The wait for the most powerful — and the most expensive — macOS computer ever just ended. Apple began taking orders for the 2019 Mac Pro this morning, after announcing the workstation that boasts a 28-core processor way back in June.
The companion 32-inch Pro Display XDR went up for sale today, too, also at a price that only professionals can afford.
A long-overdue uber-Mac
Since Apple’s last computer designed for video and audio professionals was the “trash can” Mac Pro from 2013, some had accused the company of forgetting a core audience. The 2019 model is Cupertino’s response.
This new Mac Pro sports a 28-core Intel Xeon processor, and there’s room for up to 1.5 TB of RAM.
It’s wrapped in a stainless steel frame that’s designed for modularity. Eight PCI expansion slots, a pair of Thunderbolt 3 ports, two USB-A ports and an audio jack are included.
Apple built in three massive fans. Distinctive holes in the new Mac Pro’s aluminum casing help with cooling airflow and give it the “cheese grater” design that became something of a meme this summer.
2019 Mac Pro really is for professionals
The new Mac Pro starts at $5,999, a price that drew complaints from some potential buyers. However, these people likely didn’t understand that this is deliberately a niche device. It’s not a desktop — it’s a workstation.
While a MacBook Pro is a souped-up, consumer-grade laptop for those who want a bit more power, Apple’s latest offering is only for those who do high-end work, including professional video and audio editing. As such, its cost is typical for similar workstations from other companies.
And the Pro Display XDR, too
Back in June, when Apple unveiled the Mac Pro, it took the wraps off an equally top-tier monitor, the Pro Display XDR. And it too is now available.
This sports a 32-inch Retina 6K screen. It measures 40% larger than the iMac 5K display, with 10-bit color and a super-wide viewing angle.
It costs $4,999. That’s also typical for such large, ultra-high-resolution displays. The optional Pro Display XDR stand costs an additional $999.
Both the 2019 Mac Pro and the Pro Display XDR are on the Apple Store now. Anyone ready to produce a blockbuster movie or Grammy-winning album can put in an order today.
