|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 188
Apprentice
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 188 |
I'm a long-time BIAB/Real Band user yet I'm only now taking the step to the audiofile level and want to upgrade my PC peripherals at the same time. I'm looking for recommendations for (1) external "sound cards" that will allow stereo input from my Ketron SD2 midi generator -- yes I still rely on some midi -- and has other inputs for microphones and guitar, and (2) studio monitor speakers. Thanks.
Last edited by Joe Marks; 12/30/15 04:48 AM.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12,787
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12,787 |
Joe - You cannot go wrong with the Focusrite Scarlett series... just make sure to get one that includes MIDI In/Out if you need that... like this one... http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Scarlett2i4Give Sweetwater a call and talk to them about what your needs are - they have great service (like PGMusic does)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 10,725
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 10,725 |
I second the Focusrite interface. It will be the soundcard you need. Most are now connected via USB.
You can get one that incorporates midi into it or simply get a plain audio interface. Mostly that will depend on the kind of midi plug on the Ketron SD2. See the pics of the backside of the one Floyd linked for you. Older midi gear uses the 5 pin din plug. Newer stuff uses a USB connection to the computer.... either will work fine with routing the audio from the midi to the monitor speakers on the Focusrite.
You can find my music at: www.herbhartley.comAdd 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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 2,732
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 2,732 |
I 3rd the Focusrite interfaces. You'll find a lot of folks here like them. Very good preamps too which eliminates the need for a mixer.
 Steve BIAB/RB 2022, Pro Tools 2020, Korg N5, JBL LSR 4328 Powered Monitors, AKG/Shure Mics.
PC: Win11 PRO, 4 TB M2 SSD, 2 TB HD, 128 GB Memory
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 188
Apprentice
|
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 188 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 22,455
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 22,455 |
Anyone have any experience with the Softube plugins they include now?
I'm debating whether to do the (required) iLock thing again. Previously it was a pain..
Also, are Red2 and Red3 the same FX as included in the regular plugin bundle?
I grabbed a 2i2 just to have one and I have one more question; how does a USB powered device supply 48V phantom power??
I do not work here, but the benefits are still awesome
Make your sound your own!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 626
Journeyman
|
Journeyman
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 626 |
Anyone have any experience with the Softube plugins they include now?
I'm debating whether to do the (required) iLock thing again. Previously it was a pain..
Also, are Red2 and Red3 the same FX as included in the regular plugin bundle?
I grabbed a 2i2 just to have one and I have one more question; how does a USB powered device supply 48V phantom power?? They use a DC to DC converter chip to step up the voltage to 48v. The USB device providing the power must have enough current to supply the device. Brian
BIAB 2026 Ultrapack- Fender Studio Pro 8, Windows 11, Mac Mini M4 with Logic Pro 11, Melodyne Studio, Luna Pro
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 22,455
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 22,455 |
I figgered a powered hub was probably next ..  I also got time to compare Red2/3 with the suite of plugins that come with the card (Focusrite compressor, EQ, Gate, Reverb). It appears they are different, so I'm glad I grabbed those while I could. Still hesitant on the SofTube/iLock stuff..
I do not work here, but the benefits are still awesome
Make your sound your own!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 188
Apprentice
|
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 188 |
I've now looked over the Focusrite products and I'm having trouble figuring out how many inputs and outputs I need. Currently I have midi output from BB/RB going to a Ketron SD2 via USB. The stereo audio output from the SD2 goes into the mic/line input on the PC. Then the stereo audio output mixed through BB/RB comes out of the PC through the earphone/line out jack which goes to my h-phones/monitors. If I want to add the ability to record and additional instrument/mic or two, how many inputs/outputs will I need and how will that be setup on a Focusrite?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 5,139
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 5,139 |
"If I want to add the ability to record and additional instrument/mic or two, how many inputs/outputs will I need and how will that be setup on a Focusrite?" If you need to record more than 2 instruments/tracks simultaneously, you will need more inputs. I am an adherent to the philosophy of “you can never have too many inputs.” With this unit: http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Scarlett18i20You have 8 pres, which would allow you to record 8 tracks simultaneously, 16 channels of MIDI, and USB connectivity. Regards, Bob
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 10,725
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 10,725 |
Like the old expression, You can never have too much money.... (guitars and guns would also be qualifiers) ...... this also holds true for interface inputs and outputs.
However, if you are a simple one man studio operator, and mostly just do songwriting demos and such things.... two inputs for audio can be over kill. Unless you have other folks over to jam and record in real time, two inputs is usually sufficient. However, if you need them , and have the funds available, and have the software that will support multiple inputs, by all means, indulge yourself and get the gear you want.
In my case, I have a 2 input focusrite and 98% of the time I use ONE input at a time. I really can't recall the last time I actually used both audio inputs at the same time. I do remember doing this a long time ago with one mic on the acoustic and another recording the vocal..... just to see how it all worked. Since then... nope... haven't done it again. Everything I do is one track at a time.
OUTPUTS... on the other hand, yeah, the more the better IMHO. My Saffire has 8 outputs and I have them all filled and I have an expander on one of them to give me 4 more outputs.
Since the outputs are assignable, you have to count 2 outputs as ONE L/R stereo pair so essentially, my 8 outputs is only 4 stereo outputs. Over time I have moved things around, but currently, one pair goes to the studio monitors, another pair to the stereo system for other playback options, the third pair to an external audio recorder, and the fourth pair into a 4 channel headphone amp, because one headphone out is never enough.
You can find my music at: www.herbhartley.comAdd 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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 188
Apprentice
|
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 188 |
I'm thinking the 6i6 will do it. It has two line inputs in the back that will take the Ketron output; and two mic/line inputs in the front.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 2,732
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 2,732 |
Hey Joe, I had the 6i6 before I upgraded to the 18i20.
You'll love it. You can usually get great deals on Ebay/Craigslist, etc on used ones if you're looking to save a few bucks.
Steve BIAB/RB 2022, Pro Tools 2020, Korg N5, JBL LSR 4328 Powered Monitors, AKG/Shure Mics.
PC: Win11 PRO, 4 TB M2 SSD, 2 TB HD, 128 GB Memory
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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.
Happy New Year!
Thank you for being part of the Band-in-a-Box® community.
Wishing you and yours a very happy 2026—Happy New Year from all of us at PG Music!
Season's Greetings!
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy holiday season—thanks for being part of our community!
The office will be closed for Christmas Day, but we will be back on Boxing Day (Dec 26th) at 6:00am PST.
Team PG
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®!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forums57
Topics85,736
Posts795,473
Members39,942
| |
Most Online25,754
Jan 24th, 2025
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean