computer performance?

  • Thread starter Thread starter KBlair
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KBlair

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OK, I've got an AMD Athlon 800MHz, 512MB ram, and dual 80GB hard drives. SoundBlaster Live 5.1. Running Cubase LE (the version that comes with the Aardvark Direct Pro Q10).

I am experiencing clicks, pops and static during playback after about 6 audio tracks (no plugins, effect, eq etc) or on a single track after about 4 plugins with EQ.

We are building a new computer for the Pro Q10 but I was wondering if what I'm seeing is normal? I'm using the dxProject drivers for the 5.1.
 
Sorry, I meant kX drivers, not dx. I will look at the buffers though, thanks.
 
May be an idea to see what your cpu utilization is. Either use the perormance view within Cubase or the performance monitor that is within windows (ctrl+alt+delete - etc). 800khz processor is not really enough processing power. I use a 2.4 P4 and I reach the systems limit at around 30 tracks (all with plugins though).
If cpu is good, make sure your pc is setup for optimum performance. If nothing is running on your pc, you should have zero cpu utilization.
Also, as crankz1 said, it may be your soundcard drivers. Try each driver available to you. Might also want to look into a better soundcard.
I hope this goes towards helping you...
Lee123
 
Thanks Lee, I've done that. Running 6 tracks with some EQ and no plugin is bumping around 45-50%. I believe it's a memory thing. Mem utilization stays below 256MB regardless of how much stuff I have loaded, so I think that one of my DIMMs is not working properly.

I've got an Aardvark Pro Q10, but I was hoping to use this PC for a couple more months before I had to build nother one (a real one). Spending all our money on sound treatment right now.
 
I guess you can't rule out it being a memory issue, but I think you would be seeing serious windows errors if you did.
45-50% cpu utilixation is not a good sign though. Anything over 50% and you will start to see pops etc in your playback.
I would still look into a faster cpu and a faster soundcard. There may well be another underlying issue but your current system will certainly limit you as far as what you will be able to do in the future.
Try going through the computer setup forum and really get your pc to a bare bones state, otherwise an upgrade may be the way to go.
Hope this helps
Lee123
 
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