|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 450
Journeyman
|
OP
Journeyman
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 450 |
Here's a recently released video from an experienced recording engineer and live performer, who also runs the URM Academy YouTube channel. He's used ProTools for many years, during which he completely dismissed Reaper. His explanation of his migration to Reaper is well worth the 14 minute watch. It even has me thinking about "do I really need to spend 150 € per year on Studio Pro (One) and another 150 € per year on Bitwig?". I bought a v6-v7 Reaper license for $60 in December of 2019, and Reaper's still got some v7 legs (v7.61 the last time I checked).
Last edited by TheMaartian; 10 hours ago.
ThinkPad i9 32GB RAM 7TB SSD; Win11 Pro; RME Fireface UCX II; BiaB 2026 Ultra
Bitwig Studio 6; Studio Pro 8; Melodyne Studio 5; Tonalic Studio 1; Acoustica Premium 7
Gig Performer 5; NI S61 MK3; Focal Shape 65; Beyerdynamic DT 880 & 770
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,358
Veteran
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,358 |
Very interesting.
Thanx for sharing.
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
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 12,810
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 12,810 |
Amen! I started out with ProTools back in the mid 90's. But after a few years, PT left me when they became equipment specific. At that time I found Reaper and have never looked back. I actually try not to advocate for Reaper here in this forum. I don't want to be one of those guys who just hypes a specific DAW and tell everyone how great their DAW is. So I don't want to be the one to tell you that Reap is the greatest, but, Reap is the greatest. 
BIAB – 2026, Reaper (current), i7-12700F Processor, 32GB DDR4-3200MHz RAM, Motu Audio Express 6x6 - My SoundCloud.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Mar 2025
Posts: 972
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Mar 2025
Posts: 972 |
I started learning how to use a DAW more intently about 5 years ago and have moved between Cakewalk by Bandlab - Cakewalk Sonar - Reaper. I recently ditched Cakewalk because all their previous core plugins disappeared - it might be an issue at my end, but I am highly suspicious that I am being moved from their free tier into a subscription. Being a retiree, I am on a tight budget, so these were a good fit. As I’ve gone in deeper, I am finding Reaper has a lot of standard plugins that I don’t need to buy elsewhere - not sure if they’re top shelf quality but they do the job for me … - ReaTune - I use for manual pitch correction - don’t have to pay for Melodyne
- JS De-esser- just yesterday, I needed to de-ess for the first time, and Reaper has it!
- LUFS - Reaper’s render feature has click and LUFS monitoring built in, so when I have my first draft mix done, I do a dry/trial render to see where everything is.
- Stretch markers - for alignment of vocal and guitar phrasing
As I learn or become aware of new techniques or issues to address, I am finding Reaper usually has something on hand. Andrew
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 3,432
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 3,432 |
Just me, but our forum host makes a DAW, so it seems a little awkward promoting another vendor's DAW here.
FWIW, understood everything the influencer is saying but don't find his case for Reaper compelling in the least. Just not what I need.
Carry on.
DC Ron
BiaB Audiophile
Presonus Studio One
ASUS I9-12900K DAW, 32 GB RAM
Presonus Faderport 16
Too many guitars (is that a thing?)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 20,420
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 20,420 |
I started learning how to use a DAW more intently about 5 years ago and have moved between Cakewalk by Bandlab - Cakewalk Sonar - Reaper. I recently ditched Cakewalk because all their previous core plugins disappeared - it might be an issue at my end, but I am highly suspicious that I am being moved from their free tier into a subscription. Being a retiree, I am on a tight budget, so these were a good fit. As I’ve gone in deeper, I am finding Reaper has a lot of standard plugins that I don’t need to buy elsewhere - not sure if they’re top shelf quality but they do the job for me … Andrew, I don't know if you've discovered Kenny Gioia yet or not. He has an amazing understanding of Reaper and a tonne of videos that explains his understanding. I use Reaper and find it excellent to work with. https://www.youtube.com/@REAPERMania/featured--Noel
MY SONGS...Audiophile BIAB 2026
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 3,879
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 3,879 |
Just me, but our forum host makes a DAW, so it seems a little awkward promoting another vendor's DAW here. I have tried the DAW you are referring to and I would argue that the forum host does NOT in fact have a DAW! Or, at least not one that could ever compete in the DAW industry!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 3,432
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 3,432 |
Just me, but our forum host makes a DAW, so it seems a little awkward promoting another vendor's DAW here. I have tried the DAW you are referring to and I would argue that the forum host does NOT in fact have a DAW! Or, at least not one that could ever compete in the DAW industry! Maybe. Lots of RealBand fans on this forum, just like Reaper fans. They're both devoted and passionate, aren't they? I used Reaper exclusively for about a week. Totally get the bells, whistles and "culture of customization" the influencer referenced. But Reaper is not much of a DAW for MY simple purposes either...
DC Ron
BiaB Audiophile
Presonus Studio One
ASUS I9-12900K DAW, 32 GB RAM
Presonus Faderport 16
Too many guitars (is that a thing?)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,358
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,358 |
When listening to a song one can not tell if the song was recorded in a DAW or not. Every DAW has its pluses and minuses. So saying one DAW is better than another is just personal taste.
