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#864847 10/12/25 10:07 PM
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I'm thinking about purchasing and I'm just curious about the technology. If I understand correctly, BIAB is able to modify the studio performed loops so as to fit user entered chord sequences. So far, I'm not hearing that there are any limitations on that concept. So does the algorithm do the pitch-shifting etc. on individual harmonically relevant notes within each of those performances? And doing it well enough to sound convincing.


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In short, a RealTrack performance is an audio file where someone is playing an instrument over many chord changes of various lengths (bar, half bar, beat level). However, you never deal directly with RealTracks like this.

Instead, you specify a chord sequence in BiaB interface - basically, like in a spreadsheet. BiaB automatically pulls the chords out of the selected RealTrack to match the order you specify.

The algorithm works at the bar/half bar/beat level, not by working on the material at the note level. It can force the notes to match the chords via pitch shifting, but that's not generally what happens.

Think of it sort of alike automatic loop assembly. Obviously, there are a finite number of chords in any given RealTrack, but they're generally long and diverse enough that it isn't a problem.

As to how well it works, you can check out the demos here: https://www.pgmusic.com/tutorial_realtrackslist.htm


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Good advice above.

Note also that it comes with a 30 day money back guarantee. If you do decide to go ahead, and with this in mind, go for the highest Pak that your budget allows. You won't be disappointed. (The cheapest "Pro" entry-level Pak is quite limited).


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I would add that BiaB also works well with midi and premade loops. It involves a good pitch shift internal plugin to make stuff pretty seamless. It does not always create exactly what you want but it gets you closer than anything else i have used so far.


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Also, welcome to the forums smile


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dcuny #864945 10/14/25 11:19 AM
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Originally Posted by dcuny
In short, a RealTrack performance is an audio file where someone is playing an instrument over many chord changes of various lengths (bar, half bar, beat level). However, you never deal directly with RealTracks like this.

Instead, you specify a chord sequence in BiaB interface - basically, like in a spreadsheet. BiaB automatically pulls the chords out of the selected RealTrack to match the order you specify.

The algorithm works at the bar/half bar/beat level, not by working on the material at the note level. It can force the notes to match the chords via pitch shifting, but that's not generally what happens.

Think of it sort of alike automatic loop assembly. Obviously, there are a finite number of chords in any given RealTrack, but they're generally long and diverse enough that it isn't a problem.

As to how well it works, you can check out the demos here: https://www.pgmusic.com/tutorial_realtrackslist.htm
Excellent explanation David. A couple things I'll add:

RealTracks are more than single audio files - they're multiple performances (between 5 and 70 separate performances) done in multiple keys. Some RealTracks rely on at least some pitch shifting (2 semitones max) while others are recorded in all 12 keys. The amount of audio content for each RealTrack is anywhere from a couple minutes for the simplest ones (Jaw harp) up to over 3.5 hours for the most complex (Vocal oohs and aahs).

Drums are similar, however there are a couple differences. Since drums aren't required to match the chord of the song there isn't any pitch-shifting going on. However, there are often different variations of drum grooves - for example, open hi-hat vs closed hi-hat vs ride cymbal, or snare vs side stick.

This is the full list of chords BIAB supports. We try to record as many as possible, however on some instruments there are many chords that are overly difficult or impossible to play, so in those cases BIAB will substitute something close.


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One thing to note is that while the ProPAK may sound like its the top of the line, it's the EverythingPAK that has, well (most) everything. And the AudiophilePAK has the same as the EverythingPAK, but uses uncompressed WAV (or lossless compressed FLAC files) versus compressed WMA files. The difference between Pro and Everything PAKs are the number of RealTracks, RealDrums, and RealStyles you get. All the PAKs have the same underlying program/engine to process the tracks and styles, however.


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jford #864950 10/14/25 01:49 PM
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Originally Posted by jford
One thing to note is that while the ProPAK may sound like its the top of the line, it's the EverythingPAK that has, well (most) everything. And the AudiophilePAK has the same as the EverythingPAK, but uses uncompressed WAV (or lossless compressed FLAC files) versus compressed WMA files. The difference between Pro and Everything PAKs are the number of RealTracks, RealDrums, and RealStyles you get. All the PAKs have the same underlying program/engine to process the tracks and styles, however.
It's the UltraPAK+ you're thinking of - we haven't used the name EverythingPAK since ~2017 I think. Otherwise yes, each package of BIAB has the same program and features, with the only difference being how much content is included. We tend to recommend the UltraPAK as the best value for the average user.


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Originally Posted by Simon - PG Music
[We tend to recommend the UltraPAK as the best value for the average user.
Of course as a representative the vendor, he would say that. So ...

As a user, and there are very many of us, I would agree, The UltraPAK is what most of us chose, sooner or later.


