(I debated whether to put this in music or computers. Most of the topics in music tend to be centered around musical taste rather than performance so I decided to put it here.)
I've been researching this for a while now and I'm about ready to build but I thought I'd throw this out and see what advice you guys have to offer. I am looking to build a computer that will allow me to use a couple of soft synths in a live performance setting.
This is the list of things that are important (in no particular order):
reliable
rackmount
quiet (power supply, fans etc.)
fast drives (I'd prefer not to go SCSI again though)
fast cpu
fast RAM
fast mobo (ie. FSB etc)
Price is always a factor, but I'm not afraid to spend money on something if it's worth it.
One thing to keep in mind is that I'll be playing in smoky environments, so filters may be in order, but I haven't seen anything like this ... yet.
I'll also be using a power conditioner and UPS in the rack.
I'm not too concerned with expandibility since I'll probaby beat the hell out of this computer at live shows and will likely replace it way before upgrading.
I am sticking with Windows.
Also, have any of you heard of pro soundcards that are geared specifically for live performance? I use an Aardvark Q10 on my recording set up, but that's 1) overkill for live and 2) doesn't route properly for live. I'm more concerned with outputs than inputs. I'm looking at M-Audio 410, but maybe one of you guys will know something I don't.
BTW - With the exception of my most recent computer purchase for my wife, I have built every computer I have ever owned. I got tired of supporting my wife's computer and bought her a Dell. Now I can just tell her, "Call Dell," which sounds suspiciously like, "Go to hell."
