Which model to buy...

I need some help deciding which model to buy. I currently own an:
imac g4 800 MHz
with a 15 inch flat panel
512MB SDRAM
60G Hard drive
2x Superdrive that only writes to DVD-R
There is no question in my mind that an upgrade would make me happy. I just need to decide on what to upgrade to.
I may have narrowed it down to any of the imac g5 models.
First, i'd like to know if i would experience a significant difference editing in final cut pro (i do freelance video editing) with a new imac g5 as compared to editing in my current imac g4 (particularly in exporting and compressing). Ofcourse, i'm certain that it would be faster. But i may be expecting too much of a difference. Apple even goes so far as saying "forget you ever waited for your computer to do what you said" on the website. The optimist in me wants to expect something mind blowingly fast. Can anyone shed some light on this for me.
Now, to my specific choices (i've narrowed it down to 2, based on my budget which i've stretched to its limit):
(1) imac 17"/2GHz/512/400G
or
(2) imac 20"/2GHz/512/250G
Option 2 is just about $20 more expensive than option 1. So i'm leaning towards option 2 because I do alot of graphic arts, web design and video editing work and a big canvas to work on really makes a big difference for me. But i'm also thinking that the 150G extra hard disk space could be very useful.
So, it's a question of bigger display or bigger hard drive for me.
I'm still leaning towards option 2 because I can eventually buy an external HD in the future if ever i'll need it and have enough money (is this a good idea? i've seen a few "problems with external HD" posts in the forum).
So in summation:
In purchasing my new mac...
(1) Will I experience a mind blowing difference editing videos in final cut pro compared to the current mac that i currently have?
(2) bigger display or bigger hard drive?
And if you think I should choose from a different set of options, please feel free to suggest. I will be more confused, but I always believe in putting much thought in purchases like these. If you've read this far, thank you and my apologies.

Well I am going to throw a wrench in the works...
I not going to give a complete History here, but I have edited on a 800MHz iMac G4, an iMac 1.6 G5, and a couple of PowerMac G5's. I have also used Photoshop on all 3. For my money, I would get a Dual. Maybe wait for a refurbished on the Apple site or check eBay. IMHO, a fast dual G4 will outperform a slow single G5. Of course a Dual G5 would be the best. Is there a mind-boggling speed difference between the single G5 and the double? There will be in rendering. This is one process that REALLY uses both processors. Besides that, I think you would more likely see a mind-boggling performance increase in the dual. I can Compress my video and still work in Photoshop and hardly know it on a Dual G5. I could not do that on my iMac G5. You would know when processor intensive tasks were being performed. Finally, you break out of the all-in-constraint. Maybe you don't get the biggest screen now, but you can add one later (& CRTs are better for color & cheaper!), you can add a hard drive (highly recommended), more RAM, a PCI firewire card (which bypasses 99% of all the problems you read about) and so on. The next time you need to upgrade computers, the only thing you will need to upgrade is the computer. And a refurbished G5 isn't anymore than a new iMac. I should also add that the more RAM in any machine the better, but it won't make any difference in terms of rendering. Rendering is processor intensive. Period.
Mike

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Need Advice WRT iPod Purchase - Which Model?

I've never considered buying an iPod before, but I've been making a lot of business trips by car in the past couple of years, so having music to play all long the way would be A Good Thing. But, which model to buy???
I don't think I'll have the need to play videos, but I like the idea of having an info screen. I'm not sure the Shuffle is for me, because I'd like to have more control over what's playing and what to play next. But I can't imagine having more than 6 or 10 albums stored at any given time. My tastes in music just aren't that broad.
However, I have thought about the option an 80GB iPod would give me. That is, I could copy all of the installer disc images for all of the Final Cut Studio discs and the latest updates to the OS and support apps. Then when I'm on a Final Cut system support call, I'd have all the files I'd need in a very small package, rather than a large firewire drive.
So, advice anyone? Thanks.

Thank you. Yes, I'm familiar with that type of FW drive. That would be buying two new devices. Not out of the question, but if I could get by with one, it would be a bonus.
The iPod nano, huh? I assume the display on those will help me see what's playing and what song I can choose to play next, right?

Which model should I buy?

