thanks. 
I got it, and just uninstalled but not sure how to install "with" command center.

There was a change made to Pan Law handing in SONAR 8.5.2. See PanLawCompatMode in the Ref. Guide. This might explain the volume difference, though the usual manifestation is that projects to get louder in later versions using non-default Pan Law, not softer.
 
The inability to edit the Volume envelope is probably just that you need to set the track's Edit Filter to Volume Automation in order to edit the envelope. Rather than always switching tools to edit different objects, the default "Smart Tool" can work on anything and the Edit Filter determines which object type is currently editable on a per-track basis. You can change the Edit Filter directly by the drop-down in the track header, or Shift-click the envelope. Then Shift+click the clip somewhere away from the automation envelope to switch the Edit filter back to Clips.

the Best, cleanest way is to gain access to the track audio and import into a new project. 
 
If you can open ProAudio alongside Plat, just copy and paste (set the correct tempo).
 
There are some snafus with the wrk files when used with a newer platform.
Some that won't become apparent till you're in deep. As far as your level differences, check to see if in offset mode. 
 
Anyway, trust me, get the raw data into a new fresh project and go from there.

jason33
thanks. 
I got it, and just uninstalled but not sure how to install "with" command center.

The directions should be on the linked page I sent you.

I have problems with some things trying to open old projects from Pro Audio 9.0
as others have mentioned, open a new project in platinum and import the old tracks from PA9.0.
you'll have to re add all the FX, volume settings exc, but it will be worth it.
 
a few years ago I loaded up pro audio 9.0 on a windows xp lap top and exported all my tracks to song folders.
(data disks) thus not having to deal with opening old project folders, opening projects.

I came from cwpa9 into Sonar 3 (not x3 ... just 3) and I agree with the posts above saying just start a new project and get the raw data from cwpa9.

My problem  is I just have too many files to transfer. I guess I'll just leave them in cakewalk pro audio 9....and If i decide to use SOnar for future projects then I will. Too bad they didnt make it so you can just open up the files in later versions. Anyway... Onto my next thread.  Next issue. THanks!

I hear what you're saying but there does come a point when backwards compatibility becomes non-viable

I think sonic compatibility with Pro audio 9 which was done 17 years ago might be a bit difficult :)
In PA 9 there were only fixed aux buses and automation was done completely differently - there were no automation envelopes. When you import a project from there the volume changes are translated to envelopes and gain stages are mapped to the new system. However depending on your setup in PA9 it might not sound the same.
 
That said, it should be fairly easy to match the gainstages if you open both apps side by side and adjust the track and bus gainstages. 

I love the simplicity of Pro audio 9. I think ill continue using that for recording.. and Platinum to record superior drums and vst's
Sonar's interface now is too dark and too many buttons, words etc.   Also, in pro audio, it was so much easier to edit 1 track.  you double click on the wave.. and a new window popped up with just that wav, and you could draw automation on it, it was right in front of you, nothing else on the screen.   It was great.  Seems like everything now is just done on the main screen, and you have to zoom and expand the boxes of each track. I dont know.. anyway.