I hope this upgrade topic doesn't evoke too many groans, but I am really struggling with which path to travel right now. Honestly, my rig works pretty damned well, but I'm feeling really slutty these days, with the realization that I'm working with old DAW hardware and software. First, I'm still working on a P4 mobo PC; ya PCI slots (maxed out) with 4 UAD-1 cards. Windows XP, service pack 1. Nuendo 3. RME FF800. Dangerous Audio D-Box. Bunch of decent pres. ALRIGHT, despite the decent performance and reliability, I would like to modernize some things, but my research has created some dilemmas- big surprise. Oh ya, and I'm one of those paralysis by analysis types. First: Should I build a new Windows rig or move to Mac? If Mac, Mac Pro or iMac? The answers to these largely depend on what DAW and interface I want to use. I'm thinking PT 10. I have really liked working with Nuendo 3, but Steinberg has made some changes over the years such that Nuendo 6 might not be for me. I'm open to the idea of moving to PT. I'd like to be able to continue using my Mackie Control and xtenders, so hopefully new DAW will support. It seems that PT plays more nicely with Mac than PC, although it is quite possible to assemble a PC that works. OK, interface: UA Apollo? I love UAD plugs, would love to have a UAD-2 quad reside in the interface, but would I really be stepping up from the FF800? I would still sum with the D-Box. I could move to an SSL setup; move to MADI. I would still like to sum out of the box, so maybe sell the D-Box and pick up a 2-Bus LT (I don't see any reason to go past 16 channels for summing- hell, 8 has worked just fine). Of course, this route would pretty much rule out use of an iMac, as I would need PCIe slots in which to stuff varied goodies. UA Apollo would be a simpler step; with PT 10, I could just sell the FF800 and replace the PC with an iMac (I think?). The other options are a little more involved. So, given the above, you should have an idea as to where, generally, I'd like to go. Thoughts?? Scope is not limited to the stuff I've mentioned. Your input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
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