Hi,
as a newcomer to this world,I have a "problem", which model I should take.
I am not sure in selecting with or without 3G. I am almost sure that it will be a 32GB version, just to be sure it is in the middle. Or is it too much thos 32GB?.
My idea with the Ipad2 is:
- reading my emails
- surging the web (reading newspapers, discussiongroups,...)
- Maybe playing some kind of games like RPG,racegames,... Althought I mostly play using the NDS of my kids
- Maybe watching a movie in bed
- Reading Ebooks and PDF´s.
I have a Wifi network at home. When I am on holiday I don´t have internet, althought I never had 3G internet before (as it is very pricy in Spain), I can buy the 3G service for a month I guess. Althought living one month without Internet is acceptable
The 3G comes with a GPS system, but do you really use that in a car? I have a PDA with GPS, so I normally can use that.
One million question: Would it be interesting in spending an extra 100€ for having the 3G and the GPS? Or is the 3G only really inresting for business people and normally as a normal user you just use the Ipad at home using your Wifi?
Please give me your opinion.
Thx,
David

Yep, I would wait a little while longer until you get the iPad befre getting a case - see how you like the iPad and what sort of case you want e.g. Do you want to cover the back or not, do you like the feel of the iPad in your hand in which case you might want a sleeve rather than a case etc. I don't think it will take the manufacturers long to get lots of really cool iPad 2 cases on the shelves now they have experience with cases for iPads, but waiting a few weeks will give you more to choose from.
I personally don't use protection plastic, I'm careful when I use the iPad and I've never damaged or even scratched my original iPad, and I'd rather out the money towards buying cool apps! If you are going to handle your iPad roughly, take it out and about a lot or have children who will be using the iPad then you might want to consider plastic protection, but really the glass is pretty hardwearing.
The only other reason I can see for using a stylus is if you want to use the iPad as an artist tool to do sketching and painting on the iPad - people with a bit of artistic talent (not me!!) can produce amazing art on the iPad and a stylus really helps for that.
Bet you can't wait for the iPad - enjoy it when you get it!

Where to buy my iPhone 5 from? I will be living in Canada for a while after 6 months. And returning to the UK regularly so I want an unlocked iPhone so I can use a local sim in Canada and a local sim in the UK to keep roaming costs down. But which model?

Where to buy my iPhone 5 from? I will be living in Canada for a while after the next 6 months. And returning to the UK regularly so I want an unlocked iPhone so I can use a local sim in Canada and a local sim in the UK to keep roaming costs down. But which model?
Thank you for you help in advance

If you buy an iPhone at the UK or Canadian Apple stores, it should work on the GSM frequencies in both countries. LTE will not work as the LTE channels are different in each country and each iPhone sold in each country is only compatible on LTE channels of that particular country. Other wise it should be fine.
Be aware that only the Apple store (retail or online) sells the unlocked iPhone in the UK. I think the situation is similar in Canada. (It is in the US).

I want to buy MBA 11'' which model is good. i.e. i need speed. I am using Lenovo netbook s-10. Is very slow in opening web pages an also in operating other apps.

I want to buy MBA 11'' which model is good. i.e. i need speed. I am using Lenovo netbook s-10. Is very slow in opening web pages an also in operating other apps.

Put your first emphasis on memory. Don't even consider 2 GB.
Second, maximize your SSD size according to the ability of your wallet. Lastly is your processor.
For what you describe the MBA is plenty fast.

Which Retina MacBook Pro Model to Buy?

Hi everyone!
I am studying engineering and are about to buy a new notebook. I have been using macs since 2008, so that is an obvious choice. I am also sick of my hard drive, so I want SSD models for sure. And I have tried out the retina models and I am certain I want one of those. Beyond that I am hesitant which one to buy.
I am an engineering college student. Here is what I need it for:
- mostly everyday stuff
- I don't mind if I can edit a full HD video conveniently on it once in a while, I don't mind however if I have to wait 3 minutes longer for it to export a video
- I regularly have to do some CAD editing (that would be done under windows) this is however merely stuff that are needed for college, so we are not talking about entire power plants with billions of parts being loaded onto the screen, but rather smaller constructions
- I never play video games. Somehow I don't feel the need, so that's not a factor for me whatsoever
- I have tested the 13 and 15 for wheight, and I find the 15 to be fairly light too, so I don't think portability is a major issue with either machine
However performance-wise I can't decide.
For the activities listed above should I go for 15 or would a 13 suffice? I am aware of the imminent upgrades, and OS X Mavericks as well.
Thanks for your advice.

Not sure you know this but you can put a SSD in any standard computer, including all Macbook Pro models. Nothing new about that. It is just Apple doesn't offer the standard MBP with a SSD as standard equipment. A SSD can be included during the ordering process or you can install one yourself. An even better option is to install one of the hybrid SSD+Rotating HDD being offered by Seagate. It combines the speed of a SSD and the storage space of a conventional HDD for much less than a real SSD.

