Avid Pro Tools HD 12 (Windows)

Tech Specs (Windows Only)

• Software Type:Music Software
• Platform:, Windows Only
• Upgrade/Full Version:Full Unlocked
• Download/Boxed:Download
• License Type:Lifetime Activation
• Format:AAX, VST3,VST,VST2 AU, Standalone
• Hardware Requirements – PC:Intel / AMD Multi-core CPU, 4GB RAM minimum
• OS Requirements – PC:Windows 10 or older

Ranging from track count enhancements, functional upgrades, and iOS apps, most of the upgrades bridge the gap between Native and HD systems, bringing the two closer together.

First and foremost Avid has released one of their most thrilling new features in years, PT Control, an iOS app that lets you control Pro Tools functions from an iPad. Now it’s no longer necessary to sit at your keyboard to control the mix features of Pro Tools. Not only does the app give you the ability to “walk around the room” and control your mix, it also supports multi-touch gesture controls of solos, mutes, pans, and automation modes. A computer mouse only supports a single-click at a time. The app also seamlessly integrates with Avid Artist Mix and S3 control surfaces, allowing users to use the two in tandem for navigation and programmable soft-keys. The app is free for iPad only (no iPhone), and requires Pro Tools 12.1 software.

New Dashboard window appears upon startup

Once you launch Pro Tools, you’ll notice the new “Dashboard” window. This replaces the older “Quick-Start” window, as it consolidates all necessary functions related to creating and opening sessions. There are two tabs on the left side, Create, and Recent. The Recent tab will show you a list of the 10 most recently opened session on your system. You can use the keyboard shortcut of Command + Up/Down Arrow (mac) to switch between the Create and Recent tabs.

      128 Audio Tracks & 512 Instrument Tracks

Many of the new features available in Pro Tools 12.1 are brought in from the HD Software. The increased track count really benefits as you now have 128 Audio Tracks available (mono or stereo), 512 Instrument Tracks, and Input Monitor mode on Audio Tracks. These types of things were only available to HD software users in the past.

      Input Monitor on Audio Tracks as well as Copy To Send now in all Pro Tools software

Two of my favorite features now available on all Pro Tools systems are Input Monitor and Copy To Send. Having extensively used these in my personal workflow, I can attest to how much they are a part of my day to day work. Input Monitor allows you to “listen” to the signal feeding the track input without having to Record Enable the track. I use this while tracking so I can hear the mic signal feeding the track and make pre-amp or dynamics adjustments on the fly without fear or accidentally recording. You can also play the session whilst monitoring the signal to make adjustments in context.