Apple Logic Express 8 DAW Software Review

Apple's Inexpensive Yet Professional Digital Audio Workstation

Jul 22, 2009

Unlike previous versions, the new Apple Logic Express 8 has almost all the power and potential of Logic Pro 8 and at less than half the cost.

Apple Logic Express 8 is an impressive, streamlined version of Apple’s flagship digital audio workstation software for Mac computers.

While the Logic Studio bundle is a serious bargain at $499 USD, Apple has realized that there is a market for a “lite” version of the Logic Pro 8 digital audio workstation software. The resulting "mini-DAW" is Logic Express 8. It is aimed at music producers and audio engineers without the need for all the professional programs and features included in the Logic Studio bundle.

Differences Between Apple Logic Express 8 and Logic Pro 8

In the past, Logic Express has been a very basic and restrained version of the Logic Pro DAW. For example, previous versions of Express had limited routing options and track counts. Thankfully, this is no longer the case as almost all the features and options found in Logic Pro 8 are available in Logic Express 8.

For Logic Express 8 users this means unlimited access to the upgraded Arrangement window, the Media browser and the new editing and comping tools – not to mention the majority of the new plug-ins and virtual instruments included in Logic Pro 8.

Of course Logic Express 8 lacks some of the premium Logic Pro features. Besides the additional bundled applications (Soundtrack Pro 2, WaveBurner, MainStage, etc.) and Jam Pack sound libraries, there are several other professional options, plug-ins and soft synths not included in Logic Express 8.

For example, support for surround mixing, high-end control surfaces and Pro Tools TDM systems is not available in Logic Express 8. Neither are the Delay Designer, Space Designer or Multipressor plug-ins. The Sculpture component modeling softsynth and all of the ‘vintage’ instruments have also been withheld from Logic Express 8.

If these differences grow to be too large, Logic Express 8 users can upgrade to Logic Studio at any time for $299 USD.

Choosing Between Apple Logic Express 8 and Logic Pro 8

Considering all that is included in this latest version of Logic Express, novice to semi-pro music producers and audio engineers will find the $199 price tag hard to refuse. Even professional users may find a use for Logic Express 8 as a dedicated softsynth rig or secondary DAW. However, professional users working in environments with industry-standard demands will find Logic Express lacking in key areas and could do better by opting for the full Logic Studio bundle.

Either way, Mac audio users have two great options for a professional DAW powered by the Logic Pro audio engine.

The copyright of the article Apple Logic Express 8 DAW Software Review in Audio Software is owned by Clayton Worbeck. Permission to republish Apple Logic Express 8 DAW Software Review in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.