As far as posting information about DAWs on this site I think it is a good thing. For those whom want BiaB to become a full fledged DAW they can see what's out there. For PGM it might give them ideas to add to their products.
YMMV
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
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 22,486
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 22,486 |
Just me, but our forum host makes a DAW, so it seems a little awkward promoting another vendor's DAW here. I have tried the DAW you are referring to and I would argue that the forum host does NOT in fact have a DAW! Or, at least not one that could ever compete in the DAW industry! Maybe. Lots of RealBand fans on this forum, just like Reaper fans. They're both devoted and passionate, aren't they? I used Reaper exclusively for about a week. Totally get the bells, whistles and "culture of customization" the influencer referenced. But Reaper is not much of a DAW for MY simple purposes either... Dang right. I'm old enough and been into computer music stuff since it pretty much started. I had cakewalk and what was it, Dr T I think, back when floppies were the common way to get data/applications.. I discovered PowerTracks early on (ver 3 maybe) and it brought me in to the fold. If you can't make a decent sounding song In PT/RB, the bells and whistles might as well be ornamental. They are basic serviceable DAWs and both do things no other software can natively with the generate options. Sure, I have used Reaper, actually have a license, but the end result can be indistinguishable between DAW A & B. One may be more fun for you, another for Joe over there by the coffee (he's making me nervous) but they both work.
I do not work here, but the benefits are still awesome
Make your sound your own!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 3,879
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 3,879 |
Just me, but our forum host makes a DAW, so it seems a little awkward promoting another vendor's DAW here. I have tried the DAW you are referring to and I would argue that the forum host does NOT in fact have a DAW! Or, at least not one that could ever compete in the DAW industry! Maybe. Lots of RealBand fans on this forum It is a free included tool when you buy BIAB; they don't even try to sell it stand-alone, and for good reason! You'd be hard pressed to find many (any?) Realband users outside of the PGM universe! Why is that? How come Reaper fans or Ableton Live fans or BandLab fans or FL Studio fans or Reason fans or Logic Pro fans or Pro Tools fans aren't giving up their DAWs and flocking to Realband? I've tried it several times and concluded it is not even in the same class as the DAWs on the market.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ask sales and support questions about Band-in-a-Box using natural language.
ChatPG's knowledge base includes the full Band-in-a-Box User Manual and sales information from the website.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Windows Special Offers End Tomorrow (January 15th, 2026) at 11:59 PM PST!
Time really is running out! Save up to 50% on Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® upgrades and receive a FREE Bonus PAK—only when you order by 11:59 PM PST on Thursday, January 15, 2026!
We've added many major new features and new content in a redesigned Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®!
Version 2026 introduces a modernized GUI redesign across the program, with updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, and a new Dark Mode option. There’s also a new side toolbar for quicker access to commonly used windows, and the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, making it easier to customize your workspace.
Another exciting new addition is the new AI-Notes feature, which can transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI. You can view the results in notation or play them back as MIDI, and choose whether to process an entire track or focus on specific parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.
There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!
Upgrade your Band-in-a-Box for Windows to save up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade packages!
Plus, when you order your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade during our special, you'll receive a Free Bonus PAK of exciting new add-ons.
If you need any help deciding which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We are here to help!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® Special Offers Extended Until January 15, 2026!
Good news! You still have time to upgrade to the latest version of Band-in-a-Box® for Windows® and save. Our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® special now runs through January 15, 2025!
We've packed Band-in-a-Box® 2026 with major new features, enhancements, and an incredible lineup of new content! The program now sports a sleek, modern GUI redesign across the entire interface, including updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, a new dark mode option, and more. The brand-new side toolbar provides quicker access to key windows, while the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, creating a flexible, clutter-free workspace. We have an amazing new “AI-Notes” feature. This transcribes polyphonic audio into MIDI so you can view it in notation or play it back as MIDI. You can process an entire track (all pitched instruments and drums) or focus on individual parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!
There are over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.
When you order purchase Band-in-a-Box® 2026 before 11:59 PM PST on January 15th, you'll also receive a Free Bonus PAK packed with exciting new add-ons.
Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® today! Check out the Band-in-a-Box® packages page for all the purchase options available.
Happy New Year!
Thank you for being part of the Band-in-a-Box® community.
Wishing you and yours a very happy 2026—Happy New Year from all of us at PG Music!
Season's Greetings!
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy holiday season—thanks for being part of our community!
The office will be closed for Christmas Day, but we will be back on Boxing Day (Dec 26th) at 6:00am PST.
Team PG
Band-in-a-Box 2026 Video: The Newly Designed Piano Roll Window
In this video, we explore the updated Piano Roll, complete with a modernized look and exciting new features. You’ll see new filtering options that make it easy to focus on specific note groups, smoother and more intuitive note entry and editing, and enhanced options for zooming, looping, and more.
Watch the video.
You can see all the 2026 videos on our forum!
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®
With your version 2026 for Windows 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)
- Android Band-in-a-Box® App (included)
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)
Learn more about the Bonus PAKs for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forums57
Topics85,830
Posts796,727
Members39,968
| |
Most Online25,754
Jan 24th, 2025
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean