Any hints that we could ditch the physical iLok?

[ryanstewartguitar]

Now that Pro Tools First doesn't require a physical iLok, and instead lets you store the license on your computer, do you think Pro Tools (and HD) will follow suit in the near future?

I am so careful about my iLok that I don't really like taking it on the go when I don't have to. I feel like if it wasn't required, I'd be more likely to use Pro Tools for editing/premixing tasks when I'm out. Just a thought.

[Drew Mazurek]

The only hints are the fact that Media Composer and PT First allow the asset to be stored locally. No one knows if/when it'll come to PT.

[albee1952]

Originally Posted by Drew Mazurek

The only hints are the fact that Media Composer and PT First allow the asset to be stored locally. No one knows if/when it'll come to PT.

And I am not holding my breath(although, in all honesty, I don't mind iLok)

[take77]

Pro Tools l First = Free

Hence, no protection necessary.

Pro Tools full versions = Highly coveted and expensive

Therefore, iLok protection necessary (largely because a license cannot be duplicated via this means of protection).

But we all see your point. Just have to be very sensible every time you leave the house with it.

[seanbil]

Originally Posted by take77

Pro Tools l First = Free

Hence, no protection necessary.

Pro Tools full versions = Highly coveted and expensive

Therefore, iLok protection necessary (largely because a license cannot be duplicated via this means of protection).

I think the OP might have been talking about ditching the actual $50 iLok key and having iLok deposit licenses directly onto our systems. If you don't travel between different studios very often then I could see there being a benefit for allowing it just from the standpoint of not having to be subjected to the statistical failure rate of iLok USB keys.

[mesaone]

Is machine activation better, aside from saving the $40 that would be spent on the dongle? I suppose you save a USB port, which is a concern for laptops.

It would all depend on how the license is stored on the machine. Could they be lost when replacing a hard drive or motherboard, or after a software update? That has happened to me with Waves and Plugin Alliance licenses. I had recourse (reset waves licenses, de-authorize the machine through PA) but with iLok who knows. I don't recall that they can offer ZDT or TLC on machines.

[Bob Olhsson]

A couple developers have said the iLok 2 is a lot less likely to be compromised than machine authorization so they are sticking with it.

It sucks that we need copy protection but developers need to get paid. It's too bad we don't have it for music.

[john1192]

Originally Posted by Bob Olhsson

A couple developers have said the iLok 2 is a lot less likely to be compromised than machine authorization so they are sticking with it.

It sucks that we need copy protection but developers need to get paid. It's too bad we don't have it for music.

brillant ... iLok for music .. !!!

[take77]

Thanks for keeping it on point. Me stating the obvious doesn't really contribute to the discussion.

Right now it's fair to say it's the most reliable method of protection for the vendor as PT11+ and others like Slate Digital remain protected.
It also allows the user to have PT on as many machines they would like and sell their system legitimately if the need be.
Meaning there is no way to activate PT on your system and then sell it while having continued use.

I'm also considering a subscription to Slate Digital. That is also iLok protected. No complaint as I completely respect Steven's products.
So until everyone drops that method of protection, iLok is the "part" in our "plugin party" among third party vendors
Protected privilege to rock with all kinds of cool plugins.

Slate Digital, for example, offers access to every single Slate D plugin for one fair priced sub and will send you a free iLok if you don't already have an iLok account.

The iLok is the "key" that starts our rock boxes! And I like the way it lights up

Ladies & Gentleman start your rock boxes!

[seanbil]

Originally Posted by take77

The iLok is the "key" that starts our rock boxes! And I like the way it lights up

I also like the blue LED. Though I wish it could do more than just show us that it's still alive... like maybe blink to the beat of a song or change color based on its mood.