What Computer Do I Buy?

NOTE** Sorry for terrible Grammar and spelling!
I usually consider myself pretty tech savy, but I am having a tough Time Making Desicions on what to buy. I am now working for a TV show, and need to buy an editing rig capable of handling multicam of HD video as well as in the near future 2.5K and 4K video...Nothing insane, but still pretty heavy! I have been toying with Building my own pc or buying a 2013 Mac Pro. In both of these builds I would LIKE to have new monitors, but could still use mine if need be. I also would LIKE a Backup Hard Drive But if need be I can do with what I have. Lastly, I want a Macbook in the future, so If i could get it now great but im not sure yet.
So my biggest dilema is both Price and Operating Systems. I HATE WINDOWS! Hate it, but can work with it but would rather have the combfort of the OSX that i prefer. So either way I'd like to TRY to do a hackintosh if I end up going that route...only thing is...much harder work and much more areas to fail so thats one of the biggest problems.
The next is price...I would like to keep EVERYTHING inlcuding monitors and external drives and maybe even the laptop if i go build under $8200!
OPTION 1: The 2013 Mac Pro
This thing is a beast evewrywhere basically but my main dilema with this is Pricing compared to RAM (32 vs 64) and 256 vs 512 Hard Drive....Going less on both saves money but at the same time, Id rather do it all now and not have to worry later! Unforunetely at this price tag, I have very little options for Hard Drives and Laptops and Monitors concidering the 8 core with those stats brings it closer. The 2 monitors I am deciding on on EVERY build option is a Asus 27" True Color Pa279X or whateter and a LG 21:9 Monitor. Either way for monitors I'd like those. So on that note I'm not sure to spec out the mac and go one or no monitor and hard drive and latop, cut back a little on the mac and get a hardrive or nice monitor...not sure!
OPTION 2: Hackintosh
Basically both PC Builds have 6 core processors and GTX 780 TI's which is nice for Adobe products, pretty much good stuff, and 64GB of RAM, and building this allows me for good monitors and potentially the macbook pro too! Only downfall is I will have to build it, which isnt bad, but I will have to try to get OSX on it and try not to mess it up now, or down the road...I also want to upgrade regulkarly then, but dont want to have to mess with OSX every time...which is a pain.
Last option is to build a PC specced out with Laptops, and Hard Drives, and Good Parts BUT wont run Mac OSX which is mainly my last resort!
PHEWWW! haha Thanks for reading and hopefully someone can give me good insight to what to do! Thanks again!

Without wanting to get into a PC-Mac war, I just looked over a potential 'Trashcan' MacPro configuration. The picture below shows what I have chosen and I have some serious doubts about that configuration. First of all, it is only a SINGLE CPU configuration, not a dual CPU. Secondly, it uses dual D700 FirePro cards, which do not yet measure up to a single GTX Titan for PR. Third, it uses a Thunderbolt 2.0 connection to the Promise R6 (6 by 2TB) which is limited to around 500 MB/s transfer rate. For comparison, a more affordable PC achieves around 2500 MB/s with SSD's. But even with these limitations, the price tag on the new MacPro is around $ 12.5K versus a much faster PC with a price tag of around $ 11K (with 48 logical cores instead of only 24, with double the L3 cache, with 5 times the transfer speed and faster video).

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Try this:
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Widescreen-Calling-Recording-960-000694/dp/B004FH O5Y6
Works for me and Skype, anyway.
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I have a 9 year old iMac g5 and I'm about to start a photography course therefore would like to purchase and install photoshop.
I want to know if this iMac will load and run this software well, and if so what version should I buy for this old computer!
thank you

WZZZ wrote:
The wording is confusing. I just tried one of the DLs and it is working. Whether it will actually install now, I have no idea. If the activation servers have been disabled (because of a technical issue), probably not. Whether this is only temporary, I have no idea. I would think Adobe would just withdraw the entire page if they wanted. From the time this first appeared a few weeks ago until now I know it was working and could be installed using the provided serial #s. There was nothing about needing to actually have purchased it originally.
Ginger:
I downloaded CS2 from the Adobe site BEFORE this recent notice was posted and it is the only version that I have and use.
The new notice is VERY confusing, because if you were a prior purchaser of it originally, why would you need their newly supplied serial number (which is what I use since I was NOT a prior purchaser. But again, when I downloaded and installed CS2 there was no such notice).
I suggest that you see if it downloads, installs and works with that serial number, as free is always better than not! (especially since it is known that iMac G5's are prone to hardware failure from bad capacitors! I had many of them...)
[click on image to enlarge]
WZZZ wrote:
I don't know how strict the OS requirements are. I do know that my old G5 iMac, even upgraded to Leopard, was able to run CS2. In fact, using Rosetta, CS2 still runs on my Snow Leopard.
As you can see from the image, CS2 is running in my Snow Leopard (with Rosetta) environment in Parallels concurrently with Lion.

