Avid Pro Tools 101: Introduction to Pro Tools

Course Description

This course covers basic Pro Tools principles. It provides everything you need to complete a Pro Tools project-from initial set up to final mixdown. The course focuses on Pro Tools software and covers a multitude of new functions and feature enhancements. Whether your project involves recording live instruments, MIDI sequencing of software synthesizers, or audio editing or region looping, this course will give you the basic skills to succeed.

Who Should Attend?

This course is designed for the audio enthusiast with little to no Pro Tools experience.

Course Objectives

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Create your first session
• Make your first audio recording
• Import media into your session
• Make your first MIDI recording
• Select and navigate
• Apply basic and mixed editing techniques
• Finish your work

Prerequisites

• Practical working knowledge of Mac OS X
• Basic understanding of recording techniques, processes, and equipment.

Course Outline:

Note: The curricula below comprise activities typically covered in a class at this skill level. The instructor may, at his/her discretion, adjust the lesson plan to meet the needs of the class.

Lesson 1: Getting to Know Pro Tools

• What is Pro Tools?
• The Story of Pro Tools
• Basics of Digital Audio
• Pro Tools System Configuration
• Complete Production Toolkit
• Cross-Platform Issues

Lesson 2: Getting Inside Pro Tools

• Target Systems
• Pro Tools File Structure
• Starting Pro Tools
• The Pro Tools Software Interface
• Edit Tool Functions
• Edit Mode Features
• Time Scales and Rulers
• MIDI Control Features

Lesson 3: Creating Your First Session

• Creating and Configuring a Pro Tools Session
• The Playback Cursor and the Edit Cursor
• Saving, Locating, and Opening Existing Sessions

Lesson 4: Making Your First Audio Recording

• Before Recording
• Preparing to Record
• Recording and Managing Audio
• Organizing after Recording

Lesson 5: Importing and Working with Media in a Session

• Considerations Prior to Import
• Importing Audio
• Importing Video
• Adding Insert Processors

Lesson 6: Making Your First MIDI Recording

• MIDI Basics
• MIDI in Pro Tools
• Preparing to Record MIDI
• Using Visual Instruments
• Setting the Session Meter, Tempo, and Key Signature
• Recording MIDI
• Viewing MIDI Data on MIDI-Compatible Tracks

Lesson 7: Selecting and Navigating

• Using the Universe View
• Types of Selection
• Working with Selections
• Adjusting the Session View
• Adding Markers to Your Session

Lesson 8: Basic Editing Techniques

• Selecting Playback Options
• Using the Edit Modes
• Editing Clips
• Moving and Trimming Clips
• Creating Fade Effects
• Undoing Your Work

Lesson 9: Basic Mixing Techniques

• Basic Mixer Terminology
• The Pro Tools Mix Window
• Basic Automation
• Real-Time Plug-Ins

Lesson 10: Finishing Your Work

• Backing Up Your Session
• Creating a Stereo Mixdown
• Burning Songs to CD from iTunes