Seattle-based TSC was formed in 2012 to acquire, update, market and support the Tracktion Music Production software platform, when Julian Storer, the original creator of the highly intuitive software platform, together with James Woodburn and Dave Christenson, decided to update Tracktion with a completely new digital audio engine to be both compatible with user projects completed on previous versions as well as all of the latest computer operating systems, third party plug-ins and controller hardware.
Tracktion 5 was introduced in February 2014, following the successful re-launch of the Tracktion Software brand in early 2013, introducing the ‘Edit Clip’ format to embed multi-track material as if it were a single audio clip, while allowing the source material to be edited. The re-launch of T5 also allowed for low latency playback regardless of session size, new advanced MIDI tools and even ARA integration for Celemony Software’s Melodyne.
With the release of Tracktion v5.3, the design team streamlined user workflow and enhanced creativity by expanding the functionality of the program’s tools. For instance, the “comp tool” can now be used to merge MIDI clips and audio clips alike. In addition, multiple unrelated clips can be selected and turned into single files that can be rapidly edited, reversed and comped. These new capabilities are collectively known as “Super Comping.”
Rendering has now become a creative tool as well. MIDI clips and notes can be converted to audio clips, like “Super Comping,” then instantly manipulated as new audio clips. This greatly speeds the editing process and provides maximum flexibility when composing.
Tracktion V5.3 introduces a powerful new Plug-in browser conveniently located on the main (Edit) page sidebar. It’s now possible to tag, search and find Plug-ins with just a couple keystrokes. Best of all, Plug-ins now simply drag & drop where needed directly from the browser – like almost everything else in the Tracktion paradigm.
This version also significantly improves MIDI performance. It’s now possible to automate gestures and inflections on individual notes. A new multi-channel MIDI clip support and polyphonic aftertouch have also been added.
At the same time, TSC announced a new and updated T5 color editor, featuring simpler controls for easier manipulation, allowing users to customize the interface. Tracktion has a long history of allowing users to modify the entire color palette of the app and even share these themes with other users – a feature that has grown to be very popular. The new Color Editor is available to all T5 users and available beginning with build 5.3.6. Meanwhile, the Tracktion’s beta tester community has already created a number of themes.
Tracktion remains a powerful, easy-to-use DAW as well as a remarkable value. At under $60 for new licenses (under $30 for major upgrades), the software operates on Mac, PC and Linux systems. A free, full-featured demo is available.
www.tracktion.com
