With the introduction of the first Macs with M1 processors in late 2020, Apple has started the transition from Intel x86-64 processors to their own custom ARM processors. M1 processors - aka “Apple Silicon” - are currently used in latest-generation MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac Mini and iMac models. Together with the new hardware, Apple introduced a new version of macOS (v11.3 - Big Sur) which includes Rosetta 2 – a software which permits many applications compiled exclusively for execution on x86-64-based processors to be translated for execution on Apple ARM processors.
Studio One 5.4 is the first version of Studio One to provide native support for Apple M1 (ARM-based) computers. Its code has been optimized for M1 Macs while still being fully compatible with Intel-based Apple computers. The following FAQ will help you understand the differences between Rosetta 2 and native application support and what it means for Studio One users.
Can I use all of my plug-ins and virtual instruments with Studio One in native mode?
No. Native Apple Silicon versions of plug-ins and virtual instruments are required, except for Audio Units plugins and virtual instruments which may run in their own Rosetta mode provided by the operating system. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s website for any information regarding native Apple Silicon support and available updates.
Is Studio One compatible with M1 Macs?
Yes. Studio One has been compatible with M1 Macs since version 5.2 (introduced in March, 2021) using
Rosetta mode.
When will Studio One provide native support for M1 Macs?
Native support for M1 Macs is available in Studio One 5.4 and newer versions.
What’s a “Universal Binary”?
A Universal Binary application provides native and Rosetta compatibility within a single application binary.
Instead of having to install multiple versions for these two environments, this application allows you to switch between the two modes.
How do I switch between native mode and Rosetta mode?
Locate the Studio One application file in Finder. Then press Cmd+I on the keyboard to show the application information window. Enable or disable the checkbox for “Open using Rosetta”. You need to restart Studio One to apply the change.
What’s the advantage of using Studio One in native mode?
Running Studio One in native mode improves CPU performance by taking advantage of the specific ARM
instruction set and multiprocessing optimizations not available in Rosetta mode. It also allows you to run native Apple Silicon versions of third-party plug-ins and instruments which in turn may offer improved performance.
Can I use all of my external hardware devices with Studio One in native mode?
Yes. However, you may want to check for available updates for your hardware and drivers and make sure
they’re compatible as well (in either native or Rosetta mode).
Will PreSonus provide a wrapper for plug-ins compiled for Intel?
No. Apple provides a wrapper for Audio Units plug-ins and instruments. VST2 and VST3 plug-ins require
updated native Apple Silicon versions.
What about Melodyne?
As of May 4 2022, Apple Silicon Melodyne is now available in a new update, Melodyne 5.2. See the link below for more details.
https://www.celemony.com/en/melodyne52?fbclid=IwAR0dgHbOguRvbrAAWcHclOiPrHIcXTRpHbampNmmVKoV6GFigk-YkL1OcrE
What about compatibility with other PreSonus software and hardware?
Together with the release of Studio One 5.4, all current PreSonus software, plug-ins and hardware drivers will be updated for native Apple Silicon support, including Universal Control (version 3.6 or later). Exceptions are legacy Firewire products. Make sure to download and install the latest version of all PreSonus software.
Which other compatibility issues should I be aware of?
The following features and components are no longer available in the native Apple Silicon version, either
because they’re discontinued or native updates aren’t planned by the developer: REX file support, Rewire,
SMAART (StudioLive AI mixers), PreSonus Firewire driver. If you’re depending on any of these features or components, you should continue using Studio One in Rosetta
mode.
As a Mac user, do I need to update to Studio One 5.4?
No. If you’ve been using a pre-5.4 version of Studio One and haven’t had any issues with it, you may still
continue to use it. However, in order to benefit from the latest performance and stability improvements,
updating to version 5.4 is highly recommended. You may always go back to a previous version in case you
encounter any problems.