Im from Greece, which model iphone 5s must buy?how will cost?

im from Greece, which model iphone 5s must buy?how will cost?

Apparently engraving the iPhone is not offered by Apple. If you go through the motions of buying one from tha Apple Store, the option is not offered.

Looking to buy wife an iPad -- which model?

I have no idea how to determine which model is best. Where can I find info about strengths and weaknesses of different iPad models/configurations given what I imagine to be how my wife would likely use one?
Thanks.

xtopher_nba wrote:
I have no idea how to determine which model is best. Where can I find info about strengths and weaknesses of different iPad models/configurations given what I imagine to be how my wife would likely use one?
Thanks.
All the models are exactly the same, so performance and features are alike except for two key points:
1. You can choose different flash drives: 16Gb, 32Gb, and 64Gb. Your choice should depend on how much content you expect to use whether music, video or photos. You should always get the most you can afford.
2. WiFi vs. 3G. The WiFi version works only on WiFi, so if you want to download content or stream movies or surf the net, you need to be connected to the internet by wireless. The 3G model allows you to connect to internet by AT&T's 3G network. It has a cost, and it works in most places. But it is an added expense only necessary if you move about a lot.
I hope that helps.

Just purchased a 15" Macbook Retina Which model do I have?

Hello everyone,
Today I was lucky enough to purchase an open box 15" Macbook Pro Retina from Best Buys for $1200 (With some store manager employ discounts ) and I wanted to know which model I have. For example from the first day they released the 15" Retina how many models or changes did this product have? Now I compared it to the tech specs on Apple.com and I'm just confused with the graphics details. Here are some pictures of the details of my Macbook:
The current one that's for sale on Apple.com has a :
Intel HD Graphics 4000
NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M with 1GB of GDDR5 memory and automatic graphics switching
All help well be greatly aprecateted. By the way this thing is just amazing and I'm coming from a 2010 early model 13" Macbook Pro. WOW!!!

Go to SYSTEM PROFILER>HARDWARE>HARDWARE OVERVIEW>MODEL IDENTIFIER
Ciao.
I would guess you have a 10.1
Message was edited by: OGELTHORPE

How can I know which model of K9A2VM I have?

I have a K9A2VM motherboard with an Athlon 64 x2 3600+ AM2 CPU. I would now like to upgrade to an AM3 Phenom II CPU with lots and lots of cores.
However, I have a problem. I don't know if I have K9A2VM-FD or K9A2VM-FIH and I don't know how to find out. I've opened my box and looked at the card, but it only says K9A2VM. By reading the specs and looking at pictures, I know it has to be one of them, or at least that it is not K9A2VM-F V2 since it only has two RAM slots and I have four of them installed. There are other obvious differences too, which I can easily spot by looking at the picture.
Now, looking at the CPU support page for -FD and -FIH, they seem to have differences in what CPUs they support:
-FD at least supports an X6: http://www.msi.com/product/mb/K9A2VM-FD.html#/?div=CPUSupport
Phenom II X6 Thuban HDT90ZFBK6DGR 1090T 200 3.20 3M 6M E0 125 7501v1B.zip
But the -FIH CPU support page is different: http://www.msi.com/product/mb/K9A2VM-FIH.html#/?div=CPUSupport
If I can use that processor, I'm really happy. But -FIH doesn't seem to support Phenom II at all. So provided that the information in the CPU support page is correct, it's fairly important to me to know which model I have. But in case nobody knows how I can distinguish between them; if I buy a Phenom II X6 CPU and it turns out that my motherboard doesn't support it; what is the worst thing that can happen? Will I break the CPU or motherboard, or will it simply not work, but the hardware will still be fine?
Thanks.

So this is a MS-7501 Version 1.0 card, in addition to being a K9A2VM. The entire web refers to it as "K9A2VM-FD / FHI". One will work, and the other will go up in smoke. And there is no easy way to know which is which. So how can I know? The reason I bought this card was so I could upgrade the CPU at a later time. Now it seems that's not possible, because the available information is so very poor. I've never had to gamble when purchasing hardware from other vendors. Is this common for MSI?

How Do I determine which model ipad I need?

