Avid has announced the new Pro Tools|HD Native Thunderbolt interface.

With its Thunderbolt connectivity, the Pro Tools|HD Native Thunderbolt interface gives producers, engineers, and mixers the sound quality, low latency, and power of the Pro Tools|HD Native system in a mobile-based hardware solution, while connecting with Pro Tools HD Series interfaces (such as HD OMNI and HD I/O) for capturing and monitoring audio with pristine clarity. In addition, customers can monitor mixes using the interface's built-in headphone output, which is powerful enough to drive headphones with high impedance loads.

"Pro Tools|HD Native makes it easy for professionals to get top quality sound and performance in an affordable, host-based solution," says Chris Gahagan, senior vice president of products at Avid. "With Avid's new solution, pros now can choose from two Pro Tools|HD Native designs: the new Thunderbolt interface for Thunderbolt-equipped laptop and desktop computers, or the original PCIe card."

Pricing & Availability

Pro Tools|HD Native is sold as a system that includes a choice of HD Native core —Thunderbolt interface or PCIe card— Pro Tools HD software, and a choice of Pro Tools HD Series audio interface. System prices are the same for both core systems. In addition, customers who own a Digi 002, 003, or Mbox Pro can trade in their hardware towards a new Pro Tools|HD Native system and save $1,000 off GRP.

System prices are as follows:

• Pro Tools|HD Native (Thunderbolt interface or PCIe card), Pro Tools HD software, and HD OMNI system: $4,999.
• Pro Tools|HD Native (Thunderbolt interface or PCIe card), Pro Tools HD software, and HD I/O system: starts at $5,999.
• Digi 002, Digi 003, or Mbox Pro exchange to Pro Tools|HD Native (Thunderbolt interface or PCIe card), Pro Tools HD software, and HD OMNI: $3,999.

For more information visit: www.avid.com/US/products/Pro-Tools-HD-Native