Tracktion Waveform Pro - Detailed Review
Music Tools
Tracktion Waveform Pro - Product Overview
Introduction to Tracktion Waveform Pro
Tracktion Waveform Pro is a digital audio workstation (DAW) that is specifically crafted to meet the needs of modern music producers. Here’s a breakdown of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
Waveform Pro is designed to facilitate music production, allowing users to record, edit, mix, and share their music. It focuses on providing a solid platform for creative composition and sound manipulation.Target Audience
Waveform Pro is aimed at a wide range of music producers, from weekend bedroom producers to professional musicians and DJs. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced artists, offering an intuitive and user-friendly interface that makes music production accessible and enjoyable.Key Features
User Interface and Workflow
Waveform Pro boasts an uncluttered and intuitive user interface that helps users focus on their music. It features a single-screen layout with a mixer channel integrated into each track, which can also be switched to a traditional mixer view if preferred.Creative Tools
The software includes a wide array of creative tools such as real-time audio warping, which allows users to shape and mold samples and loops. It also features intuitive MIDI pattern generators that enable even untrained musicians to quickly assemble musical arrangements.Plugins and Instruments
Waveform Pro comes with a substantial library of pro-quality plugins, including 38 built-in audio effects, 10 MIDI effects, and 11 utility plugins. It also includes 10 built-in instruments, such as the FM Synth and the Collective sampler/synthesizer. Additional tools like Auto-Tune®, Melodyne Essential, and Elastique Pro are also included.Sound Packs and Expansion Packs
The software includes various expansion sound packs like Hip Hop Essentials, Techno Essentials, and Electronic Essentials, among others. Feature expansion packs such as Recording Engineer, MIDI Producer, and Synth Pack are also available.Performance and Efficiency
Waveform Pro 12 features a new audio engine with improved CPU efficiency, perfect plugin delay compensation, and better support for multiple CPU cores. This ensures smooth performance even on less powerful hardware, including the Raspberry Pi.Cross-Platform Compatibility
Waveform Pro is highly versatile and runs on 64-bit versions of macOS, Windows, and Linux, making it one of the most cross-platform-capable DAWs available.Additional Resources
For users looking to learn more, Tracktion offers video training, customer support, and official user manuals to help them get the most out of Waveform Pro. Tracktion Waveform Pro - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of Tracktion Waveform Pro is characterized by its sleek, modern, and highly customizable design, which is a significant aspect of its appeal.Single-Screen Interface
One of the standout features of Waveform Pro is its single-screen layout, where all the essential elements such as the arrangement, timeline, track section, mixer, and controls panel are integrated into a single view. This left-to-right workflow is often praised for its simplicity and efficiency, making it easier for users to access all the tools they need without constantly switching between different screens.Customizability
Waveform Pro offers extensive customizability. Almost any window panel, including the mixer and arranger, can be undocked and rearranged to suit the user’s workflow. This flexibility allows users to create and save multiple custom layouts, which can be recalled in any edit session. This feature is particularly useful for users who prefer different setups for different projects or tasks.Actions Panel and Workflow Improvements
The Actions Panel, introduced in earlier versions and continued in the latest updates, is a key component of Waveform Pro’s UI. This panel allows users to customize which features are displayed, favorite commonly used actions, and hide those that are rarely needed. It also integrates with keyboard shortcuts, macros, and advanced actions, enabling a lightning-fast workflow. The panel provides quick access to user interfaces and custom settings for plugins, faceplates, and MIDI mappings.Modern Workflow and MIDI Editor
Waveform Pro boasts a modern workflow that is often compared to Ableton but with added flexibility. The MIDI editor, while having some shortcomings, is highly functional and supports advanced MIDI editing. The DAW also includes custom shortcuts, a great browser, and a flexible plugin architecture that supports native plugins, plugin racks, and third-party plugins.Ease of Use
For new users, Waveform Pro is relatively easy to use due to its clean and uncluttered interface. The UI is designed to provide easy access to tools without overwhelming the user. However, users migrating from other DAWs may need to be more patient as they adapt to Waveform’s unique workflow and layout.User Experience
The overall user experience is enhanced by the DAW’s crisp and clean interface, which looks good and is not bloated. Despite some users reporting stability issues and bugs, particularly with certain plugins and high track counts, the general consensus is that Waveform Pro delivers a slick and efficient workflow. The support for multiple workflows and the ability to save custom layouts contribute to a positive user experience.Conclusion
