Need some laptop advice...

pawel · #1 07-13-2006, 06:35 PM

I know that there have been computer topics here before, but by now they are so outdated that I decided not to bring them back. This is also not really a studio topic, so I put it here.

I know there are quite a few people on here with some computer knowledge and I would like to know what you think about the Centrino Core Duo processors.

I am basically looking for a decent laptop for university/office work and internet, which would also handle some audio use (I would like to be able to do some basic multitracking as well as use it live performances with software like AudioMulch, Ableton, Max/MSP or PD).

I settled for a minimum of Centrino processor, 60GB HDD, 512MB RAM (will be upgraded), and a 14"-15" screen (I want it to be mobile). The doubts I have are whether it's worth investing into the Core Duo Centrinos over regular ones. I have my eye on an HP with a 1,6Ghz Core Duo processor, but I can also get a regular Centrino with a higher clock speed. Would even a low-end Core Duo be a good idea, or is it all smoke and mirrors?

Any suggestions regarding companies? I am thinking of HP or Toshiba, but there are some well-priced Fujitsus and Acers over here as well.

I'd appreciate any suggestions/opinions.

shredmaster · #2 07-17-2006, 04:32 PM

for what you want to do you don't need to waste your money on that stuff. i would never buy an HP since they are overpriced and most of their stuff is proprietery. i hate them. acer is good....are they still in business? i thought they were gone. anyway, i have worked on most brands and the best ones i have seen overall are DELL and ibm. i really don't like ibm too much since they break down a lot so make sure you get the extended warranty. we have ibm techs here at work weekly for the laptops we carry. i use nothing but dell and i own my own video production / digital photo / pro tools studio.

in the end it's your call. hope i helped you out. by the way, the laptop i'm using for pro tools is an older model dell pentium 4, 2.something, 768 mb ram. whatever you get now will be faster than what i have and i'm working great. get at least a gig in ram!

steve

JESTER700 · #3 07-17-2006, 05:38 PM

With laptops, MOST of it is proprietary. There are exceptions (most HDs & memory, many CPUs, and a few graphic subsystems), but they're more on a model basis than by brand.

Buy by speed, features, and price, from a major vendor.

pawel · #4 07-17-2006, 06:34 PM

Thanks guys - you need to keep in mind that I am Poland/Europe, where we don't get Dells for instance.

The HP at this point has the best price/performance ratio (but it doesn't have the fancy widescreen and other gadgets), and as Jester said, it's hard to escape the "proprietary". I guess I will just go with the most I can get within my price range and call it a day...