Oops!... I Messed Up | Confusion Over Cakewalk Activation :(

[@BadAssWartHog-A10]

Hi Mike, you have a lot of loyal followers and we depend on you for your knowledge. Plus, you appear to be a hell of a nice person.

[@andrewdavies8328]

All good, Mike. Thanks for going the extra mile!

[@pjh2599]

I didn't feel the original was confusing at all but I feel you did rightly for whomever did.

[@CakewalkRevealed]

Thank you :)

[@tbelgan4348]

Thanks, Mike. actually, the previous video you posted seemed clear enough to me. Thank you very much for making it even clearer. Best wishes - Tim

[@siwilson3530]

Hi Mike, thanks for your informative channel. Could you do a vid on how to make and how to store and retrieve your own drum loops & fills etc in cakewalk for future use. + When laying down a live guitar track I have trouble finding other takes if the track over loops while laying the track down. Thanks again..regards Si from the UK .

[@kitekrazee]

Can't find the latest full installation. Once again in their app you can only download the update. The update does not install the full program.

[@ТимурГиев]

Oh, thanks! I'm not confused, but this situation became clear😂👍👏

[@d.p.5874]

Crystal clear ! Thx a lot .

[@CakewalkRevealed]

You're welcome!

[@enternamehere9366]

I still have an older Win7 PC and run a 2021 version of Bandlab. It was the last version before requiring Win10. Since I am unable to install the latest (last) version from 4/2024, if asked to reactivate, am I dead in the water? All of my files are in cwb (and bun) format going back to the 90's, long story as to why I use that format. Maybe you could do a video on migrating (easily) out of Bandlab, to ready files for another DAW, especially for those of us neanderthals with 25+ yrs of bundles who are now sweatin' the changeover.

[@xiquinsanaih]

This process will let you install and activate the latest version of Bandlab on a Windows 7 PC. I did it a few days ago It's not officially supported but everything runs ok (so far) You can install it on top of your 2021 version by running Cakewalk_by_BandLab_Setup_29.09.0.098.exe on your W7 computer. You will need a W10 computer for Cakewalk Product center and to generate the activation import/export files So I am now running 2024.02 legal and activated on both W7 and W10 online computers. Don't ask me if it will last for ever though ...

[@glynnp42]

Mike, so if I understand this now, there was no reason for the previous video other than to show people how to activate without a network connection?

[@SeanYeomans71]

Not sure how they missed the point of the Offline portion of your video, you were pretty clear. Perhaps it's an ESL issue.

[@yrakca]

Thanks Mike! I have followed all the instructions and downloaded the latest etc. I already have a BandLab account and Cakewalk asks for activation but when I click on the link, nothing happens. I have logged into my Bandlab account separately in the browser but Cakewalk still tells me it is not activated. Any idea? Anyone??

[@mimojapan]

What confuses me ... your sound in this clip sounds more "bassy" than your others (OR my ears got busted since :-)) Not that it's a big deal, was just wondering if this is recorded/processed differently this time. :-D

[@KreativeDevices]

🔥

[@avinashraviprakash7476]

I followed your steps with a computer that was online.. A single computer and everything worked seamlessly. The first video was definitely very confusing.

[@bobwassell]

Mike, don’t sweat it. You’re the best appreciate all your work and doing this.

[@davidsalinas4872]

It looks like i'm going to have to move away from calkwalk to much BS, I've been using cakewalk for years. I bought it when one of the first versions they had was for guitar players. I bought the cakewalk sonar producer. for $400. i would have bought bandlab if they didn't put it out for free.

[@jimfogle184]

Why move away from Cakewalk by Bandlab? Now you have the opportunity to subscribe (or purchase at some time in the future) Sonar, which is the successor to Cakewalk by Bandlab and built on the same core software.

[@davidsalinas4872]

@@jimfogle184 I love cakewalk I'm just an old man who likes simplicity. It's just freaked me out when he said you got to go to another computer, then go back to this computer and so on.

[@johnroevekamp6732]

Thanks for the clarification, but I have another point of confusion: what is "Cakewalk Next". It doesn't look like Cakewalk to me, and I could not figure out how to load a project into it...

[@j.ciloafasho]

So, we can still use the current free version of Cakewalk, but we going to have to go through them to continually reactivate a program they’re no longer going to support?

