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Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 2 2021, 10:22 AM

Hi

Just signed back up to GMC.Its being a while. Happy new year to everyone.

A stopped playing guitar for a while as I was suffering from pain in my hands all the way up my arms into my shoulders. Its still ongoing and really annoying. Still trying to get answers from the doctors.In doing so I found out I was type 1 diabetic. So now having to inject insulin everyday for the rest of my life.

The pain a get just makes it difficult to practice guitar for long without my hands seizing up.

I started practicing again recently and was using positive grid through my 2010 iMac. It would end up freezing and taking forever to load anything. So a have being looking at getting a new computer. There is a local shop that has a great reputation for building computers. I was thinking for the price of a iMac a could just get a computer built for me. It would be nice to play some games on it and run all my guitar programs and Daws smoothly. Here is a link to the one I was looking at https://www.utopiacomputers.co.uk/pandora.

My knowledge about computers is not very good. Am sure there will be people on here that know there stuff. So what do you think about that computer. A like how its compact and easily upgradeable. A feel thats where the iMac is limited.

Thanks in advance
Sean.

Posted by: tflava Jan 2 2021, 11:14 AM

Hey mate.

That has to be good enough. It got an i7 processor en 32 gb ram thats a lot mate.
I run an i5 processor with a 250 gb SSD and 16 gb Ram so it will definitely be enough for recording and use for music.
However i don't know enough about gaming what you need but for the music its very good 🙂
Good new year and with playing guutar?

Greetz tim

Posted by: Mertay Jan 2 2021, 11:34 AM

Hey sean sorry to hear you were in pain, I hope things will get easier for you in time.

The website you shared seems very professional. Obviously they'll give you better info than us but here's what I know;

Cpu; Get AMD instead of intel. Currently AMD is the winner of price vs performance.

Graphics cards; I'm not a gamer so not really knowledgeable on these but have a friend at a university doing vr/3d stuff for medical purposes. He told me nvidia is the main tech. developer currently and pro's often prefer this brand. If you're open to pay a lot for graphics likely this is the brand you want.

Motherboard; This is the most tricky as the model change depending on the parts you choose. But one thing not to forget is make sure it has enough usb outputs.It's not a hard rule but if you have to prefer between 2 options, the expensive one usually has a longer lifespan (computers mostly die because of motherboard failure on the long run).

SSD/harddisk; there are 3 types of storage options;

M2; Newest and fastest tech. , this is where you load windows and run programs. Dowside is they're most expensive, and I don't recommend getting a small size. M2's and SSD's have a limited amounth of write capability and after that they die, so the bigger the capacity the longer they survive.

SSD; Still pretty fast and most common these days. Get Samsung brand if possible, they're considered the best.

Harddisk; If you want lots of storage without paying too much its still a great option.

So get 2 harddisk for best system stability. I run my system on an ssd and store stuff on harddisk. Since this leaves the ssd a lot of free space it runs very healthy.

RAM; 3600mhz speed option is often recommended for best performance. 16gb should get you gaming anything but 32gb is more of a guarantine on the longer run.

Some notes;

For audio and hobbyist setup you don't need a powerful computer to get things running. If you think you'll ever get into midi (drums, keyboards etc.) then ram becomes important.

When I don't have an opinion on part selection, I never go with the cheapest or most expensive and that worked well for me till now. And as said the website seems nice and I'm sure they'll figure out everything for you, likely it will mostly be about the cost which you'll think most on.

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 2 2021, 12:13 PM

Hi Tim

Thats good to know . I think I would like to get a computer thats more powerful for my current needs. I won't be gaming much but would be nice to have a system that can run games smoothly.

Same to you mate cheers.
Sean



Hi Mertay

Thats a lot of great information. Thanks for taking the time to write that. I have contacted Utopia via email. As far as am aware they had stopped builds until January the 6th.I think there is a queue of people waiting for builds as they have being extremely busy.

I payed around £1200 back in 2010 for my iMac and looking at current models it would probably cost me £1400. So a am happy to pay up to that amount.I would like a system that is more powerful fo my current needs so I have the option in the future if my needs change.

Once again thanks for your reply Am trying to get a better understanding of computers
Sean

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Jan 2 2021, 04:41 PM

Hi mate!! Welcome back! I'm sorry about your hands pain and diabetes mate. On the other hand, I'm happy to know that you are back to guitar. I hope that your doctors can help you to get better and better. All my most positive thoughts.

I can't help you too much with computers, but I'll follow this thread since I also need to update my PC soon!

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 2 2021, 06:06 PM

Hello Sean,

Welcome back, sorry to hear about your Type 1 diabetes, look after yourself buddy, I'm sure you know how careful you have to be with that.

That computer looks ideal.

