Hi I just came across this software program called one man band which enables a person to use Yamaha styles on a computer and a midi keyboard.Has anyone tried it -I will give it a go this weekend.It seems to do all the usual arranger keyboard functions and cost $US 30 to register.Rod

And for others that are interested the link is http://www.home.zonnet.nl/JosMaas/onemanband/index.htm

One Man Band wouldn't install on Windows XP home edition so I can't tell if it's any good or not.Rod

I eventually got one man band installed on my Windows XP computer today -initially it was unplayable because of latency between when I played a chord and when it sounded when I used on onboard soft synth.When I connected it to an outboard midi synth( my trusty I5M)via a midi cable the latency disappeared and it wasn't too bad at all.The main limitations so far has been the inability for it to play (slash )inverted bass chords and the fact that it allows for only 1 fill,1 start and 1 ending per syle.I will keep exploring it.I am definitely going to buy it though.

Frank,
But you use Live - Styler as your software arranger, right?
Starkeeper

Thanks for your replies .Is live-styler better than one man band?

Did you try RMCA? Link is: http://rmca.cjb.net
I never tried One man band, but RMCA seems a good arranger software with many styles available.
Recorder

great third party styles for BAND IN A BOX
http://www.nortonmusic.com

made by a "real" lifetime musician, this convinced even me (normally style-hating me) to buy this program. Go to the site and give it a listen.

If you email him privately, he'll send you a couple of midis made with his styles to play on your own system.

With his software added to BIAB, you can make an arrangement in less than 5 minutes (or so he says) I haven't received mine yet but will report back.

As for latency with soft synths its a fact of life. Better drivers help. But, Most people find it easier to record using their local keyboard sounds, then assign any soft synth instruments afterwards.

hope that helps,

KK
cakewalk help pages http://www.roncat.net/cakewalk/

music http://www.roncat.net/private.htm

song exchange/music email club with mp3 storage for active members http://groups.yahoo.com/group/keyboard-synth-module-club/

Thanks keyskitten and others for your replies.I have band in a box and will definitely check out the links for new styles.However it seems to me that any band in a box style has only one variation apart from the original one(ie only 2 levels)-and this is definitly a limitation.Am I right in this or am I missing something?I am checking out live styler but have been unable to get it to install properly yet( however the tech support guy has been great in trying to help me )