Posted
I am very impressed with HN2 as would like to use it to creatively generate unique chord progressions. Then I would like to use the midi file it generates with Band in a Box. In the past I have had some trouble importing certain midi chord files into BIAB. So before I spend a lot of money I would like to make sure it can load the HN midi files. I see that the demo dont allow exporting midi files so I would appreciate if I could get access to a file so I can test it out.
Sat, 2016-03-26 - 22:10 Permalink
Hi Andre. We exchanged several emails about my inability on a Mac to get this drag and drop function to work. You eventually sent me a midi file to test. And suggested I wait until Tuesday when an update for HN2 LE will be released.
So l I did purchase HN2 LE eventually. Partially based on how well your midi test file loaded into BIAB.
But, after reading thru half of the manual I recorded a very simple 1 4 5 sequence and used the export dialogue screen to save it as midi. It did NOT load correctly at all into BIAB. So please tell me whatever procedure you used to generate that midi file.
Thanks!
Sat, 2016-03-26 - 22:20 Permalink
Tuesday is now ;-)
That is, the update is available already, so you may want to try it. Although drag & drop worked before, so I wonder what is wrong with your installation.
Anyhow, the file I sent you was a song fragment with multiple instruments, created by HN2 Advanced Edition. HN2 LE does create the same kind of MIDI files, so except for the number of instruments an notes in it, it's the same format.
Please try different options on the dialog window that pops up before export, e.g. whether to include harmony information, a lead-in, etc. This might make a difference for BIAB import.
Out if interest: What exactly are you importing into BIAB? Just the chord progression (chord names)?
Sat, 2016-03-26 - 22:31 Permalink
Great to hear.
Actually I experience this problematic behavior on 2 Mac Mini 2012 systems. One running Mountain Lion and the other running El Captian.Wierd!
Before retiring I was a high end video editor used to using and trouble shooting lots of different hardware and software issues. I would be surprised if this was operator error. ;) (https://www.facebook.com/tom.daigon)
I am using HN2 as a creative tool to explore and compose chord progression. It is just that chord information that I inport onto the chord page of BIAB. Then I apply the type of style that fits my idea. When complete I import all the real and super midi tracks into Studio One V3 (which I just switched to after using Logic for 20 years) and add my guitar and vocals.
I wish you could have given me a step by step process of just how you created the midi file. This constant failure of software to do what I need is bumming me out. :)
Sat, 2016-03-26 - 22:37 Permalink
Im downloading the new version. What is the process for updating? Can I just run the installer on the Mac Mini or do I need to uninstall the older version then install the new one?
Sat, 2016-03-26 - 22:39 Permalink
There's actually no procedure other than File >> Export >> Standard MIDI File.
Be sure the workspace is playing your chords properly before you export. Make any changes at the "Instruments" tab, if they are sound-related.
Also try the settings "Lead-in", "General MIDI" and "Chords".
Sat, 2016-03-26 - 22:41 Permalink
The issue I experienced with my midid export was that BIAB wasnt able to interpret and load the chords in the file correctly.
Your midi file loaded quickly and correctly :)
Sat, 2016-03-26 - 23:00 Permalink
Testing done. Files with 6 or 8 of the midi export dialog check boxes checked, load correctly into BIAB. Other configurations do not. Wonderful!!