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Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
Originally Posted by Simon - PG Music
[We tend to recommend the UltraPAK as the best value for the average user.
Of course as a representative the vendor, he would say that. So ...

As a user, and there are very many of us, I would agree, The UltraPAK is what most of us chose, sooner or later.
This is exactly why I say it!


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I would mention that if you are on the fence about it, or even have made up your mind, it would be fair to point out that a new version is usually released at the end of the year.
It may worth considering as it is getting close (again).


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Originally Posted by Simon - PG Music
Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
Originally Posted by Simon - PG Music
[We tend to recommend the UltraPAK as the best value for the average user.
Of course as a representative the vendor, he would say that. So ...

As a user, and there are very many of us, I would agree, The UltraPAK is what most of us chose, sooner or later.
This is exactly why I say it!
Indeed ... I know it's good information.
I am, if you like, balancing what would often be my own cynicism.


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I would suggest that the OP listen to some of the songs on the Usershowcase forum.

Note that his ID is GamoffVex which may mean Game Off Vex. Vex is a series of video games.


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Yes, my mistake. UltraPAK.


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Originally Posted by GamophVex
I'm thinking about purchasing and I'm just curious about the technology. If I understand correctly, BIAB is able to modify the studio performed loops so as to fit user entered chord sequences. So far, I'm not hearing that there are any limitations on that concept. So does the algorithm do the pitch-shifting etc. on individual harmonically relevant notes within each of those performances? And doing it well enough to sound convincing.


What Mario said. Go listen to a number of songs in the forums. You have everything from very basic users to folks who really push the envelope on what this program is capable of doing. It WILL deliver studio quality tracks.


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Band-in-a-Box 2026 Video: AI Stems & Notes - split polyphonic audio into instruments and transcribe

This video demonstrates how to use the new AI-Notes feature together with the AI-Stems splitter, allowing you to select an audio file and have it separated into individual stems while transcribing each one to its own MIDI track. AI-Notes converts polyphonic audio—either full mixes or individual instruments—into MIDI that you can view in notation or play back instantly.

Watch the video.

You can see all the 2026 videos on our forum!

Bonus PAK and 49-PAK for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®

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  • MIDI Styles Set 92: Look Ma! More MIDI 15: Latin Jazz
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  • Artist Performance Set 19: Songs with Vocals 9
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Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 21 requires the 2025 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 10 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!

We've just released XPro Styles PAK 10 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 28 RealTracks and RealDrums!

Few things are certain in life: death, taxes, and a brand spankin’ new XPro Styles PAK! In this, the 10th edition of our XPro Styles PAK series, we’ve got 100 styles coming your way! We have the classic 25 styles each from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, and rounding out this volume's wildcard slot is 25 styles in the Praise & Worship genre! A wide spanning genre, you can find everything from rock, folk, country, and more underneath its umbrella. The included 28 RealTracks and RealDrums can be used with any Band-in-a-Box® 2026 (and higher) package.

Here’s just a small sampling of what you can look forward to in XPro Styles PAK 10: Soft indie folk worship songs, bumpin’ country boogies, gospel praise breaks, hard rockin’ pop, funky disco grooves, smooth Latin jazz pop, bossa nova fusion, western swing, alternative hip-hop, cool country funk, and much more!

Special offers until December 31st, 2025!

All the XPro Styles PAKs 1 - 10 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!

Learn more and listen to demos of XPro Styles PAKs.

Video: XPro Styles PAK 10 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!

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.

Introducing Xtra Styles PAK 21 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!

Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) is here with 200 brand new RealStyles!

We're excited to bring you our latest Xtra Styles PAK installment—the all new Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher)!

Rejoice, one and all, for Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box® is here! We’re serving up 200 brand spankin’ new styles to delight your musical taste buds! The first three courses are the classics you’ve come to know and love, including offerings from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, but, not to be outdone, this year’s fourth course is bro country! A wide ranging genre, you can find everything from hip-hop, uptempo outlaw country, hard hitting rock, funk, and even electronica, all with that familiar bro country flair. The dinner bell has been rung, pickup up Xtra Styles PAK 21 today!

In this PAK you’ll discover: Energetic folk rock, raucous train beats, fast country boogies, acid jazz grooves, laid-back funky jams, a bevy of breezy jazz waltzes, calm electro funk, indie synth pop, industrial synth metal, and more bro country than could possibly fit in the back of a pickup truck!

Special offers until December 31st, 2025!

All the Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 21 are on special for only $29 each (reg $49), or get all 21 PAKs for $199 (reg $399)! Order now!

Learn more and listen to demos of the Xtra Styles PAK 21.

Video: Xtra Styles PAK 21 Overview & Styles Demos: Watch now!

Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 21 requires the 2025 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.

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