Apple has launched Logic Pro X, a long-delayed upgrade of the company’s digital audio workstation software. X represents a major revision, adding several new features. Among these is Drummer, which can automatically supply a drumbeat for a song using different styles and techniques. Flex Pitch is a form of autotuning, letting users fix or manipulate not only vocals but also any note within a waveform.
Other new components include an Arpeggiator, and Track Stacks, the latter of which lets people organize and/or collapse multiple tracks, including for the creation of instruments. Smart Controls can adjust multiple plugins or parameters with a single gesture; the Mixer has been improved to be more efficient, for instance making it easier to change channel inserts. The interface as a whole has been streamlined, and iPad owners can use an app called Logic Remote to handle some recording, mixing, and performance tasks without being directly in front of a Mac.
There are nine new MIDI plugins, of which the Arpeggiator is one. More module additions include Retro Synth, Vintage Keyboards, and Bass Amp Designer. The Sound Library has meanwhile gained an updated loop collection, and a total of over 1,500 instrument and effect patches.
Logic Pro X costs $200, and requires OS X 10.8.4 or later. Accompanying the release is MainStage 3, a separate companion app for live performances, newly upgraded with a better UI and Logic Pro X compatibility. That software costs $30.
