Billy, every song I do starts with a RealStyle, usually an "all Real" style. Will always use the included RealChart to replace a piano RealTrack with a VSTi. Will usually do this for strings, too. Sometimes for bass. Will always use RealDrums and guitar RealTracks.

You mention using Melodyne to extract MIDI from piano RealTracks but I've never found that to be necessary since the MIDI charts are included. I DO use Melodyne to sculpt the sound of RealTracks by changing the timing, eliminating "wrong" notes, reharmonizing phrases, etc. I find it faster and more precise than regeneration in many cases.

I'm 67 and so am experiencing a lot of the issues that come with surviving. Believe the exercise of creating music is a healthy part of keeping my mind active, and it's something I enjoy tremendously. BiaB works for me, and every instrument you hear on my tracks is BiaB or me.

Am watching AI developments closely, but don't plan on using AI in the creation process. I can see why others might enjoy it. But it's just not for me.

DC Ron
BiaB Audiophile
Presonus Studio One
StudioCat DAW dual screen
Presonus Faderport 16
Too many guitars (is that a thing?)