SampleTank uses GM Standards for the basic note descriptions and some Controllers, but does not provide a GM Bank Zero which contains 128 instrument sounds arranged in 16 generalised sections such as "Reed" with 8 instruments in each section, such as Flute, Clarinet etc. The synth does not respond to Program, Bank or LSB settings in BIAB/RealBand. Channel settings in Sample Tank are recognised.

You can set up your own collections of sounds and save them in SampleTank for future use. The settings used in specific BIAB files are saved in the file for future use.

A number of quality synths such as SampleTank, Sonik Synth, Miroslav, Kontact etc work in simular ways. I find that a GM Synth providing the Bank Zero sounds which are responsive to instrument selection from within BIAB most suitable for auditioning styles and song Demos. Plugins like Forte or an external Sound Module such as the Ketron SD2 can be installed rather than rely on the basic Micosoft option.

Once starting on the development stage, a switch to advanced Synths is recommended.

Filkertom - I haven't looked at the OmniSynth expansion for SampleTank, but thanks - it is worth examaining. VSampler bit the bullet some years ago and provided a Bank Zero using the PapelMedia Bank