Back in 2002, Apple Computer bought Emagic, the European makers of
Logic. Logic was (and remains) a well-regarded digital audio
workstation (DAW) application, competing with other major DAWs such as
Pro Tools, Cubase, and Digital Performer. Predictably, Apple
immediately discontinued the Windows version of Logic, and some
Windows users are still bitter about that.

More positively, Apple released its first new version, Logic Pro 7, in
2004, and the company also brought out Logic Express, a slimmed-down
version intended as a step up from GarageBand. Both Pro and Express
saw some Apple-like improvements to the interface and workflow, but
version 7 still seemed transitional.

It has been more than three years since Logic 7′s release, and Logic
enthusiasts have been wondering when a new and improved version would
arrive. That finally happened in the summer of 2007 with the release
of Logic Pro 8 and Logic Express 8, and Apple has made some major
changes to the Logic Pro package in particular after that long wait.

The main change has been to bundle Logic Pro 8 with numerous other
applications, as well as hundreds of plugins, effects, loops, samples,
and virtual instruments, into a package called Logic Studio 8
(www.apple.com/logicstudio), and to release that package for $500 USD,
which is a very low price compared to competitive products. (It’s less
than half the previous price for Logic Pro 7 alone, for example.)
Logic Studio 8 includes not only Logic Pro, but also Soundtrack Pro 2
for video post-production, Waveburner for audio mastering, Compressor
for audio and video file preparation, and the new MainStage for live
performance. The package also includes five of Apple’s Jam Packs
(loops and virtual instruments that work in Logic Pro, Logic Express,
and GarageBand), which cost usually cost $100 each, as well as dozens
of plugins, some of which might cost hundreds of dollars if available
separately.

As an example of how aggressive Apple’s pricing is for Logic Studio,
we’ve noticed that if you add up the comparable separate costs of
competing products, you could buy Logic Studio 8 *and* a Mac to run it
on for less than it would cost to outfit another DAW application with
similarly capable software alone.

Also, while Logic has always been powerful, new users often found it
difficult to learn because the interface was complex. Apple made some
improvements in Logic 7, but Logic Pro 8 and Logic Express 8 introduce
an entirely new single-window interface, as well as other changes,
that should make both Logic Express and Logic Pro easier to learn,
especially for those moving up from GarageBand or transitioning from
other workstation software. (The older multi-window approach is still
available for advanced users.) The new Logic Studio has generated a
lot of talk among Logic users, and the consensus so far seems to be
that it was worth the wait.

Single-Window Design
The Arrange window in Logic Pro 8 consolidates production activities in a single, elegantly-designed workspace. You can record multiple takes; cut, move, or stretch audio with sample accuracy; browse channel strip settings; audition Apple Loops; and drop chords onto your lead sheet—all from one central space, without managing multiple windows.

Ships with Soundtrack Pro 2, Studio Instruments/FX/Sound Libraries, Compressor, MainStage, Waveburner.

GarageBand and Logic Express
Open GarageBand projects directly in Logic Pro and seamlessly move projects between Logic Pro and Logic Express.
Apple Loops
Build songs using thousands of included royalty-free music loops that automatically conform to your project’s tempo and key. An integrated browser with advanced search features helps you find Apple Loops quickly, and specialized Software Instrument loops offer more creative freedom by allowing you to edit the instrument, processing, or original MIDI performance.
Broad compatibility
Support for Apple Core Audio and Digidesign DAE hardware lets you choose the audio interface that best meets your needs. TDM and Audio Units compatibility gives you a wide choice of plug-ins, while AAF, OMF, and XML support allows easy transfers between Logic Pro and other popular audio and video applications such as Pro Tools and Final Cut Pro.

Summary:
- New friendlier user interface
- Tons of built-in software instruments and plug-ins
- Compatibility (Logic Express/GarageBand import)
- Apple Loops/Jam Packs
- Channel Strips
- Logic Studio ships with Soundtrack Pro 2, Studio Instruments/FX/Sound Library, Compressor, MainStage, Waveburner

In this segment, Kate reviews some gadgets that claim to make long haul flights just a little more comfortable.