[@vigilantestylez]

I ditched cakewalk. I was hoping they would keep it as it was fun and sounded as good as my brainworx plugins with the stock console setup. But this licensing thing is a joke. I'd be happy to pay for a permanent license but they don't offer that, so goodbye cakewalk.

[@bitterolives]

exactly my thoughts.

[@TheMack]

Totally agree! I really dislike this activation and licensing nonsense. Product Center for one product!? wtf...I'll stick with Reaper.

[@internalmethods]

Thank God I still have sonar 3 professional installed😂

[@Phant0mK16]

Cakewalk ALWAYS asked for reactivation every 3 months... I don't know what's the deal with you guys It's the same process, just making sure you have the last update.

[@vigilantestylez]

@@Phant0mK16 they said they will not be supporting the free versions, and people will have to pay for a license in order to use cakewalk in the future.

[@davidnayir]

I have the latest version (2024.02 or 29.9.98) installed What happens If I don't activate? Will it stop working at one point of time?

[@CakewalkRevealed]

Yes, it will become non-activated at some point, and you won't be able to save. But you will be able to activate again.

[@davidnayir]

@@CakewalkRevealed Thank you very much. Your tutorials have been wonderful.

[@jimfogle184]

In the past, each activation has been good for about six months. If your computer is online activation automatically happens when there is an update or interaction with Bandlab.

[@futte63]

Hi Mike. No problems with updating according to your previous video. Can I find a place that describes a backup for Cakewalk and related projects? Got a new computer. Thanks for your great videos over the years. Regards, Leif, Denmark

[@aswilleharley1742]

Your video is very clear. Thanks for all your videos & keep up the work. Regards A.Harley.

[@CakewalkRevealed]

Thanks 👍

[@serenarose54]

I have the latest version of cakewalk and I got the reactivation error. I tried the offline activation method ( I exported the activation code request and imported the response in the same computer. is that why?) What's the worst that can happen if my reactivation time expires? do all my files uploaded to cakewalk disappear? Also when I update cakewalk in the future, how can I backup my files? Do I just move them to a different location? Also what's this about Cakewalk free version no longer being developed after Sonar? I'm sorry but I'm scared

[@waize2]

I have a question Mike, I’m really scared about the time it will ask for reactivation for my offline computer just before my show. How can I be sure about the reactivation date ?

[@thomasjohnson-ut7zl]

Question: does the offline computer have to be the one I will ultimately use for my Cakewalk installation? I will want to activate Cakewalk on a computer I expect to acquire in the near future. I am trying to prepare for that while the free version is still available.

[@w-hisky]

Actually, your video was very clear. 🤷‍♂️ You even covered offline activation, which is great for folks who really keep their work horses away from the internet. 👍

[@CakewalkRevealed]

Glad it was helpful!

[@robertoreyes2062]

how can i record both lines? i just can record in the upper line only and i need the one in the down part too? new subscriber BTW

[@Stessedude27]

Is there a way you can make a video about how to slow down and speed up the vocals?

[@timothyreynolds6255]

I followed your previous video. It seemed obvious to me, however your clarification in this video is helpful. Thanks.

[@CakewalkRevealed]

Glad it was helpful!

[@IglesiaPentecostalElArca]

No problem Mike, we love you and we follow you. Thanks for the clarification.

[@pierrecarter3090]

I did not have any confusion either. However, thanks to mention that we will have to re-activate from time to time. I don't have any problems with that, but I'm glad to know. Thanks Mike for supporting us the way you do.

[@drewtoura]

i dont wanna sound lame here but i'm gonna ask anyway. downloaded the latest 2024.02 like in this video im just wondering if i need to do all the steps in the previous video. i just updated straight from cakewalk. also, what do i need to do to keep it free always? thanks in advance

[@ikotticf.k.6566]

Just to make sure, what does it mean to activate your cakewalk account?

[@jimfogle184]

It means your computer interacted with the Bandlab server and received a token for Cakewalk by Bandlab to continue normal operation for another six months. Without the token, Cakewalk by Bandlab will stop saving files.

