With the release of the new Mac Pro computer introduced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference, (WWDC), we can expect a slew of announcements regarding compatibility with existing audio products. Apogee were the first to come through with compatibility news and now Digidesign has announced that ICON, Pro Tools|HD, Pro Tools LE and Pro Tools M-Powered systems will soon be compatible with the new computer.
Digidesign is expecting to release an Intel-based Mac-compatible update to its acclaimed Pro Tools HD 7.2 software in September 2006. This free update for all owners of Pro Tools HD 7.2 software will allow ICON and Pro Tools|HD users to build their Digidesign system around the new Mac Pro. Within a similar timeframe, the company expects to release compatible versions of its range of Digidesign and Digidesign-distributed TDM plug-ins, while working very closely with third-party manufacturers to help them port their plug-ins and compatible applications to the Intel Mac platform.
Based on preliminary testing, Digidesign is also expecting that the current version 7.1.1 of Pro Tools LE and Pro Tools M-Powered software (already compatible with Apple’s existing range of Intel-based computers such as MacBook, MacBook Pro, Mac Mini and iMac) will function on the new Mac Pro without problems. Full qualification is expected late Q4 2006. 7.1.1 is a free update for all Pro Tools LE 7 and Pro Tools M-Powered software owners.
Dave Lebolt, Digidesign’s general manager told us, “The release of professional Intel-based desktop Macs is great news for our customers. Pro Tools users in all areas of audio production – professionals and enthusiasts alike – will be able to enjoy maximum performance and audio quality when using their Digidesign system in combination with the cutting-edge technology and robust power of the new Mac Pro. Strong cooperative ties and ongoing technical collaboration with Apple have made it possible for us to deliver Pro Tools versions that are compatible with these new machines quickly, keeping our customers in sync with the fast-paced Mac innovations.�
As Digidesign’s development on the Intel Mac platform moves forward, the company plans to maintain backwards compatibility with PowerPC-based Mac systems for its Pro Tools product line. Pro Tools software – in all its incarnations - will continue to be a cross-platform application, working on either Mac OS X or Windows XP configurations.
More information:

• www.digidesign.com
  

System requirements, compatibility information, and online support

• www.digidesign.com/compato
  
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