I'm still a bit skeptical about Logic's ability to be a full-featured DAW on the iPad. The move is great, but we need to tackle several challenges to make it suitable for final editing rather than just a work support tool:
- It needs to have open and comprehensive plugin support
- The workflow for uploading and exporting content needs to be seamless, and the iPad OS is still limited in this regard
- Screen size and real estate are still a concern
- Ready-to-use ecosystems for operating with the iPad, such as interfaces, audio monitors, etc., need to be developed.
I love the idea of being able to record, create, edit, and mix on the go, but I've kind of moved away from the DAW paradigm on tablets. Today, I focus my workflow on a Dawless idea, with the M8, Digitakt, Organelle, OP-1, and several other devices. More expensive? Definitely! But it fits my creative mode.
> It needs to have open and comprehensive plugin support
iOS has a thriving plugin scene, using the AUv3 (Audio Unit) format. Search the App Store for "AUv3" and check out the huge range of synths, effects, etc. In addition to smaller devs, there are some big players who have ported their flagship plugins (FabFilter, Eventide etc.)
> The workflow for uploading and exporting content needs to be seamless, and the iPad OS is still limited in this regard
It is much better since Files was added to iOS, though still a bit clunky. Their page (https://www.apple.com/logic-pro-for-ipad/) advertises "roundtrip compatibility" so hopefully they've made this easy
> Screen size and real estate are still a concern
Definitely a valid point, maybe this is the catalyst for a 15" iPad!
> Ready-to-use ecosystems for operating with the iPad, such as interfaces, audio monitors, etc., need to be developed.
Any class-compliant USB device will work with an iPad (or iPhone), so most audio interfaces, MIDI keyboards, etc. should be good to go. It only won't work if it requires a custom driver
Plugin vendors should get on board pretty quickly.
However, I expect them all to follow suit and use a subscription model. But this may be preferable than shelling out a couple hundred up front for each one. Vendors that have lots of virtual instruments will likely have attractive bundle subscription prices.
> skeptical about Logic's ability to be a full-featured DAW
It won't be full-featured - it doesn't have to be to make a huge impact. For example, as a new platform for live performances, it will be pretty awesome.
- It needs to have open and comprehensive plugin support
- The workflow for uploading and exporting content needs to be seamless, and the iPad OS is still limited in this regard
- Screen size and real estate are still a concern
- Ready-to-use ecosystems for operating with the iPad, such as interfaces, audio monitors, etc., need to be developed.
I love the idea of being able to record, create, edit, and mix on the go, but I've kind of moved away from the DAW paradigm on tablets. Today, I focus my workflow on a Dawless idea, with the M8, Digitakt, Organelle, OP-1, and several other devices. More expensive? Definitely! But it fits my creative mode.