I have spent quite a bit of time reading on this forum about what computer to use. At first I wanted a laptop, but after reading I have changed my mind to a desktop. I somewhat wanted it to be portable, but I have an area that could be built into a small studio (9x14) so I could set up something permenant there. I have also decided to buy quality parts and put it together myself. While I know there is much discussion about using a MAC or Windows based system I believe I want to stay with the Windows format 64 bit. I have not decided on an OS yet either. I'm thinking Windows 7 right now. I have been inside a few computers before to replace a drive or add RAM so I'm sure I have the ability to assemble the parts. What I'm lacking is the knowledge to know what parts to buy to put in it. I plan to use an interface to get the audio to the computer, so do I still need an awesome audio card? I know I want USB 2.0 and firewire inputs. I would like the ability to do some video editing, so a decent (video?) card will be needed for this, also I want the capability to use at least two monitors. I want at least 8GB of RAM. Audio may not need this much, but I know from experience that video takes alot of RAM. I understand what the motherboard is, but do not understand if this comes with an operating system? From what I have read I have decided an ASUS. Or do I have to purchase that seperatly? What about the power supply? How big? I know I want it quiet. I want a lot of hard drive space. 1T would be nice, but may not be able to swing that much $ after building the rest of the computer. I will need a CD burner to get the music off of the computer to. I have not decided on any software yet, but this is another discussion entirely and I have already read a couple threads on this very topic.
I am not trying to stirr the pot on what the "best" hardware is to put into a computer. I am simply asking for what, specifically, in the your opinion can I use to build a quality computer for recording?
Side bar question.
What are plug-in's ,refering to the audio software? Are these downloaded or purchased on a disk?
Thanks for any advice you may have. Sorry about the rambling.
I am not trying to stirr the pot on what the "best" hardware is to put into a computer. I am simply asking for what, specifically, in the your opinion can I use to build a quality computer for recording?
Side bar question.
What are plug-in's ,refering to the audio software? Are these downloaded or purchased on a disk?
Thanks for any advice you may have. Sorry about the rambling.