Pro Tools [Powerbook]

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Level 1

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Pro Tools [Powerbook]

Hi!

So, Pro Tools on the Powerbook; is it any good? What is its performance like? Is the G4 processor powerful enough?

I'd appreciate experienced views, maybe with comparisons, stats, etc. But, any opinions are greatly welcome!

I intend to mix tracks with multiple software plug-ins running simultaneously. I also intend to run multi-track recordings (8 tracks at 96kHz/24bit, maybe up to 16 tracks at 96kHz/24bit). Will the Powerbook be able to handle this?

Also, I notice that there have been some changes made in version 7. How do you find its new layout? How do you find working with MIDI in Pro Tools?

Thank you for your time.
onlyone-jc

Posted on Jan 6, 2006 8:23 AM

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Answer 1

Lau

Level 1

25 points

Jan 6, 2006 5:33 PM in response to onlyone-jc

PT runs fine on a PowerBook as such. Audio tracks will be no problem recording and mixing to the extent you are mentioning and even beyond that. It's the software instruments and plugins that will bog your system down, - so it may take a bit of organizing and planning of your projects to get around that. Advantage is still mobility, payoff is limited CPU power.

Anyway PT7 is great, nice uncluttered layout and smooth integration of new features. Look up review in jan. issue of Sound On Sound (online). Midi is even better implemented in PT7, and unless you're into esoteric midi maneuvres (like in Logics environment) I don't think you will be missing anything really.

To get more input from users visit DUC, Digidesigns userforum, at www.digidesign.com

lau

G4 400MHz, PB17, iBook14, LaCie FW 40, 160 and 250 002r/Command8/PTLE7 + LogicPro7/Reason3/Garageband2 etc.

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Answer 2

onlyone-jc Author

Level 1

0 points

Jan 7, 2006 2:18 AM in response to Lau

Thanks very much for your informative response, Lau!

Does anybody own both a Dual G5 Powermac and a Powerbook G4, and runs Pro Tools that can give me a personal comparison? For example, what the Powerbook limits you at, and wherever the transition point from it to the Powermac takes place in your work.

Thank you for your time.
onlyone-jc

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