Computer Optimization

[Spillenger]

I use Sonar 3.1 on my computer (see my DAW set-up at bottom). I regularly defragment my hard drive and run Norton Windows Doctor. But I am concerned that Sonar is running at less than peak efficiency (it hangs up or takes a while to respond to commands sometimes).

What steps should I take to make my computer and Sonar get along better?

I use this computer for word-processing, Internet and email, and various music-related programs (Band-in-a-Box, for example, and MusicMatch).

Should I get an external hard drive and put my Sonar program and all my Sonar media on that drive? If so, what HD is recommended?

Thanks.

Paul S.

[Tartan_Keyboard]

Have u got maximum ram? it can somtimes help

[Spillenger]

oops -- forgot to post my system info. Here it is:

My system:

Dell Pentium 4 (Dimension 4600) running at 3.06 GHz, with hyperthreading technology; 1 gig RAM; 120-gig HD; Windows XP Home 5.1

Sound Cards: Soundblaster Audigy 2 for Midi; Aardvark DirectPro LX6 for audio

Mackie Micro Series 1202 12-channel mic/line mixer; Sonar 3.1.1 SE; Tapco monitors

Mics: AKG C1000S condenser; Shure SM57; Shure SM 58; Shure Beta 57S supercardioid dynamic

I/O – mixer main outs to speakers; mixer tape outs to LX6 ins; LX6 outs to mixer line ins.

[aaroncomp]

Take a look here - http://www.musicxp.net/

Some pretty good tips.


Also, if you decide on getting a second HDD, I see no reason it needs to be external.

[mbouteneff]

I agree with Aaroncomp, why get an external drive? Your system may actually move faster if you install one internally. It's recommend that you host all operating software on one drive, and all your content/files on another (i.e. Sonar on drive c: and your Sonar project files on drive d/e/f/whatever).

[Spillenger]

Any recommendations on an internal hard drive? Thanks.