Soundtrack Pro 2: Efficient Wave Editor …
In a previous post I mentioned how the bin located below the project workspace in the multitrack view provides easy access to an abundance of useful [and accessible] data. Here are a few thoughts in reference to how the bin helps to maximize productivity when working in the Wave Editor view.
Scenario:
A 120 minute source file recorded at Duke University and slated for eventual publication on our Podcast Academy Channel. This particular session consists of an extensive introductory piece by a Duke official. Subsequently there are about 5 independent student presentations.
I need to determine the best method of distribution with regards to specific durations of multiple segments. The situation is that I would rather not publish a 120 minute program. In order to get a good feel for this, I decided to mark reference points throughout the project before I began the process of editing the dialog.
If you are not familiar with the UI, here is a brief overview: The top left pane specifies project properties, the top right pane displays the new multichannel metering system [more info soon], bottom left are project Actions, bottom right is the system tree or browser. Below the Wave Form is our tabbed workspace that includes the bin.
I snapped this pic [with Snapz Pro X] halfway through the initial stage of segmentation. Notice the accessibility of each individual marker located in the bin. Their locations are dynamically accessible in the timeline by simply double clicking spot references. Data editing can be preformed as well.
In the prior version of STP, the lower area of the Wave Editor UI housed the envelope point editor. The rest of this space was a waste of screen real estate. Your only option was to extend the view of the wave form to the bottom of the UI. I prefer the new design, and in my opinion this is just another example of how Apple has successfully implemented a much improved concept that in the end helps to maintain an efficient working environment.
Let me point out that all is not perfect. As with any major software update, problematic issues are inevitable. So far nothing major. However there are a few pesky details that need to be addressed.
I’ll be in touch …
[the image is linked to a higher res. graphic]
Wow Paul another nice update to STP. This makes it very easy to jump around a long file like this. I haven’t gotten nearly as deep into the new STP yet but so far I like the UI much better and it seems to make more “human” sense.
Hi Victor,
I agree. This bin concept is a great improvement.
Don’t forget to check out the multi-take editor as well. It’s located in the same lower area.
Cool stuf …
-ptfigg.
My experiences so far with STP 2 have been poor - it’s horribly slow, on both a G5 2.8 and a MBP 2.33 C2D, it’s appallingly buggy for a new Apple release and it’s the only OSX app I’ve EVER run that has frozen my computers.I’ve gone back to 1.1, and if you check the Apple discussion site you’ll see I’m not the only one.
Graeme,
I’ve been keeping up on all the reports in the the Apple forums. Personally, I have not experienced any issues in terms of stability.
However, I found that exporting compressed files [MP3 or Podcast/AAC]yields new files with silent audio channels.
This is mentioned in the STP release notes. They state the problem “may surface when using Intel Macs with unsupported interfaces.”
My interface is compliant, and I am on a PPC dual G5 as well. I’m not exactly sure what is going on with this.
-ptfigg.