|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,796
Expert
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,796 |
Any opinions on what windows one should install on a new 64bit Windows system? -F
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 280
Apprentice
|
|
Apprentice
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 280 |
Windows 10 is around the corner... but if you can't wait, Win 8.1 works ok.
For the record, I have BIAB 2014 installed in two computers, using Win 7 sp1 in my laptop and Win 8.1 in my desktop.
In the beginning I didn't get along with Win 8.1's interface, but eventually got used to it.
TBH, I can't really tell if BIAB works better in either computer, so, at least for me, the answer is: "it just doesn't matter".
HTH,
Last edited by LtKojak; 04/04/15 11:36 PM.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 21,565
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 21,565 |
If you are used to XP and do not want to learn a new GUI then go with Win 7. If you are use to smart phones, tablets, etc, then go with Win 8.1. I went for Win 7 for the first reason as a lot of people are still doing.
As already stated it makes no difference to BiaB/RB.
Inflation is so bad that CEOs are now playing miniature golf!
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 19,147
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 19,147 |
Hi fiddler, Before deciding, and if you have a special sound set up (other than what comes with the computer), it would pay to check out drivers for your soundcard. For example: I have an Audigy Platinum external soundcard and drivers stop at Win 7. So if I went to 8.1 or beyond, I'd need to get a new sound system. All the best with the upgrade. Noel
MY SONGS...Audiophile BIAB 2024
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,187
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,187 |
Win 8 is better, but you need a small add-on like StartMenu X that returns the familiar start menu with added capabilities.
It's free and the extra conveniences are only a couple of dollars.
There are many things about Win8 that are better than Win7 (I have both), the only bad thing about Win8.1 is the lack of the traditional start menu (Win8.1's start menu is fairly close to Win7's and neither are as good as XP IMHO). StartMenuX and at least a half dozen other add-ons give you a start menu that's actually a little better than the XP menu.
Insights and incites by Notes
Bob "Notes" Norton  Norton Music
https://www.nortonmusic.com
100% MIDI Super-Styles recorded by live, pro, studio musicians for a live groove
& Fake Disks for MIDI and/or RealTracks
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921 |
I have Win 7 Ultimate x64 on my DAW and Vista Home Premium x64 on my laptop, which I use for mobile production. (Apparently I'm the only person who never had issues with Vista.) I'm skittish about upgrading from 7 because when I upgraded from XP I lost the use of two perfectly good sound cards because the drivers weren't upgraded. I wouldn't tell you NOT to get 8.1, just tell you to do it with eyes wide open.
Richard
"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 26,204
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 26,204 |
Yes, as far as BIAB, it just doesn't matter, as Kojack said.
I like a few things about 8.1 technically. As long as you are used to the interface, I recommend you purchase 8.1 and keep current. Just first make sure all your devices have drivers.
BIAB 2024 Win Audiophile. Software: Studio One 6.5 Pro, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6; Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Roland Integra-7, Presonus Studio 192, Presonus Faderport 8, Royer 121, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 12,591
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 12,591 |
Start8 from Stardock, or some other start menu feature makes Win8 work much like the Win7 (and Vista) interface. Besides, the start menu is "mostly" coming back in Windows 10, anyway, so don't forget it (a la Win8.x) before you have to learn it again.
I've purchased Start8 as gifts for folks (it's only $5); they loved it.
John Laptop-HP Omen I7 Win11Pro 32GB 2x2TB, 1x4TB SSD Desktop-ASUS-I7 Win10Pro 32GB 2x1.5TB, 2x2TB, 1x4TB SATA BB2024/UMC404HD/Casios/Cakewalk/Reaper/Studio One/MixBus/Notion/Finale/Dorico/Noteworthy/NI/Halion/IK http://www.sus4chord.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,796
Expert
|
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,796 |
Richard ... which soundcards? Thanks Y'all for the tips, i have 8.1 on a laptop and adapted the interface indeed. And yes, i got pissed off already when changing to win 7 64bit & from XP. Especially about expensive soft- and hardware that just isn't maintained or flunked. The reason why i never would deal with digidesigsn and their "apple first" versus widows policy regarding Emagic. - F
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921 |
Fiddler, they were a Soundblaster Audigy 2Z Platinum Pro and a TASCAM US-228. The SB was useful for having three onboard synths and supporting Sound Fonts; the other for serving as a control surface and transport control. (I still use it with my Vista laptop for mobile recording.)
