VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

[Robert D. M.]

Hello everyone,

I’m hoping you'll have opinions/insights regarding the two computers (likely a desktop and a laptop) I’m considering for the following VO circumstance.

I’ll be using, in my home studio, either Adobe Audition or SoundForge, along with a TLM 49 and higher-end pre. For half the year I’ll be in one location and, for the other half, I’ll be packing up the gear and moving to location two. There may be occasional trips throughout the year when, for a few days, I’ll need to take the computer, mic and preamp to a third site for some recording (where there would be monitors, keyboards, etc...so if that particular computer were to be a desktop, only the tower would need to go).

I’m usually engaged in a number of writing projects, so while these new VO computers could be dedicated to recording work, I’d prefer the option of being able to load WordPerfect, FilemakerPro and the backup software for my A so that, should my primary writing-related PC crash, I could use either of the two new recording/VO computers in the interim. I’m experienced with the Windows platform and really don’t want to adjust to a Mac (apologies in advance). Also, because I have another computer onsite for Internet/email use, I could keep both new ones totally virgin and away from the Internet forever.

I’m often hearing that a desktop offers desirable VO-related expandability/performance and is the better recording choice. I’m willing to go that route, along with a (to-be-purchased) laptop for remote/portable recording and mobile auditions. This laptop could similarly remain entirely offline.

(Intermission)

My questions are:

1) Portability aside, is a desktop the superior VO-performance/expandability choice? If so (or not), why?

2) If I have the option of keeping the two new recording computers entirely offline, is that a legitimate consideration in terms of performance stability?

3) Could I ask for specific computer make/model recommendations for both a VO desktop and a VO laptop, including preferred features and specs (sound card, memory, noise level, etc.) deemed necesssary?

In the past, I’ve been happy with Dell for my non-voiceover work, largely because much of my seasonal writing is done in a remote area which is mysteriously covered by their on-site, next-business-day, extended-service warranty...a feature seldom used but, like any insurance, comforting when needed. Given the absence of geeky neighbours (any neighbours, really), I also like Dell’s online support, through which I have created many enduring friendships in New Delhi.

4) Is Vista the inevitable/go-to operating system?

Thank you all very much for your time; I appreciate it!

Sincerely,
Robert[/i]

[Lance Blair]

1.) Portability.
I just bought an HP Vista desktop (8G RAM, 750G HD SATA) for $600 new. I'm keeping my 2G RAM much smaller HD laptop for portable recordings. My HP lappie records fine, but nowhere near as well as the HP desktop. People will say "zeros and ones are zeros and ones". Fine, then buy any old digital camera while you're at it.

2.) I have both of my computers online. As long as you aren't foolish you won't invite viruses into your computer. Especially with laptops you probably will need to temporarily disable the Wireless functions to avoid dropouts, but on my desktop I can now simultaneously run wireless and be on line, have other programs open, do a virus scan and record multiple channels with all kinds of plugins active.

3.) I recommend HP PCs, but don't buy them from big-box stores because many of the models they sell have older processors or lots of subpar components all piled together to make it look like they're offering lots of value but they're just offering lots of junk. The new $550 HP PC at Best Buy is garbage compared to the $600 model I bought. My model is one offered by good music retailers...but I got mine from a decent national electronics big box store (not Best Buy)...the type of place where you can buy parts to build your own computer. Oh...and get some external HDs!

4.) Vista isn't ideal, but it's not horrible. I made all the tweaks to Vista that I made to XP which helps. With Vista you have the capability to run much more powerful systems than XP which also helps. Vista came out with Service Pack 2 this week which has numerous fixes to make Vista more compatible with other gear which also helps. Be very cautious though because Vista isn't compatible with a lot of gear but you can work around it. To use Audition 3.0 with Vista you must dowload a patch from Audition, otherwise the Data Execution Prevention in Vista won't let you install Audition. The new SP2 might address this directly in the first place.
In my case, my Echo AudioFire ASIO drivers do NOT work with Vista, so I downloaded the Vista-friendly ASIO4ALL(.com) 2.9 and use that as my driver, but my AudioFire is still my converter. My sound is better now with this Frankenstein set-up and my recording latency is negligible with Vista and my quad processors whereas it was a minor concern in XP.
The good news is that Windows7 should be out late this year and it has good reviews. I've talked to a few Mac users who have tested it and they say it's great. Hopefully it has been developed with greater compatibility and flexibility than Vista. All signs are saying that this is the case and that it is as stable as XP. Upgrading from Vista to Windows 7 should be a breeze. I bought my current computer for the RAM and the HD which can be upgraded to 7 soon - not for Vista. However, I'm pleasantly surprised that there is a noticeable advantage over using my older XP machines.

