The information in this article applies to:

• SONAR 5 (all versions) and later
• SONAR Power Studio

Please note that though the information in this article is still relevant, 64-bit applications have been around for some time, and are typically the norm for any processing-heavy applications. Virtually all audio hardware today is compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of SONAR.

How will SONAR users benefit from 64-bit technology?

SONAR x64 Edition allows access to (theoretically) 16 exabytes of RAM, well beyond the current 4 GB limit offered by today's 32-bit applications. This provides users with virtually unlimited potential for working with RAM intensive projects that make extensive use of samplers and numerous audio loops and tracks.

SONAR x64 Edition provides users with the ability to load large sample banks, libraries, and audio clips into RAM, thereby eliminating the latency introduced by disk streaming.

SONAR x64 Edition sees CPU performance benefits from the increased number of internal registers included with x64 processors.

What do I need to get started with SONAR x64 Edition?

• A workstation equipped with an Intel processor with EM64™ technology, such as a Xeon™ "Nocona" processor; or an AMD processor from the Athlon 64 processor family. Note: SONAR x64 Edition is not compatible with Itanium™ based systems.
• Windows Vista x64 or Windows 7 x64. Retail copies of Windows include both 32 bit and 64 bit versions.
• 64-bit audio and video drivers (see the next question).

What if my favorite plug-in manufacturer does not provide 64-bit versions?

This is where SONAR's BitBridge™ comes in. BitBridge enables the use of 32-bit VST effects and instruments in SONAR's 64-bit environment. BitBridge technology extends the viability and use of your favorite VST plug-ins; ensures future compatibility of freeware, even for the most obscure, independently developed shareware plug-ins.

The Technology Preview did not support control surfaces. Does SONAR x64 Edition?

Yes. SONAR x64 Edition supports the following control surfaces:

• Mackie Universal.
• Red Rover
• SAC 2K
• Motormix
• Generic Surface
• Joystick Panner
• More Coming!

Please note that if the control surface connects to your system via USB or FireWire it will need 64-bit drivers. This is not the case if it connects via MIDI.

What features are not supported in SONAR x64 Edition at this time?

• ReWire support for 32-bit clients like Project 5 V2, Reason 2, and Fruity Loops
• 32-bit DirectX plug-ins
• DreamStation DXi2
• VSTi MIDI Output
• MPEX time/pitch stretching. A 64-bit library is not available for the MPEX time/pitch stretching algorithm, so this feature is not supported in SONAR x64. SONAR's internal time/pitch stretching will be used instead. You can also any AudioSnap features, such as Slip-Stretching as an alternative.
• Apple has yet to release QuickTime for Windows x64, so QuickTime import/export is not yet supported. Note: MPG 1 movie files can be imported.