With the release of the new Apple Mac Pro computer, you can bet we’re going to see a lot of awesome new products that take full advantage of its blazing speed. But we’re also going to be wondering about backward compatibility with current Mac systems. It’s no surprise that Digidesign has already announced that Pro Tools|ICON, HD, Pro Tools LE, and Pro Tools M-Powered systems will soon be fully compatible with existing Macs, as well as the the Mac Pro desktop. In fact, they’ve already revealed that an Intel-based Mac-compatible update to the acclaimed Pro Tools HD 7.2 software will be shipping in September. It’s a free update for all owners of Pro Tools HD 7.2 software that will allow ICON and Pro Tools|HD users to continue building their Digidesign systems by adding the new Mac Pro.
In that same timeframe, the company expects to release compatible versions of its own wide range of plug-ins, along with other Digi-distributed TDM plug-ins. Word is they’re working almost around the clock with third-party manufacturers to help them port their products to the Intel Mac platform. Based on preliminary testing, Digidesign expects the current version 7.1.1 of Pro Tools LE and Pro Tools M-Powered software will function on the new Mac Pro without any problems. Full qualification is expected late Q4 2006. Don’t have v7.1.1? It’s a free update for all Pro Tools LE 7 and Pro Tools M-Powered software owners.