To open a new project, referred to as a session in Pro Tools, you typically navigate to the File menu and select the option to create a new session. This action prompts you to configure various settings for your new project.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a New Pro Tools Session
Starting a fresh session in Pro Tools is a fundamental first step before you begin recording, mixing, or editing audio.
Here are the basic steps you'll follow:
- Launch the Pro Tools software.
- Once Pro Tools is open, go to the main menu bar at the top of the screen.
- Click on the File menu.
- Select the New... or Create New Session... option from the dropdown menu.
- A dialog window will appear, allowing you to configure the settings for your new session.
Setting Up Your New Session Properties
After selecting "New...", you will be presented with a dialog box to define your session's characteristics. According to the reference, this is where you set crucial session properties.
- Name: Give your new session a descriptive name.
- Location: Choose where you want to save the session file and its associated audio files on your computer or external drive.
- Session Properties: This section is key for defining the audio quality and compatibility of your project.
- File Type: In most cases, you would set the file type to Wave. This is a standard, high-quality uncompressed audio format compatible with most systems.
- Sample Rate: You would typically set the sample rate to 48k (48,000 Hz). This is a common sample rate used for video production and many audio projects, offering good fidelity. Other common rates include 44.1k (for CD audio) or higher (96k, 192k) for more demanding applications.
- Bit Depth: You would set the bit depth to 32 (specifically, 32-bit floating point). This provides a very wide dynamic range and headroom, significantly reducing the risk of digital clipping during recording and processing. 24-bit is also a high-quality option.
- I/O Settings: You can choose a preset I/O configuration. This determines how Pro Tools routes audio signal inputs and outputs to and from your audio interface. You can select a default Pro Tools setting, your last used settings, or custom presets you have saved.
Once you have named your session, chosen a location, and configured the properties like file type, sample rate, bit depth, and I/O settings, click the Create or OK button. Pro Tools will then create the new session file and open a blank session window, ready for you to import audio, create tracks, and begin your work.
