I recently upgraded our studio’s audio recording software to Apple’s Logic Pro 9 (part of the new Logic Studio) and have been putting it through the paces. New to Logic Pro is the ability to add and embed written notes to each track and project. This is very handy for writing down microphone settings, pre-amp settings, and mic placement, etc. A new feature called ‘Flex Editing’ allows you to adjust the timing of various sections of a take without having to splice and cut up the track. For instance if a few chords or drums hits were a little late or early these areas can be moved easily now with the Flex Editing tool. Flex editing also now works even when compositing various areas of multiple takes in a take folder into one cohesive track. There is now more granular control for setting the entire volume fader of each track. There are new guitar Amps, pedal boards, and variable speed recording.
Performing live musicians may be interested in the upgrade to Mainstage 2. Mainstage now has the ability to play audio files as backing tracks via a ‘Playback’ plugin. There is also now the ability to record your live performances to either a .wav, .aiff, or .caf file. The ability to customize a template including set lists, images, mapped volume knobs, notes is really great. There is also a ‘Looping’ plugin and also support for rewire software instruments.