[@chrischallacombe3477]

Hey Mike. Having a big issue, hoping you can help me?? Settings and computer info attached. Aside from this ISSUE, everything else works fine! Edit tracks, add VST's, effects, meters, etc. ISSUE: When I try to record on a new Audio Track, and I enable the orange "Input Echo" button beside the red Arm Record button on that track, it picks up and records ALL other previously recorded tracks as well as the audio I'm trying to record. Also, it starts what sounds like a feedback loop when you increase the volume from the fader on that track (it's NOT actual feedback, as in a guitar or mic close to a speaker). Physical "Mix" setting on the front of the UR22mk11 (Input / DAW) has no effect on the issue, and my monitors are off (just in case someone thought it was feeding back through my monitors). ALL Steinberg/Yamaha Drivers are updated to the latest version. Running latest version of Cakewalk: Version 2024.02 (Build 098, 64 Bit.) ANYTHING you could do to help would be GREATLY APPRECIATED!! Thanks in advance, Chris. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@RocknRollkat]

Thank you Mike. I'm 1/4 Welsh. We're confused from the factory, no worries. Bill P.

[@TheMack]

I just wish there was a perpetual license. Requiring periodic re-activation means you don't own the software. Bandlab decides if you're allowed/able to use it or not. So no, not free in the freedom sense...

[@rockyhill9965]

How can I edit the windows registry to keep Cakewalk happily always activated? I have windows 7 and don't want to go to win 10 and I have no need for Sonar. Am happy with Cakewalk.

[@AntonBrowne]

Thank you, I think I got it the first time. I've updated and also downloaded the file (for future reinstallation!) and I realise I will need to keep reactivating as requested, either online or by offline means. Incidentally, the reactivation often doesn't go that smoothly but I always get there in the end. Thanks very much for your videos.

[@Coastal_Cruzer]

I am logged in on cakewalk yet it keeps telling me to activate it. its up to date and has previously let me save and export but now it refuses to work

[@Wal-DarkWater]

I thought that there wasn't going to be any more updates for cakewalk? - Yet have update 2024.07 just pop up

[@johnjenkins5477]

Mike so are you saying the various on the bandlab page is not the latest version? Also on my church laptop top Cakewalk show no new update right now but it was update a little while back plus when I open Cakewalk and it says it has a updated I download the updated to a folder then install it from there but I notice that the version number are different from the one on the bandlab site (1.0.0.42) and the one you gave a link to (1.0 0.51. All the updates through my church laptop with Cakewalk on it has update setup version number 29.09.0.075 rebuild_2 I'm confused a bit here are you saying I need to download the version you gave the link to and install it on my church laptop if so, how do I backup all my plugins settings and projects? Also is version 1.0 0.51 the last version that will be released and can I put the setup exe on my backup data storage drive fo safe keeping just in case I have to reinstall after a computer crash or I get new PC?

[@leonardrogers6385]

Thanks Mike for the clearing that up for those of us who were confused. But since I installed the version every time I open Cakewalk I get the Activation notification and I open Bandlab assistant Cakewalk does not activate. Please Help !!!!!!!

[@simongodfrey3765]

Previous one was clear to me, but I guess there may be many who don't understand why anyone would contemplate an offline PC and want to keep it that way (hint - it's to keep all the performance of the PC dedicated to music production and limit possible interrupts/sharing of PC resources). Cheers Mike - it's all good mate!

[@TheOptionmentor]

I did understand the last video but thanks for clearing it all up!

[@CakewalkRevealed]

Glad to hear it!

[@rickdauer5179]

Hi Mike, any word on when and how much Sonar will be? I'm on hold for now, that answer will determine if I stick with Sonar, Reaper, or S1. Thanks

[@mybachhertzbaud3074]

I would be nice if they offered a buy out option that no longer needs online anything. It works quite well as it is and needs no real updates to be useful. Alas.😢🎶🎶🎹🎹🎶🎶Play On

[@jz5005]

Appreciate all your wisdom over the years. Anyway, I had saved the last vid but hadn’t watched it yet. I’m usually prompted to click update to latest version within the program / app. Is that not sufficient for the time being? Or is this series more about what to do when that latest / or last update ultimately expires?

[@bryantwalley]

So we have the 2024.02 version and they are not planing on updating it once they do the split to the rental versions. Why do you suppose they don’t just remove the activation from the software and leave it like it is? Why continue with the nonsense?