TRAVELMATE MOTION SICKNESS BAND
The TravelMate Motion Sickness Band is easy to use, non-invasive, and you can use before or after symptoms start. It works fast to provide non-drowsy relief from nausea and vomiting. It is a discrete watch-like device worn on the ventral side of the wrist. When activated, the device emits a low-level electrical current (every 3 seconds) across two small electrodes on its underside. It relieves the symptoms by gently stimulating nerves in the underside of the wrist. Apply the TravelMate device before leaving on a trip or even after symptoms begin. The Travelmate relieves symptoms from motion sickness, morning sickness, altitude sickness, etc. Use it for as long as your symptoms last. It will continue to work for up to 150 hours of continuous use before the batteries run out of power. The TravelMate is re-usable. The battery can only be replaced by sending it in to the manufacturer for a $30.00 fee (it should last for 22 months).
http://www.healthdevice.com

INFLIGHT POWER RECHARGER CABLES
The Inflight Power Recharger is a device that claims to recharge any USB-powered device as long as you can access a headphone jack on a plane, train, or bus. This tiny device functions as a ‘charge pump’ that stores low amounts of voltage retrieved from the headphone jack in a capacitor, subsequently converting it into regulated USB power. The process sounds extremely tedious and you could wait a long time for a full charge, but that is always better than a flat battery. The Inflight Power Recharger also stores two AAA batteries that help charge your devices in the event where there is no headphone jack available. The base unit retails for $34.99 upwards, depending on which bundle you choose. * Extend the in-flight use of Blackberrys, Ipods, music players and Game units

* Recharge cell phones while in-flight
* Save money on expensive disposable and booster packs
* Works with existing USB charging cables
* Lightweight and compact, only a few ounces and stores easily
* Interchangeable - one unit for many devices

http://www.inflightpower.com/products.asp

THEBOOM NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONE
This package contains noise canceling microphone and Active Noise Reduction headphones for both ears. theBoom Quiet headset combines cutting edge noise reduction for the microphone as well as the speakers. Featuring UmeVoice’s patented noise canceling technology for the microphone, theBoom Quiet enables users to be heard clearly regardless of the level of background noise. Using state of the art lightweight ANR (automatic noise reduction) technology for the speakers, theBoom Quiet helps protect the user’s hearing from loud noises without the bulk of many ANR headsets. With our innovative design, theBoom Quiet converts easily between a highly effective noise canceling communications headset for cell phones, computers, and PDA’s to a high quality noise canceling stereo headphones for the
enjoyment of audio entertainment.
http://www.theboom.com/theboomquiet.html

BROOKSTONE THERASPA EYESHADES
The TheraSpa Sound Therapy Eyeshades is a plush eye mask with five built-in sound therapy programs that help you reduce stress and fall asleep. The plush eye mask gently blocks out light and the audio input jack with extension adapter lets you listen to your MP3 player. The mask has a 30 minute shut off time and can be used with an AC adapter or two AAA batteries.
http://www.brookstone.com

KNEE DEFENDER
Knee Defender helps you stop reclining seats on airplanes so your knees (or laptop) won’t have to. With Knee Defender, you can now use a simple, convenient, pocket-sized device to help defend against most flying seatbacks. And they are adjustable, to help provide only as much protection as you need. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was asked about the use of Knee Defenders. “FAA spokesman Paul Takemoto said the clips were not against federal aviation rules as long as they weren’t used during taxiing, takeoffs or landings.”Knee Defenders™ are specifically designed to be used with your tray table lowered, while your tray table must be up and locked “during taxiing, takeoffs or landings.” So, as long as Knee Defenders™ are being used as they are designed to be used in flight, their use does not violate any US aviation law, rule, or regulation.
http://www.kneedefender.com

SCANNER BAG
Scanner Bag is an at-the-ready holder for all of those belongings that you have to take off and take out of your pockets at airport security. No longer will you have to rush to find one of those plastic dishes or somewhere else to stash it all for its ride down the scanner belt. And, when your stuff emerges from the scanner at the other end, you won’t have to rush to put everything back where it should be.
http://www.gadgetduck.com/goods/scannerbag.html

CABIN CUDDLER
The Cabin Cuddler is a lightweight travel blanket with a foot pocket and shoulder wrap that keeps you warm in cold airplane cabins, on car trips, or even curled up at home. Matching tote fits conveniently on carry-on luggage.
http://www.cabincuddler.com/

