I've been looking at MixPad by HCH Software but it's 32 bit and I'm concerned that it won't be able to access enough memory. Am I out of date, or are they? Has something happened, is some technology being employed that gets around the 4 gig limit?
 
Thanks - rev

I think this is what x64 bit is mostly about, breaking the 4GB barrier.

If you're looking for a free DAW, then why not Cakewalk? It may have its faults but at least it's a powerful, fully fledged DAW which runs in 64 bits and can use all of your memory. 

32bit os old tech. As well as the memory limitations, 64bit plugins will also not work in 32bit hosts. Some software companies still install both a 32bit and 64bit version of their software but I would avoid any DAW software that is not 64bit and less you are stuck on a 32bit computer.

Sharke:
I'm on Sonar 8.5.3. That's the revered version and I do revere it but the MixPad look and feel is so cool. Tabbed menus containing similar stuff would really reduce the learning curve, it appears to do everything Sonar can do with the exception of accessing enough memory and it doesn't have a Staff View.
 
35mm
Yeah, I couldn't help wondering why anyone would make a 32 bit DAW considering how much memory we need. It would be overkill if you only sang and played a guitar but I do full blown arrangements and I often have six plugs in the project. Oh well, maybe they'll release a 64 bit version in the future.

It is audio only, no MIDI so likely not to have problems running 32bit unless with very high track and plug-in counts.

.

mister happy
 
Is this for controlling the light show?
 

Hah, there was no mention of MIDI on the main page. I see the MIDI screen you mention on another page. 32bit can be a problem when running even modest projects depending on the VSTi's used.
 
Actually there is one reference on the main page -
"VST plugin support for added studio effects and instruments"
 
 

I chatted with NCH about this and they told me it's unlikely I would notice any difference in performance because MixPad doesn't do much processing. The processing is apparently done outside the software so if you have a powerful machine, that power can still be employed.
I'll post back when I've done a full test with a heavy workload and bunch of 64 bit plugs. Proof of the pudding...
 
How can you have any pudding if you haven't eaten your meat!?
 
rev