Upgrading my DAW

  • Thread starter Thread starter 88fingers
  • Start date Start date
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88fingers

Member
Hello guys,
I've been using the same DAW for about 1.5 years now, and am looking to do an upgrade. I'm just in the research phases right now, and unfortunately, a little out of touch with what's going on in the computer world at the moment, so if some of my questions are silly, I apologize. Basically, I'm looking for advice on how best to upgrade my current DAW; I would prefer not to build a new one from scratch, unless the logistics of upgrading are just too outlandish. This is what I have.


  • *ASUS 700X (or 7000X) motherboard
    *Athlon 1.8 gHz processor
    *1 gig ram (Samsung)
    *300 watt fan
    *80 gig seagate drive
    *160 gig WD drive
    *Plextor cd burning drive
    *Delta 1010
    *Acer 15" flat screen LCD monitor

I apologize for not knowing exact models and types of these various components; I'm not a computer expert - my brother helped me build it. It has served me well though, so I trust these various brands.

I mostly record live (I do very little midi/sampling/synths, etc). I run drums through a Mackie 1402 and stereo in them into the Delta 1010, and then run various other instruments (guitar, bass, etc) in as well. I like to record at 96 kzh if at all possible, but occasionally, my DAW doesn't really hold up to that. I use Cubase SE3 when I'm in Windows.

What would be the first logical step(s) for an upgrade? I know that RAM and processors are built differently now, which means I would probably have to buy a new motherboard as well, but would it be possible to keep the motherboard and just upgrade to newer, better RAM and processor? If not, what would be a good step up?

I should probably mention my budget. I bought my current motherboard for $120, the processor for $90, and the RAM for $120, and would like to stay in similar perimeters for the upgrade as well. My tax refund was significant this year, meaning I can go over that if necessary, but I would rather not. However, don't let that dissuade you from offering options that aren't those exact prices; I'm pretty reasonable.

Also, right now I just use the on-board video card. It's pretty decent, but I'm getting a new Samsung 17" LCD soon, and would like to set up dual monitors if possible. So, what sound card should I look into for something like that?

Thanks for any advice/ help you can throw this way.
 
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