By Rich Tozzoli
Sketch is a nonlinear creative workspace for Pro Tools. It’s a new window in all versions of the DAW that works both independently and interactively. Let’s take a look at what Sketch is and how it works in a real-world composing/creating session.
I “grew up” composing in Pro Tools, so I’m used to working in a “linear” fashion—fundamentally, from left to right. A nonlinear style of production forces a different way of thinking, as users of programs such as Ableton Live are aware. It’s not only working left to right, but up and down in “blocks.” Sketch is built on the use of clips and scenes, combining loops, sound design and instruments to spur your creativity. It’s drag, drop, swap, switch and create. It can be used on its own, or in the Pro Tools linear window timeline.
Sketch comes with more than a Gigabyte of loops, nine effects processors, and 30-plus PlayCell instruments with over 100 SynthCell presets. Instrument tracks default to PlayCell, but you can easily switch to SynthCell as needed. Sketch can be opened in either Pro Tools, a free iPad app or on its own, allowing you to move between them in either direction.
It features 16 tracks and comes with a variety of built-in instruments and effects. The Sketch workspace is included in Pro Tools 2023.9 on active subscriptions or perpetual licenses, the app, and in the free Pro Tools Intro.
Read the full review at www.mixonline.com
