The least expensive way to get into MachFive for new users

[mikehalloran]

As far as I can tell, the least expensive path into MachFive is through the competitive upgrade, aka cross-grade. MOTU has a list of qualifying products here:
https://www.motu.com/store_products/upgrades/machfive

Sweetwater has a slightly different list here:
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MachFive3cg

ESX24 (any version) is one of the many programs that qualifies.

Although LogicPro ($199.99) still includes EXS24. It is also included in Main Stage 2 at $29 (App Store) for those looking to get into MachFive at the most reasonable price.

Except for Academic pricing which many of us wouldn't qualify for (I don't know what it is, anyway), I can't think of a less expensive legitimate way to do this.

If you buy the crossgrade from a reseller, it will include iLok codes and instructions so you are up and running immediately. There will be a card and envelope that you will send in to MOTU to register and then you'll find your serial number in your account at MOTU.com. For a download only product like Main Stage 2, print the first page of the .pdf manual and include it.