In summary, Tracktion Waveform Pro offers a highly customizable, modern, and efficient user interface that is well-suited for music producers, especially those in electronic music production. While it may require some adaptation for users familiar with other DAWs, its unique single-screen layout and flexible workflow make it a compelling choice. Tracktion Waveform Pro - Key Features and Functionality
Tracktion Waveform Pro Overview
Tracktion Waveform Pro is a comprehensive digital audio workstation (DAW) that offers a wide range of features and functionalities to enhance music production. Here are the main features and how they work:Video Integration
Waveform Pro allows you to drag and drop multiple video clips directly into an edit, either from the browser or any folder on your hard drive. This feature enables you to work with multiple video clips per edit, and scalable thumbnails make it easy to identify scenes at a glance. You can also extract audio from video clips and use various exporting options to streamline your workflow.Advanced MIDI Editor
The DAW includes a powerful MIDI editor with several new features. You can use filters like Notes in Key, Notes in use, and named notes to speed up composition and editing. Additionally, Waveform Pro introduces MIDI randomization, where you can randomize velocity, pitch, note start, and note length via dedicated popup windows. This allows for more human or random performances based on your preferences.Drum Grid Mode
Waveform Pro features a Drum Grid Mode, which is a drum-centric alternative to the traditional Piano Roll. This mode makes it quicker and more intuitive to enter and reposition drum hits using mouse clicks.Probability in Step Clips
You can add and adjust the probability of notes being triggered in Step Clips. This is done using a slider, allowing you to create ever-changing loops by adjusting the playback probability on a note-by-note basis.Arranger Track
The Arranger Track is a tool for manipulating regions of your arrangement. By creating an arrange clip in the arranger track, you can control entire regions of your arrangement. This feature includes magnetic movement, similar to video editors, which automatically opens and closes regions based on your selections.Quick Action Bar
The Quick Action Bar allows you to assign any shortcut action, including custom macros. You can add buttons, assign actions, set names, colors, and trigger them with a single click. This feature enables you to create multiple workflow templates and switch between them easily.Audio Effects and Plugins
Waveform Pro includes 15 refreshed audio effects plugins, which offer improved performance, functionality, and visual appearance. New plugins include a Spectrum analyzer, Mid/Side splitter, AB Switch, Mono converter, and MIDI CC and Note Name plugins. The DAW also supports third-party plugins, including VST, VST3, and AU formats.New Instruments
The DAW introduces new instruments such as the BassOSC synth, which allows you to create perfect subs with a minimal yet effective UI. Other additions include the Rompler and Micro Sampler, providing a range of core instruments and sampling capabilities.Advanced Strip Silence
Waveform Pro includes an advanced strip silence option that allows you to adjust open and close thresholds directly in the arrangement area. This feature is non-destructive and includes options for pre and post roll and fade in/out, making it easy to remove silence from your tracks.Improved Audio Engine
The new audio engine in Waveform Pro offers improved CPU efficiency, perfect plugin delay compensation, and better support for multiple CPU cores. This results in smoother performance and reduced latency.Visual and UI Enhancements
Waveform Pro features a panel-based workspace with a floating panel visibility manager. The DAW also includes a new color editor with over 20 preset color schemes, allowing you to customize the look of your workspace. Additionally, there are light and dark themes and animated panel open/close options.Cross-Platform Compatibility
Waveform Pro is available on macOS, Windows, and Linux, ensuring it works seamlessly across different operating systems. This cross-platform capability makes it a versatile choice for musicians and producers.AI Integration
While the provided resources do not specifically mention AI-driven features in Tracktion Waveform Pro, the DAW focuses on enhancing user productivity and creativity through advanced tools and workflows rather than explicit AI integration. The features mentioned above are designed to streamline and improve the music production process, but they do not rely on AI technology.Conclusion
In summary, Tracktion Waveform Pro is a powerful DAW that offers a range of innovative features to enhance music production, from advanced MIDI editing and video integration to improved audio effects and instruments, all within a highly customizable and efficient workspace. Tracktion Waveform Pro - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
Waveform Pro 12 has made significant strides in performance. One of the major updates is the new audio engine, which offers perfect plugin delay compensation and substantially improved CPU performance, particularly better support for multiple CPU cores. This enhancement results in more efficient use of system resources, making the DAW more stable and capable of handling demanding projects.
