Avid intros Pro Tools 10, 5X faster Pro Tools|HDX card
updated 10:45 pm EDT, Thu October 20, 2011
Software/hardware audio products evolve
Avid has introduced an update to its hardware/software digital audio platform, releasing Pro Tools 10 and the new Pro Tools|HDX workstation card. The HDX hardware is claimed to be much faster than its predecessor, bringing a 5X boost in processing power and support for 64 I/O channels.
Moving to floating-point architecture is claimed to enable much higher recording and mixing audio quality. The company has also added support for Avid Audio eXtension (AAX) plug-ins, including an option for DSP or native formats formats.
The new hardware has been introduced alongside a significant update to the Pro Tools companion software. A new Clip Gain feature enables users to separate pre-mix levels from the automated mixing system, while disk handling improvements are said to optimize performance for network-attached or small hard drives.
Version 10 brings new options for track files, automatically saving multiple file formats at different bit depths without requiring users to manually convert the content. The software also now includes the company's Channel Strip plug-in.
The Pro Tools|HDX hardware will ship on November 18 for $10,000, including Pro Tools 10 software and an HD-series interface. HD Native owners can upgrade for $7,500, while HD 4 owners can make the jump for $6000.
Customers purchasing Pro Tools 10 without the HDX hardware can buy the software for $700, while Pro Tools 9 owners can upgrade for just $300.
