What model of Mac should you choose?

Apple Power Macs typically come in three basic models basic, intermediate and high-level configurations to suit various requirements. These are mainly distinguished by the speed of the CPU, the size of the internal hard drive and the amount of RAM fitted as standard. Other differences may include the size of the power supply, speed of the internal busses and caches used, and additional CD-ROM or DVD drives fitted. Some models can be ordered with dual processors. Dealers often recommend the basic or intermediate-level models for use with Pro Tools systems, but I always recommend that you get the most powerful computer you can afford. It is possible to use a basic or intermediate-level model if you are using Pro Tools software with TDM plug-ins, as the processing for the plug-ins and mixing is provided by the Digidesign MIX Farm or DSP Farm cards, with the computer s CPU mostly taking care of the user-interface and file handling tasks which are not too demanding of CPU power. Nevertheless, if you want to use AudioSuite signal processing, this runs on the computer CPU. Also, many of the third-party software applications which you may wish to use run on the computer s CPU. Software synthesizers and samplers can also be very demanding of CPU time. I can particularly recommend the dual-processor models if you are using Logic Audio, Cubase VST, Digital Performer or many of the software synthesizers which can make use of the...