Leopard: Compatibility Status …
As of 11:00 AM, EST - Leopard is up and running on my main system. I thought I’d offer a few observations and comments on production tool compatibility and performance.
The installation took less than 30 minutes on my MacPro. Prior to inserting the install disc, I disconnected all peripherals, including my Motu audio interface, my AJA I/O video breakout box, and my video deck. I proceeded to install the OS, opting for the basic upgrade method. That’s about it. One reboot and I was up and running without a hitch.
So far everything works. Guess what? I’m not surprised. All Final Cut Studio applications function as normal, and preexisting projects open with no problem. I’ve noticed improvements in terms of snappiness and speed. No problems with video playback, Quicktime, or audio playback. I’m running the latest Motu drivers for the interface and performance is perfect. Bias Peak Pro 5 XT, iZotope Ozone, Logic 8, and Photoshop CS3 run trouble free as well.
In terms of third party shareware - everything on my system launches and runs on a preliminary basis. I’ll need to dive in on a case to case basis before I can confirm 100% stability. I spent the last few days updating all applications and checking on compatibility. I don’t expect any problems. On the other hand I realize it’s early and problematic issues may surface.
In terms of aesthetics, it’s beautiful. The brushed metal look is gone for good. All proprietary applications that featured this look now default to the new matted gray Leopard standard. My favorite feature so far? Spaces. It really cool.
That’s about it.
Question: How long will the ProTools user base, including those who are forced to use supported hardware - have to wait before they upgrade? My advise … it you can’t wait, switch to Logic or Soundtrack Pro 2.
Paul, have you attempted to run Pro Tools if you have it? I usually purchase the day an OS comes out, but wait to install. Wondering if I’ve gotta do it again this time around.
There are some unofficially saying Pro Tools works.
Hi Robb,
I’m not running it. As far as I know they [DigiDesign] have not officially announced support. It’s probably not too far off.
I was a bit worried about Motu. I’m running the latest driver that was updated last month and so far no problems with the interface, I/O, routing application, etc.
-ptfigg.
I upgraded yesterday afternoon and I’m having a problem with video playback (YouTube) in Leopard. The video looks slow motion and their is no audio whatsoever. Any suggestions? Otherwise everything works great and I’m impressed with Leopard so far….
Of course i did not bother to mention my experience so far.
It is very nice. My Laptop seems to hang onto battery charge better, or so it seems. It is really beautiful for sure. It is much snappier and Spaces is wonderful. Particularly on a busy laptop.
There are definitely bugs. Safari has trouble hanging onto security tokens, there are some text problems where text well, pulses. It is hard to describe. I particularly notice it in Opera. Leopard renders Opera, Safari and Firefox very differently with a real favor toward Safari in appearance. Firefox is very harsh in appearance and Opera does not render well at all.
On the whole it is startlingly beautiful and snappy. The new finder may actually have me leaving Pathfinder behind if they do not upgrade its interface. However it still does not have the full function of Pathfinder just a much nicer interface.
When installing just leave your system alone. There are times it just seems to be sitting there but it will finish. If not try an alternate install provided on the disc. I am super impressed with the development packages provided with Leopard. WOW!!! Microsoft would charge $3,000.00 for those. It is simply amazing.
I am looking forward to seeing ho it handles Podcasting.
Jeff
Thanks for that feedback Jeff.
-ptfigg.
To be completely honest about Leopard. AS I use it more I would not recommend it to anyone who does not have some tolerance or understanding of Apple’s tradition of using early adopters as final Beta or as I refer to them, “Omega” testers.
I has some real tweekie issues that can cause some frustration and there are elements of the interface and look that take getting used to. I am still not sure where I stand on these semi-transparent windows and drop downs. I am giving them a try for now though.
Jeff
Interesting that you mention the transparency issues. I’ve been reading a good amount of negative feedback about this.
Interestingly enough, I’m not seeing this as a problem from an aesthetic standpoint. What I find unusual is I don’t see the levels of transparency experienced by the community at large on my system.
The new style is definitely noticeable, however it’s not something that I would classify as pronounced or problematic.
Is it possible the visual representation of this new feature varies from system to system based on internal attributes like screen type, quality, settings, etc?
-ptfigg.
My copy is being delivered today. I’m just wondering if you plan to use spaces on your podcast recording or production workflow and how. I think when I record I’ll keep a browser in the first space, either my cart software or a finder window open with my audio files in the second space, Audio Hijack Pro and Skype in the third and in the fourth uptime and either the ustream or blog talk radio dashboard if I am doing live shows.
Paul good to see your feedback. Spaces is nice specially when used with dual monitors as it sees them both as one large apce. Also if you want to collect all your applications into one space just, press the C key and release it. All of your apps will be collected into the first space. Great to see what you think Paul.
Hi Vic,
Thanks for the “C” key tip. I was not aware of this.
-paul.