Pro-Audio

Apple issues fix for high CPU usage during audio processing in Mac Pros

Indeed it is definitely the week for updates! Along with firmware and software updates for other Apple products (not to mention other products as well, like Office and Chrome), Apple has issued a fix for the ongoing audio issues that early 2009 model Mac Pro users have been experiencing.… Read more

Mac Pro audio issues being tackled by Apple

Several recent reports surrounding a number of issues with Apple's top-of-the-line desktop computer, the Mac Pro, suggest the gang in Cupertino are acknowledging the problem and working on solutions. Some Mac Pros with the Nehalem processors have been experiencing high CPU usage and poor performance during audio playback. These issues are made worse by the processing not being recorded in Activity Monitor and thus not activating necessary fan operation to reduce heat.… Read more

Schiller plugs Apple's updated video, audio suites

Apple has a history of appealing to creative professionals and has reiterated its interest in these core customers with the release of two major suites.

On Thursday, Apple updated its high-end video production suite, Final Cut Studio, and its audio suite, Logic Studio.

Apple began bundling its professional apps together several years ago, differentiating them into audio and video suites. Doing so allows customers to work on several applications, while staying in one environment.

"We try to make things work together up and down the range of products," Phil Schiller, senior vice president of worldwide product marketing, told … Read more

Learn music production with WinkSound

There's no lack of music instruction online. Sites like iVideoSongs and Internet-connected applications such as Garage Band, can tailor music instruction right down to the specific genre, song, and instrument of your choice. The trouble is, they don't actually show you how to make a great recording.

If you're more interested in how to use side-chain audio compression in Logic, than how to how to play "Stairway to Heaven," WinkSound.com is worth a look. The site design is a little rough, but the video tutorials are helpful and clearly organized into relevant topics (Garage … Read more

Zoom H4n handheld audio recorder, hands on

Update (4/19/2009): CNET now has a full review of the Zoom H4n.

I practically squealed when I saw Zoom's new H4n professional handheld audio recorder on display at CES 2009. The $350 recorder was announced just a few days ago with hazy details on when it might hit store shelves, but lo and behold, here it was hanging out in the Samson booth, dressed up with full retail packaging.

To read my first impressions, take a look through our Zoom H4n slide show, fresh from the showfloor of CES 2009.

Sound Devices 788T unveiled

You know that scene in Crocodile Dundee where Paul Hogan gets held up with a switch blade, gives a little giggle, and then proceeds to unsheathe a knife that could disembowel an elephant? That's how I feel after producing my pro-audio recorder roundup last week, only to later learn about the Sound Devices 788T.

Due in May, this truly professional-grade portable multitrack recorder will set you back a cool $5,995. For your money, you'll get eight tracks of simultaneous audio recording up to 24-bit WAV resolution; a 160GB 2.5-inch SATA hard drive; compact flash memory expansion; … Read more