LOGIC PRO 11 // What's New in Logic 11? (Stem Splitter, AI Players, Chord Track, ChromaGlow & MORE!)

The script introduces the highly anticipated release of Logic Pro 11, marking a significant upgrade from version 10 after more than a decade. Alongside the Mac version, Logic Pro for iPad version 2 is also introduced, with parity in features between the two platforms. The update emphasizes Apple's adoption of AI technology, termed 'Studio Assistance,' to aid in music composition and production. New features include a stem splitter for isolating vocals and instruments, enhanced session players with a bass player and keyboard player, a revamped drum kit designer library, and new instruments. Additionally, a new AI-powered effects plugin called Chroma Glow is introduced, along with a real-time bounce and place function for external hardware integration. The script also mentions minor updates like new key commands for the Marquee tool and under-the-hood enhancements. Compatibility requirements and pricing details for both versions are provided, with a note that Logic Pro 10 users will receive the upgrade for free.

The stem splitter feature is explored, which allows users to separate a stereo mix into its constituent parts such as vocals, drums, bass, and other instruments. The script demonstrates the process of using the stem splitter on a fully mixed and mastered song, highlighting its ability to maintain the quality of vocals and reverb even in the presence of challenging elements like saturation. The potential applications of the stem splitter are discussed, such as extracting vocals for remixes, sampling drums, or remastering old projects by adjusting the mix, like boosting the volume of vocals.

The introduction of new session players, the bass player and keyboard player, is detailed. These AI-assisted generative players are modeled after real-life professional musician performances. The script explains how to add these players to a track, choose different styles, and customize their behavior using the session player editor. It also covers the ability to create custom patterns and rhythms, adjust dynamics and complexity, and the option to swap out instruments for full control over arrangements.

The script introduces the new chord tracker, a global track that automatically generates chord progressions based on the selected key. It explains how this feature integrates with the bass and keyboard session players to update their arrangements in real-time as chord changes are made. The chord tracker also allows for manual editing of chords and the creation of custom chord progressions, providing users with a versatile tool for composing and arranging music.

Significant updates to the Drummer and Drum Kit Designer are discussed. The Drummer has been redesigned with a new user interface, offering more customization options such as separate control over kick, snare, and hi-hat/cymbal patterns. The Drum Kit Designer now allows for the individual swapping of kit pieces, providing the ability to fully customize a drum kit with different combinations of sounds. The script also mentions the customization of drum tones and techniques, adding realism and variety to drum patterns.

The script provides an overview of the new Studio Bass and Studio Piano instruments. Studio Bass introduces a variety of electric bass and an acoustic upright bass with customizable tones. Studio Piano offers a new set of sampled pianos, each with different microphone positions and the ability to control the volume of individual mics. The pianos include a studio grand, concert grand, and vintage upright, with options to adjust the level of pedal noise and key noise for added realism.

The new Chroma Glow audio effects plugin is introduced, an AI-powered saturation and distortion tool with five different models to choose from. The script explains how Chroma Glow can be used on individual tracks, buses, or masters to add character and enhance the overall sound. It also details the plugin's features, such as the ability to bypass certain frequencies, adjust the mix blend, and use low and high cut filters to shape the saturation effect.

The script highlights the new real-time bounce in place feature, which allows for immediate recording of audio through external hardware synthesizers or mixing hardware. It demonstrates how this feature streamlines the process of printing audio in place, making it easier for users who work with external equipment to integrate it into their projects without the need for additional tracks or offline bouncing.

The final update discussed is the enhancement of the Marquee tool for audio editing. Eight new key commands have been added to adjust the position and placement of the Marquee tool, improving the precision and efficiency of transient or drum editing. The script explains the functionality of these new key commands, which allow for shifting selections up and down, as well as nudging the left or right position by a set nudge value.