I initially thought buying a baic 16GB Ipad with the 9.7" screen would be simple and inexpensive. But, the more I have looked, the more confused I am. I am so technically challenged that I do not understand the "specs", let alone how to use them. I have a basic nebook that I only use for emails, chatting, shopping and research. And that is because I do not know how to use all the features available. And I love my Kindle 3G Wi-Fi e-reader but it is not color and has the external typing key pad, which has been ideal for me . I do not even know how to text on my cellphone so I had the service removed since I did not use it. And I only use the Kindle for reading but was glad got the 3G Model but their is no additional monthly usage fee.
But, now that I have been looking at the Apple ipads, I do not know if their 3/4G capabiliy service is worth the extra cost, as well as the high monthly serive fees? I am hoping someone can better explain why it cost so much more and just what the benefits will mean to me? Also, there any many benefits and added features but I do not believe I will ever learn t use many of them. And could someone please explain the advantage of "Bluetooth" and just what it means? And what other items or features will cost extra per month to use? Also, are none of the printer compatable? Is there no accessory to allow you to use a wireless printers? This was one of the most disappointing thing I have learned about the tablets. Aso, how is the quality of sound system? Mine on the netbook is very poor and even with the volume on high, it is difficult to get good clear speach. So, I never watch moveis on my computer. And I am afraid it may be the same problem with the iPads? But, maybe with an external speaker or earbuds, it could enhance the sound? If so, at least I could listen to music.
In the beginning I was not concenred which model but now after reading more about the latest Apple, I feel the new easy to read screen is something I need. So, I hope someone can help me select the right model without my buying much more than I will ever need or use. I look foward any assistance you great tech savvy users can provide. I believe it always helps to be an informed buyer. So, trying to do my homework to prevent buyers remorse.
If it is permissable, you may email me with your information and suggestions on just what features I need to look for.

Varjak paw:
I don't think you can purchase the 3/4+ wireless service unless you pay the extra for one that has the capabilities. So, if we are not certain we will need it, it is a tough decision. It it has the capablities, you are not required to purchase a monthly contract. You can just use as needed.
I do not know why this has become such a major decision for me but the more I hear, the more confused I am. The problem is it would be nice to have the special wireles service available if needed but I think it may be more beneficial to me to pay the extra 100.00 and get the 32 GB instead of the 16? But, my granddaughter says I will not need that much.
My initial plan was simply to purchse the 16GB wif-fi and keep it simple. But, after learning the advantages of the Newst model and the improved screen, I thought I should get it since I have vision problems. Another problem is these things are outdated before we can decide which one to get. And some have suggested it will be more diffucult to get parts and have them repaired with an older model. Howeverm from what I have seen with these new electronic items, they are dispoable. Usually, if something does go wrong, it cost more to repair than to replace them.
I am just experienceing this with my Kindle 3G/Wi-Fi. It is only a couple of months out of warranty but it is now freezing up. Also, it is loosing my place, and skipping pages and even paragraphs. It was working perfectly until about a week ago and of course, no one can help. You have to return it for them to check it and let you know what the problem could be and If it can be repaired. This is very disapointing to me since I was just planning to buy the Ipad. And now, I may have to replace the Kindle, which I wanted to keep for just reading. I have so many books on it and they are all in order and organized. So, this has put damper on what to do about the Ipad. If I were sure I would like to read on it as well as I do the Kindle, I would just the the Ipad and not get another Kindle. But, I will need to see what the problem is first. I really enjoy the Kindle and wanted to keep it just for my books. It is so fast and convenient to use. At least for me since I like the typing pad on the outside rather then the touch pad. But, I suppose I will learn how to use the new one? I am just so illierate when it comes to using any electronics. I cannot use a remote control,.:) I only use my computer for email, chatting and surfing since I do not know how to use many of the functions and applications that are available on it. I do not even have text on my cell phone. I have kept my electronic to a minumim. But, I thought I might enjoy the Appple Ipad and could learn to use it online so I would not have to have the computer on all the time? But, I cannot beleive how expensive it is compared to a netbook or laptop when they will do much more than the Tablet. I suppose the Ipad is a luxury for those who can afford all the lasted new technical items available.
I did try a Pandigital Tablet before I bought the Kindle and did not like it at all. So, I returned it and got the Kindle and was so pleased that I could use it so easily. And I did not need the color screen, I just hope the Apple Tablet will be easier to use than the Pandigital or I am afraid, I will be to hard for me to learn to use it and be able to take full advantage of of getting around on the internet, I had a problem with the ohter touch screen scrolling back up before I had finished typing in all the information I needed. And I had to download from Barnes and Nobels and there selection was not nearly as good as the Kindle and they were much higher.
So if anyone is patent enough to read all this and can understand what I need and could provide your expert advice, suggestion and opinions, I would love to hear from you and any or all the issue in which I need help.
Thanks - Sunny in SC

