Mac set-up advice needed for this computer moron.

[chrisghost]

Right, I'm probably the 10th moron this week asking for set-up advice, thanX to anyone still willing to pen something down.

I've been demo-ing on all kinds of crap multitrackers for the last 10 years. I want to set up something good for a change. I've got all the outboard, non-computer gear, so that's not an issue. But I do need to get the computer gear now and that's where my knowledge heads right off the cliff.

I need my friends to get this PC out of the shitter at least every other month, so they've advised me to get a Mac, because it's more stable etc, I've allready made up my mind on doing that, so that's not an issue either.

I don't have money for the latest new Mac, but I'm sure great records were made on them 5 years ago as well. What second hand Mac's would do (please be really specific, I don't know shit about computers)? Also what are the most common programs used in studio's and what outdated versions of those would I need to run smoothly with my outdated computer?

On top of that I need the soundcard unit to plug into and I've been advised to buy either a MOTU MK-828 version 2, or a Presonus FP-10. Any ideas on that? I was told the Presonus has better Mic amps, which is te big plus. Any better options?

Any advice on budget cuts are welcome for sure, cause I'm struggling here.

ThanX guys.

 

[SonicAlbert]

How much do you have to spend on the Mac? I suggest a new Intel Mac because they run very quiet and are fast.

I've used both MOTU and Presonus gear, and for the Mac I'd lean toward MOTU for your primary interface. I use a couple 2408's, a 24i, and 308 system, which is a PCIe setup. On my laptop I use a MOTU Traveler. The drivers are very good and latency is lower than when I used a Presonus Firebox. I use MOTU's Digital Performer software for my sequencing and recording.

I also use a Digidesign Digi 002R, with the latest version of ProTools. In your case, the Digi 002R would also make a lot of sense, since you can use it with other software.