Blogcritics: Comments on iLife, is it all worth it?

Comment by Jim Carruthers

Mon, 23 Feb 2004 12:48:08 EST

I don't have iLife because I don't have a G4, and continue to use the older versions of iTunes, iMovie, iPhoto and iLikeIke. However, given that the bundle is cheaper than any single third party application (for example Soundjam which was the precursor to iTunes), then this carping about the price is silly. Each of the apps is worth the price, so to get them as a bundle is a tremendous bargain. If you think Garageband isn't worth the price, try buying Cubase, Logic or Protools, each of which will be much more complicated to use and many times more expensive.

Comment by wKen

Mon, 23 Feb 2004 12:42:43 EST

iTunes is still a free download, so you don't need to purchase iLife in order to get the most recent version. I don't know of any similar PC programs that cost so little and work so well. A simple photo editing program from Microsoft will cost as much as the entire iLife package. Besides, the software comes bundled free with all new Apple computers, and upgrades are generally free or at a reduced price. I think that Apple's plan is to keep the program's integrated, for better performance. An iDVD user is likely to have first used iMovie to create the film to be burned, and Garageband is a great way to add original music to the images. Bundling the software makes sure that each component stays current. I haven't used Garageband, but those that I've spoken to who have say it is a lot of fun, and relatively easy to figure out. Websites, such as MacJams are springing up, for people to share their musical creations. Similar sequencing or looping software costs more than the entire iLife bundle, so it seems like a bargain to me. Nobody has to use any of this stuff, but the price is quite reasonable, and the results are very good for your average person, who isn't a professional filmmaker, musician or photographer.

Comment by Tom

Mon, 23 Feb 2004 12:05:05 EST

I bought the pack with my educatoin discount. It was only $29. I think its rediculous to be required to purchase (it comes with a new computer) this program if all you need is iPhoto or iTunes. I don't use Garage band, or iMove or iDvd. You should be able to buy the stuff Al La Carte.