dedicated midi computer for live use

[sathyan]

I find that when I record I am rarely satisfied with the sound built in to my keyboard (Yamaha PSR225GM) so I record the sequence to MIDI and then play it back for audio recording with SoundFonts.

I would like to build a PC using (cheap) previous generation parts for using MIDI soundfonts in a live setting

KB <MIDI> MIDI interface <USB> PC <sound card> amp


What hardware would you recommed? What are the minimum specs that would be usable?
What software is the best choice?

thanks
sathyan

 

[AlChuck]

I think if you use a PC for live performance, especially "using (cheap) previous generation parts," you are just begging for a untimely crash right in the middle of the show...

 

[Jeyan]

Sathyan,
The fact is that old computer parts are expensive than new ones. look for deals on good sites. LIke www.newegg.com you can build a decent computer for 500 dollars with almost all latest stuff. If not go with that dell system they offer for 399 ro 499, it is better than any computer you build with old parts.

 

[sathyan]

I should have been clearer about this. I have old (PIII days) PC parts lying around that I could use for free. I'm interested in what the requirements of a MIDI box would be?

First of all, what operating system?
Linux
BSD
Win 98
Win 2K
WinXP
(If I have to use XP, this idea will be abandoned as a license is expensive but I have unused licenses for the others)

 

[johnnymegabyte]

My setup is :
Dell Pentium I - 100 mhz with 40 Meg RAM
SoundBlaster PCI-128 (using 8 MB soundfonts)
JAZZ++ software for editing ( free at www.jazzware.com )
and
VanBasco Player ( free at www.vanbasco.com ) --- has Pitch and Temp controls, plus karaoke for tele-prompting

JAZZ++ and VanBasco are configured to use GS Midi
The MIDI sound comes out the Line Out, because the SB has an EMU synth on-board

Total cost = $26
PC was free, software was free, sound card was $26 Cdn

And it works all-the-time for three years !!!

I even use the Creative Recorder (came with SB CD) to record MIDI to WAV ... and, you can add backing vocals, 2nd guitar, etc. at the same time ... and then burn WAV to CD .... thus using a CD rather than MIDI ... which can eliminate PC in live situation completely

Consider this the ultimate K.I.S.S. method