Need help choosing what computer to buy!

So after months of debate, Ive decided to switch to mac after being a pc user for over 20 years. Now my dilemma is choosing what computer to buy and when. I have definitely decided to wait until Snow Leopard comes out and when I can get the student deals. However, choosing the right computer has been the issue. I hear that they are phasing out the white macbook so why would I purchase a new one? As well, I have been reading about many issues with buying a first generation unibody model. So where does that leave me? Do I wait for apple to fix the quirks with the new aluminum macbook or by the old white macbook knowing that they might not exist in the next couple years? I would like to get this computer by August but am willing to wait knowing I made the right decision. Thanks.

sopric wrote:
So after months of debate, Ive decided to switch to mac after being a pc user for over 20 years. Now my dilemma is choosing what computer to buy and when. I have definitely decided to wait until Snow Leopard comes out and when I can get the student deals. However, choosing the right computer has been the issue. I hear that they are phasing out the white macbook so why would I purchase a new one? As well, I have been reading about many issues with buying a first generation unibody model. So where does that leave me? Do I wait for apple to fix the quirks with the new aluminum macbook or by the old white macbook knowing that they might not exist in the next couple years? I would like to get this computer by August but am willing to wait knowing I made the right decision. Thanks.
If you don't need a new computer until August then wait. I don't care what brand you buy, or what model within that brand, some will inevitably have problems. These forums are like a hospital, this is where you come when you have a problem. Out of the hundreds of thousands macs sold every year proportionally very few have problems. Your chances of getting a quirky one are quite slim. But if you are going to wait for a model where 100 percent of them that come off the assembly line will never have a problem you are going to be waiting a very long time.
Message was edited by: pogster

What computer would be ok to buy?

Do not do any serious gaming, wireless internet or ethernet . Office word processing basically windows works fine for that. would like to record movies and make dvd copiers of them, Music files of approx 150 cd's. No pictures
Hook up to a television and the computer monitor at the same time. Any suggestuions on what I need?

Just go into the store and speak with a computer associate. Your budget is plenty enough for what you are wanting the computer to do. Most of the computers these days will perform the tasks you require. But the main thing is how you like the computer. Go into the store and check out the stock for yourself. Work with an associate and let them help you find a computer that has the specs to do what you need, and find a computer among them that just feel right to you. Try out the keyboard, the touchpad, etc.
You can speculate all day on what computer to buy, but nothing quite matches being able to see them and try them out. Working in Geek Squad, we set a lot of the computers up for customers and there are some that just look great, while there are others that are mainly built for function without much thought put into the aesthetics.
Summary: Most of the computers these days will do what you are needing. So, just go and find one that feels right and makes you think to yourself, "This was made for me."
Good hunting. Let us know what you picked out.
I DO NOT work for Best Buy. I used to be a Geek Squad Agent for 2 years and this is why I am well versed on their policies and procedures, but I do not work for them anymore. My posts are my own opinions and do not represent any opinions of Best Buy. If you do not like my posts, and want to report me, you can do so by clicking this link and reporting me to the moderators.
---Nearly all virus infections are a result of a problem between chair and keyboard---

What is better to buy Nokia N97 or HTC Touch HD?

Hi, guys!
Help me to decide, please, what is better to buy between Nokia N97 and HTC Touch HD for a few next use cases:
1. Web-surfing;
2. Notes;
3. Contacts;
4. Music;
5. Films;
6. Camera;
7. E-reading.
8. Calling;
9. SMS, MMS.
10. Text typing.
Thanks a lot,
Alexey

N97 is Best
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Extra Features Accelerometer Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
Compass
Files on OVI
Flight Mode
FOTA Firmware over the Air
Magnetometer Sensor
Nokia Maps 2.0
Nokia Music Store
Ovi Store
PictBridge
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Software Updates
Stereo FM RDS Radio
Stereo Handsfree Speakers
Still Image Editor
Themes
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Visual Radio A-GPS
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You won't get a second chance to create a first good impression.