[@TheDogPa]

Video was originally good...their interface is lame...does not lead to faith in them doing Cakewalk right...

[@abc456f]

They use the file version inside cakewalk when you check for updates and it shows what version you have. This was confusing me till now.

[@WilhelmUnterharnscheidt]

Seriously?! What is difficult in offline software activation?

[@waynemiller6070]

I admit I was starting to wonder, if my brother was going out with a friend this weekend and I'm not getting my haircut, when do I move my clothes down to the peg.

[@Noctarilfate]

Thanks very much Mike, this clarifies a lot for me.

[@MiguelFrancisco666-13]

Hi Mike. Im Mike, and I hope you're doing well...

[@gavinremedios7953]

Thanks Mate, But I am confused easily.

[@imazi59]

I can't use my ample sound vst i any more, i've tried to re install and re route,but still it won't work

[@wiegerapperloo2184]

Don't worry, all was ver;y clear in my opinion.

[@adrock6874]

I'm SO confused !! Just kidding .. Thanks Mike ..

[@CakewalkRevealed]

lol

[@LunatechStudio]

Hi Mike, No worries at all, I actually understood your last video just fine. I'm looking forward to not having to not having to keep current with the continuous and ongoing "you must have this version to activate in the future" updates of which there's been several, and I'll assume if it truly IS the last Cakewalk version update it'll now (hopefully) just be a matter of activation either offline or online, till they possibly decide to take that option away, at which point purchase or paid subscription for Sonar or Next will be the only option if one want's to continue using the software. If there were a paid perpetual license I probably would have purchased it long ago, because I like using Cakewalk. It's kind of an uneasy not really inspiring feeling going to the studio to work (offline) on a project and having to wonder if it's either not the right version for future updates, or if it's not actually activated and getting that warning, and having zero control over that aspect. Last time I activated it, that lasted about a week, then I got the activation warning again. But you've been a huge help with all this stuff and I thank you! 👍👍👍👍

[@MikeBaldock-g5i]

Previous video seemed straightforward to me, but you are always super-straight with us and so this clarification for those who need it is great!

[@CakewalkRevealed]

Thank you!

[@garrodtucker638]

will sonar platinum continue to work?

[@diabckd7789]

What if you don't update the current version you have as you're happy with what it does, will it stop working? Thanks

[@CakewalkRevealed]

I will need to be re-activated at some point yes.

[@mousehouse4617]

Thanks, Mike for the update. I suppose the question then is, what happens if Bandlab decide to remove the activation server for the free version of Cakewalk especially if you need a complete reinstall of Windows.

[@CakewalkRevealed]

Ultimately, yes we are at the mercy of Bandlab. Should they decide to remove the activation server, then I suppose CbB will be no more :(

[@abc456f]

​@CakewalkRevealed The last of us will be holding on to the free version but I think at some point they'll stop reactivation. More $$$ in their pockets for Sonar or Next.

[@jimfogle184]

IF Bandlab closes the server then you still have six month from the last activation. If you have to perform a complete reinstall of Windows, Cakewalk by Bandlab will be the least of your problems. While anything is possible the fact that Bandlab has kept the former Sonar by Gibson download and activation portals active leads me to think there is no reason to worry about the possibility at this time. The introduction of Sonar and Next leads me to believe IF Bandlab decides to close the Cakewalk by Bandlab server they will give plenty of notice of the decision.

[@robertbowes7111]

I didn't have any trouble understanding but this explanation should have helped those that did.

[@wong4728]

Mike you are the very best, and Thank you for being straightforward with us.

[@ChrisM541]

Like others below, I thought your original video was clear (I've been doing those kings of things for years). Everyone is different and for that, kudos to you for going the extra mile to provide more info for those perhaps new to all this. Looking forward to your upcoming experience with the new Bandlab Cakewalk products.

[@DeeringAmps]

Apologies accepted! 😊

[@ediazfiallos]

Gracias!!!

[@Taina4Ar]

Thank you 🙏

[@Gene_Cali]

Thanks Mike, for all you do! 💯👍🎶🎹🎸🥁

[@CakewalkRevealed]

My pleasure!

[@TheNeCaster]

Oh! Thanks a lot for a clarification! You're still the best!

