Digidesign has released Pro Tools 6.4, an upgrade to their audio production application that offers several new features for Pro Tools|HD and Pro Tools LE users. The additions that apply to both include: +12 dB fader gain, with a new taper above 0 dB that gives that faders a console feel; a fixed sequential number for each track, allowing for better organization of sessions; the ability for film editors to set a “zero feet+frames” point anywhere in the session; and support for 23.976 frames per second, which is applicable to working with high-definition video (LE customers need to have the DV Toolkit option).
New features available only to HD users include: automatic compensation for delay caused by plug-in latency and other issues within the Pro Tools mixer; TrackPunch, which uses individual track record buttons instead of one global command, allowing audio producers to punch in and out of individual tracks; per-track switching between input source and disk playback with TrackInput; RecordLock, which allows the loading of audio with “broken” time codes, keeping users from re-arming Pro Tools when loading different film takes; plug-in clipping display for diagnosis of gain structure level problems while mixing; and Foley Record Mute, which mutes the input when the recording is stopped during Foley sessions.
In addition, Pro Tools 6.4 offers compatibility with the recently introduced ICON with D-Control and Command|8 console boards. The former is a high-end system that offers video integration while the latter is aimed at budget-conscious audio producers.
Pro Tools|HD customers can upgrade to Pro Tools 6.4 from Pro Tools 5.x or 6.x for US$150. Owners of Pro Tools LE 6.0 or higher can upgrade for free.