Think of getting a good Vista computer now in terms of getting an inexpensive car that has all the features plus a strong engine but will need a transmission change and a tire rotation.

Hope this helps, and good luck.
_________________
Skype: globalvoiceover
and now, http://lanceblairvo.com the blog is there now too!

[Robert D. M.]

[Lance Blair]

Hi,
I got a HP a6750f from Fry's...but they also sell them at B&H and other audio related sellers. I don't have any experience with tech support because my HPs have always worked for me. As for compatibility issues, research audio forums and search the Adobe forums. I would avoid Echo AudioFire gear for example, but I believe their card based products are fine. Good luck.
_________________
Skype: globalvoiceover
and now, http://lanceblairvo.com the blog is there now too!

[Robert D. M.]

Thanks for the specifics, Lance. I'll check out the compatibility issues and make a choice.

Robert

[georgethetech]

Hi Robert:
This is a common question here at VO-BB, and I've chimed in with my 2 cents many times. I am primarily a Mac user, but I have many years of Windows (and DOS) under my belt. When Windows 7 goes live, I'll feel better about buying a PC again someday. I am running Win7 RC1 on a Virtualbox on my Mac, so far pretty nice.
For the needs you listed, your computer needs are not very demanding at all.
The computer you record with may be kept off the Internet, just be prepared for the inconvenience of copying files to another computer many times a day to deliver via email or FTP. I really don't think that is necessary, if you are careful and smart about what links you click and emails you open.
Run "Avast" free virus scanner, you'll be very safe.
If you tend to lean on support, stick with Dell. Yes, you are speaking to out of the US support, but they are patient and thorough.
Just be very careful that whatever hardware/software you choose is completely compatible with your computer/OS. If you have no way of verifying a combination, find one you can. Lookout for particular Firewire chipsets which may not work with certain devices, things like that.
Best of luck.
Oh, and before you drop the $300 for Sound Forge, check out $200 Soundbooth from Adobe (free trial available). It is SLICK, and if you ever want to go Mac, it's cross platform.
_________________
If it sounds good, it is good.
George Whittam
GeorgeThe.Tech
424-226-8528
VOBS.TV Co-host
TheProAudioSuite.com Co-host
TriBooth.com Co-founder

[Lance Blair]

great advice from George as always. Avast is excellent, and all you need as long as you're not gullible in your surfing.
_________________
Skype: globalvoiceover
and now, http://lanceblairvo.com the blog is there now too!

[melissa eX]

Hi Robert:

For portability and quiet (after trying out a couple of netbooks that didn't really make me happy) I went with a refurbished Dell Latitude from their Business Outlet and I love it. I found one with a 128G Solid State drive (no moving parts - no fan - plenty of room because I move the files to my main system on a regular basis) and a P (25W) processor instead of the T(35W) processor. Theoretically that means it runs cooler and uses less power = more battery life. It is a real LAPtop- doesn't get very hot at all and the best thing is it's dead silent - if you weren't looking at it you wouldn't know it was there. I checked out one with the T processor and a 7200rpm HD but the fan was constantly on, never shut off even when the HD wasn't working, and it was loud - so I have to assume that it's not only the SSD that makes it silent but the processor as well.

You can have one built new but the refurbs are about 35% less expensive and have the same warranties - With the business line you can get their Pro support which guarantees North American and on-site support - they answer the phone quickly and are very helpful - and you can also get their complete care which includes the pro support and an accident warranty - in case you drop it down the sewer or something. They also have business line desktops. The business line overall is more stable than their consumer line. You have a 21 day return policy if you don't like it.

Oh - and you can get them with Windows XP

http://www.dell.com/us/en/dfb/notebooks/ct.aspx?refid=notebooks&s=dfb&cs=28

[georgethetech]

Yes, DELL Business depart is the BEST way to buy a Dell, I agree 100%. You get different options, don't get upsold on so much crap and accessories, and you can ask for Windows XP, a huge plus. I got a Dell Mini 10v for client, what an excellent netbook, and totally silent, zero moving parts!
Don't forget to check out the Dell Outlet as well, good deals to be had.
Otherwise, go Mac...
I got your PM, Robert, get back to you on all that Monday.
_________________
If it sounds good, it is good.
George Whittam
GeorgeThe.Tech
424-226-8528
VOBS.TV Co-host
TheProAudioSuite.com Co-host
TriBooth.com Co-founder