thomas2755

Mac Mini For Music Production?

I am currently re-designing my project studio, which had been Windows based for several years. In the process, I'm considering various platforms---obviously, the Mac being the most likely alternative to Windows (sadly, I don't see Linux hosting VST instruments, nor do I see Linux providing a "stable" platform for the foreseeable future).

I am considering the MiniMac, loaded: 8 GB RAM, 7200 RPM Harddrive, hosting Logic and Reason. I use lots of VST instruments in my current set-up: Native Instruments, GForce, etc. Rather than purchasing an expensive monitor, I am thinking of using a KVM, essentially sharing this Linux box, with a 19inch Monitor.

Obviously, I could go with a tower, or I could go with a Power Mac, I suppose.

At this time, can anyone see any reason not to go with a Mini Mac, as I described it?

Thanks, in advance, for your expert advice.

TomR

Truly Basic Questions

Currenlty, I run Cubase on Windows, hosting a variety of VST instruments, Native Instruments Kontact, GForce, etc. I have an old Aardvark sound card (that should tell you how old this set-up is), and am currently running the outputs to a 16 track mixer.

What I would like to do is this: replace the mixer with an on-board solution---something like RME?---get rid of Windows, for a variety of reasons, and maintain my VSTi's since I've paid for these.

I am looking at the Mac platform because I cannot find any realistic support for the VST instruments on a pure Linux platform, but perhaps I'm wrong about this?

Anyway, I am hopeful that some kind soul (or kind souls) on this Forum can make some constructive recommendations.

1) My budget is somewhat liberal; I don't expect to do this on the cheap.
2) My primary concerns are reliability and expansion capabilities.
3) Most of the music that I create is MIDI driven; I do play guitars (bass and six string) on some pieces, but am primarily sample/synth based.
4) I am keen to learn new software, and I am thinking that Logic + Reason might be a good starting point.

Any ideas, suggestions, or recommendations are welcome.

Thank you, in advance

Tom R