Trying to decide between bandhelper and stage Traxx

Chip3341

Hello! Could use some feedback from you guys.

My cover band runs tracks and keyboard off of a laptop using MainStage into an x32. We also all use iPads and pdfs and just read off the iPads. I’d like to implement either bandhelper or stage Traxx to up our game. Here’s what I want:

-MIDI controlled backing track changes, plus separate virtual outs for the multi tracks to split tracks and click and cues.
-MIDI automation to control program changes for keyboard and guitar (kemper) both within songs and between songs
-MIDI automation for vocal effects in the x32
-MIDI automation to control floor wedge lyric teleprompter

I think all of this can be done in either app but wondering if one will be better. Obviously I like the price of stage Traxx and find the simpler workflow to be easier to use. The one thing I’m not sure of is syncing power. We have the laptop controlling the tracks and keyboard, and then a separate iPad with screen mirroring controlling the lyrics. I know that Stage Traxx has a mirror function where we can sort of make the iPad slave to the laptop, so I assume that would work? Can I create the entire Setlist with all the midi cues on the iPad and then share the list with my buddy who has the laptop? Or do we need to have the same Apple ID. It seems like bandhelper has a robust ability to sync and share, not sure if stage Traxx does?

What do y’all think?

Lishy

Chip3341 I came from bandhelper a few years ago. Stage Traxx can do all that you want but for a one off price, whereas BH is a subscription model. This is a huge advantage in my opinion.
I find ST much simpler to use as it has far less menus to dive into.
Yes BH has an account system where if you amend your music on one it will automatically sync it with others on the same account but it’s easy enough to share your songs on ST either via Airdrop or email. If all devices have the same Apple ID then you can also sync everything via iCloud.
ST has a network sharing function where you have one host and then other devices can join a session and either see what you’re seeing or see their own lyrics. You can also share your lyrics/pdf to an external screen.
You can try ST for free and have a play around (although the free version has limited functionality) Also check out Peters videos on YouTube as well as Scott Uhl’s.
You may have also seen that ST4 is currently in beta testing so you may wish to wait for that.

Apart from having an automated count in (which I’ve got a workaround for), there’s not anything I miss about BH.
Hope that helps.

Chip3341

Lishy hey thanks! I think you preemptively answered my question, but yeah if I wanted to program all the tracks and such for my buddy who will be running the tracks set from his laptop, is it as simple as creating the Setlist on my own system and then sharing it with him? Does stage Traxx store backing tracks locally?

Lishy

Chip3341 yes you can do that. If it’s a large file with backings tracks you’ll have to airdrop it. Yes all tracks are stored locally.

peter

BandHelper has way better syncing between band members as it is a hosted service where all your data is stored on the BandHelper servers. Apart from that BandHelper has very deep management features but that leads to a somewhat complicated workflow. I use BandHelper for my band and I am really the only one in the band that can handle the data grooming in BandHelper. All other members fail even with setting up a custom view layout.

So I think Stage Traxx is easier to use, has better audio playback features, but lacks features in the other areas. But that makes it easier to work with.

Another big difference is pricing: BandHelper is a subscription service. One subscription can unlock the app for all band members. Stage Traxx is a one time purchase. But every band member will need to buy a license.

Vedeja

I have been using BH for 10 years and only recently switched to ST when the band went from five to two members and we started with tracks. I definitely wanted multitracks. ST is where I will remain even though I miss being able to share setlists. However, with a two piece band it is an ok workaround to share setlists manually. The onetime payment vs subscription was a bonus.

tommybluenote

Vedeja You can export and import setlists and songs in ST3.

Vedeja

tommybluenote thanks, I know! And that is an ok workaround for not being able to collaborate on them like with BH.