If you want to get into the music production industry, you would probably have heard people ask Logic Pro vs Pro Tools, which is better? They are the two main software used in the production world and like many others of its kind, are known as DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations). They and are typically used by musicians and music producers.

It can be overwhelming to narrow the options down to just these two in the first place let alone choose which DAW is best for you. It does come down to a few different factors such as your experience level with DAWs, your budget and what you are wanting to use the software for. This is where we can help. 

It is useful to know straight away that generally Pro Tools is known as the industry standard. It has been around the longest and you will find it in most big-name studios.

Logic on the other hand is a common choice for beginners and independent musicians. This is due to a couple of reasons such as cost and the easy-to-use nature and interface.

In this blog, we will go through the main factors needed to compare Logic Pro vs Pro Tools and help make your decision easier. But first, what is a DAW? 

What is a DAW?

A DAW stands for Digital Audio Workstation, which is a software application used for recording, editing, and producing audio. They are computer-based software generally used by music producers and musicians. 

DAWs can be used for a multitude of productions such as music for artists, games, films, podcasts and more. A typical program will include the features of multitrack recording, MIDI sequencing, audio editing and processing, mixing, and mastering tools.

Now we know what a DAW actually is, let’s explore how the best two on the market compare to each other.

Platform

The platform is the type of operating system that the DAW can run on.

Pro Tools

Pro Tools is available for both macOS and Windows operating systems meaning the majority of people can easily access and use it.

Logic Pro

Logic Pro on the other hand is made by Apple meaning it is only available for macOS which eliminates all Windows users.

Recording

The recording experience is arguably the most important tool in any DAW and can be the feature that swings you to choosing the software. When it comes to comparing Logic Pro vs Pro Tool and the main feature, we really have to be picky with minor details as the recording on both DAW’s are great.

Pro Tools

Pro Tools will always have the upper hand in this area as it has had years of experience to master it. The recording feature is one of the main reasons why this big-name software is the professional industry standard.

The recording window is intuitive and user-friendly that has everything you need right in front of you. There is no switching or toggling between things which could be a massive headache for the user in the long run. 

Logic Pro

Logic Pro also offers a great recording space but not having everything automatically that you need right in front of you can be tedious. It can be changed in the user’s preferences, but it is nice that Pro Tools have gone that extra mile.

Built-in Features

Both DAWs have a variety of built-in main features that are crucial for music production. The main features include recording, editing, mixing and mastering tools. They Both also come with MIDI sequencing and editing capabilities –  these are important for creating and manipulating virtual instruments and synthesizers.

But which DAW has the best built-in features between Logic Pro vs Pro Tools?

Pro Tools

Pro Tools is known for its advanced automation and post-production features. It includes a range of tools that are specifically designed for sound design, editing, and mixing in the post-production industry.

The Beat Detective tool that Pro Tools offers are a popular choice to help speed up edits. It analyses audio and performs actions like extracting batch cuts, correcting tempo and adding smooth edits. The producer will usually have to check over the audio after to perform small tidy-ups and edits, but in the grand scheme of things, masses of time are saved using this feature.

Another great built-in feature that Pro Tools has is Elastic Audio. Elastic Audio uses sophisticated algorithms to analyse the waveform of the audio and make precise adjustments. This then allows users to stretch or compress audio clips in time or pitch without losing quality.

Logic Pro

Despite them both having built-in virtual instruments and synthesizers, Logic Pro is known for having an extensive library of samples and loops to choose from which can also be easily edited. This would be great for beginners or people that can’t actually play instruments themselves.

Another great feature that logic pro offers is its smart tempo feature. This is basically where a musician for example doesn’t have to record to a beat or metronome and can just freestyle. Once you have finished recording, Logic Pro will then analyse the sound and create a custom tempo track based on the performance. 

A fan favourite for this DAW is the feature Drummer. The name says it all as it is a virtual tool that will add drums to your recordings and performances. To make it even better, it has a wide range of genre sound choices such as hip-hop and rock as examples.

Plugins

When it comes to plugins, both DAWS use their own formats. Logic Pro uses AU (audio units) and Pro Tools uses AAX (avid audio eXtension). This being said the majority of third-party plugins will offer their products in these popular formats.

Pro Tools

When it comes to built-in plugins, it depends on which bundle of Pro Tools the user has purchased. The basic package will include compressors, noise gate, amp simulators, reverbs, EQs and other useful tools.

This is a great starting point but in order to get more, you will need to upgrade your package or find some other compatible third-party ones. If you want to improve your plugin library, here is a great selection of free plugins here.

Logic Pro

On the other hand, Logic Pro comes with an extensive collection of built-in plugins. from EQs and compressors to virtual instruments and effects. Another great thing is thar Logic supports a variety of plugin formats such as AU, VST, and AAX. This then gives the users more flexibility. to use plugins from different manufacturers.

Learning Curve

The learning curve will completely depend on the user’s experience levels with DAWs. Naturally, if someone has even dabbled with other programs, features and controls may seem familiar.

Pro Tools

Being the professional industry standard DAW, Pro Tools can do a lot of advanced and intricate tasks. The interface alone can be quite overwhelming for a beginner who might not know where to even start. It is a well-known fact that starting out in Pro Tools will be a huge learning curve.

Logic Pro

The user interface for Logic Pro is clean and inviting to use. Straight off the bat, having this element – especially for beginners – makes it less scary to use. The software is great for both new starters in the field and professionals, making it an easier and more adjustable learning curve.

The Logic Pro vs Pro Tools learning curve award goes to Logic Pro. It is user-friendly and easier software to use – especially for beginners.

Pricing

Pro Tools

Pro Tools is a tiered subscription-based purchase plan. There are three different options to choose from, each offering more when you go up the ladder. 

• Pro Tools Artist – $99 a month
• Pro Tools Studio – $299 a month
• Pro Tools Ultimate – $599 a month

Logic Pro

Logic Can be purchased from the App Store as it is an Apple only software for a one-time purchase usually around £199.99. This is great for beginners as it is a one-off payment at an affordable price.

When comparing Logic Pro vs Pro Tools with pricing, it is easy to see that Logic Pro is the more appealing option. This will be a major factor why musicians would choose this software, especially if they are starting out with low finances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between Logic Pro vs Pro Tools, it is important to consider your experience level, budget and what you plan to use the software for. 

Pro Tools is known as the professional industry standard and is available on both macOS and Windows. It has an intuitive recording window and advanced automation and post-production features. 

Logic Pro, on the other hand, is great for beginners or independent musicians due to its cost and easy-to-use interface. It also offers an extensive library of samples and loops and unique features like Drummer and Smart Tempo. 

Ultimately, both DAWs have their strengths and weaknesses, and it is up to the user to determine which one suits their needs best.

If you are wanting to get into the music production industry BCE offers a great Music Production course to get you started in your new career. 

Develop your skills further and apply now!