Changing Macs!! How to Make sure to get everything from old macbook!

Question

Hi, Im just about to get a new Imac but I would like to know the most comprehensive way of transferring absolutely everything about Logic 8 from my macbook to my new computer. Including all my songs, settings, plug ins, everything.
Also the new Imac runs snow leopard, whereas my macbook is on Leopard, will this make a difference, should I ask them to put Leopard instead on there.
thanks

Answer 1

If it's a new iMac, then AFAIK you can't put Leopard on it. It has usually been the case with Macs that as a general rule, they won't allow you to install a system version earlier than the current version available at the time they are shipped.
If I were you, I'd update my current machine first.. I'd do the following: First step, buy a separate FW hard drive (or use one you have already that you can completely wipe, as long as it's at least as big as your system drive). Then using Carbon Copy Cloner or Super Duper, I'd make a clone of the system (as in the Leopard system you currently have) to this drive. That way you've got everything backed up nice and safe. Then, I'd go ahead and update the current computer to the latest version of Snow Leopard, and (me personally), I'd update to Logic 9.1 as well. I'd then do a comprehensive clean up and system repair on this drive (using onyx, disk warrior or your 3rd party utility of choice) just to make sure it's as lean and mean as possible. Then when the new iMac arrives, using Carbon Copy Cloner or Super Duper, I'd use the newly prepared system as the source to 'clone' itself to the system drive of the iMac, by connecting the MacBook to it in FireWire target disc mode. By doing this, you'll transfer your entire computer to the new machine, applications, plug ins and all, and it will be using a version of OSX that the iMac will be able to work with. The only possible hiccup I can think of is that if you have plug ins authorized to the MacBook, it's possible that the machine ID won't match anymore so you'll have to do authorization again. But just check with the manufacturer of your plug ins for the procedure on this. It may involve you having to de-authorize them first from the MacBook, so get informed on this before you do anything.
Anyway, this procedure should get you transferred relatively painlessly. I know there is also a way to accomplish the same thing using Time Machine and doing a 'migration' to a new machine, which (I think) is offered to you when you first startup the new Mac. This may also be a good way to do it, but because I've never tried it I can't comment. If you have an Apple store in your area, maybe it's a good idea to get an appointment with an Apple 'genius' when you take possession of your new iMac.. I think they offer assistance with the migration process, so if you went in with your old MacBook you may be able to just sit there and watch them do it for you.