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Choose About this Mac from the Apple menu and check the processor.
If it's a Core Duo Mac, click here, install the DVD, and run Software Update.
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(115509)

Any suggestions what tablet model to buy and where to buy it?

Any suggestions what tablet model to buy and where to buy it? What about buying it on EBAY? Do you know any reliable dealers? I don’t have too much money to spend. Even refurbished one will do. Many thanks to every one.

eBay is certainly an option. If you have a newer computer, especially one running Vista, avoid one that has a serial port, as I mentioned in the other thread. Go with USB.
If you decide to go with a new tablet, there is a range of choices. The most basic is the plain 'Bamboo' model, which has no bundled software to speak of, for about $70. There're a couple of slightly higher level 'Bamboo' tablets, the 'Craft' and the 'Fun' which have software bundled that you likely won't need if you have Photoshop already, for under $100.
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I bought a HD and the Itunes Stores say that the movie (Pretty Women) has Itunes Extras. Why I can not find it? It is a mistake from Apple? What happen if I buy the movie because the Extras and now I can not watch it? I have an Ipad last generation.

What version of iOS do you have on your iPad (Settings > General > About > Version), and is it connected to wifi ?
From Buy and play movies with iTunes Extras - Apple Support :
Here’s what you need to stream the new iTunes Extras:
Mac using OS X Mavericks v10.9.3 or later and iTunes 11.3 or later
PC using iTunes 11.3 or later
Apple TV (2nd and 3rd generation or later) using Apple TV software 6.2 or later
iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch using iOS 8 or later (You need to connect to Wi-Fi. Extras won't appear if you're connected to a cellular network.)
An active Internet connection
You can use the steps below on your Apple TV, Mac, PC, or iOS device for any purchased, HD movie that features Extras:
On your Apple TV, select Movies, then select your movie to see the Extras menu. Extras aren't available from the Computer tile on Apple TV (Home Sharing).
On your Mac or PC, open iTunes and go to the Movies section in your iTunes library. Double-click your movie. If there's no Internet connection, the Extras menu will be skipped. The movie will immediately play if you already downloaded it.
On your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, tap the Videos app, then tap your movie. If you're connected to the Internet via Wi-Fi, the Extras menu will appear.

What product can I buy that will provide portable power to my MacBook Pro and iPhone and iPad when I am flying?

What product can I buy that will supply portable power to my MacBook Pro, iPhone and iPad when I am flying?
I recently was on an extended trip and the port for charging at my seat was not working.

Unfortuntly you can't.
The Apple Airline adapter is only meant to keep a fully charged battery from draining, however with newer computers requiring more power, they tend to drain the battery AND the power at the same time, thus require more power hook up without the computer running to charge the battery.
Since your iPhone and iPad charge off USB, that's going to drain the MacBook Pro battery as well.
To generate enough power to charge all three will require a portable generator which of course can't be used on a plane.
The best you can do is have all three charged up before you board the plane, and use each for as long as you can.

What computer/model is most compatible with the Creative Suite?

I am a professional Graphic Designer and I am looking to buy a new computer. I mainly work in InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator, but I want to be able to work fast and easily in Premiere and After Effects too. What computer/ computer model would you recommend to optimize Adobe performance?

Are you most familar with Windows PCs or Apple Macs? Most designers usually prefer Macs.
Adobe produced this guidance when CS6 was released nearly 2 years ago
http://blogs.adobe.com/jnack/files/2012/07/CS6_hardware_recommendations.pdf
The video apps are the most demanding so if you buy a system to run Premiere Pro CC and After Effects CC smoothly, the other apps will be fine. 64 bit is essential.

What computer for studio? How many drives?

I want to use Garageband to learn how to start recording a small concert band.
I am in the position to buy some gear to facilitate this ... I already have the presonus preamps ... all the mics I need and such.
I'm wondering which Mac to buy to set up the studio ... I already have two good lcd monitors ....
Could I go with a couple of mac minis and use one for archiving? Or do I need more oomph? I might go to Logic express eventually to record as I learn more. I heard you can import Garageband files right into it.
Is the mini fast enough now (drive speed)?
Or do I need a dual G5 to record on? What do I need for archiving? Do I really need two drives?
Sorry for the scattered questions .... any help in setting up a simple studio will be appreciated. Especially in the area of how many drives and what computer I need ... Thanks a bunch ...
Oh yeah ... if you have any links for me to look at that would help too ...

