Since the last Windows10 update crashed my PC, I eventually installed Ubuntu and found substitutes for nearly every app I use, except of course BiaB. I started experimenting with wine using the PlayOnLinux implementation. Midi is working even in two alternativ solution, passing midi either via alsa to the Linux soft synth timidity, or, after post-installing DirectMusic using winetricks, also with the DXi-plugin Coyote.
Unfortunatelly RealTracks are not working. I suspect that the MME implementation in wine does not support multi-channel-mixing. I also tried to install the wine asio driver wineasio.dll.so. It seems to be installed and registered correctly, but BiaB does not recognize it. So I'm stuck and rather clueless now.
Is anybody out there who had more success with the combination BiaB/wine/Linux? I would appreciate gratefully any hint.
When you mention "RealTracks are not working", can you be more specific? What part doesn't work? Are they not found, are the selectable - but no sound, etc?
BIAB & RB2026 Win.(Audiophile), Windows 10 Pro & Windows 11, Cakewalk Bandlab, Izotope Prod.Bundle, Roland RD-1000, Synthogy Ivory, Session Keys Grand S & Electric R, Kontakt, Focusrite 18i20, KetronSD2, NS40M, Pioneer Active Monitors.
I did find this article, which you may have already reviewed. Not sure if it helps.
BIAB & RB2026 Win.(Audiophile), Windows 10 Pro & Windows 11, Cakewalk Bandlab, Izotope Prod.Bundle, Roland RD-1000, Synthogy Ivory, Session Keys Grand S & Electric R, Kontakt, Focusrite 18i20, KetronSD2, NS40M, Pioneer Active Monitors.
Thanks for the link. I already knew it and it describes how to play midi using Linux means alsa/timidity). But midi is uncritical since Coyote works as well, as I said above.
The problem is that RealTracks cannot be heard. When starting a song, I can see in the title bar that the Realstyles are retrieved correctly (from my external HD). In mixed Midi/RealTracks styles only the midi part is then to be heard.
As far as I understood, both, soft synth output and RealTracks are routed to the same audio driver which is in my case MME.
Thanks for the feedback And I have to presume that the program can find the RealTracks folder then OK? (but just in case)
BIAB & RB2026 Win.(Audiophile), Windows 10 Pro & Windows 11, Cakewalk Bandlab, Izotope Prod.Bundle, Roland RD-1000, Synthogy Ivory, Session Keys Grand S & Electric R, Kontakt, Focusrite 18i20, KetronSD2, NS40M, Pioneer Active Monitors.
I think so. I assigned the Drums and RealTracks folders manually in the respective settings. I can select a RealStyle for a song and when I press the play button, Biab starts generating the song without complaining, and I can see in the title bar the progress when Realtracks are retrieved. So yes, this seems to be configured correctly.
As far as I know, both, sound output from Coyote and ReaTracks sound are passed to the MME interface and then from MME down to the low level drivers, in my case either pulseaudio or alsa, whatever I configure in wine.
I wonder whether there is something special with RealTracks what the wine MME implementation cannot deal with. If I would know, I could perhaps ask the wine guys whether this could be fixed.
Google/bing playing WMA files in Linux and you will find a lot of people having problems. There are a few suggestions on how to get them to play that some people have had success.
I have dabbled in Linux but only for the Internet and Photography but never for music.
Good luck
PS - if you have already done this then sorry for the redundancy.
Life is short so make sure you spend as much time as possible on the Internet arguing with strangers.
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
Here's something to try. Just do it with a couple of RT's to test it (this assumes that the issue is with WMA's). Maybe convert some of the RT WMAs to WAV files and see if that works, instead. My understanding is that the program will use a WMA file for the RT unless there is a WAV file present (much like what happens with the Audiophile version). Of course, the WAV file takes up much more space, but it's probably worth the short test to see if the problem is with the WMA files.
Just a thought.
John
Laptop-HP Omen I7 Win11Pro 32GB 12TB SSD Desktop-ASUS-I7 Win10Pro 32GB 12TB SATA
Hey, thanks Mario and John, this has been the key hint. In order to play WMA it is necessary to install Windows Media Player and the related Codecs within PlayOnLinux. That did the trick!
Now both, RT and Midi are working like a charm.
I will make a few more tests, e.g., to find out how to replace MME with ASIO, and whether everything else works fine.
Some programs work well with wine and some Don't. BIAB does not work well on linux using wine. I've found that what works for me is to duel boot between Windows and Linux. Problem solved.
Sure, but I really want to get rid of Windows. And now that sound is basically working I am rather confident that Biab will run sufficiently, at least for my purposes. Can you please share your findings of shortcomings or what is not running?
Now you have it all working under Lin you should put a guide in the tips n tricks forum - see how it goes with real band as well and you can put them in winehq as it needs updating. The other thing is you can't use 64bit vst's but you can do without them. I know others looking to make a jailbreak also and I hear reaper works well under wine. So it will be good to hear the results.
Yes, will do. The wine appdb entry for BiaB is rather outdated (ends with BiaB 2009), I will post my findings also there. BTW: I installed version 2012.5, because this was the full version I purchased then. I start now to install the updates up to 2016. I read somewhere, too, that 64bit apps seem to be problematic under wine. That is why I started out with a 32bit version of wine.
I hope that when MS starts charging monthly for Win 10 that more companies start porting their programs over to Linux and that Linux becomes more popular. Also that Linux will become more user friendly also.
Life is short so make sure you spend as much time as possible on the Internet arguing with strangers.
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
I hope that when MS starts charging monthly for Win 10 that more companies start porting their programs over to Linux and that Linux becomes more popular. Also that Linux will become more user friendly also.
We can all dream sir..... As much as I would like that to happen....
I see that this is an old post. However, BnB and PT both are working fine on my install of Mint 17.3 (XFCE). Just install as normal using wine and then start Qsynth before you start BnB or PT. Point BnB to Qsynth for midi. The midi files will work fine using whatever soundfont you choose in Qsynth, but the "Realtracks" won't work. No loss as far as I am concerned. Actually an older version of BnB works better and is easier to use than the latest version.
... Actually an older version of BnB works better and is easier to use than the latest version.
You didn't mention 'with fewer features as well'
BIAB & RB2026 Win.(Audiophile), Windows 10 Pro & Windows 11, Cakewalk Bandlab, Izotope Prod.Bundle, Roland RD-1000, Synthogy Ivory, Session Keys Grand S & Electric R, Kontakt, Focusrite 18i20, KetronSD2, NS40M, Pioneer Active Monitors.
This is a useful and informative post. Perhaps you might consider adding it to the Tips and Tricks section of the forum?
Thanks!
BIAB & RB2026 Win.(Audiophile), Windows 10 Pro & Windows 11, Cakewalk Bandlab, Izotope Prod.Bundle, Roland RD-1000, Synthogy Ivory, Session Keys Grand S & Electric R, Kontakt, Focusrite 18i20, KetronSD2, NS40M, Pioneer Active Monitors.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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Hey, thanks Mario and John, this has been the key hint.
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