What to look for when buying a computer for audio production January 29, 2008
Posted by ConnorSmith in : Apple, Computers, Project Studio , trackbackWHAT COMPUTER SHOULD I BUY TO MAKE MUSIC?
Wow, what a big question. There are so many options. When you install software for editing and manipulating audio onto a computer equipped with audio input/output hardware, you have what is called a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
As in my post about building a home studio, you need to ask yourself some questions:
1) Would an upgrade to my current computer be sufficient?
2) What would I like to be able to accomplish with my computer DAW?
3) What is my budget?
4) Do I want to use a Mac or a Windows PC?
Ah, the great “Mac vs. Windows” debate. If I do say so myself, I am a great person to talk to about this, because I have machines in both platforms. Although I use my Mac more because it is more powerful than my PC, I will officially go on the record with this statement: You can have completely awesome workstations on either operating system; when configured properly, they are both great! In my personal opinion, problem-free Windows operation is more dependent on the proper configuration and a responsible user, but it can be fine. I’ve been running a P4 3.4Ghz with 2GB of ram over the past 4 years. Its literally never choked up on me. This is partially due to the fact that I periodically “clean out” my computer.
Once again, both Windows and Macs are great choices. It depends on budget, style, and preference.
NOTES ON OPERATING SYSTEMS:
Both Microsoft Vista and Apple Leopard are having compatibility issues. Proceed with caution! Check manufacturer’s websites (Digidesign, MOTU, Cakewalk, Apple, Cubase, etc.) or email me to check if certain programs work with a specific OS. In general, I would watch out for Digidesign and Leopard (as they are not technically compatible) as well as Vista in general (as it is also having lots of issues)
So lets get into the meat and potatoes. What you want to generally look for:
1. Fast Processor – the faster the better, the more cores the better
2. Lots of RAM – more RAM means more plug-ins, tracks, VIs etc…
3. Room for expansion – slots for more SATA drives, PCI slots, and other expansion ports can really be a big help when you are upgrading/adding things to your system
4. Plenty of Firewire and USB ports – you will amass lots of peripherals over the years, so you better be able to plug them in!
5. A video card with at least two outputs – if you can swing it, it always helps to have at least 2 displays when working with digital audio. Screen real estate is a must!
So now that we know we need all those things…. lets look at some models. I am going to restrict it to desktops today. We will hit laptops a little later.
If you want to go with a Windows machine, I would suggest one of two paths
Path A – Order a Creation Station from Sweetwater.com. These are great machines! Rackmount, quiet, optimized, expandable PCs with a great warranty at a great price. Plus, the best customer service in the biz. These things will work, guaranteed. I’ve never heard a bad thing about them. There are many different models, ranging from moderate desktops, to extremely powerful rackmount workhorses. The variety of models can be right for everyone from the small home studio owner, to the experienced Pro Tools HD user.
Path B – If you are savvy and want to save some money, you could visit NewEgg.com, order the parts yourself, and put the computer together. In theory this will save a fairly large amount of money. BUT! Beware! Incompatible chipsets, user-error, finicky firmware, and plenty of other things make this option daring for even the most techie of us all.
You can also get powerful computer from companies like Dell, HP, and others. However, be sure to contact the distributors of both the recording software and computer before ordering to make sure both are compatible with each other.
Ok, now for the Mac options
Path A – Mac Pro! These beasts are quite the computer. With up to an 8-core 3.2Ghz processor, 32GB of RAM, and 4TB of internal drive space, these are some of the most powerful computers in the world. They can also be very expensive (although the base model for 2008 is very reasonable). These are the right machine for orchestral scoring, Pro Tools HD, and overall large numbers of tracks, VIs, and plug-ins.
Path B – iMac. These are a great buy. The processor and RAM options on these machines are getting very good (I think up to 4Gb of RAM now!). The built in displays are big and beautiful. iMacs are also fairly cost-efficient. My suggestion would be to get a good external hard drive for recording audio though, as the internal drive of an iMac may limit your productivity. An iMac is a great choice for anyone tracking bands, writing jingles, or doing other non-PCI based recording.
There is also the Mac Mini, about which I’ve heard some pretty good things. If you are on a tight budget, or just need a machine for applications with minimal stress on the computer, it may be a good option. In most cases though, I would suggest a more powerful machine.
If you are looking to buy a computer for music production, please email me or post a comment here. I would be more than happy to help you with your decision.
C
Comments»
Im a college student who got a $2000 budget over the next year. Id like to put a small personal studio together. My question for you is could a laptop be as good as a desktop or do you only recommend a desktop?
I’m a college student who is really into recording. Ive got $1000-1500 to spend on a small scale studio. I like to do live recordings but also studio work. I was wondering if a Mac Book would be enough for me or if i should just go ahead and by a desktop. What do you recommend?
Aaron,
You are going to be able to do a lot with the basic MacBook. Even just using GarageBand will get you really far, and it comes free with the new computer! Is your budget in addition to, or including the computer?
DS
I would suggest a MacBook. Until you really get into large track counts and extensive plugins/VIs, an Apple notebook will be more than powerful enough. Plus, being in college, you will get the Apple student discount.
I would start with the MacBook, an interface (don’t you have a Tascam 2-channel?), and a set of monitors (I would suggest some Rokits, M-audio BX5a, or Event monitors in your budget). With the MacBook, I would recommend getting as much RAM as you can afford, but DON’T buy it from Apple. Get it from a third party (OWC, Newegg, etc) and install it yourself. You will save hundreds.
As far as a DAW goes, either use the one that came with your interface, or, like Damon said, Garageband is awesome. A lot of pro people at least sketch, if not complete whole songs in garageband. It has great onboard instruments and effects, and is simple to use. Also, if you end up getting Logic later on, your files will transfer without a problem.
Hello Mr. Smith:
Please recommend a computer/DAW combination suitable for a classical musician.requirements are
1. Use with Synthogy Ivory and quality orchestral instruments
2. Use with Studiologic NUMA Fatar 88 key keyboard since this appears to be one of the best for true acoustic piano keyboard controllers.
3. DAW should be functional and easy to use.
4. Find a simple expandable DAW that caters to being able to efficiently utilize large libraries of various orchestral samples.- with corresponding ability to control said samples via midi interface.
5. I know this may appear to be from someone who lacks a lot of knowledge – that is correct – can you assist? I have read your stuff so I am not completely naive.
6. Most of the application is performance related – very little emphasis is to be put on usage with other control surfaces. Accordingly, it seems like Echo’s AudioFire 2 miight work for a sound card/audio interface/preamp. But, I am not sure about the quality of the preamp for this application.
I see where you recommend the Apple Pro but it seems like 32 Gig RAM is a bit much.
Thanks in advance for your assistance.
@Frank
I would definitely recommend a Mac Pro. (In the original post, I wasn’t suggesting that everyone get 32GB of ram, rather that the computer is expandable up to that much ram). If you didn’t want to go the Mac route, I would either
a) Build a computer from Newegg.com if you are computer-savvy, OR
b) Buy a Creation Station from Sweetwater.com
For mostly virtual instrument projects, I would recommend Logic or Digital Performer (or even Pro Tools).
For a small, highh quality interface (that interfaces directly with Logic) I would recommend the Apogee Duet (~$500)
Hi-C.,
Do any of these programs write-out the notes/music, that are presented to them?
I do not read nor write music, but; I have the opportunity to present a song I have in my head, for a major event.
I thank You in advance,
G.
I have Pro Tools 8.0.3 LE. (003 Family) My computer crashed and want to get a new one. I don’t want to waste money. What would you recommend for this version of Pro Tools?