So what you're saying is .. it really doesn't matter
so much what kind of machine you have if you have
this fast external firewire drive?
Not entirely, it depends what you're going to do. CPU, RAM, and Hard drive speed are all important, but some uses tax different parts of the System more. Effects and MIDI instruments push the CPU more, Auido tends to push the speed of the hard drive more.
So you would record on it ... and also mix on it ...
and then would you have another firewire drive to
archive to?
That could work
Does this mean I could just use a mini as my base
machine and get a couple of firewire drives ?
Probably. It;s really hard to say with 100% certainty, it really depends on what you're going to do.
I will
also be using an audio interface like iControl
The iControl is not an audio interface. It is a control surface, it replaces your mouse to some degree, and it does offer a MIDI interface, but it will not help you get audio into your machine.
something ... where would that and the presonus
preamps go in the chain when recording and mixing?
The iControl would plug into a USB port and you'd control faders and such with it. I have no idea which PreSonus PreAmps you're using, but assuming they are just PreAmps you would plug the output into the computer's Line-In (note, make sure you get a Mac which has a Line-In (for instance the iBook doe not have a Line-In. I beleive the Mini does, the iMac does, the PowerBook does and the PowerMacs do. I'm not sure about the MacBook Pros, you'd have to check the specs at the Apple Store site.
Which brand of firewire drives do you recommend?
It really doesn't matter much. The truth is there are only a handful of companies that make hard drives (Seagate, Western Digital, Maxtor, Hitachi, and a couple of others). What you see for sale is one of those drives in a case made by different companies. IOW, there are lots of cases, but they all use one of a few HDs and I've had failures in all brands of HD, so I don't think any one is particularly better than the next (though you might look for one that offers a 5 year warranty).
Personally I like to build my own. I buy HDs when they're on sale (last one was 200Gig for $40) and then I buy a case to install it into. Installation is a breeze, it requires a screw driver. The case I like the best is the Macally PHR-100AF FireWire External Enclosure from Amazon for about $41
Hope that helps --HangTime [Will Compute for Food] B-|>
Note: I am an Amazon Associate, if you purchase this item via my link I will get a small commission)

What computer do you recommend for music production, photo and video editing?

I'm looking to buy a computer mainly for music production with native instruments and photo and video editing with adobe elements. I'd like a crisp image, good sound and also runs as smooth as possible. I am planning on using external hard drives for most of my storage so space isn't an issue for me. I don't mind buying a refurbished computer. I am looking to spend around $3000 to $3500 on the computer itself. What computer do you recommend?

Please do not double post; it gets too confusing for us - the volunteers - if there is more than one.
the new iMac - just introduced - sounds like it'd be the right thing; I'd upgrade to an SSD and the fastest processor offered. You can also add RAM, but I'd do that later as it'll be less expensive and it's very easy to do yourself.
Good luck.

Mac OS X v 10.7 Lion does not support Norton Antivirus? what to do? Buy another one?

Need advice!
Mac OS X v 10.7 Lion does not support Norton Antivirus? what to do? Buy another one?

Sophos seems like the best alternative to me.
No, the best alternative is not to install any commercial "anti-virus" products. They're all worse than useless, including Sophos.
Mac OS X versions 10.6.7 and later have built-in detection of known Mac malware in downloaded files. The recognition database is automatically updated once a day; however, you shouldn't rely on it, because the attackers are always at least a day ahead of the defenders. In most cases, there’s no benefit from any other automated protection against malware.
The most effective defense against malware is your own intelligence. All known Mac malware takes the form of trojans that can only operate if the victim is duped into running them. If you're smarter than the malware attacker thinks you are, you won't be duped. That means, primarily, that you never install software from an untrustworthy source. Any website that prompts you to install software, such as a “codec” or “plug-in,” that comes from that same site, or an unknown site, is untrustworthy. A web operator who tells you that you have a “virus,” or that anything else is wrong with your computer, or that you have won a prize in a contest you never entered, is trying to commit a crime with you as the victim.
Software with a corporate brand, such as Adobe Flash, must be downloaded directly from the developer’s website. No intermediary is acceptable.
Never install any commercial "anti-virus" products for the Mac, as they're all counter-productive. If you need to be able to detect Windows malware in your files, use ClamXav -- nothing else.

What Computer Do I Buy?

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