This week Avid has released the latest update to Pro Tools. 2021.3 bringing a host of exciting new features including support for macOS Big Sur, QWERTY MIDI keyboard, support for the new Sync X, enhanced graphics, as well as the addition of new plugins from IK Multimedia. Let's take an in-depth look at all the new features.

macOS Big Sur

With the release of Pro Tools 2021.3, we finally have support for macOS Big Sur. While this is a huge step forward, there are still some caveats you should keep in mind before any upgrades happen. One of the biggest things to consider is the lack of support for the Apple M1 Chip. Avid is working with Apple to develop the update for M1, however, currently you can only use an Intel based chip. Also, there are certain products such as Avid Control, DAD Man, MediaCentral, that do not work on Big Sur at this time. Another thing to consider regarding any updates is your plugin rack. Not every plugin has been updated for Big Sur. You will need to check each company to determine if they have an update for Big Sur. Below is a list of all currently supported products:

Virtual MIDI Keyboard in Pro Tools

In our opinion, the most exciting new feature is the addition of a QWERTY Virtual MIDI Keyboard. You can now use your computer keyboard as a MIDI controller!

You can find the Virtual MIDI Keyboard from the "Windows" Menu, or by using the shortcut: Shift + K. Check out the video below to see it in action:

Amplitube + T-Racks by IK Multimedia Included

Avid has teamed up with IK Multimedia to bring two of their most loved plugins for Free to all Pro Tools Subscription holders. Now you can get Amplitube, a powerful guitar modeling processor, along with T-Racks, plugins for Mixing and Mastering.

Amplitube

T-Racks

Sync X

For audio professionals working in multi-system environments we would like you to meet your new master clock. Sync X allows you to keep your entire studio synchronized, no matter how complex the setup. With ultra low-jitter clock, built-in Video Reference Generator, frame-edge alignment, 6 Word Clock outputs, AES3id, 9-pin Machine Control, and many more options, Sync X is the new conductor keeping everything in time.

As you can probably tell, there are many new features introduced with Pro Tools 2021.3
Keep an eye out for more articles and tutorials on each of the specific components, and ways you can use them in your production.

If you would like to attend our instructor-led live courses in Pro Tools and preparation for official Pro Tools Certification, feel free to call our offices at 888-277-0457 or visit our website at protoolstraining.com. Classes available nights, weekends and daytime, including beginner through Expert Level Certification in Music and Post Production. Courses include 101, 110, 201, 210M, 210P, 310M, 310P. ProMedia Training is the #1 Avid Pro Tools Official ALP Training Center in the U.S in number of students trained and certified. International Students welcome to our instructor-led, live online courses.

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Mihai Boloni

Author: Mihai Boloni
Avid Expert Certified Pro Tools Instructor
www.protoolstraining.com

888-277-0457

Mihai BoloniCreative Director & Avid Expert Pro Tools instructor

Mihai has made it his life's work to help others in the audio industry. Mihai gained experience as an audio engineering Full Sail Instructor in early 2000's and joined ProMedia in 2002. Since then, he has become one of Avid's Top Leading and most experienced and in-demand Instructors Worldwide, with clients who come to him form all over the world. Corporate clients include MTV, PBS, NBC, Telemundo, The Voice's Chief Engineer Mike Bernard, Atlanta Public School System, countless professors from leading Universities, CNN, Turner Broadcasting, and the top producers, artists, and engineers in leading studios and record labels. For over 20 years, Mihai has continued to work as an Audio Engineer, Record Producer, Songwriter (ASCAP), Dog Lover, Record Label Owner, and Expert Level AVID Certified Pro Tools Instructor.