What does "Normal" cache size mean in playback

[banjo71]

If I have 8 gigaabyte of RAM on my laptop, and I go to disk cache size in PT 12 in Windows 10... default sets it to "normal", but 256, 512, 1G, 2B...etc is optional. I'm going to test it at 3 gigabyte since I have a hard drive that runs at 5400rpm. I'd just like to know what "normal" is.

[Darryl Ramm]

8GB of memory is bare minimum for 64-bit Pro Tools. Maybe for Pro Tools 12 it was the actual minimum spec amount. I'd say more like 16GB minimum is a healthier space. And if you plan to use lots of VIs... who knows. Taking 3GB out of your precious 8 GB is probably not a good idea.

Normal == cache features are partially/largely disabled, does not preload, etc. Lots of discussion on DUC in the past.

Disk cache does not help VI sample load performance, can increase session start up time etc.

The best way to fix a 5400 rpm drive is buy a fast SSD. They are not expensive.

[smurfyou]

Normal means cache size is automatic and scales for the session size and available memory. It is not disabled.