Super Computer n00b, Needs Help

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Bguzaldo

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I'm looking to upgrade my computer. I've begun buying lots of Plugins that my processor is not on good terms with. I'm using practically all of my DSP on just one plugin alone, freezing my computer for awhile. I'm using a Laptop, a sony vaio VGN-FS740/w to be exact for anyone who is curious. But I'm looking to get an entirely new computer (I ran PC wizard and can't go much higher on RAM). I'm looking for something with about 2-4 GB of RAM, a processor over 2.0GHz(the faster the better) I have a 500 GB external Hard drive so I'm ok for memory with that. I need at least 2 firewire ports but I can always just get a PCI card. If possible I'd like to spend no more than $400 I don't know if I'm being terribly cheap or not so let me know. You might say "well you know exactly what you want. GO GET IT! DUH!" But the problem is I don't know what fancy shmancy stuff I'm gonna be sauved into getting from a lousy best buy rep. I just need the bare essentials. I just need to be able to install Cubase and iTunes(to convert from WAV to MP3). It will be used strictly for recording and mixing music, NOTHING ELSE. I don't need the ultimate DVD entertainment Experience or a Gamer's Paradise graphics card. Just a simple powerhouse computer for Recording Music.

Thanks for your Time, Sorry it was a bit lengthy, PLEASE HELP:confused:

-Barrett
 
Does it have to be a laptop? The reason I am asking you this is because you can definitely get a more powerful desktop than a laptop.
 
Oh god! Sorry I forgot to mention. I DEFINITELY don't want it to be a laptop. I'm looking for a desktop. Thanks and sorry for leavin that out

-Barrett
 
$400 for a high-end laptop??
Get real and start saving your pennies, it's gonna take 3-5 times that.
(Unless you want to spend everything and then throw it against the wall repeatedly when it chokes or refuses to work with your interface or software.)

You DO know you're also going to need an external sound interface? Those built-ins have 40cents worth of chips in 'em and are useless.
Here's a good guide and tested suggestions: http://www.tweakheadz.com/soundcards_for_the_home_studio.htm

"I need at least 2 firewire ports but I can always just get a PCI card."
Uh, no... you can't put a PCI card in a laptop. PCMCIA or Expresscard yes, but PCI no....

"I just need the bare essentials."
Not in a laptop. And not for recording; we're shoving a LOT of data around and you need something that can handle the load.
Bare essentials = Not suitable or NOT WORKING in audio and video...

Plus we have no idea what continent you're on (the Internet is worldwide, kids) We can suggest brands all day but you may not be able to buy them where you are...

Until you can come back with more concrete suggestions, you should look at the laptops THAT WORK put out by audio-specialist companies and see what they have under the hood. That should give you ideas as to what you really need...
http://www.adkproaudio.com/laptop2.cfm
 
Check the post above sorry, I just posted it I AM LOOKING FOR A DESKTOP! I'm in the states.

Sorry once again.
-Barrett
 
Hahaha, I am a n00b but I wouldn't be asking for a nice laptop for 400 bucks! I got mine new for 1300 about 4 years ago and I'm about ready to throw that against the wall repeatedly! Sorry for all the confusion. Mainly I'm looking for a way so sift through the bullshit I WON'T be needing for my new computer. I don't know what software or requirements it needs for just the task of just installing my software, my plugins and my drivers for my interface. I don't need like a DVD burner or any entertainment packages, Gaming graphic cards, microsoft office programs, or anything like that.

Sorry I was unclear.

Thanks
-Barrett
 
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400 bucks is a pretty tight budget for a decent audio PC even in this day and age.

My suggestion would be to check out Dell Vostro. Not a bad PC you can get them new for a little over your budget, you might be able to get a reconditioned tower for around $400 bucks.
 
Bristol Posse said:
400 bucks is a pretty tight budget for a decent audio PC even in this day and age.

My suggestion would be to check out Dell Vostro. Not a bad PC you can get them new for a little over your budget, you might be able to get a reconditioned tower for around $400 bucks.
Click to expand...

Cool I'll check it out

Thanks
-Barrett
 
Again then, look at the desktop units by audio specific places like adkproaudio.com (there are plenty others) and see what they have under the hood.

Be REAL carefull getting bargain-basement desktops, too.... you need QUALITY components to handle the vast amount of data we push.

(and be sure NOT to buy anything that doesn't have TI-chip'ed firewire on board...)
 
If you build it yourself, you could probably get a decent rig for around $400, but you'd be cutting it pretty close. Though even if you're building it yourself, you may need to canibalize some old computers to save a few pennies. (i.e. recycle old cases, mouse, keyboard, possibly even a power supply, etc.)
 
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