Avid have announced the release of Pro Tools Sketch, a new non-linear, clip-based creation window in Pro Tools that is also available as a free iPad app. The new feature offers a quick and easy way to experiment with loops and arrangements whilst still having access to the DAWs renowned recording, editing and mixing tools.
Pro Tools Sketch is said to be a significant expansion to the DAW’s music creation workflow, allowing users to freely organise and loops, MIDI and audio recordings as clip-based ‘sketches’ as a basis for a new song. As well as being able to share the results with other users, the sketches can also be moved onto the Pro Tools timeline for further development with it’s in-depth editing and mixing toolkit. They can also be freely moved between an iPad and computer, making it possible to capture and develop ideas anywhere inspiration strikes.
There are 16 tracks on had with virtually unlimited scenes, and over 1GB of loops are provided along with a variety of onboard effects. Users can quickly audition audio and MIDI loops in Sketch’s Browser, and drag them into the Launcher where they can be played, moved and tweaked. Additional audio and MIDI can be recorded and edited alongside the loops, with the resulting sounds able to be quickly organised into linear song arrangements.
As well as being integrated into the DAW itself, Pro Tools Sketch is available as a free iPad app.
Also Added in 2023.9
The latest update also introduces an Export Selected Range feature, which enables Pro Tools Studio and Ultimate users to export selected portions of their timeline as a new session. Avid say this feature is perfect for tasks such as breaking up large post-production sessions or separating live recordings into one session per song. The release also delivers drag-and-drop plug-in slot reordering, offering greater flexibility in experimenting with and changing the order of processors and effects.
Pricing & Availability
Pro Tools Sketch is included in the Pro Tools 2023.9 update, which is available now to all users with an active subscription or perpetual licence with a current Software Updates + Support Plan. The iPad app is free for anyone to download from Apple’s App store, and the feature will also be available to users of the free Pro Tools Intro.
Avid have also announced that after receiving clear and consistent feedback from the user community, new Pro Tools perpetual licenses will be made available once again, and will be exclusively sold by authorised Avid resellers.