"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,796
Expert
|
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,796 |
I've got audio drivers for the ZS2 converted to 64bit someone gave me, Works OK with windows 7 x64. Some clever guy called Daniel adapted them, so not officially obtainable from Creative. He was probably in love with the sound blaster. I was too, only needed the PCI slot for something else now. Drivers work OK as for the audio itself. Only the other other software hasn't been adapted, but who needs it, and the sounblaster system is especially useful as soundfont loadable synth (also GM), besides it's great audio quality ... -F
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,187
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,187 |
Since I use external synths, the hardware I bought for my Atari, PC-DOS5, and Motorola Mac still work on 8.1 - generic MIDI drivers do the trick.
Some antiquated programs no longer work, like the Windows 3.1 version of Master Tracks Pro (which I prefer over the newer one - but I get along with the new version OK) and my Microsoft Publisher XP asks me to approve the license every month or so, but otherwise works fine.
I generally don't upgrade the OS on an existing computer though, but get the newest, latest, and greatest OS whenever I buy a new one. That gives me the longest 'shelf life'.
Since I buy ThinkPad computers exclusively, shelf life of an OS is important. I'm still using a 2002 ThinkPad on stage, running 3-4 hours a night, bouncing around in the van, changing temperatures constantly, and running like a top.
BTW, the computers on the Space Station that regulate the life support systems (oxygen, water, etc.) are ThinkPads - they are built like tanks.
When Win10 comes out, it will probably be the first time I upgrade on an existing computer. I'll make a disk image of my hard drive, perhaps even clone another drive so that I can have a fail-safe if things don't work properly.
People always complain when a new OS comes out. When Win95 came out, people complained. When WinXP came out, people all over the Internet were screaming "Keep your Win98SE because XP sucks", and people are still angry with MS for Win8. A lot of people just don't like change - and while I admit, change just for change sake is unnecessary, and a PITA, once you get used to the changes, you can reap the advantages.
Same thing happens with instruments.
The Selmer Mark VI saxophone was a great horn in its day, and the Mark VII was not quite as good. But the newest saxes coming out of Taiwan have better intonation, great tone, and will last much longer. Still there are thousands who worship the Mark VI as if it was the the holy grail. My new MacSax is a much better sax than my old MarkVI was.
Same thing with wind controllers. The WX7 was Yamaha's first. The WX5 is much better but there are those who worship the WX7 (I've had both, and the 5 is easier to play, has more essential features for expressive playing, and goes many more years between failures).
My new Parker DF524NN is a much better guitar than those PRE-CBS Stratocasters. It stays in tune, often even from one gig to the next, has a better neck, hardened stainless steel frets, better pickups, and a three way trem that can float - plus a piezo under the bridge that can be mixed with the mag pickups.
Older is not always better, but there will always be those who like old for the sake of old.
On the other hand, sometimes older things are better (newer isn't always better). The trick is to use whatever is best.
Bob
Bob "Notes" Norton Norton Music
https://www.nortonmusic.com
100% MIDI Super-Styles recorded by live, pro, studio musicians for a live groove
& Fake Disks for MIDI and/or RealTracks
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921 |
Fiddler, I started with a mobo with a PCI slot in my self-specced DAW (which I paid to have assembled), but the board was either defective or just wouldn't work with other components—don't recall which—so a substitution was made to a board without PCI. One way or another I was not meant to use my Audigy in the new machine.
Bob, I get what you say about accepting the new. What I did, and do, resent was losing the use of $375.00 worth of perfectly good sound cards.
R.
"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,187
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,187 |
I understand that. It is just a matter of time before you lose those sound cards. Everything inside a computer is eventually going to be an orphan.
It's the main reason why I don't depend on them. I bought a "Turtle Beach" sound card way back when, I think it was on my Win3.1 computer that went obsolete.
Now I use external hardware synths exclusively. The mid 1980s Yamaha TX81z, Korg DDD5, and Roland MT32 as well as my Akai S900 sampler all work fine on my newest computer, along with every MIDI synth I've bought since.
I like buying new synths, but I don't like losing my old ones.
I also save all my creations in standard file formats like .MID or .WAV.
Before the Standard MIDI File format, was created, I had about 300 songs in a proprietary Yamaha keyboard format. When the keyboard died, Yamaha had changed their file format, and I lost 300 songs.
