I recently bought one of the new dual core PowerMacs. Having used the machine for a couple of weeks, I thought I would share some of my observations and feelings about it. First, let me get my biases out in the open. I have, for about four years, very happily used Linux on my desktop. Doing so has made me very comfortable with the UNIX environment in general, and with GNOME specifically. During that time, I have used OS X machines on a regular basis, so I am quite comfortable in that environment as well. Since I switched to Linux, I have not used Windows for anything more than the occasional bit of software testing or lab work, and generally feel quite uncomfortable with it. Thus, this article is very much written from the perspective of someone who finds OS X and Linux pleasing on principle. I implore the reader to make his own value judgments based on my comments.
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Member since:2005-07-06
Hi,
Sorry to be OT but in the Apple forumes they suggested me Mac Mini or iBook 12"/14" for GB, provided that I buy and external 7200RPM drive (FW).
BTW, I have recently tested an iBook 12", I was able to make 11 Tracks (9 Real Instruments, using loops + 2 Software Instruments)- 75% CPU. This goes really close to my XP 1.6Ghz Centrino Tecra M2 running Cubase : 16 Audio Tracks + effects (2 Compressors, 3 Reverb, 1 Flanger) + 2 Vsti - Cubase Virtual Instruments, Drums and VB1 (Virtual Bass) - 40% CPU.
I know that Software tracks can be frozen thus transforming them in audio tracks, giving CPU more free cycles. So in your opinion what machine should I buy?
Member since:I cannot say. I can only say that you really should get a 7200 rpm drive. I have a 4500? Or maybe a 5400 and it simply doesn't perform with garageband. But, if you say you have tested it, do not let my opinion prevent you from buying it. My own experiences on my powerbook simply aren't too good but I have a slow drive.
Member since:
2005-10-06
I would personally not use garageband on a mini. I have a powerbook G4 1.33 and Garageband has trouble when I try to realtime mix more then three or four instrument tracks.
Mini's are mostly based on laptop hardware.