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 BIAB2025 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; 03/06/2203:49 AM.
I think my wife has started to show the first signs of dementia. She said she can't remember what she ever saw in me!
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 BIAB2025 Audiophile, a bunch of other software. Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts .
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