Windows 7 PC & Pro Tools 9

[piso3studios]

Hi Everyone,

This is my first post and I was looking to get some advice. I've worked with Steinberg Cubase for the last 4-5 years, and it's been great for me. However, compatibility issues (working with other studios) have motivated me to make the change to Pro Tools.

I never gave in because I'm a PC user and like having a variety of interfaces to choose from, so now that Pro Tools 9 completely open and enjoys good W7 support I'm gonna take the leap.

My main concern however is with system compatibility. I'm planning on working with a MOTU MK3, using the latest 424 PCI-E card. My PC specs are as follows:

OS: Windows 7 Ultimate 64bit
CPU: Intel Core i7 920
RAM: 6GB (soon to be upgraded to 12GB)
HDD: 2x WD 500GB 7200 RPM
Graphics: ATI HD 4870

I've seen multiple threads, big and small, on the forum regarding custom build compatibility, however, my main concern is with my Video Card.

According to PT9 Specs, ATI Cards are not supported with W7. I know that what is listed as "compatible" is pretty bare and I can guess that it's partly insurance for AVID in case something goes wrong with any system config that has not been thoroughly tested.

So bottom line, is PT9 compatible with ATI Graphics cards (and to be more specific, the HD 4000 line)?

I would really appreciate any answers on this, as I'm excited to get started with Pro Tools as quickly as I can!

Thanks everyone!

-piso3studios

[promixr]

Compatible video cards are pretty inexpensive now- and easy to install- why not just replace the video card?

[TOM@METRO]

I run 3 ATI HD 5400 series cards with no issues.

[WorshipMaestro]

ATI 5850 and an AMD 6 core processor=hums right along, no issues.

[piso3studios]

Originally Posted by promixr

Compatible video cards are pretty inexpensive now- and easy to install- why not just replace the video card?

Yeah, it's definitely an option, but just wanted to avoid it if possible. The HD 4870 is pretty solid and makes no sense in it going to waste unless it's absolutely needed.

It's good to know there are others running ATI without any problems. If anybody else is in the same boat, keep the responses coming :)

Thanks guys!

[Bob Olhsson]

"Not supported" generally means there may be problems in some configurations so it wouldn't be a good idea if you were buying a bunch of new systems for a big facility.

I wouldn't buy a new video card unless I was actually having some kind of a problem. Most of the things that are issues for Pro Tools are also issues for other DAWs.

[daeron80]

I'm using an ATI HD 4000 series card on a Win7 machine with PT9. My problems have been minor and few in number. Others who have different cards are having the same issues, too, so I doubt the card is to blame. I think it's full compatible, just untested by Avid.

[bootybandit]

I'm on ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4650 (laptop).......no graphical issues!