|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
Other PG Music Programs
|
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 65
Enthusiast
|
OP
Enthusiast
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 65 |
I posted this a couple days ago in the BIAB for Windows forum, but the message never appeared so I must have done something wrong. I am re-posting and decided it put it here. If it shows up in the BIAB forum eventually, that is why there is a duplicate.
I am considering buying the Ketron SD2 because I want better GM sounds than I have now, especially pianos, drums, and guitars (I'm currently using an old Korg X5DR and some GM soft synths). I read some user reviews that said the SD2 is not completely GM compatible because Ketron decided to maintain backwards compatibility with its older units at the cost of some degree of GM compatibility. These reviewers said some patch numbers and drum mapping is not GM standard. Is this true? How much of a problem does it present with BIAB? Also with GM MIDI files downloaded from the internet that I play in Sonar (I have hundreds of these files, all set up for GM). Are there a lot of differences? Changing patch numbers for the instruments wouldn't be too bad to have to do, but I would not like to have to re-map all the individual key mappings for the drum kits.
Also, does the SD2 fully respond to patch changes and changes of effects parameters when sent from a DAW such as Sonar?
Thanks.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other PG Music Programs
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502 |
I don't have any problem playing standard MIDI files designed for GM using the GM bank of my SD2.
--Mac
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other PG Music Programs
|
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 65
Enthusiast
|
|
OP
Enthusiast
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 65 |
Thanks, Mac. Are there other banks of sounds besides the GM bank? And do those play well with GM?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other PG Music Programs
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502 |
Quote:
Thanks, Mac. Are there other banks of sounds besides the GM bank? And do those play well with GM?
Yes.
Best sounding hardware box for the money. Period.
Buy from pgmusic and there's the 30-day no questions asked policy use that to find out for yourself.
You won't return it unless its broke, it sounds great.
--Mac
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other PG Music Programs
|
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,259
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,259 |
Not sure what the url is, but Ketron has a site with demo sounds for the SD2. I listened to those (including one Mac submitted) and I was immediately sold. Yes, it is that much more superior.
Stan
Cornet Curmudgeon
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other PG Music Programs
|
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 2,499
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 2,499 |
MAC
First I really want one of these (maybe an SD 4 – if I can every figure out the actual OPERATING delta over SD 2 not just the fact it has a few more sounds and front panel buttons) but diggin into actual specs I have some unanswered questions maybe you or other users can help:
Unless I missed it - what is the polyphony (128?) less ? or “dynamic” (which means you’ll know limit when/if you hit it) ?
Also it says (TWICE) that it has 32 channels but only one MidI in? I know how multi-channels work on device with USB (e.g., SC8850) but how do you access more than 16 channels using one MIDI port? The manual says nothing about this neither does the Keyboard review article but twice on the product specs and description it mentions 32 channels “Up to 32 MIDI channels can be controlled…”
Last edited by Larry Kehl; 09/07/09 02:57 PM.
Win10Pro,i9,64GB,2TBSSD+20TBHDDs,1080TI,BIAB'24,Scarlett18i8,Montage7,Fusion 8HD,QS8,Integra7,XV5080,QSR,SC-8850,SPLAT,FL21&others,Komp.14,IK suite&others, just a guitar player-AXE FX III &FM9T, FishmanTP, MIDIGuitar2, GK2/3'sw/GI20
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other PG Music Programs
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502 |
Quote:
Unless I missed it - what is the polyphony (128?) less ? or “dynamic” (which means you’ll know limit when/if you hit it) ?
I never found a published spec from Ketron that listed polyphony specifically. Doesn't mean there might not be one somewhere, I just didn't find one. However, I've never run out of notes, not with huge sequences, not on live gigs with hands full of piano, either (grin).
Quote:
Also it says (TWICE) that it has 32 channels but only one MidI in? I know how multi-channels work on device with USB (e.g., SC8850) but how do you access more than 16 channels using one MIDI port? The manual says nothing about this neither does the Keyboard review article but twice on the product specs and description it mentions 32 channels “Up to 32 MIDI channels can be controlled…”
Note-On and Note-Off data can receive SYSEX MIDI channel data at the beginning of the string. Thus you can have MIDI channels one thru thirty two. This does work from within Powertracks and therefore assumably RealBand too, which is the same basic engine shared by each.
The SD4, of course, has two separated MIDI synths inside, one is GM with upper banks available and the other is the "Solo" synth, meant for use in the target accompaniment keyboard that the SD4 is taken from as the RH keyboard. The Solo sounds are actually duplicated in the GM banks, maybe in some upper banks but I have found them all in there, too. So there aren't really that many "new" voices to be found in the SD4, BUT -- the Solo voices are customizable as to layers and effects and are savable to a user bank of 64 for instant recall. I find that more useful in live gigging personally, but the studio cat may find a use for them also.
--Mac
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other PG Music Programs
|
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 2,499
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 2,499 |
Mac – THANKS
That explains it
Now how do I tell my wife that even though I have a Nanosynth and a SC-8850 both of which were suppose to be my "portables", as well as three full workstations and a bunch of rack mounted items (including fully populated XV-5080 and Fantom XRs ) I just GOT TO HAVE this one because it is much BETTER <G>
Larry
Win10Pro,i9,64GB,2TBSSD+20TBHDDs,1080TI,BIAB'24,Scarlett18i8,Montage7,Fusion 8HD,QS8,Integra7,XV5080,QSR,SC-8850,SPLAT,FL21&others,Komp.14,IK suite&others, just a guitar player-AXE FX III &FM9T, FishmanTP, MIDIGuitar2, GK2/3'sw/GI20
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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!
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.
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!
Time really is running out! Save up to 50% on Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® upgrades and receive a FREE Bonus PAK—only when you order by 11:59 PM PDT today!
We've added many major new features and new content in a redesigned Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®!
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 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!
Upgrade your Band-in-a-Box for Mac® to save up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade packages!
Plus, when you order your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 Mac 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 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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forums57
Topics86,638
Posts807,822
Members40,179
| |
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