The "what MIDI octave to use?" issue is caused, at least in part, by the failure of the MIDI standard to clearly define middle C.
While the standard designates MIDI note 60 as middle C, it fails to define the pitch. C3, C4 and C5 have been selected as middle C in various MIDI implementations. +++ MIDI Middle C +++
BiaB sounds OK when using a GM sound source but the problem occurs when using a non-GM sound source in your DAW. I don't know how PGM can correct for that as there are many different sound sources available.
The MIDI channels settings deal with that, though it's a blunt-ish instrument. I'm not sure if that gets saved with a song. The bass channel is shifted -1 by default. but that does shift the MIDI notes as for GM, not as for the VSTi. I guess it could be managed by setting offsets for exported MIDI, but that does start to sound like a messy and probably confusing hack.
Part of the issue here and also with some confusions elsewhere, is that BiaB tracks are not MIDI channels.
That can start to get a bit complex. As I understand it, harmony on a track is usually sent to different MIDI channels from the melody on the same track. That all tends to suggest a MIDI-settings dialog per track that sets lowest and highest note, channels for melody and harmonies, octave offset for melody and harmonies internally and for export. That, though, may well be in conflict with the number of MIDI streams & channels BiaB/Windows/Mac can actually manage. On some tools on Linux I can set multiple streams each with 16 channels and patch them around as I wish. I'm not sure whether that's possible on Windows or Mac. I believe it's possible in a MIDI file.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
In a due respect I think BiaB should stay as it is, that being GM standards. If one wants to use non-GM sounds they must learn how to manipulate the data to fit the sound source.
I point is that BiaB can't do everything for everyone. YMMV
{edit} It should be an option of PGM does get away from the GM standard.
Last edited by MarioD; 03/06/2204:49 AM.
OK, a random thought; Why does toilet paper need a commercial? Who's not buying it?
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
Matt, unfortunately the MIDI 2.0 specification does not address the failure to associate a pitch with middle C, MIDI note 60.
Gordon, I believe the MIDI 1 specification handles the multiple MIDI streams you mention by labeling MIDI ports.
Many MIDI sequencers control more than 16 instruments using port assignments to add additional MIDI channels. For example port 1 will control channels 1 - 16, port 2 channels 17 - 32 and so forth. Unfortunately Band-in-a-Box does not offer a way to assign MIDI ports. MIDI port assignment has been requested in the past. I will support your request if you post one in the wishlist section.
Some computer MIDI interfaces use to include two sets of MIDI ports (or more common you would have two MIDI interfaces in one computer). This gave the user the capability to control two external sound modules. If a MIDI interface was a card by Creative Labs or Turtle Beach there was a good chance the card had an internal sound module and an external MIDI port so you could easily have 48 MIDI channels. Ah for the good 'ol days.
In a due respect I think BiaB should stay as it is, that being GM standards. If one wants to use non-GM sounds they must learn how to manipulate the data to fit the sound source.
I point is that BiaB can't do everything for everyone. YMMV
{edit} It should be an option of PGM does get away from the GM standard.
I agree, I think PGM should not go away from the General MIDI specifications and/or conventions as a default setting. (I'm not sure whether that -1 octave for bass is MIDI or a convention).
I also agree that PGM shouldn't even try to do everything for everyone. I personally think they already try to do more things than perhaps are sensible. I would have no issue if they just said "No". I can find ways to manipulate MIDI post-generation or post-BiaB.
BTW, the MIDI 1.0 spec does indeed say as Matt relates: "Middle C = MIDI Key 60 (3CH)". AFAICS, MIDI 2.0 defaults to that but may offer some kind of adjustment or mapping via "per-note pitch controller #3", whatever that does. Middle C is 261.626 Hz, in standard tuning at least, but I gather different organisations have different opinions whether that C3 or C4 (or even C5 if Jim's correct).
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful. AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11 BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
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.
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac is here and it is packed with major new features! There’s a new modern look, a GUI redesign to all areas of the program including toolbars, windows, workflow and more. There’s a Multi-view layout for organizing multiple windows. A standout addition is the powerful AI-Notes feature, which uses AI neural-net technology to transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI—entire mixes or individual instruments—making it easy to study, view, and play parts from any song. And that’s just the beginning—there are over 100 new features in this exciting release.
Along with version 2026, we've released an incredible lineup of new content! There's 202 new RealTracks, brand-new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two new RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!
Special Offers
Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac and save up to 50% on most upgrade packages during our special offer—available until May 15, 2026. Visit our Band-in-a-Box® packages page to explore all available upgrade options.
2026 Free Bonus PAK & 49-PAK Add-ons
Our Free Bonus PAK and 49-PAK are loaded with amazing add-ons! The Free Bonus PAK is included with most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac packages, but you can unlock even more—including 20 unreleased RealTracks—by upgrading to the 2026 49-PAK for just $49.
Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Mac® users: Build 904 now available!
If you're already using Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Mac®, make sure to grab the latest update! Build 904 is now available for download and includes the newest additions and enhancements from our team.
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.
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean