ProTools and creating project in MIDI form, then to WAV for final production..., is it possible?

Question

I have a Dell XPS8930 PC and no other "gadgets"... and am contemplating transitioning to ProTools from "old" Sonar 4 software. (Yeah..., you read that right.). I do have 5 music releases, but feel it is "time" to move forward with some new software. I am familiar with ProTools from years past and feel it may be best option for me, however, I have been known to be wrong. I have recently purchased a KOMPLETE Kontrol S88, but it appears not workable with current software. BandLab felt a little confusing for me when it came to using this new keyboard. Would ProTools and this keyboard to work with me? If so, are there other "gadgets" I may need to move ahead with the transition? Not looking to "break the bank" with purchases. Any thoughts or suggestions would be most welcome. Thanks!!!

Answer 1

If you are looking for a substitute for Pro Tools, I would highly recommend Studio One (the Presonus DAW). This was the first DAW I learned how to use and I was using a PC as well. It is very similar to Pro Tools and very user friendly in my opinion. I personally have just switched all of my music over to Pro Tools since getting my degree in audio production and being certified in the software. I switched because I have access to Pro Tools and because I got used to working in it so much that it just became second nature. I also switched from PC to Mac which is great for any DAW. One other thing you would need with Studio one however is the VST extension if you don't buy the professional level version. This just allows you to use outside plugins instead of just the stock plugins. From the DAWs that I have used in the past I would rank them as follows: Pro Tools, Studio One, Logic Pro, Ableton. Hope this helps!

Answer 2

I think Pro Tools is a great option, but it's hard to give you an answer without hearing more about your music. I use Ableton Live, as I enjoy the design uniformity across all of the native plugins, the experimental vibe, and the ease with which you can automate parameters. If you are recording mostly acoustic instruments, then Pro Tools is well to known for its quick and detailed audio editing workflow. Avid (maker of Pro Tools) has also recently added new instruments like a powerful virtual drum machine and synthesizer, which makes it even more viable to electronic musicians.

As far as your keyboard is concerned (from the Native Instruments website):

KOMPLETE KONTROL keyboards work with all DAWs that support VST/AU/AAX