Did you see the latest build update announcement for Band-in-a-Box® 2020 for Windows?
It’s PACKED with powerful updates, including additional RealCharts, improved RealStyles demos, language support, and significant additions and improvements to the DAW Plugin!
The updated DAW Plugin 2.9.41 adds additional and redesigned action buttons, refined DAW syncing, Chord Sheet enhancements, improvements to MultiRiffs, RealTracks, RealDrums, and MIDI features, and so much more! In fact, we’ve made a video that highlights all the changes to the DAW Plugin with build 2.9.41:
Learn more about the newest Band-in-a-Box® 2020 b724 for Windows and download it here.
Suggest the new marketing model for the PG music: Create a barebone BIAB software that allow registered BIAB users to update their program up to rev. xxx that PG announcing.
The Bare bone BIAB only contents the basic functions, no real band, no real tracks, no extra styles etc…
Users who want features add-ons then they must purchase.
This new marketing model will support users who has bought the previous BIAB versions that may have the bugs to update to the latest software, and allow them to buy the new real tracks, new styles…
A No vote here. I started with BIAB 2018 Pro. That was an excellent starting point for me.
Ed Z
Soundcloud profile https://soundcloud.com/user-415064494 BIAB user since 2019 iPad Mini, Garageband for iOS, BIAB for Windows 2020 UltraPAK, Xtra Styles packs 6-9, Windows 10 Lenovo PC, Kontakt Player, SpitFire LABS, SampleTank 4 CS, some Soundfonts
Depends what is the goal. If you want more of fresh blood, kids 25-35 you have to be creative. I started with Pro, but even that for "starter" was a bit disturbing. A lot of files, uncommon interfaces MANY buttons, etc. Price point was OK, but the first thought was...What did I get myself into?
Only after playing with software for several hours I started to see potential and strength of it. I believe most of younger adults will not babysit it for so long. I am not suggesting that ADD plays part in it, perhaps most (pro-sumer) audio software these days is far easier to dive into and that is what younger generation users would expect?
Having said that. VST was/is an excellent idea to capture wider audience. I do feel it is getting to where it needs to be, but still needs a big kiss and a hug. Perhaps bundling just the Plugin with 1/2 the content from the PRO and selling it 1/2 price of the Pro will get traction from the folks on budget or just hesitant to spend more on something that they are completely unfamiliar with?
For example, if you are shopping for reverb VST, you know that you will get a reverb. It might suck or be the best one ever. Still it will be a reverb, something you can "imagine" and most likely compare to. BIAB is a different beast that stands all by itself and maybe should be a bit more flexible and creative to capture future followers.
This is probably the most skinny and acceptable "barebone" I can think of. Otherwise, Pro is very reasonable.
Suggest the new marketing model for the PG music: Create a barebone BIAB software that allow registered BIAB users to update their program up to rev. xxx that PG announcing.
The Bare bone BIAB only contents the basic functions, no real band, no real tracks, no extra styles etc…
Users who want features add-ons then they must purchase.
This new marketing model will support users who has bought the previous BIAB versions that may have the bugs to update to the latest software, and allow them to buy the new real tracks, new styles…
Your new marketing model already exists! Every year when the new edition is released there is an upgrade option to purchase just the programs. This upgrade option generally costs about $50 US and expires at the end of the new release sale. The major difference from your suggestion is the Windows release includes both the Band-in-a-Box and RealBand programs.
I don’t like the idea of the plugin with a small amount of content. What good is it. It is the RT content that is its heart and soul. Make it, modular (stealing from Rusty spoons idea) So they purchase the plugin and the user chooses paks, this might work. The Plugin plus any pak, or paks someone chooses. Rock, country, bluegrass, jazz, pop, world, etc.
Just some ideas,
Standard pricing Plugin $129 Content paks $49 each
Release discount Pricing Plugin. $99 Content paks. $29 each
Each year plugin only purchasers upgrade for $79 plus $19 each for their pak upgrades.
So a new buyer purchases the plugin and the Rock, Country, and Pop paks, and pays $186 at release or $276 the rest of the year.
Those who buy full on BiaB can still get the plugin included in the deal.
HP Win 11 12 gig ram, Mac mini Sonoma with 16 gig of ram, BiaB/RB 2026, Reaper 7, Harrison Mixbus 11 , Presonus Audiobox USB96
RB, Why would I (or anybody for that matter) object to a choice of available slim "starter" version that most likely would bring more folks into the pool? I do not see a single reason how that may effect me or anyone else in negative way, if everything else stays the same as far as packages / upgrades.
If I remember correctly, there is no "demo version" only a 30 day money back guarantee, which would still require a payment. So if the Pro package is reduced to 1/2 size and price, logically more folks would be inclined to try it. Even at a half of content, it should be plenty to experience the power of RT's and make future decision(s). And PG always has cross-grade options
Each time there is a new release it feels like variations of the same complaint continually rises to the top of the complaint list, "Why are the RealTracks or Styles marked N/A?".
