rpontius wrote:I'm starting from scratch. Haven't installed anything yet.
Ok, that makes things a little easier.
rpontius wrote:Just trying to figure out if I install Total Studio Max first then run the upgrades or if there is intelligence there to know what upgrades I have coming. Like a sodtware update from Microsoft Update if you will.
No, there is no automated upgrade that will happen. Everything relies on the Serial Numbers based on your product purchase. For example, installing the latest version of AT4 is the same for everyone but their serial number will unlock whatever they have paid for. In your case, you will need to authorise your Dimebag Darrell serial number separately with the Manager along with the TSMAX serial. This will unlock all the content from AT4MAX plus the Dimebag gear. You will not need to download anything additionally. This will work in similar fashion for anything extra you have purchased for T-RackS.
With regards to anything based on sample content (SampleTank, Syntronik, Miroslav 2 etc) the initial install of the app is the same for everyone. However, your serial numbers will give you access to various levels of sample content to be downloaded from your User Area. For example, someone with the standard version of SampleTank will see less content files to download than someone that has purchased the MAX version.
So, in answer to your original question...
rpontius wrote:is the install process smart enough on IK Multimedia's end to know what I have been purchasing?
...not the install process itself, but your serial numbers are the smart things.
In essence, using the serial number shown in your User Area for Total Studio Max in the Authorisation Manager will unlock ALL products included in that software bundle. Anything additional you have purchased on top of that will need to be authorised separately.
I would suggest that, should you have any problems with the install you could open a ticket with official IK Support here
https://www.ikmultimedia.com/contact-support/mi/ as they will have access to your account (which us Mods don't) and will be able to advise you on any specific issue you may have.
Hope that helps.