The DAW also features constant save technology and immediate crash recovery, which helps prevent data loss due to plugin crashes or other system failures. This ensures a smoother workflow and reduces the risk of losing important work.
Accuracy
In terms of accuracy, Waveform Pro 12 includes several features that enhance precision and control. The new vertical cursor, for instance, improves speed and accuracy in editing tasks. The enhanced multi-sampler and the ability to select and manipulate ranges of tracks across discontinuous sets also contribute to more precise editing capabilities.
The DAW also includes advanced tools like Auto-Tune from Antares Technologies, Melodyne, and Elastique Pro, which are highly regarded for their accuracy in audio pitch manipulation. These tools help users achieve precise and professional-grade pitch correction.
MIDI Functionality
Waveform Pro 12 has seen significant improvements in MIDI functionality. New MIDI features include better previewing of chords, comparing different synths, and the addition of MIDI effects and instruments. However, some users have noted that while these features are promising, they sometimes lack the polish and depth needed for professional use. For example, the MIDI FX tools have limitations, such as only allowing one octave with no mutations when using a typing keyboard for drum sequencing.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Despite its strengths, Waveform Pro faces some challenges. Users have reported a high number of bugs and a lack of polish in new features, which can disrupt the workflow and creativity. The frequent yearly updates, while adding new features, sometimes do not allow enough time for thorough testing and refinement, leading to stability issues and user frustration.
Additionally, some users find the UI and workflow less intuitive than other DAWs, particularly in areas like saving composition ideas into “Pattern Generator” presets and using the typing keyboard for recording. These issues can make the workflow more cumbersome and less efficient.
Conclusion
Tracktion Waveform Pro is a powerful and feature-rich DAW with significant performance and accuracy improvements, especially in its latest versions. However, it still faces challenges related to bug stability and the polish of new features. Addressing these issues could further enhance the user experience and make Waveform Pro an even more compelling choice for music producers.
Tracktion Waveform Pro - Pricing and Plans
When considering the pricing structure and various plans for Tracktion’s Waveform DAW, here are the key details:
Waveform Free
- Price: Free
- Features:
- Unlimited tracks, clips, folders, and submixes
- Support for VST3, VST2, AU, and LV2 plugins
- Retrospective record, auto monitoring, punch recording, loop/take recording, and comping
- 4 built-in instruments
- 14 audio FX, 8 MIDI FX, and 11 utility plugins
- Codec-free video engine and video window playback
- High-DPI display, project overview, unified tagged browser, and customizable actions panel
- Multi CPU core utilization, plugin delay compensation, and more.
Waveform OEM
- Price: Free
- Features:
- Similar to Waveform Free, with unlimited tracks, clips, folders, and submixes
- VST3/VST2/AU/LV2 plugin support
- Easy setup with your hardware
- This version is typically bundled with hardware purchases and has a more streamlined setup process.
