New Configuration Questions

[rb7]

I'm new to the Mac world, but have used Performer to do a major project in the studio 8 yrs ago.

I'm about to purchase a Mac (likely a laptop?!) for a new Digital Performer system. My primary functions will be composition for both vocal and band charts and transcribing various orchestral parts for players.

Current config that I believe is an essential start is:
Digital Performer $ 495
Apple MacPro Platform ?? 1,798
MIDI Interfaces (8-in/8-out UltraLite) 549
Digital Performer Training DVDs 79

Are there any suggestions (beyond a simple printer) that I'll need for the tasks at hand in software or hardware? I have mics and a keyboard controller (PC88), and a few sound modules. To note: I want to transcribe specific rhythm passages and added orchestral parts via hyperscribe from the keyboard controller.)

I appreciate any input, and feel free to email to rb7@satx.rr.com if you prefer. Thanks, rb

[Radiogal]

THE RAM RULE: At least 1GB RAM for every core..

This means that Macs are sold with to little RAM.

Keep this in mind and add as much RAM as you can afford.

[FMiguelez]

Are there any suggestions (beyond a simple printer) that I'll need for the tasks at hand in software or hardware? I have mics and a keyboard controller (PC88), and a few sound modules. To note: I want to transcribe specific rhythm passages and added orchestral parts via hyperscribe from the keyboard controller.)

I appreciate any input, and feel free to email to rb7@satx.rr.com if you prefer. Thanks, rb

What do you mean by hyperscribe? If memory serves me well, that's a Finale tool, not a DP one

It sounds like you are a little lite on the sounds department. You need to decide what sources you will be using (VIs, external synths, etc). Depending on what VIs you want to run, it will have a big impact on what kind of Mac you will get. You will need lots of RAM, different HDs to host samples, system files and audio files, etc.

What kind of sounds are you interested in? You could start with one of those big romplers that have a little of everything...
The market is FULL of everything you need. Cheap, middle of the road, and very expensive.

With DP you will have a GREAT start. You will have all DAW territory more than covered

Welcome to the forum.

[rb7]

Thanks for the comments. I'll try to beef up the RAM and review the Virtual Instruments available. I have a friend (15 yr. DP vet.) who's a lot more savvy to what's out there, so perhaps I'll get my search started there. He first brought up the VI considerations being superior to what I have (and he's seen my stuff), so I need to gain that knowledge base. I'm really more into natural orchestral sounds since that is what I've been composing for.
rb

[zandurian]

Thanks for the comments.

rb - did you notice FM's hyperscribe question?

What do you mean by hyperscribe? If memory serves me well, that's a Finale tool, not a DP one

[bdr]

If you want to write proper charts then unfortunately DP is not up to the job in many aspects. Why MOTU refuses to add articulations (slurs, staccato etc) while adding lots of other functions to Quickscribe is one of life's great mysteries. Not to mention additional noteheads (drum/percussion). etc, etc.

If you want to write proper charts to be read and played by others then you better budget for Sibelius or Finale. If all you want is a bit of visual feedback on your composing then Quickscribe may do the job.

[MIDI Life Crisis]

bdr beat me to it. If your doing chats, get Finale or Sibelius. I prefer Finale. It comes with a basic Garritan for Finale VI. I don't really like the DP "free" VIs very much, especially for realistic sounding mock ups.

Also, the DP DVDs? Well, maybe, but it's not that hard to learn DP with the manual and this forum. That $$$ might be better spent elsewhere (like a wide format printer...?).