It seems that I overestimated my understanding of Pro Tools! I am used to using a versatile freeware DAW and seeing clients at the studio heavily reliant on FL Studio for different aspects of recording. So I believed that progressing to PT12 would be a breeze, but I soon learned that there is a ton of technology "under the hood" of this program; much more than meets the eye. A very positive discovery that replaces mystery with capabilities that defy expectation.
I am a plugin addict, and have heard great things about the "stock" plugins that are strikingly user-friendly. The lesson about plugins, which addressed emulations, AudioSuite, and the major brands, really set the pace for the upcoming chapters. The new material is a welcome challenge!