Waveform Pro
- Price: Starting at $99
- Features:
- Includes all features from Waveform Free and OEM
- Additional 10 software instruments
- 38 audio FX and 10 MIDI FX
- Celemony Melodyne Essential and Antares Auto-Tune Access
- Artisan Collection and other expansion sound packs (e.g., Hip Hop Essentials, Techno Essentials)
- Advanced features like clip launching, groove doctor, strip silence, edit groups, track snapshots, and more
- Enhanced video support including multiple video clips, video export, and timecode display
- Support for 28 factory-supported controller devices
- Real-time time-stretching, MIDI fold, event list editor, and other advanced MIDI tools.
Additional Bundles and Updates
- Waveform Pro Bundles: Available from $199, with upgrade options starting at $99. These bundles can include additional plugins, instruments, and sound packs.
- Waveform Everything Bundle: This comprehensive package includes Waveform Pro 12, all virtual instruments, processors, and expansion sound packs. It is a more extensive bundle for those who want the full suite of tools.
This structure provides a clear path for users to start with the free version and upgrade as their needs and budget allow.
Tracktion Waveform Pro - Integration and Compatibility
Tracktion Waveform Pro Overview
Tracktion Waveform Pro is a versatile and highly compatible digital audio workstation (DAW) that integrates well with a variety of tools and platforms. Here are some key points regarding its integration and compatibility:
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Waveform Pro is available on 64-bit versions of macOS, Windows, and Linux. The software is maintained in parallel across these platforms, ensuring that the latest revisions are usually identical or very similar across all three.
File Intercompatibility
Users can exchange project files (.tracktionedit) between different platforms, such as between Mac and Windows versions of Waveform Pro. However, it is important to note that any plugins used in the project must be available on the target machine to ensure compatibility. Using the Tracktion archive feature can help manage this, and rendering tracks to audio can avoid plugin-related issues.
Plugin Support
Waveform Pro has a flexible plugin architecture, supporting native plugins, plugin racks, and third-party plugins in VST, VST3, and AudioUnits formats. This allows users to integrate a wide range of effects and instruments from various manufacturers.
MIDI Compatibility
Waveform Pro works with almost any MIDI keyboard or device. Users have reported successful integration with keyboards such as the Arturia Minilab MKII and the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61, although some advanced features of these keyboards may not be fully supported in older versions of Waveform.
Audio Interface Compatibility
The DAW supports various audio interfaces through Core Audio on macOS and ASIO and Windows Sound (WASAPI) on Windows. This ensures that users can configure Waveform Pro to work seamlessly with their external audio hardware.
Rewire Compatibility
Waveform Pro allows users to integrate any Rewire-compatible DAW as a plugin within Waveform, enhancing its functionality and flexibility in collaborative workflows.
Customization and Workflow
The interface of Waveform Pro is highly customizable, allowing users to tailor the workspace to their specific workflow needs. This includes features like plugin racks, faceplates, and a customizable actions panel, which enhance productivity and workflow efficiency.
Conclusion
In summary, Tracktion Waveform Pro offers strong integration capabilities across different platforms, devices, and third-party tools, making it a versatile and user-friendly DAW for music production.
Tracktion Waveform Pro - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Contacting Support
Training and Tutorial Videos
Knowledgebase and User Guide
Community Resources
Additional Resources
By utilizing these support options and resources, users of Tracktion Waveform Pro can find the help they need to effectively use the software and overcome any challenges they might encounter.
Tracktion Waveform Pro - Pros and Cons
Pros of Tracktion Waveform Pro
Tracktion Waveform Pro offers several significant advantages that make it a compelling choice for music producers and composers:
Modern and Flexible Workflow
Waveform Pro features a modern workflow that is often compared to Ableton, but with added flexibility. This makes it appealing to a wide range of users.
Customizable UI
The user interface is highly customizable, allowing users to adjust the layout to fit their specific workflow needs. This includes various color options and the ability to hide or show different panels.
Advanced MIDI Editor
The MIDI editor, although having some shortcomings, provides robust tools for editing and manipulating MIDI data.
Extensive Plugin and Instrument Library
Waveform Pro comes with a large library of pro-quality plugins, virtual instruments, and presets. This includes tools like Auto-Tune®, Melodyne Essential, and Elastique Pro, as well as several built-in instruments and effects.
