Logic Studio adds features like “flex time”; a much needed upgrade to its time manipulation abilities on the timeline, and better workflow tools to allow easier exporting and importing of settings and tracks between projects. Also included are some new features for guitarists like better amp and stompbox emulation, and a bunch of “how tos” modelled on the similar feature in the latest Garageband. None of the upgrades seem like “must-haves” to me, though the most tempting new additions are probably in the new MainStage, which now (finally!) has MIDI Out implementation, and the ability to include basic audio tracks and loops in your live setups; nice!

Final Cut Studio’s improvements also appear relatively minor, though the new ProRes codecs promise better quality at lower data rates. Motion 4 expands its 3D abilities with new shadows, reflections and depth of field. DVD Studio remains at version 4, and there are point five updates to Color and Compressor. Frankly, some of the upgrade highlights in Final Cut Pro itself, such as the ability to discuss your edit in realtime with iChat Theater, seem a bit like clutching at straws.

Overall, nothing earth-shattering has happened here, but the upgrades are reasonable and most will probably find an excuse to make the move soon enough for the price.