Desktop computer shopping, asking for advice.

So I recently was informed by the nice man at geek squad that my 2006 gateway computer is a bit out of touch for Komplete 8. I can't run windows 7 on it without running into a bunch of compatibility issues, so its finally time for an upgrade.

Wondering if you guys have any advice on computer shopping. I don't plan on using this DESKTOP for anything else besides production, which I'll be running FL Studio 10 as well as Komplete 8 and a few other software synths. What works for you guys, what should I avoid, and what features should I look for that will keep me from upgrading again in the next 5 years or so?

Any advice will be greatly appreciated!

 

You should get the fastest computer you can afford with the most RAM memory possible (it implies 64 bits OS), with 3 separated hard drives (I don't mean one partitioned hard drive), one for OS and programs (320 GB should do), one for projects (500 GB or more if you do video) and one for loops and samples (I would not go less than 750 GB), hard drives are quite cheap these days (I paid my first HD 1100$ for 40 Megs... yes, Megs).

You talk about geek squad, are you talking about Best Buy or something like that? If so, I wouldn't buy it there (I wouldn't buy a "branded" computer like HP, Acer, Compaq, Gateway, etc.); I would go to a specialized computer shop that builds computers according to your specs with quality parts like ASUS motherboards, Kingston or Crucial memory, dedicated video card, etc.

HTH

 

I just picked up a Rain ION, and it's incredible.
Win7 64bit, 6 core, 3.3gHz, 16g ram.
Takes anything I've thrown at it so far (Cubase running Spectrasonics plugs, Iris, Komplete8, etc).

 

Go for multiple drives. Sata 6 Ssd gives a real advantage, but couldnt afford but a 128gb system ssd, which is enough and makes everything fast. If only samples could come from an ssd too! There are differences on hdd speeds alo - investigate and choose a fast stable drive! Come on - something not as fast as possible will suffice! Running i7 920 and 6gb ram without problems. Fl is still 32bit i guess - find out how much ram it can handle. A solid mobo is a must and you want it to run silent, which means somn else than stock cpu cooler and some nice case. Dont heat it up with too powerfull gpu. Build it up yourself or let someone do it for you by your spesifications.

 

Thanks for the advice fellas. Im still a little bit of a novice when it comes to computer, but Im gonna do some research and get back to with what I come up with. Thanks again guys.

 

Just remember that it's about the music, not the hardware. Almost any 2012 mainstream Midrange desktop is propably better than what you have now. But with a desktop you have the opportunity to build it specialized on your needs and to learn to update only parts of it when necessary. Remember that hardware outdates fast and prices drop quite fast, so think twice about your investment. Do some research and most of all make some music.