BIAB 2013 question

[Tony Prior]

I have 2013 on a HD with the expansion PAK.

I've been way from BIAB for a long time, are there major benefits to upgrade ?

tp

[Jim Fogle]

I will say yes. There have been a lot of Band-in-a-Box updates from 2013 to 2025. If you look on YouTube, PG Music produces videos detailing what new program and content features are available for almost every new release.

Major program updates that come to mind include 32 bit to 64 bit operating system compatibility, new audio engine, new time and pitch shifting technology, record audio on any track, the addition of 16 utility tracks, two midi soft synths added, you can make your own RealTracks (user RealTracks are called UserTracks), new audio editor as well as bunches and bunches of additional content.

If you use a Mac, I'd wait until the 2025 Mac version is released since there is typically a sale price. Window releases generally occur after Thanksgiving to early December. The sale discount is typically about 40%.

I suggest updating with a ProPAK purchase. The ProPAK costs the least because it has the least content. However, there is a little bit of every type of content Band-in-a-Box can use and the Band-in-a-Box program is the same in all packages. The ProPAK gives you the opportunity to learn the program and how to use the various content types without being overwhelmed by content choices.

I started with a ProPAK and concentrated on learning the program. By the time I updated to the UltraPAK (which includes all the package content) I had a good understanding of what the program was capable of delivering and how to manipulate the program.

[Tony Prior]

THX Jim, I'll take a look. At the current time I am running 2013 which is the full Everything PAK. Most of my previous operator knowledge is returning SLOWLY !

These days I am making Bluegrass backing tracks for my Mandolin study/journey so its possible the 2013 version may suffice, at least for now.

Best

tp

[Doug Taylor]

I have gone from BIAB to strum machine for bluegrass stuff!

I only mention it because it is not as well known. It is a subscription 5 bucks a month or 40 something for a year I think.

It has bunches of songs ready to go but it is quick and easy to add your own, change keys and tempo.

Free trial with no CC info when I signed up.

https://strummachine.com

[Tony Prior]

Thx Doug, I checked out Strum Machine and it certainly has possibilities. There are two other Bluegrass Tracks sites which I use now and then , BBT and FBBTS. Both are free of course. Both also offer up the chord charts if needed.

I like using BIAB as it allows for various transitions, intro's , endings, even key changes.

A lot has changed over the years, for the better !

Best

tp