I should have indicated in my previous response that when I use the Vocal Harmonizer/Cubase SX, LiveSynth/Cakewalk and Kontakt at the same time my computer reaches over 90% performance. As a result, I get the occasional 'crack & pop'. Not good. I will likely have to upgrade my computer or more likely go to the small XPC computers with the following spec:

Processor: 2.5 GHz or larger (liquid cooled)
Memory: 2.0 GB
Hard Drives: 2 - 80 GB with 8MB Cache
Soundcard: RME or Steinberg

What was good enough a year ago is now to small. Oh well, it happens to everyone!!!

[This message has been edited by Frank L. Rosenthal (edited 06-30-2003).]

Thanks Frank. When I have some time,
I'll attempt some style drum remap editing as you suggested.
As far as a powerful portable PC, also
check out www.powerrackpc.com
You could even install your current
Audiophile card on the PowerCube model(size
of a 6 pack), and I'm sure they would build
to your specifications(such as 2 GB RAM).


[This message has been edited by Vquestor (edited 06-30-2003).]

[This message has been edited by Vquestor (edited 06-30-2003).]

Vquestor, thanks for your information. The Power Cube is identical in appearance to the Shuttle XPC Computer reference in my previous post. I would build this computer from the ground up myself using the Shuttle case and motherboard. I have seen (and heard) the Music XPC built by Music Marketing and it works well. The only concern I have is the heat build-up from 2 HDs in such a small space. In my case the HD is working constantly streaming instrument notes while playing the lead or melody.

I agree with you - it is the way to go. Windows XP is very stable. The XPC is small and low in weight. The unit is very quiet - liquid cooled.

Frank,will the computer you build
have a Pentium 4 or Athlon?
I have heard in the past, that Pentium 4
is better for music applications. Is this
the case?

Actually at the moment, Athlon based computers are better performance wise and dollar wise compared to Pentiums. Several years ago there were problems not with AMD cpu's but with the via chipset. But that is all in the past. Today, an Athlon will do just as good or better job than a Pentium for less money.

Vquestor, my preference is to use Pentium processors and ASUS Motherboards. These ensure the best compatibility with music software written for PCs. In the case of the Shuttle XPC you have to take the motherboard that comes with it for use with the Pentium Processor.