Band in Box v. Garageband

[centuryx3]

Can anyone share their thoughts on which is preferable? I am generally in putting backing tracks ( chords, bass, percussion) together quickly from charts. I have Garageband, and it is kind of cumbersome.
Thanks in advance

[jazzmonkey007]

I like BiB for quickness, to do the main drum beat, bass and keyboard parts. I'm on a Mac with an older version so the midi instruments are not that great, I think the version for pc has better instruments. I usually export from BiB, save to midi and then import in GB for better sounds and also play with the midi parts. Plus I have a ton of songs already made up for BiB, including the Fakebook...hope this helps.

[centuryx3]

I like BiB for quickness, to do the main drum beat, bass and keyboard parts. I'm on a Mac with an older version so the midi instruments are not that great, I think the version for pc has better instruments. I usually export from BiB, save to midi and then import in GB for better sounds and also play with the midi parts. Plus I have a ton of songs already made up for BiB, including the Fakebook...hope this helps.

A guy gave me all three Sher Fakebook charts in .mgu format. I have no BIB, but I have Garageband. I guess more software is in my future.

[jazzmonkey007]

A guy gave me all three Sher Fakebook charts in .mgu format. I have no BIB, but I have Garageband. I guess more software is in my future.

If you need it in BiB format, LMK I'll email it to you. ;)

[docbop]

I just got into BIAB a few months ago and love it especially now that it comes with some of the real instrument sounds. The full $$$ BIAB has lots of real instruments. I mainly use it for practice, punching chord progressions or real book tunes. I can quickly change tempo, transpose, or change the style. I view GarageBand as more a composing tool.

[markbosko]

BIAB is really good for jazz, OK for blues, and just adequate for rock. The new version does include Real Band, which is a little better for rock, country, pop etc.

[centuryx3]

If you need it in BiB format, LMK I'll email it to you. ;)

I was under the impression that I already have the books in BIB format (file extension is .mgu). That is why I am considering purchasing BIB--to open these files.

[Hoopermazing]

I just got into BIAB ... mainly use it for practice, punching chord progressions or real book tunes. I can quickly change tempo, transpose, or change the style.

That is precisely how I use BiaB as well. Since I mostly play jazz (specifically, Bebop and Swing) it's the perfect practice aid.

Also, if you have large wide-screen computer monitors that pivot, it's even better. Turn a 30" monitor 90° and you have a huge page-format lead sheet of sorts that is all visible at the same time... and visible across the room, even to my 40 year old eyes.