[@CakewalkRevealed]

You're welcome 😊

[@myrio1]

Thank you and I appreciate you throwing yourself under the bus...This means you can be trusted! As It clearly appears, you are very helpful! Thanks!

[@williamsporing1500]

The original was not confusing to me. The only sketchy part for me was when the download might not be safe. I did download it, scanned with windows defender before installing and it was cool. Thanks for all you do sir!

[@sergiohfb]

I have the old cakewalk top version, can I use all features with the new cakewalk less expensive version?

[@horsetrader186]

Hi Mike, than you so much for clearing that up. Keep up the good work.

[@grahamtruckel]

Crystal clear to me, and many others, MIke. It seems from comments on the FB group that some folks are easily confusable!

[@fuzz7boy]

Figured it out from the original video, but thanks for the clarification.

[@muiscman807]

Yeah, I kind of figured that out on my own but thanks a lot for the clarification…

[@DanaDetrick]

Good info (I agree that the first video was pretty straightforward but always good to clarify!), and a good time to have backups of all of the installation files just in case. Thanks for providing an easy way to do that with the last video! And high five to all of my brethren who are old enough to remember when offline activation was more the norm than not!

[@marcwilliams4097]

Thanks! Appreciate your channel.

[@rager1969]

It seems I was correct in my understanding of what you were saying.

[@figlermaert]

Ha! I was right. Thanks Mike for clarifying.

[@richardgordon9939]

thanks mike. greetings from forest hill south London

[@phila2361]

I think we would all agree that you are the brightest star in the southern hemisphere. ;-)

[@Belgium046]

THank you . Couldnt be more clear !

[@tothrec]

Thanks for clarifying!

[@michailluuko3909]

Thanks for clearing it up!

[@aculos2022]

No problem at all !!!!!

[@davidnollmusic363]

Thank you so much Mike!

[@Web4Panama]

Thanks Mike

[@jstnxprsn]

After I installed the Program Center file and got activated I closed that page and couldn't figure out how to open it again without reinstalling it. What is all this activation nonsense anyway? If I have the last free version, why should I have to keep activating it every few months? I started using Cakewalk back in 1987 when it ran out of DOS and it did everything I needed jst fine without any of these hassles. Too bad they never learned "If it works, don't fix it"

[@CakewalkRevealed]

Yeah, its a pain :(

[@abc456f]

To me it seems pretty obvious. They're going to stop reactivation to force us into Sonar or Next.

[@jimfogle184]

Bandlab developers stated in the Cakewalk by Bandlab forum that Bandlab uses activation as a way to measure how many people are actively using the software. Presently activation is required every six months.

[@LunatechStudio]

I couldn't agree with this comment more. Exactly! If it's indeed the last "free" version update, with absolutely no future updates coming, the only reason for having to do "future activation" (s) is to future un-free it I guess.

[@jstnxprsn]

@@LunatechStudio Right? And Gibson bought it as I understand it. Hardly a good sign given Gibson's horrible reputation for their business decisions in the guitar world. It might be time to start saving my pennies for Pro Tools or one of the others, esp. given that it may become, as you said, "unfree" in the near future. Thanks for your thoughts.

[@bernardcook6542]

I always thought Cakewalk was Open Source. If this is the case surely I could download the source code, edit it to remove the need for continued re-activation, then use it on a devoted offline PC.

[@shasta810]

how do you edit it to remove the need for activation?

[@bernardcook6542]

Not sure until I see the code, but as an ex (retired) software programmer I should be able to work it out. If not then I'll probably have to find a different DAW and start afresh (but exporting all my CW projects as stem tracks which would be a bit of a bind)

[@shasta810]

@@bernardcook6542 yes seems like one big hassle with this program better off getting something else good luck.

[@jimfogle184]

Your assumption is incorrect. Cakewalk by Bandlab or any of it's predecessors (Sonar, Home Studio, Music Creator, etc.) have NEVER been open source software. When Gibson closed Sonar, but before Bandlab purchased the intellectual property, several developers created utility programs to translate Sonar files into their DAW. The one that quickly comes to mind is Reaper but there were others. Look through the last few weeks of postings in the Sonar forum and you should be able to find them.

[@moosey62]

Yeah. This is the kind of thing Hitler would have put on his YT channel in 1945.

[@magchild777]

Don't sweat! I love confusion!;-)