What Causes Latency?, Trying to make sure I have no Latency Options

[manexmachina]

I'm setting up from scratch and the number one complaint I had about my old system (like 6 years ago) was massinve playing latency. I hit a note on the piano and by the time the virtual instrument (sample cell at the time) played back, it was very delayed. I'm not going to erase 20 some odd years of practice and get used to that.

So! how do I avoid it? Is it the software, the hardware, the VST, the audio input, the midi input? What are good combinations? Can I avoid latency on a Powerbook? I'd love to use a 17" G4, but would be willing to buy a dual proc. if necessary.

Specific equipment recommendations are helpful. Preferably recommendations that mention which software they work with best. (Please don't make this into a which software is best thread though, that's not my concern_/

thanks in advance!

[rickenbacker]

Whatever you use, whatever hardware or software, there is always going to be some latency - even if it's only a few milliseconds.

But like Synthetic says, today's computers and software have got it down to virtually nothing and OS X is particularly good at it. Definitely get the latest version of X and apps specially designed for it - Logic 6, Cubase SX, DP4, Pro Tools LE etc. Using a dual processor G4 with these apps can't hurt, either. Saying that, on my 600MHz G3 iBook I can play synths in Reason with very little latency, so you don't have to spend the earth to get a responsive set-up.

As for Logic, I know what you mean about not loving it. But 6 is the best version yet (well, durrr) and even though I like working in the SX environment, the program is less stable and so I end up coming back to Logic anyway. Basically, if Logic looked like SX, I'd be as happy as a clam - and it's getting there (I'm talking to you, Mr Channel Strip in the arrange window). Get some audio slicing in there and we're done.

It's probably worth while persevering with Logic, for the reasons you state.