Choosing Mac for recording need help

StoutXXX · #1 07-09-2008, 08:53 AM

I have just picked up a disco(older) NIB model Macbook Pro for 1650$. But on ebay they have the new ones going for maybe 200 more. Most of which are actually 300 or up more. Should I be satisfied with my older model purchase? Is the difference in processor and and specs pretty marginal compared to saving alot of money? I use logic and reason alot ond wanted something multiplatform on the go for other friends that use windows based programs. Any opinions greatly appreciated.

kevinmoore73 · #2 07-09-2008, 08:58 AM

It hard to say what the differences are since you haven't said what's in this "disco" (***?) MacBook Pro.

jgroh · #3 07-09-2008, 09:00 AM

I always look at it like this, the computer update train never stops, you just need to jump on it when you are ready. I bought my PowerBook new years ago and two weeks later a new model came out and my laptop was already out of date. Id say that you did ok.

DocBop · #4 07-09-2008, 09:50 AM

Like Kevin said without the model or spec's on CPU and RAM then can't say much. I would get as much CPU as you can because that can't be upgraded. Get one that can go up to 4GB RAM if you are going to be running Logic and Reason together then will need lots of RAM.

You last statement I'm not sure what you are saying

Quote:

I use logic and reason alot ond wanted something multiplatform on the go for other friends that use windows based programs. Any opinions greatly appreciated.

Are saying you are planing to dual boot or use Parallels to run Windows on the Mac?

hunta · #5 07-09-2008, 09:57 AM

I would make sure the one you're getting doesn't have Agere firewire. If it's a slightly older MB pro there's a chance that it is.

basswave · #6 07-09-2008, 10:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DocBop

. Get one that can go up to 4GB RAM if you are going to be running Logic and Reason together then will need lots of RAM.

Thanks...Those are the 2 that I'm looking at.

fokof · #7 07-09-2008, 10:08 AM

When I buy a new computer , I always get the fastest one available at that moment .

My 5 year old powerbook is still going strong , maybe next year I'll change it.

kaputsport · #8 07-09-2008, 10:31 AM

We reocrd in our studio with a 2 year old Macbook Pro....

We use Logic, and have used others...

Just MAX out the ram and you should be good.

Sandman1278 · #9 07-09-2008, 11:46 AM

Logic Pro 8 is awesome

StoutXXX · #10 07-09-2008, 01:03 PM

Thanks guys. Disco=discontinued. On paper they dont look too different but newer chips and whatnot sometimes people say are way better than others. I wanted dual platform cause my guitarists in another project use sonar for windows.

bassbrock · #11 07-09-2008, 01:05 PM

I would keep it and buy as much RAM as you can afford.

D.A.R.K. · #12 07-09-2008, 01:56 PM

what are the actual specs of the computer?
with ableton live, there has been problems with speed stepping functions (processor control, designed to conserve battery power and keep heat down by not running the processor at full continuously... ableton live tends to have artifacts occur before the processor steps up to full power).
this has only been with some dual processors on the macbook pros.
there is a program called coolbook http://www.coolbook.se/CoolBook.html
which allows you to set your parameters manually, and alleviate the issue.
more info can be found on this in the ableton forum,
http://www.ableton.com/
it is well documented.
don't know if it has affected any other programs, though.

StoutXXX · #13 07-09-2008, 02:05 PM

Again thanks! good point..money saved = more RAM!

bradjonesbass · #14 07-11-2008, 10:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StoutXXX

Again thanks! good point..money saved = more RAM!

which is far more important than anything else. well, that and having a good external hard drive.