This is mine, I upgraded to 32gb of ram and added a second HD. It runs everything I need, it ran Shadow Of Tomb Raider easily and it runs two outboard monitors https://www.scan.co.uk/3xs/configurator/3xs-scan-performance-17-studio-laptop-no-firewire

Have a look around the Scan site for the specs of their audio and gaming computers.

Cheers

Stay safe

Posted by: jstcrsn Jan 2 2021, 07:01 PM

as everyone has said, this unit far exceeds your needs for music, but it is a good piece for editing music/videos together for the future. One option I regret not getting on mine is a THUNDERBOLT port. You could get half the computer with a thunder bolt port ( connectivity to your interface) and it will out perform the one you have picked out. If the mother board does not support it. you can never upgrade to this.

oh, and , um , welcome back

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 2 2021, 07:47 PM

For more info about Thunderbolt look here https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/what-is-thunderbolt/

I don't have it though.

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 3 2021, 11:29 AM

Thanks a lot Gab. A really enjoyed your recent single Boicot. Thought it was excellent mate



Cheers Phil.Yeah it can get quite dangerous when my blood sugars drop low and a hypo. Had it a few times now and its quite a scary feeling.

Nice one thanks a lot a will check it out.

Posted by: Kristofer Dahl Jan 3 2021, 11:30 AM

Awesome to have you back mate 😊I know you are very serious about your progress and I remember you working hard on improving your timing!

I hope you will get better soon and that you will find some comfort here in the community 👊

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 3 2021, 11:35 AM

Thats why I like asking for some advice. I never knew about this. Thanks.



Thanks again Phil. Am going to check it out



Yeah its still my main problem. Going to be working on it even going back to very basics.

Thanks its good to be back Kris cheers

Posted by: Gabriel Leopardi Jan 3 2021, 05:51 PM

Thanks a lot!!

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 5 2021, 04:18 AM

Mac computers are switching to a new type of chip and the most ram you can get in one is 16gb. You can get a Mac mini with an SSD and 16gb ram and the new chip for about $1,000. However, it's very new and most of the software has still not been re written for it yet.

The machine you have picked out is very nice and should be able to run just about anything for years to come. Thunderbolt is always a nice option. Just tell the guys at the shop you'd like to have a motherboard that supports thunderbolt

Welcome back!! I used to have pain in my arms/wrists as well and it was from not warming up/stretching properly and from using too much pick/fret pressure. So here is my warmup stretch video that I suggest you do before each practice session and after each one. Also, try to use as little pick strike pressure as possible. use a pointy, thick pick and a bit of extra gain. Also use as little fret pressure as possible.

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 5 2021, 07:45 PM

Hi Todd

Never knew that. A did see a iMac online that was a 27inch , 5k with 32GB ram for £5000. Way out of my budget. Even if I had the money a probably wouldn't pay that .

Spoke to Utopia via email today. I did mention about the thunderbolt . Hopefully get the ball rolling soon. Really looking forward to getting a new PC. Also looking to get a big monitor. I find it difficult to focus on the iMac.

Thanks good to be back. I remember watching this video a while ago and trying the stretches out. I will give it ago again. Over the last week a have being working on keeping everything light. Definitely being really bad in the past for being tense and holding everything tight.Sometimes when doing faster alternating picking a feel the pick moving from the position I was holding it. I must be gripping the pick to lightly. Just need to find the right balance and as you say use a pointy thick pick.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 5 2021, 10:42 PM

The new macs don't have INTEL chips in them anymore. DON"T BUY AN INTEL MAC no matter what. They are going away for good. Apple is moving to the new M1 chips. Yeah, the new Mac Mini starts at $600.

You are probably better off with the PC as it will be a while til all the sotware folks make new software that takes advantage of the new MAC chips.

As for a display, I hate having a small computer display so I've been using a large HDTV for years I attach my laptop via HDMI to a 50 inch HDTV and bam! I also have a 40 inch HDVT at my mix position so I've got two places to be able to work which is handy.

It's natural to tense up when playing fast bits, but it's not good. It causes all kinds of problems. Teaching the body to stay relaxed takes time. It's something we work on in BOOTCAMP quite a bit. Some tips

1.)Get a pick with zero bend/flex to it. Also, with a sharp point. The IBANEZ JTC picks are a good option and are cheaper than boutique picks. For now I"d stay away from anything made of ULTEX. It's got too much flex to it.

2.)Focus on playing with a light touch. No matter what you are playing.



Notice the lovely bevel and point on this pick. It's a great design for aiding the hand and preventing injury.

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 7 2021, 07:58 PM

At first I was unsure whether moving away from iMac was the right choice.Now after hearing what you know.I am happy that i am moving away from it. Really looking forward now to get my pc built

Thats a really nice setup you have going. Being looking at getting a 32inch monitor .

