Can Intel-based Macs, specifically the MacBook Pro, run Digidesign Pro Tools LE with an Mbox 2?

For readers who may not be familiar with "Pro Tools LE" and the "Mbox 2", Digidesign summarizes that the Pro Tools LE software allows "you to record, edit, mix, master, and even deliver your finished [audio] product, using the same award-winning Pro Tools technology embraced by audio production professionals around the world." Likewise, the company markets the Mbox 2 hardware as "a next-generation USB-powered audio/MIDI production system . . . Featuring a wide range of connection options, including analog, digital, and MIDI I/O, Mbox 2 delivers professional performance in an incredibly compact package". The hardware and software are sold together.

On February 16, 2006, Digidesign issued a press release that noted the company:

Currently anticipates that in May 2006 it will release versions of Digidesign Pro Tools LE 7 and Pro Tools M-Powered 7 software that are compatible with the new Intel-based MacBook Pro, iMac, [and Mac mini] computers. These new versions of Pro Tools software will enable customers to combine the improved processing power of Intel-based Mac computers with the creative power of Pro Tools.

The new software versions will be separate releases, available as free downloads from the Digidesign website for all current, registered users of Pro Tools LE 7 software (version 7.0 or higher) and any version of Pro Tools M-Powered software. To use the Intel Mac-compatible software, owners of Pro Tools LE 6.9 or earlier software will need to purchase a software upgrade to Pro Tools LE 7.

Digidesign will continue to support Pro Tools LE and Pro Tools M-Powered software on the PowerPC platform as well. Because the MacBook Pro, the iMac ["Core Duo", and Mac mini "Core" do not] offer the PCI, PCI-X, or PCI Express (PCIe) expansion slots required for Pro Tools|HD systems, Digidesign will not release a new version of Pro Tools HD software for these computers.

As promised, on May 31, 2006, Digidesign released Pro Tools LE 7.1.1 for Intel-based Macs like the MacBook Pro. Interestingly, the updated software is Intel-only, rather than a Universal binary capable of running on both PowerPC-based and Intel-based Macs.

As also promised, the update is free of charge for existing registered ProTools LE 7 customers if downloaded (it is also available on CD-ROM for a "nominal charge"). One could wish that other software companies would match the generosity of Digidesign.