Doing a Pro Tools 9 Crossgrade - what do I need?

[Status Flow]

Hello, about 2 years ago I bought an MBox 2 and Pro Tools LE 7.4. I haven't had time for recording for a little while but now I do and I see that my Pro Tools version is outdated. I plan to start recording again and want to update my Pro Tools for as cheaply as possible.

I am a student and I'm looking at the available student discount options. I have money saved up and plan to buy a Macbook Pro, so by going here: http://www.studica.com/us/en/Avid/avid_pro_tools_9.html

I see a few options, I would assume that if I have the original serial number of my Mbox 2 (I also have the original authorization code) that I would be able to get the "Win/Mac Download - Student- Crossgrade from Pro Tools LE" option. However, it says that I need an iLok. What exactly is that? Also, I used Pro Tools for Windows XP, but now plan to install it for Mac, am I good to go (outside of an iLok) or am I missing any pieces for a smooth upgrade?

Thanks for your help in advance

[mix109]

Version 9 uses a dongle for the licence_instead of a serial no like the earlier LE Version use,and requires an ilok.
So you need to set up an free account at ilok,buy an ilok(50$) and then follow the crossgrade procedure,that also requires your MBox serial no.

[TheSon]

Hi, I am intending to do the same thing, I have M-Box2 with PT LE 7.4 and I want the crossgrade to PT9. I have some questions though and would appreciate any answers anyone can offer:

I understand that I will need iLok to run PT9. With PT LE the Mbox2 was the interface and protection. Once the crossgrade is done can i run PT9 without the MBox and just run it with the iLok?

Along the same lines as that question, will the crossgrade include all the features and functionality as a full version purchase, e.g. could i start using my other third party interfaces etc?

Thanks,
Jason.

[nst7]

Yes to both questions.

[MotifMan]

Just don't do it if you have upgraded to Lion. I just did today and now nothing works.

[zedhed]

http://duc.avid.com/showthread.php?t=304602