Soundtrack Pro 2 …
Lot’s of great news this afternoon [NAB 2007]. Apple formally announced Final Cut Studio 2, including the brand new version of Soundtrack Pro. As expected, the Apple site was down for the duration of the 120 minute event. When the site resurfaced, I took some time to study the new FCP Studio specifications.
In terms of Soundtrack Pro 2, at first glance - I am impressed. If the quirkiness of the current version that occasionally hinders productivity has been corrected, and the enhancements live up to their potential, Soundtrack Pro 2 will solidify itself as a major player within the professional podcast production space. Important features: improved WAV editor, multi-track recording, support for artwork/chapter and URL markers that are required for enhanced podcasts on a proprietary track, and improved plugins. Voice over artists will be especially happy with the addition of a brand new Advanced Take Management system.
Apple has incorporated their signature semi-translucent floating parameter adjustment palettes, similar to those used in Motion and Aperture. The general look of the application is consistent with the current version, however it appears that UI customization potential has been enhanced.
From a personal standpoint, now that STP 2 supports multi-track recording, I will be moving away form Digital Performer. I will continue to use Bias Peak as a stand-alone external editor and mastering application. More on this as things develop in the coming months.
Final Cut Studio 2, Including STP 2 will ship in May. I’m looking forward to it.
I, like you, will continue to use Peak Pro for editing. Whenever I need to do any multitrack arranging, I use STP 1. STP2 looks pretty good and I like the integrated editor within the multitrack document. Another thing I was going to ask about from NAB is the Zoom H-2 recorder. It’s right in my price range and it’ll be a good upgrade from my iRiver for recording from my mixer and it looks like it has good enough mics to take out in the field for interviews. It doesn’t have xlr imputs like the H-4, but at $100 less, that’s not too bad a sacrifice. Your thoughts?
Hi Michael,
I think this will be a very popular device. I agree with you in reference to the attractive price as well.
As far as the lack of xlr inputs, no big deal. I suggest that you look into this cable if you buy the recorder.
-ptfigg.
Soundtrack Pro 2 audio fx are from Logic Pro 7. I believe the same developers who make Logic also developed Soundtrack Pro. I use Logic Pro for making podcasts and also for general music. There rumours that Logic Pro 8 is coming out in September and it will feature many of the new features from Soundtrack Pro 2. For now I will wait. I have tried Digital Performer and it has some nice effects. Peak is a great sample editor. Soundtrack Pro 2 supports multi-track recording which is great. I like the ability to edit spectrum within the editor in STP2.