Which Version to get?

[faxquo]

I am looking to get Pro Tools but I'm not sure which version would suit my needs. I've been using Cubase Studio 4 but would like to get something that is more compatible with the "industry standard"

Whats the difference between the HD, LE and M-Powered versions?

Are they hardware dependent?

[valem]

If I'm not mistaken I believe HD is their top of line. Also the most expensive...yikes.

Check out their site for more info

Digidesign.com

[MessianicDreams]

Originally Posted by faxquo

Whats the difference between the HD, LE and M-Powered versions?

Are they hardware dependent?

LE and M-Powered are the 2 native version of Pro Tools. LE requires Digidesign interfaces, and M-Powered requires M-Powered interfaces. HD requires a DSP PCI card, as is the flagship version of PT found in many professional facilities.


LE and M-Powered are limited to 48 tracks, whereas HD is dependent on the number of DSP cards you've got. LE and M-Powered are limted to 96kHz (interface dependent) whereas HD can do up to 192kHz.

Those are the major differences. There are many many smaller differences which you can read about with a simple google search!

[bennychico11]

If you have and like Cubase...stick with Cubase. There's no need for you to switch over to Pro Tools unless you think you'll be working at a studio someday soon that has it. Or if you are just interested in trying a new program because you aren't feeling Cubase.

Don't get wrapped up in the "industry standard" hype. All the programs do the same thing in the end...allow you to mix and edit audio. They just all do it differently.

[pezking]

Originally Posted by bennychico11

All the programs do the same thing in the end...allow you to mix and edit audio. They just all do it differently.

True but some do it better...

[faxquo]

Thanks for all the feedback!

I guess HD is out since I really have no intention of doing this professionally, I was just thinking it would be nice to start off with a "standard" since I have to learn how to use the software anyways.

Seems like LE is compatible with Complete Production Toolkit Software Option and DV Toolkit 2 and the M-Powered version isn't. Both come with the same bundled plug-ins.

Is it possible to run both Firewire and USB interfaces to the PC?

[pezking]

Yeah, LE certainly has more expansion capabilities.

With respect to your question, do you mean simultaneously? If so, no, you can only use one interface with Pro Tools LE and MP at any one time.

If you meant "are there both USB and Firewire interfaces available?" yes there are.

See www.digidesign.com for LE interfaces, and www.m-audio.com for M-Powered interfaces.

[highrisenola]

"LE and M-Powered are limited to 48 tracks, whereas HD is dependent on the number of DSP cards you've got. LE and M-Powered are limted to 96kHz (interface dependent) whereas HD can do up to 192kHz."


no longer the case with 8.0... but really, unless youre releasing DVDs or doing tv/film work, why would you ever need more than 96kHz?

IMO, M Powered is better simply for the fact that for much cheaper, you get more ins and outs... Ive never used the Digi interfaces, but I have 2 profire 2626's which gives me 16 simultaneous ins and outs, that was the deciding factor.... It would have cost a substantial amount more to get that with LE. And thousands more with HD.... Just an opinion.

[MessianicDreams]

Originally Posted by highrisenola

"LE and M-Powered are limited to 48 tracks, whereas HD is dependent on the number of DSP cards you've got. LE and M-Powered are limted to 96kHz (interface dependent) whereas HD can do up to 192kHz."


no longer the case with 8.0... but really, unless youre releasing DVDs or doing tv/film work, why would you ever need more than 96kHz?

I'm pretty sure you'll find both LE and M-Powered are limited to 48 tracks out of the box.


Of course, you can expand LE to have more track than that, but it's an optional add-on that you have to buy.

[sonnylarsen]

Check here:

http://www.digidesign.com/index.cfm?...35&langid=100&

should give you an over view of M-Powered and you can navigate around the site to find info on the others.