Real-Time Audio Warping
Users can shape and mold samples and loops in real-time, offering a high degree of creative control over audio.
Clip Launching Feature
The latest version, Waveform 13, introduces a clip launching feature that is similar to Ableton Live, allowing for easy drag and drop clip management and live performance capabilities.
Compatibility with MIDI Controllers
Waveform Pro works seamlessly with various MIDI controllers, such as Novation’s Launch and Akai’s APC controllers.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
The DAW is available on macOS, Windows, and even Linux, making it accessible to users across different operating systems.
Cons of Tracktion Waveform Pro
Despite its many advantages, Waveform Pro also has some notable drawbacks:
Stability Issues
Users have reported frequent crashes and instability, particularly when using certain plugins like Guitar Rig 7 or Kontakt 7 with large libraries.
Bugs and Glitches
There are several reported bugs, such as issues with Positive Grid – BIAS FX2, which can cause the DAW to crash. Projects can also become laggy with a high number of tracks, leading to playback issues and increased crash probability.
Limited Instruments in Basic Bundle
The basic $199 bundle does not include many instruments, which might be a disappointment for some users.
Documentation and Support
Users have criticized the documentation and support, noting that the current training materials are inadequate and that the support team does not actively engage with user feedback on forums.
Overall, while Waveform Pro offers a powerful and feature-rich environment for music production, it is important to be aware of the potential stability and support issues that users have encountered.
Tracktion Waveform Pro - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing Tracktion Waveform Pro to Other DAWs
When comparing Tracktion Waveform Pro to other digital audio workstations (DAWs) in the music production software category, several key features and differences stand out.
Unique Features of Tracktion Waveform Pro
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Waveform Pro is highly versatile, supporting macOS (including Apple Silicon), Windows, and Linux, making it one of the most cross-platform-capable DAWs available.
- New Audio Engine: Waveform Pro 12 introduces a new audio engine with improved CPU efficiency, perfect plugin delay compensation, and better support for multiple CPU cores.
- Object-Based Rack Environment: Waveform Pro combines an innovative object-based rack environment with traditional DAW elements, offering a unique and powerful production system.
- Arranger Track: This feature allows for easy manipulation of regions in your arrangement, with magnetic movement similar to video editors, making it simple to experiment with song structure.
- Quick Action Bar: This tool enables users to assign custom macros and shortcuts, enhancing workflow efficiency and flexibility.
- Expanded MIDI and Audio Plugins: Waveform Pro 12 includes new and refreshed audio plugins, such as the BassOSC, Rompler, and Micro Sampler, along with extended EQ and reverb options.
Alternatives and Comparisons
Ableton Live
- Ableton is known for its live performance capabilities and a more streamlined interface for electronic music producers. Unlike Waveform Pro, Ableton has a stronger focus on live performance and clip-based workflow.
- Unique Feature: Ableton’s Session View is ideal for live performances and improvisation.
FL Studio
- FL Studio is popular for its user-friendly interface and extensive library of sounds and loops. It is particularly favored by hip-hop and electronic music producers.
- Unique Feature: FL Studio’s BeatSlicer and Harmor plugins are highly regarded, and it has a strong focus on pattern-based music production.
Cubase
- Cubase, by Steinberg, is a comprehensive DAW with advanced features suitable for professional music production. It has a steeper learning curve compared to Waveform Pro but offers deep editing capabilities.
- Unique Feature: Cubase has advanced scoring and post-production tools, making it a favorite among film and television composers.
PreSonus Studio One
- Studio One is known for its intuitive interface and seamless integration with other PreSonus products. It offers unlimited inserts on each track and great templates and presets.
- Unique Feature: Studio One’s Project Page allows for easy mastering and distribution of final mixes, and it integrates well with Melodyne.
Audacity
- Audacity is a free, open-source DAW that is great for basic recording and editing tasks. It lacks the advanced features and plugins of Waveform Pro but is highly accessible for beginners.