I believe if most new customers received even less content, they would feel ripped off even more than some do now. That might make them bitter toward both the program and PG Music.
Customers are trained that more is better and they don't like being reminded that they skimped. For example a loop library with 2 GB of content must be better than a similar library with 500MB of content. Kontakt is a great example. Biggie bucks and it's only as good as the library. UVI Workstation is another example, they GIVE the program away so you'll by the libraries.
The other model is increasing price to gain features. That's the model Celemony uses with Melodyne. PreSonus Free doesn't allow VSTs UNLESS you pay $99 for an add-on.
PG Music should split their marketing effort into two camps, learning and content. The ProPAK and MegaPAK can be presented as full featured learning tools while the UltraPAK and Audiophile offer content.
Both the ProPAK and MegaPAK are great IF ... you want to learn how to use the programs and features. However, if you are interested in content you likely WILL quickly be disappointed and frustrated with the ProPAK and MegaPAK and are thinking of all the content that is available in the UltraPAK and Audiophile packages.
Jim nailed it. When I first started I wonder why I had so many N/A styles. Just about everything was N/A. I bought whatever the basic model was at that time.
There are enough versions now for just about everyone.
And if money is an issue, there is a payment plan and the December sale.
Deb, Jim knows about the sales, you and I know about them. A random person who wants something new to try, most likely will not. I will put the figure of 70%+ that a new time buyer will not be aware of sales or payment plans and most likely purchase software from a third party.
N/A did not bother me at all when I first tried it, other things related to RB and heavy download did.
This is just my opinion, but I do believe that Plugin bundled 150 Real Tracks, 400 Midi styles and perhaps a handful of loops for a tag of $50 is a very fair and attractive starting point.
If N/A really bothers first time buyers, perhaps hide N/A and show what is available by default installation will eliminate these frustrations.
The question, I think you (or other skeptics) should ask is not whether it is a "good model", as only PG and crew can decide this, but will it impact you personally in a negative manner? I believe, if it is done, it bears completely neutral effect to existing or future owners.
I am only trying to express an opinion, that in my view could bring more followers and that in exchange will lead to creating more Real Tracks and making software better... the things most of us value and enjoy.
This is just my opinion, but I do believe that Plugin bundled 150 Real Tracks, 400 Midi styles and perhaps a handful of loops for a tag of $50 is a very fair and attractive starting point.
.......................................
That is an excellent idea!
Dad, how will I know when I've become an adult.
When your day is ruined because they rearranged the grocery store.
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
I think essentially RS we are saying the same thing differently. I Just packaged it differently. The more I think about it I like the idea of the plugin as a VSTi for A separate Price with the content as a choice by genre. The pricing I mentioned as example only. Your idea of $XX with a sample selection is great. Enough to use but tons of real pals as addons . Very similar to EZDrummer or Jamstix. Buy the plugin and add on as needed.
I remember floating this idea last year in a discussion. I always thought the plugin should be a breakout program for DAW users who don’t want to learn Biab. I could still be offered with the main program as well.
HP Win 11 12 gig ram, Mac mini Sonoma with 16 gig of ram, BiaB/RB 2026, Reaper 7, Harrison Mixbus 11 , Presonus Audiobox USB96
Today's the Last Day of the Band-in-a-Box 2026® for Mac Special!
Order before 11:59pm PDT today (May 15, 2026) to save up to 50% off your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® upgrade and receive a FREE Bonus PAK loaded with great new Add-ons to use with this new version!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac - Special Offers End at 11:59pm PDT on Friday, May 15th, 2026!
Order before 11:59pm PDT on Friday, May 15th and SAVE up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® version 2026 for Mac Upgrade packages... and that's not all! With your version 2026 for Mac purchase, we'll include a Bonus PAK full of great new Add-ons FREE! Upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK to receive even more NEW Add-ons including 20 additional RealTracks... that's 222 NEW RealTracks available with version Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac!
Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® today for as little as $49! Check out the Band-in-a-Box® packages page for all available purchase options.
Learn more about the Free Bonus PAK and 49-PAK here.
If you have any questions about which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We're here to help!
202 New RealTracks Released with Band-in-a-Box 2026!
With Band-in-a-Box® 2026, we've released 202 incredible new RealTracks (in sets 468-488) in a variety of genres—featuring your most requested styles!
Jazz, Funk & World (Sets 468-475):
Our new jazz, funk & blues RealTracks include a groovin’ collection of RealTracks and RealDrums! These include more requested “soul jazz” RealTracks featuring artists Neil Swainson (bass), Charles Treadway (organ), Brent Mason (guitar), and Wes Little (drums). There are new “smooth jazz” styles (4), which include a RealTracks first: muted trumpet, as well as slick new smooth jazz brushes options for drums. Blues lovers will be thrilled—there are more “classic acoustic blues” styles, including guitar (5), bass (4), and drums (10) with blues master Colin Linden, featuring understated and tasty background acoustic soloing, plus brushes drums and acoustic bass. There are also new electric blues RealTracks, including electric blues with PG favorite Johnny Hiland (3) and soulful electric slide guitar from Colin Linden (4). If you love funk & gospel, there are great new options this year, including gospel organ (3) from Charles Treadway, as well as new funk, tango, and rock ’n’ roll drums (3) and bass (1). And for big, bold arrangements, we have uptempo soul horns (4) featuring a three-part hip horn section with options for a full mix or stems of each individual horn — plus an accompanying rhythm section (4) of drums, bass, guitar, and electric piano!
