Have Another Apple

Macheist has released, promoted and closed their second annual bundle of Mac OS programs. Macheist is a unique package that compiles $500 worth of software for only $49 USD. The catch is however is that there is only 15 days to decide you wish to purchase the bundle - after that, you’re back to the $500. This year, the bundle included the following:

So, the owner of Another Pointless Blog and myself decided to buy the two-user bundle pack for a look at what all this fuss is about. First, we encountered Billing problems alongside many other customers in the last 5 hours. After a short time the staff responded (mind you, about 10 minutes before the deal closed) and announced that there would be additional time for users who encountered billing problems to buy the bundle. More after the jump…

The bundle was then successfully purchases and we received our product keys - so we’ll get straight into the review. Please be aware that I have only used some of the programs listed, if you have used the rest, please comment.

Pixelmator has impressed me, especially with it’s sleek interface. Adobe could definitely look into Pixelmator to increase their own interface. After a quick look around, all features seem to work the exact same way Photoshop does. The only feature I am yet to find is “blending options” - however it could simply be in a different spot, as I have not had an in-depth enough look around to rule that feature out completely.

1Password is very useful - but only if you use Safari and not Firefox. Firefox already has a built in keychain that is very useful, and I still prefer it over 1Password. The latter however has ability for more programs rather than just the internet.

Awaken really revolutionizes the way you wake up. I tried this the night I bought the bundle and was amazed at how I woke up to my “Recently Added” playlist rather than a constant “buzz” noise. The ability to choose a playlist increases it’s credibility over others - as if I have the playlist with my newest songs, I am not waking up to the same song every day. You also have the option to shuffle.

Appzapper is useful for removing programs and has sound effects to compliment this. Another useful program is Taskpaper, especially for college students and workers with a busy schedule. However, you might just be better with an online calendar with notes such as the built in iCal.

Have not used nor have a use for Vector Designer, SnapProX, CSS Edit, Cha-Ching or CoverSutra. I am yet to try iStopMotion, Tiki Golf or Wingnuts.

So… was it worth it? In this blogger’s opinion - probably not. It’s a bunch of programs that are not exactly needed and there are many freeware alternatives on the internet. However if you were looking at one or even two of the above named programs then it is well worth it, as you are bound to save a lot of money. However - in you, the reader’s opinion, did you think Macheist was worth it and will you buy Macheist ‘09? Remembering of course 43,815 bundles were solved. I would consider it - the money goes to charity ($488,003 this year) and it is saving money. Let’s hope next year’s programs however are of slightly more quality - and maybe bring out a Windows version for ultimate use.