SKYREST TRAVEL PILLOW
SkyRest is an inflatable travel pillow that is easy to pack and carry on board. There is no need to worry about inflation or deflation, as the pillow has a removable one-way valve that allows quick inflation and deflation. The pillow is designed for use in any kind of seat and it’s inflatable wedge shape allows for sleeping in a reclined position. SkyRest can be used anywhere. However, the primary intended use for it is while sitting in a commercial airline seat.
http://www.skyrest.com

1ST CLASS SLEEPER
Make your next flight relaxing and restful by packing the 1st Class Sleeper, a pillow designed to provide a cushion of comfortable support for the lower back, head and shoulders. Appropriately entitled, the 1st Class Sleeper is easy to inflate by either using the overhead air vents or with ten to twelve deep breathes of air. It deflates in seconds to less than a size of a travel umbrella and packs away easily in your carry-on bag. The 1st Class Sleeper cradles you best when partially inflated to about 20%1st Class Sleeper capacity. When you sit back the inflatable “body-pillow” gently surrounds you to allow your head and body to relax.
http://www.1stclassslepper.com

PRODUCTS SHOWN

TravelMate Motion Sickness Relief Band
$99.95 US, HBI Inc

Inflight Power Executive Bundle Recharger Cables
$49.99 US, Caretools Inc

theBoom Quiet Noise Canceling Headphones
$274.99 US, UmeVoice Inc

Theraspa Sound Therapy Eyeshades
$40.00 US, Brookstone

Knee Defenders
$14.95 US, Gadget Duck

Scanner Bag
$12.85-$24.85 US, Gadget Duck

Cabin Cuddler
$29.95 US, Cabin Cuddler

SkyRest Travel Pillow
$29.95 US, DAC Innovations Inc

1st Class Sleeper
$29.95 US, 1st Class Sleeper

Various ways to dock your iPod at home.

Boynq Sabre
www.boynq.com
$100
Boynq has a few iPod docks available, but the Sabre is one of the most immediately distinctive of the bunch — from the side it looks like a comma, from the front it looks like a bug…either way, it has an interesting design. One way that Boynq is trying to distinguish itself is by marketing the Sabre for “him” and “her”, but essentially the only difference is in the colour. (The men get the basic black, while the women get an off-pink pastel colour — there’s definitely the possibility for a backlash here, but the move away from basic black is a nice touch at the very least.) The sound quality is good though not extremely stunning…it’ll definitely do the job in a small room. One really nice touch is actual knobs for adjusting the volume, bass and treble.

iMep
i-Mep.com
$299
If you’re looking for the Swiss Army Knife of multimedia gadgets, it’s gotta be the iMep — not only is it an iPod dock, but it also comes with a built-in AM/FM radio, an over-the-air TV tuner, auxiliary input and a DVD player. All of this is bundled into a form factor that resembles an old-school boombox, complete with boombox-style control buttons. Unlike one of those old systems, this one has a 7-inch colour LCD screen on the front, allowing you to play your DVD movies, stream video from compatible iPods, and watch TV. It seems like an awful lot to try to cram into one gadget, but it does work — and it’s the perfect all-in-one gadget for the cottage or for a dorm room.

iPort FS-3
www.iportmusic.com
$varies by configuration
If you’re looking for a flexible system for docking your iPod and getting the audio to various points around the home, you might want to take a look at the iPort. The main dock connects your iPod to your computer via USB, as well as to a breakout box that streams audio to a another location in the house via wired connection — the iPort series includes wall-mounting audio and video connectors that fit into a typical light switch box, so with a bit of work you can wire your house for sound. The system is a nice way to integrate the iPod into your house, but it’s definitely a more involved way — budget some time to figure out how all of the connections work, especially if you need to do any special wiring inside the house.

mStation 2.1 Stereo Tower
www.mStation.com
$300
There are a lot of iPod docks out there, but very few of them capture the same level of presence in a room that your old school stereo used to command. Not so with the mStation 2.1 Stereo Tower, with is an actual piece of furniture, rather than yet another dock that sits ON your furniture. It’s got a downward-firing subwoofer speaker, and two positionable tweeters in the upright pillars. There are a number of inserts for the dock portion, to make sure your iPod seats properly on the universal connector. It also comes with a remote control, and accommodates auxiliar input. There’s even a USB port on the tower, allowing you to hook the system up to your computer, so you can sync from iTunes right from the dock.

mStation 2.1 Stereo Orb
www.mStation.com
$130