What is better to create music? A Mac or PC?

[crimsonice]

I have heard so many people tell me that if I want to make great quality music then get a Mac computer..? Is this true? If it is, why? I still do not understand the difference? Can you please help me! Thank you.

[JohnR]

There is no easy answer to this!

The question isn't just about hardware (Mac and PC) - it implies a great many other things:

1. Which operating system
2. Which applications do you want to run (what do you want to use it for?)
3. Cost (initial outlay and running cost)
4. What hardware needs to be supported
5. "Cool" factor

I've started trying to respond to this post a number of times and realised what a huge subject it is. Personally I don't think there is much to choose between the two of them these days. I run a PC at home since I make music as a hobby - I also play games on it, write websites and use it for word processing. Both Mac and PC will let you do that.

Since this is a RG forum, bear in mind that RG is not available for Mac yet!

John

[Landphil]

Ask this question on most forums and you'll ignite a flame war!

In my opinion, Mac used to have the advantage some years back. Some will say it still does. But PC's have come a long way since those days. I believe it's just a matter of preference on which platform you like to use. You can make beautiful music on either one.

I use a PC, but I wouldn't mind owning a Mac Powerbook as my laptop. I like both platforms, and could enjoy working on either one. The main reason I use PC is that I can build my own to suit my needs, and I enjoy building things from scratch!

The advantage of PC's is the amount of software available for music creation. You'll notice on this forum, as well as others, that people are always asking when the Mac version will be out. Lots of third party developers never do release a Mac version. Perhaps developers have a hard time keeping up with all the Mac OS releases. I really don't know. There are also some very nice Mac programs that aren't available for a PC.

PC's seem to be more vulnerable to viruses and attacks if your music computer is connected to the internet. Lots of people use a dedicated computer for music, and a second computer for surfing, email, etc. Mac's seem to be more secure against such attacks.

The pros and cons for each platform could fill a book! Don't get caught up in the hype you read on the internet about either platform. Mac users are a dedicated bunch, as are PC users, and it usually turns into sensless bickering about what's best.

Choose what you are comfortable with, and you will be happy. In the end, it's all about the music. . . not the tools.

Phil