VEGAS Pro 23: New Core Engine, Better Color Grading, and Smoother Playback

Building on the performance breakthroughs of VEGAS Pro 21 and 22, the NLE's development team has now officially named its advanced processing architecture the VEGAS Core Engine. And it delivers on quite a lot of new features.

Plenty of new features and capabilities in the v23 release of VEGAS Pro, and we're a bit behind the curve on this one thanks to the distorting effect of IBC. So, diving straight in...

Peak Playback Performance 

That new VEGAS Core Engine introduces DirectX-based GPU acceleration for color grading and a redesigned DX-based image pool for faster frame transfers. These should eliminate copy steps and enable what the company refers to as 'butter-smooth editing', even in complex multi-track projects. 

Tightly Integrated Tools for Grading 

A reimagined Color Grading Panel now functions as a dockable window for completely flexible workspace layouts. The software has been designed to enable single-screen workflows with an always-accessible timeline that provides direct access to all important tools and functions. Enhanced controls, ACES 1.3 support, and new Samsung Log & Apple Log camera LUTs help ensure pro-grade color reproduction even with footage from mobile devices. 

Integrated Timeline Keyframe Animation 

Event and track FX (OFX) envelopes (released in beta) enable users to work directly in the timeline with familiar editing techniques that provide precise and efficient effect animation. Creators can set and adjust animation keyframes and control the transitions between keyframes with in-place envelopes and Bézier curves to ensure smooth animation. 

Other Key New Features

• Modernized User Interface: Updated colors, fonts, icons, and layout for a cleaner, more contemporary workspace.
• Expanded Window Docking Options: Docking areas on all four sides of the application window give editors flexibility to design custom workspaces. Whether for color grading, social media delivery, effects workflows, or other unique layouts, the user can streamline their creative processes and adapt the interface to specific needs.
• Use-Case–Based Render Workflow: A streamlined, use-case-oriented layout that presents all the categories beginners need. Enhanced filters, improved navigation, and favorites make it easy to select the right export/render options.
• modernEQ Audio Processing: Modern Equalizer provides full VST3 integration for precise tone shaping. Apply at track, event, and bus levels on the timeline or mixer to ensure pristine control at any stage of the audio signal flow.
• Enhanced File Management: Visual indicators in the Unified Explorer show which files are already used in the project.
• Enhanced trial experience: In line with practice elsewhere, the VEGAS Pro 23 trial supports real-project evaluation. Exports are 720p with balanced audio, the former two-minute project cap is removed, and Text-to-Speech/Speech-to-Text are available on a limited basis.

Pricing and Availability

VEGAS Pro 23 and VEGAS Pro Suite 23 (which adds SOUND FORGE Pro, ACID Pro, the Vintage Effects Suite, and Studio Box Mk II) start at $19.99 and $24.99 a month respectively. Annual subs takes 40% off that cost, while they are also available for a one-off lifetime payment of $219 and $269.