Lumia 830 Specs: Which model? RM-984 or RM-985

Hi,
Can we get a clear indication of the model described on the specs page? Ideally, for all phones where its relevant, but in particular for the lumia 830?
The specs for 830 (shown here: http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/mobile/phone/lumia830/specifications/) don't specify the model (RM-984,985,or something else). However, I have read there is a big difference in LTE band support between 984 and 985. In particular, the "international version" (984 i think, being sold on Amazon) doesn't seem to have the bands necessary to support T-mobile (1700/2100 and 700). If you read the specs page, you might get the impression that ALL 830's support these bands. Then perhaps go out and buy one that does not, and be mightly disappointed for the misinformation. "Thanks Microsoft". Again, its kinda confusing for consumers out there. Can someone who knows clarify which model is being described?
Secondly seeing as MS owns this thing now, can we pleae get some clarity around it on the specs page(s)? Same thing is true with some other phones I have been looking at, like the Nokia 1520 -- multiple models, different band support, missing details on the specs page, that could easily lead one to buy the wrong thing.
Thanks!
-Ryan
(a 'softie)

Any time you are not purchasing a phone provided by the carrier and you want to use it with that carrier it is up to you to do your homework and make sure you get the RM version that that has that carriers frequecy bands.
There is more than one discussion on the difference between the 983, 984 and 985 when you search the web.
http://forums.windowscentral.com/nokia-lumia-830/317284-nokia-830-rm-984-985-what-differences-print....
For the 1520 there is only the 940 and 938 that counts.
940 is the AT&T version, 32 or 16GB with PMA charging
938 32GB and Qi charging AT&T and T- Mobile LTE bands

Which model do I have?

I hear about the Pismo, Lombard, Wallstreet models of the Powerbook G3. Now all I need to know is which model mine is...
Here are the specs.
Powerbook G3 firewire
400 MHZ 1 MB Cache 10 G hd CD/DVD
192 MB Memory - yes it was upgraded
Airport
I want to upgrade the HD to at least 40 G preferably 60G and add memory to make it 512 MB
Any suggestions on which Hd to get.
I know it runs OS 10.3 because I have loaded that on it.. but it is just a little slow.
Various MACS, G3 through iMac G59 (and some 5500's) Mac OS X (10.3.9) Also systems 9.1, 9.2 and 10.2 Learning windows...

Welcome!
You have a great machine!
Pismos are wonderful pieces of hardware.
(Pismos are the only G3 powerbooks with firewire; last, and best, of the G3 powerbooks; also known as 2000 Powerbooks, for the year they were created in)
I would recommend an IBM/Hitachi Travelstar HD.
I am using a 7200 RPM 60GB, purchased from ZIpZoomFly for about $150 several months ago. Works great. Upgrading the HD made a huge difference in performance (already had 1 GB RAM).
Your 192 RAM is very minimal. You should buy a single 512MB module and replace the smaller of your two existing modules (you've probably got a 64 and 128, so you would end up with 640MB which should be plenty).
Here are some links to help you find RAM and hard drives.
ZipZoomFly:
http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductList.jsp?ThirdCategoryCode=011006&SortBy=A& Brand=&startRecord=30&endRecord=60
Ramseeker:
http://www.ramseeker.com/scripts/modelDetails.php
Accelerate Your Mac (hard drive reviews):
http://forums.xlr8yourmac.com/drivedb/search.drivedb.lasso

Which model iPhone 5 is going to sell in Turkey

I saw three models,i want to buy iphone 5 for use in Turkey with operator Turkcell. I can buy from USA but which model?

Only Apple knows. This isn't Apple. But I have heard rumours that the unlocked iPhone 5 is due to take a light supper around seven o'clock.

I want to increase my ram memory how do I know which one to buy

This are all the details on my computer. I need to buy more memory, im not sure whats the maximum on RAM memory neither where or which to buy.
Hardware Overview:
Model Name:          MacBook Pro
Model Identifier:          MacBookPro8,1
Processor Name:          Intel Core i5
Processor Speed:          2.4 GHz
Number of Processors:          1
Total Number of Cores:          2
L2 Cache (per Core):          256 KB
L3 Cache:          3 MB
Memory:          4 GB
Boot ROM Version:          MBP81.0047.B27
SMC Version (system):          1.68f99
Serial Number (system):          C1*******V13
Hardware UUID:
Sudden Motion Sensor:
State:          Enabled
<Edited by Host>

You have a Late 2011 MacBook Pro 13". Make sure the RAM you buy says it is compatible with that age of MacBook Pro and screen size, and has a lifetime warranty.   http://www.crucial.com/ and http://www.macsales.com/ both offer worldwide high quality RAM. Do not buy ValueRAM. Do not post your serial number again. The Model Identifier is sufficient to tell us which model you have.

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