NAMM 2025: Avid’s Pro Tools Previews and New Product Highlights

 

Kerry and I had the privilege of attending the NAMM Show 2025 in Anaheim, California, and it delivered another wave of innovation that’s set to redefine the music production landscape.

From cutting-edge AI tools to state-of-the-art hardware, the latest previews and announcements offer a glimpse into the future of audio technology. Whether you’re a Pro Tools power user, a fan of analog warmth, or an immersive audio enthusiast, this year’s lineup has something to ignite your creativity.

Dive into the highlights, as we explore groundbreaking features like Avid’s AI-driven tools, game-changing studio gear, and next-level solutions from the biggest names in the industry. This is the evolution of sound—don’t miss a beat! 

Avid Unveils Exciting Previews at NAMM 2025 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Avid consistently uses industry shows like NAMM, AES, and NAB to showcase upcoming features in Pro Tools. This year’s NAMM Show 2025 offered exciting previews of potential future updates. Unlike product announcements, these previews don’t come with fixed timelines, but they give a glimpse of what’s to come. Here’s a roundup of the latest innovations Avid is showcasing this year. 

Pro Tools Speech-to-Text 

One of the standout features previewed is the Pro Tools Speech-to-Text functionality. This tool scans audio files in a session for speech or lyric data, which is then displayed as text alongside associated clips on the tracks. This innovation makes navigating sessions faster and locating specific vocal takes easier. The text dynamically follows edits made to clips, and users can search speech data across the session through a dedicated transcript window. 

Additionally, leveraging AI technology from Avid’s Media Composer, the text transcription will support 22 languages, enabling seamless multi-language workflows. 

New ARA AI Plugin Support 

Editing vocals and dialogue can be tedious, but Avid is addressing this with the introduction of DynAssist, an ARA AI-powered plugin. DynAssist significantly speeds up vocal editing by automating tasks such as: 

• Vocal level rides, replacing manual automation passes. 

• Content-aware gating, which minimizes interference with desired material. 

• Breath and de-essing processing, streamlining post-production workflows. 

Dreamtonics Synthesizer V: The Virtual Vocalist 

Another remarkable development is the Dreamtonics Synthesizer V, a virtual vocalist that brings lyrics to life. By entering MIDI notes and writing lyrics, Synthesizer V generates a sung performance. With several AI-powered vocal styles and multi-language support, this tool delivers impressive results tailored to a variety of genres. 

MIDI Enhancements in Pro Tools 

Avid continues to improve MIDI workflows with the following enhancements: 

• Drag-and-Drop Support for AAX Plugins
  Users can now drag multiple clips from the Pro Tools timeline into an AAX sampler or instrument plugin, simplifying workflows like assigning drum samples to pads. 

• MIDI Operations in the MIDI Editor
  Previously available only in Event Operations, MIDI editing functionalities are now integrated directly into the MIDI Editor, offering an intuitive and faster user experience. 

• Customizable MIDI Editor Views
  This new feature allows users to focus on specific notes by displaying only selected rows in the keyboard view. Any notes recorded outside the predefined range can either be hidden or discarded based on user preferences. 

Drop us a line to learn more about Avid at NAMM 2025 

 

And now, let’s move on to the non-Avid news from the NAMM Show:

Apogee Symphony Studio Series: Expanding High-Fidelity Audio

Apogee has introduced the Symphony Studio Series, a lineup of USB-C audio interfaces designed for high-fidelity recording and immersive audio workflows. Available in configurations of 2×12, 8×8, and 8×16, these interfaces bring legendary Apogee sound to creators at various levels. 

Highlights include: 

• Speaker Calibration: Precise calibration with input DSP for polished recordings. 

• Immersive Audio: The 8×16 model supports a 9.1.6 surround sound setup, ideal for Dolby Atmos and Auro-3D productions. 

• Flexibility: Perfect for demanding projects, whether in personal studios or professional settings. 

Explore more about the Symphony Studio Series here. 