Rock & Pop (Sets 476–482):
Our new rock & pop RealTracks bring a powerful mix of requested favorites, fresh genres, and modern chart-inspired styles! We have more of our popular “Producer Layered Acoustic Guitars (15)” featuring Band-in-a-Box favorite Brent Mason. We’ve continued our much-requested disco styles (10), and added new Celtic guitar (5) with a more basic, accessible approach than our previous Drop-D or DADGAD offerings. There are also highly requested yacht rock styles (17), inspired by the smooth, polished soft-rock sound of the late ’70s and early ’80s — laid-back grooves, silky electric pianos, warm textures, elegant harmonic movement, and pristine production aesthetics. Fans of heavier styles will love our new glam metal (13), capturing the flashy, high-energy sound of ’80s arena-ready guitar rock. We also have a set of rootsy modern-folk rock (18), with a warm, organic sound combining contemporary folk textures and driving acoustic strumming. And we’ve added lots of new modern pop styles (16) — the kinds of sounds you’re hearing on the radio today, featuring exciting new drums, synths, and cutting-edge RealTracks arrangements.
Country, & Americana (Sets 483–488):
Our new country & Americana RealTracks deliver a rich collection of acoustic, electric, and roots-inspired styles! We have new country pop (9) with legendary guitarist Brent Mason. There is also a potpourri (14) of bouzouki, guitars, banjo, and more, perfect for adding texture and character to contemporary acoustic arrangements. We’ve added funky country guitar (5) with PG favorite Brent Mason, along with classic pedal steel styles (5) featuring steel great Doug Jernigan. There are more country songwriter styles (8) that provide intimate, rootsy foundations for storytelling and modern Americana writing. Finally, we have “background soloing” acoustic guitar (12) with Brent Mason — simpler, but still very tasty acoustic lines designed to sit beautifully behind vocals or act as a subtle standalone solo part.
And, if you are looking for more, the 2026 49-PAK (for $49) includes an impressive collection of 20 bonus RealTracks, featuring exciting and inspiring additions to add to your RealTracks library. You'll get new country-rhythm guitar styles from PG Music favorites Johnny Hiland and Brent Mason, along with modern-pop grooves that capture today’s radio-ready sound! There are also new indie-folk styles with guitar, bass, 6-string bass used as a high-chording instrument, acoustic guitar, and banjo. Plus, dedicated "cymbal fills" RealDrums provide an added layer that work very well with low-key folky styles with other percussion.
The 2026 49-PAK is loaded with other great new add-ons as well. Learn more about the 2026 49-PAK!
2026 Free Bonus PAK & 49-PAK for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®!
With your version 2026 for Mac 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)
iOS Android Band-in-a-Box® App
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)
XPro & Xtra Styles PAK Sets On Sale Now - Until May 15, 2026!
All of our XPro Styles PAKs and Xtra Styles PAKs are on sale until May 15th, 2026!
It's the perfect time to expand your Band-in-a-Box® style library with XPro and Xtra Styles PAKs. These additional styles for Band-in-a-Box® offer a wide range of genres designed to fit seamlessly into your projects. Each style is professionally arranged and mixed, helping enhance your songs while saving you time.
What are XPro Styles and Xtra Styles PAKs?
XPro Styles PAKs are styles that work with any version (Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition) of Band-in-a-Box® 2025 (or higher). XPro Styles PAKS 1-10 includes 1,000 styles!
Xtra Styles PAKs are styles that work with the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box® 2025 (or higher). Xtra Styles PAKs 1-21 includes 3,700 styles (and 35 MIDI styles)!
The XPro & Xtra Styles PAKs are not included in any Band-in-a-Box® package.
The XPro Styles PAKs 1-10 are available for only $29 ea (reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the XPro Styles PAK Bundle for only $149 (reg. $299)! Listen to demos and order now! For Mac or for Windows.
The Xtra Styles PAKs 1-21 are available for only $29 ea (reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the Xtra Styles PAK Bundle for only $199 (reg. $349)! Listen to demos and order now! For Mac or for Windows.
Note: XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2025 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.
The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 19 requires the 2025 or higher UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version as they require the RealTracks included in the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
Supercharge your Band-in-a-Box today with XPro Styles PAKs and Xtra Styles PAK Sets!
With the release of Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac, we’re rolling out a collection of brand-new videos on our YouTube channel. We’ll keep this forum post updated so you can easily find all the latest videos in one convenient spot.
Whether you're exploring new features, checking out the latest RealTracks or Style PAKs, this is your go-to guide for Band-in-a-Box® 2026.
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.
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