I understand my way isn't the best for everyone, but I'm very glad I chose it.
They were hard lessons learned for me.
That's why I don't understand the rush to get software synths and upgraded sound cards. They will all eventually be orphaned. Then you will have to do a lot of work just to catch up.
Insights and incites by Notes
Bob "Notes" Norton Norton Music
https://www.nortonmusic.com
100% MIDI Super-Styles recorded by live, pro, studio musicians for a live groove
& Fake Disks for MIDI and/or RealTracks
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921 |
I get that, too, Bob. I had a Roland JV-1010 hardware synth, but it turned up missing after my most recent move, and I can't afford to replace it. However it happens, I'm sick of losing stuff.
"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,187
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,187 |
Yeah, I agree, missing stuff is a drag. Especially things you depend on.
The JV has a good reputation. Is it still in production? If not, ebay?
I have some old photographs of my band that I edited with an orphaned editor. They are up on my web and still look good. But when I load them into my Win8 computer, they look weird. The tops look fine and the rest is discolored.
I downloaded them from the web, and on Win8.1 the same thing happens. So they are alive on my web server, but if I ever want to get a new web host, they will be gone.
I love computers and I hate them, depending on the day or the hour of the day.
Notes
Bob "Notes" Norton Norton Music
https://www.nortonmusic.com
100% MIDI Super-Styles recorded by live, pro, studio musicians for a live groove
& Fake Disks for MIDI and/or RealTracks
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 3,921 |
Bob, the 1010 is long out of production. They go for $150-$200 on eBay, but I just spent a bundle on a new guitar and 88-key MIDI controller. There's more, but a new synth is not in my immediate future.
On the other hand, I have Propellerhead Reason, a massive soft synth and recording suite that won't be obsolete any time soon. Unfortunately, it doesn't have true GM capability. You can make it do it, but it's a pain. The 1010 had a wonderful GM sound set, yeah, but I don't have one just now.
Enough of flogging this particular horse. In 2006 I had several computers for making music, which broke down until all I had was a Win2K machine with a $15 wave table sound card. I decided not to let that be an objection and created some material that I really liked. Exactly what I need to do now. Back to work, friends.
"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 52
Enthusiast
|
|
Enthusiast
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 52 |
Folks,
I have been away from music for about a year. Will need to re-learn a lot.
Last week, my 2.5 year old Lenovo (motherboard) died. I live in Thailand with limited facilities for repairs etc.
Now I need to get a new notebook and am faced with this q.
I have BIAB 2012.5
The new recommended notebook will have Win 8.1x 64 bit pre-installed.
Am I facing any issues with this new notebook, or will BIAB 2012.5 run with no problems?
I also noted a potential "activation" issue in a running live chat (which I now cannot locate).
_____________________________________________________________
Windows 8, 64 bit, 8 gb ram, 2012.5
_________________________________________________________
Roland FP7, M Audio Fast Track, Audacity, Selmer Ref 54, Shure SM58.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 26,204
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 26,204 |
Thailonius, yes, it will run fine. That's the OS I'm using. The only potential problem would be if you are using an external sound module and there are no drivers updated for Windows 8 64-bit.
There was a recent mention of activation, but It was pointed out that PG Music will work with you if you have a problem. I have not seen anyone describe any unsolved problem, and almost no mention of activation in months.
BIAB 2024 Win Audiophile. Software: Studio One 6.5 Pro, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6; Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Roland Integra-7, Presonus Studio 192, Presonus Faderport 8, Royer 121, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box for Windows
|
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 12,591
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 12,591 |
Activation is only for BIAB/RealBand 2014 and above. You don't need to worry about activation for version 2012.5.
John Laptop-HP Omen I7 Win11Pro 32GB 2x2TB, 1x4TB SSD Desktop-ASUS-I7 Win10Pro 32GB 2x1.5TB, 2x2TB, 1x4TB SATA BB2024/UMC404HD/Casios/Cakewalk/Reaper/Studio One/MixBus/Notion/Finale/Dorico/Noteworthy/NI/Halion/IK http://www.sus4chord.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
New! XPro Styles PAK 7 for Band-in-a-Box 2024 for Mac!
We've just released XPro Styles PAK 7 with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 50 RealTracks and RealDrums that are sure to delight!
With XPro Styles PAK 7 you can expect 25 rock & pop, 25 jazz, and 25 country styles, as well as 25 of this year's wildcard genre: Celtic!