Tascam Studio Bridge: Analog Meets Digital 

The Tascam Studio Bridge combines the analog warmth of the iconic Studer A800 24-track recorder with modern digital functionality. Acting as a bridge between analog consoles and digital recording devices, this unit excels in both DAW and DAWless workflows. 

Key features include: 

• 24-track WAV recording at 24-bit/48 kHz on a 512GB SD card (37 minutes of recording time). 

• MIDI Integration: Supports programmable MIDI click, metronome, MIDI Time Code, and more. 
• HUI Pro Tools Protocol: Ensures compatibility with Pro Tools and other DAWs. 

Pair the Studio Bridge with the Audient ASP4816-SE analog console for a hybrid workflow that offers analog summing and DAW integration. The ASP4816-SE features 48 input channels, 16 Audient Class-A mic preamps, and a stereo bus compressor, delivering premium analog performance. 

With this combo you get a classic analogue to analogue recording chain that can be routed back into the in-line inputs from your DAW outputs for the best of both worlds for CAD$26,000. 

Learn more about the Tascam Studio Bridge.
Learn more about the Audient ASP4816-SE 

Black Lion Audio PBR Patchbays 

Black Lion Audio has introduced two new high-end patchbays for professional routing solutions: 

• PBR TRS3-LIT: A 48-point patchbay with customizable LED displays and 96 gold-plated TRS connectors. 

• PBR TT-LIT: A 96-point TT patchbay with 12 DB25 rear connectors and LED customization for demanding studio setups. 

Both models are built for maximum signal clarity and connectivity.
More details on Black Lion PBR patch bays here. 

Warm Audio WA-44 Ribbon Microphone 

Warm Audio continues its homage to vintage gear with the WA-44 ribbon mic, inspired by the legendary RCA 44BX ribbon microphones of the 1930s. Known for its warm and vintage tones, the WA-44 excels at capturing loud audio sources, making it a versatile choice for any studio. 

Discover the WA-44. 

Native Instruments Expands NKS Ecosystem 

At NAMM 2025, Native Instruments launched its Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Hardware Partner Program, making its ecosystem more accessible to music producers. Major brands like Akai Professional, Novation, M-Audio and Korg are now adopting the NKS system, enabling seamless integration with over 2,000 NKS-compatible instruments and effects from 250+ brands. 

“This expansion highlights the impact of collaboration,” says Simon Cross, Chief Product Officer at Native Instruments. “It marks an important milestone in our mission to provide musicians with an open, connected platform, making professional-grade tools, instruments, and technology more accessible to creators everywhere.” 

Learn more about the NKS Hardware Partner Program 

Focal Utopia Mains: Professional Soffit-Mount Speakers 

Focal has unveiled its first soffit-mount speakers, the Utopia Main 112 and Utopia Main 212. These models feature advanced driver technology and external power amplifiers, delivering unparalleled performance for professional studios. 

Specs: 

• UM 212: Dual 13″ woofers, two 5″ mid-range drivers, and a 1.5″ tweeter. 

• UM 112: Single 13″ woofer, one 5″ mid-range driver, and a 1.5″ tweeter. 

• Frequency Response: 28 Hz to 40 kHz (@ -3 dB). 

• Max SPL: 123 dB (UM 212), 120 dB (UM 112). 

Read more about the Utopia Main. 

Audio-Technica BP3600: Immersive Atmos Microphone 

Although not at NAMM 2025, the Audio-Technica BP3600 garnered significant attention. This immersive Atmos microphone captures stable, 3D soundscapes for use in sports, films, concerts, and more. It opens new possibilities for creating multi-channel sound effects libraries. 

Learn about the BP3600. 

Conclusion 

NAMM 2025 proved to be a treasure trove of innovative products and exciting previews for audio professionals. From Avid’s AI advancements to groundbreaking hardware like the Tascam Studio Bridge and Focal Utopia Mains, the future of music production looks brighter than ever. These updates represent a fusion of cutting-edge technology and timeless audio principles, ensuring creators have the tools they need to innovate and inspire.