- Unique Feature: Audacity is completely free and has a simple, easy-to-use interface.
Conclusion
Tracktion Waveform Pro stands out with its cross-platform compatibility, innovative rack environment, and significant updates in its latest version. While it competes closely with other DAWs like Ableton, FL Studio, and Cubase in terms of feature richness, its unique approach to workflow and plugin management sets it apart. For those looking for a free alternative, Audacity is a good starting point, but for professional-grade features, Waveform Pro or its competitors like Studio One and Cubase might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences in music production.
Tracktion Waveform Pro - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Tracktion Waveform Pro
What are the system requirements for Tracktion Waveform Pro?
Tracktion Waveform Pro has the following system requirements:- Mac: macOS 10.11 or later, 64-bit Intel or Apple Silicon, 2 GB RAM (8 GB recommended), and a 5400 RPM hard drive (7200 RPM recommended).
- Windows: Windows 8, 10, or 11, 64-bit, Intel Core 2 Duo 2 GHz processor, 2 GB RAM (8 GB recommended), and a 5400 RPM hard drive (7200 RPM recommended).
- Linux: Ubuntu 16.04 or later, Intel Core 2 Duo 2 GHz processor, 2 GB RAM (8 GB recommended), and a 5400 RPM hard drive (7200 RPM recommended).
What new features are included in Waveform Pro 12?
Waveform Pro 12 includes several significant upgrades:- Revamped Audio Plugins: 15 new and refreshed audio plugins, including new EQs and reverbs.
- MIDI Functionality: Excellent new additions to MIDI functionality, such as improved MIDI instrument offerings and new MIDI plugins.
- New Audio Engine: A new audio engine with improved CPU efficiency, perfect plugin delay compensation, and better support for multiple CPU cores.
- New Instruments: Instruments like BassOSC, Rompler, and Micro Sampler, along with a low latency Guitar IR plugin.
- Advanced Strip Silence: An advanced strip silence option with adjustable thresholds and pre/post roll and fade options.
What are the differences between Waveform Free and Waveform Pro?
- Waveform Free:
- Includes core functionality with no track limitations.
- Offers 4 instruments, 14 audio FX, 8 MIDI FX, and 11 utility plugins.
- Supports plugin automation and has a codec-free video engine.
- Waveform Pro:
- Includes everything from the Free version plus additional creative tools.
- Offers 10 software instruments, 38 audio FX, 10 MIDI FX, and tools like the chord track, Groove Doctor, and Melodyne Essential.
- Supports clip launching, track snapshots, and advanced mixer racks.
Does Waveform Pro support multiple platforms?
Yes, Waveform Pro is highly cross-platform capable, running on macOS (including Apple Silicon), Windows, and Linux. All versions are maintained in parallel, ensuring the latest revision is usually identical across all three platforms.What kind of hardware controller support does Waveform Pro offer?
Waveform Pro supports a wide range of hardware controllers, with 28 factory-supported devices. It also has improved hardware controller support in the latest versions.Can I try Waveform Pro before purchasing?
Yes, you can try Waveform Pro with a 90-day trial. Additionally, there is a Free version available that includes core functionality, allowing you to test the software before deciding to upgrade to the Pro version.How does Waveform Pro handle CPU performance?
Waveform Pro 12 features a new audio engine that significantly improves CPU efficiency and supports multiple CPU cores better. This results in substantially improved performance and reduced latency.What kind of plugin support does Waveform Pro offer?
Waveform Pro supports VST3, VST2, AU, and LV2 plugins. It also includes a wide range of built-in plugins, including audio effects, MIDI effects, and utility plugins.Are there any content bundles available for Waveform Pro?
Yes, Waveform Pro is available with three different tiered content bundles: Recommended, Studio, and Everything. These bundles include additional sounds and instruments, such as the BioTek 2 synth and RetroMod Collection. Buying these bundles can be more cost-effective than purchasing the content separately.