key model. All the controller knobs and dials one could want. I use it in XP, so I cannot vouch for a Vista/BIAB/Axiom combi. M-Audio support is fair. There is a considerable amount of Axiom info on the net.
You might take a very good look at another board I use now -- the newer Yamaha KX series. I have the 49-key version. These are also MIDI controllers. I prefer the KX-49 to the Axiom in almost every way. Lighter (5 lb.? I think) but well made, looks nice, has ample controller knobs, etc. and although this is another "semi-weighted" keybed, it is quite pleasant to use.
Both boards have velocity settings, the Axiom also has aftertouch, which might be important for you. The Yamaha does not. It does, however, have an arppeggiator function built in.
In the $200-$300 MIDI controller price/feature range, I think these two boards are at the top of the pile.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Thanks Lloyd, I have had Yamaha keyboards in yhe past, and had no complaints. I only want enough keys to do some right hand melody and fills mostly, and I don't have a lot of space to play with. I don't mind semi-weighted keys; our Rolands KR500 has weighted keys, and even when I use earphones, my wife can still hear the keys from upstairs, they're noisy. I'll take a look at the model you mentioned though, in fact I was looking the other night to see if they make a 25 key model.
Thanks,
Dennis
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
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OP
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24 |
Lloyd, what is aftertouch, I've never used it as far as I know.
Dennis
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 32
Enthusiast
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Enthusiast
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 32 |
"Aftertouch" is pressure sensitivity, built into the keybed itself. Permits different responses depending on keystroke pressure. Some players swear by it and use it extensively. I do not. But it is respected and many KB players will not use a board that has only velocity settings. More on this and other terms used with controllers, synths, etc. HERE ... http://www.musiciansnews.com/piano/encyclopedia/92/aftertouch.shtmlPS: the Yamaha KX controller line does include a 25-key model.
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Band-in-a-Box for Windows
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24
Enthusiast
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OP
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 24 |
Thanks Lloyd. I now have an idea of how it works, and thanks for the link. Years ago I had a Yamaha console organ with two normal keyboards, a portamento strip, and a "floating keyboard," that you could create your own vibrato on like you do on a violin or guitar, and it was realistic; probably the forunner of aftertouch. It also had Leslie rotating speakers, should have kept it.
Dennis
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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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Introducing XPro Styles PAK 11 – Now Available for Windows Band-in-a-Box 2026 and Higher!
XPro Styles PAK 11 for Windows & Mac Band-in-a-Box® version 2026 (and higher) is here with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 31 RealTracks/RealDrums!
Guess who’s back again? That’s right! It’s our XPro Styles PAK’s triumphant return with the 11th edition in this series! 100 new styles are coming your way spread across the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres. And this edition's wildcard genre explores the immense and far-reaching catalogue of electronic music! The included 31 RealTracks and RealDrums can be used with any Band-in-a-Box® 2026 (and higher) package.
Special offers available until August 31st, 2026!
All the XPro Styles PAKs 1-11 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 11 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!
XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2026 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.
Introducing Xtra Styles PAK 22 – Now Available for Windows Band-in-a-Box 2026 and Higher!
Xtra Styles PAK 22 for Windows & Mac Band-in-a-Box version 2026 (and higher) is here with 200 brand new RealStyles!
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No Xtra Styles PAK is complete without the classic rock & pop, jazz, and country volumes you know and love, and we’ve got plenty to share, with 150 styles spread across too many genres to list! Of course, it also wouldn’t be complete with our special wildcard volume to add a little spice and pizzazz to the mix. This year, because we loved it so much the first time, we’ve decided to make the second iteration of our SynthMaster volume, full of new sounds, interesting genres, and 50 engaging styles, all making use of the diverse SynthMaster plugin! Here you can find genres such as airy yacht rock, sultry electrotango, and even some synth soca funk. Don’t wait, pickup up Xtra Styles PAK 22 today!
In this PAK you can find: dulcet folk ballads, funky gospel country, Brazilian jazz fusion, upbeat 1980s pop, classic Americana, a plethora of breezy bossa novas, indie singer-songwriter, scintillating synthwave, exuberant electronica, and many, many more!
Special offers available until August 31st, 2026!
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Learn more and listen to demos of the Xtra Styles PAK 22.
Video: Xtra Styles PAK 22 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!
Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 22 requires the 2026 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 11 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2026 and Higher!
XPro Styles PAK 11 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box® version 2026 (and higher) is here with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 31 RealTracks/RealDrums!
Guess who’s back again? That’s right! It’s our XPro Styles PAK’s triumphant return with the 11th edition in this series! 100 new styles are coming your way spread across the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres. And this edition's wildcard genre explores the immense and far-reaching catalogue of electronic music! The included 31 RealTracks and RealDrums can be used with any Band-in-a-Box® 2026 (and higher) package.
Special offers available until August 31st, 2026!
All the XPro Styles PAKs 1-11 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 11 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!
XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2026 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.
Introducing Xtra Styles PAK 22 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2026 and Higher!
Xtra Styles PAK 22 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box version 2026 (and higher) is here with 200 brand new RealStyles!
It’s time to celebrate! Xtra Styles PAK 22 for Band-in-a-Box® is here, and we've got 200 brand-new styles coming your way!
No Xtra Styles PAK is complete without the classic rock & pop, jazz, and country volumes you know and love, and we’ve got plenty to share, with 150 styles spread across too many genres to list! Of course, it also wouldn’t be complete with our special wildcard volume to add a little spice and pizzazz to the mix. This year, because we loved it so much the first time, we’ve decided to make the second iteration of our SynthMaster volume, full of new sounds, interesting genres, and 50 engaging styles, all making use of the diverse SynthMaster plugin! Here you can find genres such as airy yacht rock, sultry electrotango, and even some synth soca funk. Don’t wait, pickup up Xtra Styles PAK 22 today!
In this PAK you can find: dulcet folk ballads, funky gospel country, Brazilian jazz fusion, upbeat 1980s pop, classic Americana, a plethora of breezy bossa novas, indie singer-songwriter, scintillating synthwave, exuberant electronica, and many, many more!
Special offers available until August 31st, 2026!
All the Xtra Styles PAKs 1-22 are on special for only $29 each (reg $49), or get all 22 PAKs for $199 (reg $399)! Order now!
Learn more and listen to demos of the Xtra Styles PAK 22.
Video: Xtra Styles PAK 22 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!
Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 22 requires the 2026 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.
Peter Gannon Talks Band-in-a-Box with zplane
zplane recently interviewed Peter Gannon, the founder and creator of Band-in-a-Box, about the software's early days, what sets it apart from AI, how zplane's audio algorithms are used in Band-in-a-Box, and more!
Special thanks to the team at zplane for their continued support.
Check out the full interview here: https://products.zplane.de/blog/peter-gannon-interview-pg-music
Last Chance! The Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® Special Ends Today (May 31, 2026) at 11:59pm PDT!
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Another exciting new addition is the amazing new AI-Notes feature, which can transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI. View the results in notation or play them back as MIDI, and choose whether to transcribe an entire track or transcribe specific parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®.
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, and much more!
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Band-in-a-Box® 2026 Mac Special Offers Extended Until May 31st!
Good news- we've extended our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® special offers until May 31, 2026!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 is packed 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 transcribe 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, and much more!
There are over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®.
When you order purchase Band-in-a-Box® 2026 before 11:59 PM PDT on May 31st, you'll also receive a Free Bonus PAK packed with exciting new add-ons.
Check out the Band-in-a-Box® for Mac packages page to find the best package for you.
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