Here's a small sampling of what XPro Styles PAK 7 has to offer: energetic rock jigs, New Orleans funk, lilting jazz waltzes, fast Celtic punk, uptempo train beats, gritty grunge, intense jazz rock, groovy EDM, soulful R&B, soft singer-songwriter pop, country blues rock, and many more!
Special Pricing! Until September 30, 2024, all the XPro Styles PAKs 1 - 7 are on sale for only $29 ea (Reg. $49 ea)! Supercharge your Band-in-a-Box 2024® with XPro Styles PAK 7! Order now!
Learn more and listen to demos of XPro Styles PAKs.
Watch the XPro Styles PAK 7 Overview & Styles Demos video.
XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2024 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.
New! Xtra Styles PAK 18 for Band-in-a-Box 2024 for Mac!
Xtra Styles PAK 18 for Band-in-a-Box version 2024 is here with 200 brand new styles to take for a spin!
Along with 50 new styles each for the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, we’ve put together a collection of styles using sounds from the SynthMaster plugin!
In this PAK you'll find: dubby reggae grooves, rootsy Americana, LA jazz pop, driving pop rock, mellow electronica, modern jazz fusion, spacey country ballads, Motown shuffles, energetic EDM, and plenty of synth heavy grooves! Xtra Style PAK 18 features these styles and many, many more!
Special Pricing! Until September 30, 2024, all the Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 18 are on sale for only $29 ea (Reg. $49 ea)! Expand your Band-in-a-Box 2024® library with Xtra Styles PAK 18! Order now!
Learn more and listen to demos of the Xtra Styles PAK 18 here.
Watch the Xtra Styles PAK 18 Overview & Styles Demos video.
Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 18 requires the 2024 UltraPAK/UltraPAK+/Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version because they need the RealTracks from the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
New! Xtra Styles PAK 18 for Band-in-a-Box 2024 for Windows!
Xtra Styles PAK 18 for Band-in-a-Box version 2024 is here with 200 brand new styles to take for a spin!
Along with 50 new styles each for the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, we’ve put together a collection of styles using sounds from the SynthMaster plugin!
In this PAK you'll find: dubby reggae grooves, rootsy Americana, LA jazz pop, driving pop rock, mellow electronica, modern jazz fusion, spacey country ballads, Motown shuffles, energetic EDM, and plenty of synth heavy grooves! Xtra Style PAK 18 features these styles and many, many more!
Special Pricing! Until September 30, 2024, all the Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 18 are on sale for only $29 ea (Reg. $49 ea)! Expand your Band-in-a-Box 2024® library with Xtra Styles PAK 18! Order now!
Learn more and listen to demos of the Xtra Styles PAK 18 here.
Watch the Xtra Styles PAK 18 Overview & Styles Demos video.
Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 18 requires the 2024 UltraPAK/UltraPAK+/Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version because they need the RealTracks from the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
New! XPro Styles PAK 7 for Band-in-a-Box 2024 for Windows!
We've just released XPro Styles PAK 7 with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 50 RealTracks and RealDrums that are sure to delight!
With XPro Styles PAK 7 you can expect 25 rock & pop, 25 jazz, and 25 country styles, as well as 25 of this year's wildcard genre: Celtic!
Here's a small sampling of what XPro Styles PAK 7 has to offer: energetic rock jigs, New Orleans funk, lilting jazz waltzes, fast Celtic punk, uptempo train beats, gritty grunge, intense jazz rock, groovy EDM, soulful R&B, soft singer-songwriter pop, country blues rock, and many more!
Special Pricing! Until September 30, 2024, all the XPro Styles PAKs 1 - 7 are on sale for only $29 ea (Reg. $49 ea)! Supercharge your Band-in-a-Box 2024® with XPro Styles PAK 7! Order now!
Learn more and listen to demos of XPro Styles PAKs.
Watch the XPro Styles PAK 7 Overview & Styles Demos video.
XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2024 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.
Video - Band-in-a-Box® DAW Plugin Version 6 for Mac®: New Features for Reaper
Band-in-a-Box® 2024 for Mac® - Update Today!
Band-in-a-Box® 2024 for Mac® Video - Over 50 New Features and Enhancements!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forums65
Topics82,790
Posts749,371
Members38,889
| |
Most Online2,537
Jan 19th, 2020
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean