Subject: Opinion: DP vs. Logic

Hi There,

I've been a member of Sonikmatter (which is pretty much Logic specific) for quite a few years, just joining MacJams tonight. I came across this site as a result of a Google search of the comparison between DP and Logic Pro.

I think you all make some great points, with there being (IMO) no clear winner. FYI, I used to have (but, not really use) DP many years ago. In fact, I had it when it was just Performer. Though, at the same time, I had a Linn 9000 (you remember those?! :-), and later evolved to the Akai Linn MPC-60.

I did quite a bit of work on those dedicated machines, with good product, and as a result resisted software based sequencing for a long time. It was only a little over 3 years ago that I made the transition to Logic Pro. And, BELIEVE ME, the learning curve was steep!

To this day, I still have the latest version of DP, though I use exclusively Logic. The reason having little to do with which I think is the superior platform, but rather the fact that I've invested so many hours into Logic, I have no brain cells available for (or receptive to) learning another program. For my needs (which indeed are professional, concentrating more on record production, and the occasional jingle, rather than film, the latter of which I gather is better served by DP), Logic is just fine. In fact, I now feel comfortable enough to occasionally tutor someone else. ;-D

In my opionion, there is NO superior application. ProTools is great for audio, with Logic, DP, CueBase, Nuendo, etc., etc., all fulfilling niches that certainly overlap. They ALL get the job done, in different ways. Interestingly enough, I now find "basic recording" fairly straight ahead with Logic. If one decides to delve into the legendary Environment, as well as some other less than intuitive aspects of Logic, then it can become a beast. However, I seldom (unless absolutely necessary) look under the hood. And, have been just fine with not doing so.

As for notation, certainly it can be done in Logic (a good friend of mine, and a highly respected musician, kicks major butt in the Score Editor).But there are dedicated programs like Sibelius, Finale, etc., etc., that specialize in that area. Where I think Logic excels is in its integration of soft synths. It literally IS a studio within a box, this without 3rd. party plugins. I have a great friend in Nashville who is a DP whiz, and he has not been happy with the attempt by MOTU to integrate synths into version 5 (and, as a result reverted to 4.6).

Considering this is my first post, let me bring it to an end, before you guys give me the boot. :-) Hopefully I've been able to add something to the equation.

Take care,
Leon

Some people are probably tired of me saying this, but if you want a logical upgrade path from GB, look at Mackie's Traction. It has a very similar interface, but without the hidden bits that make GB such a pain. A vastly superior mix engine and some very good plug-ins. Only downers; it's VST and not AU, and it doesn't import GB files directly.

Cheers, Shaky