how will this affect steam editions?

250$ for a year? I'm out.

I don't understand how this will effect current monthly subscriptions. I signed up for them (upgrading from X3) in February 2016 at $14.99 a month and made my twelfth payment in Jan 2017. My subscription has continued at the same rate. What will be my rate in May, if I continue my subscription? The full price monthly plan is $49.99 (?) I believe. Does this mean my rate will increase to $24.99 in May (50% off full monthly rate)?

rmfegley
I don't understand how this will effect current monthly subscriptions. I signed up for them (upgrading from X3) in February 2016 at $14.99 a month and made my twelfth payment in Jan 2017. My subscription has continued at the same rate. What will be my rate in May, if I continue my subscription? The full price monthly plan is $49.99 (?) I believe. Does this mean my rate will increase to $24.99 in May (50% off full monthly rate)?

That's a great question.
 
If you're a SONAR Owner, paying monthly, you'll continue to pay your current rate. 
 
In your case, you completed your first 12 months to become an official Owner - congrats - and it looks like you got in on a promotion for $14.99/month. 
 
So, you'll continue to pay that rate beyond the May 1, 2017 date.
 

Great, thanks for the info!

carlosigls
250$ for a year? I'm out.

I think that $250 gives you lifetime updates.  If it doesn't, it's crazy.

http://forum.cakewalk.com/FindPost/3574085
 

InstrEd
Welcome back aboard Alex.

Get im!

Slugbaby
I think that $250 gives you lifetime updates.  If it doesn't, it's crazy.

Platinum with lifetime updates was available from May 2016 though December 2016 and is no longer available. Effective May 2017 the annual renewal is at least 50% off the regular price. One thing not spelled out in the new pricing policy is the affect on renewal pricing, if a user allows their membership to expire.

Slugbaby

carlosigls
250$ for a year? I'm out.

I think that $250 gives you lifetime updates.  If it doesn't, it's crazy.

It doesn't.  But his post also clearly indicates it is the absolute most someone would have to pay for an upgrade from Old Platinum to New Platinum, and that periodic discounts from that level would be expected. 
 
And to think many people questioned the value of Lifetime updates previously offered.