Thanks for all the tips. I have took them on board and going to try and implement them into my practice . Had a look at Ibanez JTC picks but they don't seem to have them in the Uk.Any other alternatives thats worth trying.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 8 2021, 07:31 PM

PHILL66 got hold of the Ibanez picks and he is in the uk. Ill ask where he got them. I think you can just get them on AMAZON.com in the UK. I got mine on amazon here in the US.

If you can't find them, VPICKS makes some great picks.

My signature Vpick (switchblade buffed) is a great choice. The buffed edge made string traverse a breeze.
https://v-picks.com/shop/ols/products/the-switchblade

here is the black hole
https://v-picks.com/shop/ols/products/the-blackhole

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 8 2021, 07:34 PM

There you go folks, not cheap but well worth a try.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ibanez-PJTC1-Central-Players-Plectrums/dp/B07NDW2L5L/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=ibanez+picks&qid=1610130820&sr=8-1

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 8 2021, 07:35 PM

Sadly out of stock it seems on amazon.com uk At least it looks that way when I click on the link. Must be popular! The Vpicks I mentioned should be well stocked but they are not cheap about $5 US each.

Posted by: Phil66 Jan 8 2021, 08:31 PM

That link I gave show that they are indeed in stock.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07NDW2L5L/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://flic.kr/p/2kqjQw9

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 9 2021, 03:53 PM

A had forgot that I had a v pick screamer. Being enjoying using it over the last few days. Going to order up some new picks and experiment with them.

cheers Todd



Yeah its showing that they are in stock with me. Going to order some up. Cheers Phil

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 10 2021, 12:44 AM

The SCREAMER is a nice thick pointy pick Should hold you over until your order comes in. I don't know why they are showing me as sold out of ibanez picks. Maybe because I"m out of country?

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 21 2021, 03:48 PM

Just a update on my PC build. Thats it being paid for and and Utopia computers are going to start the build.

I did mention about a motherboard that supports thunderbolt but there is none in stock so I have went without it.

I have being used to the iMac with built in speakers which I enjoy watching videos and listening to music on.I am going to buy a new monitor that most likely wont have built in speakers. Any suggestions on what speakers to go for.

Here is the parts being used for my pc build.

 quote.pdf ( 98.3K ) : 81

Posted by: Mertay Jan 21 2021, 04:29 PM

Looks very nice

My overall suggestion for pc speakers are try avoiding a subbass speaker and go for the typical LR 2 speaker config. if possible. The bigger the 2 speakers are the better.

Posted by: jstcrsn Jan 21 2021, 06:51 PM

these https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/LP8--kali-audio-lp-8-8-inch-powered-studio-monitor if your looking for monitors for recording purposes.
If you are after gaming or music listening speakers these would tend to make sounds dull, so I would ask their purpose

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 21 2021, 07:36 PM

Thanks Mertay

Being used to the iMac with built in speakers, wireless keyboard and mouse. Now having to think about what to get for my new setup and having good cable management. Messy cables will drive me crazy
Thanks for the advice once again.



I have Yamaha hs7 active monitor speakers.Am looking for speakers for listening to music through.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 22 2021, 07:08 AM

The HS7 are great monitors. They are perfect for mixing, gaming, etc. At some point, you might consider the Yamaha HS8S Subwoofer as an add on since it's built to match the HS line and take care of lower frequency bits. You can get by just fine without it, but if money permits, it would give a fuller range to your audio system. Having a matched sub is a great option for home studios that don't make use of of a second set of larger monitors as you might find built in to the walls of a big facility.

Also, as far as Picks go, I recently bought the assortment pack of the DUNLOP FLOW pick as it's a bit wider than the Ibanez Picks and it's under ten bucks for an assortment back of them!! Just got them in.. I'll let you know how I like em. How do you like your IBANEZ picks?

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 22 2021, 06:23 PM

Yeah they are good monitors.Had them setup when I was using Bias fx but my iMac kept freezing with it. Now using a Boss Katana 50 with the tone studio but also have freezing issues. Am still working on your quick licks. Just waiting to get my new pc and hopefully get set up recording better quality videos and sound.

I like the looks of those picks. When I bought the Ibanez RG521 I also got some Rabea and Andy James picks. Have being getting on really well with them. The guitar needed some new strings so ordered them along with the Ibanez picks the other day.I will keep you updated when I get them and try them out

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 22 2021, 10:34 PM

What application are you running when your rig freezes up? If it's an imac running logic or reaper it should be very stable? My macs almost never freeze up. If you disconnect your audio interface does it still freeze up? What year / spec is your imac btw? My macbook pro is a 2012 and it's solid as a rock.

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 22 2021, 10:42 PM

The only things I have running is internet browser and my Boss tone studio. I dont have anything connected to it either.

spec is

iMac 2011
processor 2.5GHz intel core i5
memory 4GB 1333MHz DDR3
graphics AMD Radeon HD 6750M 512MB

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 23 2021, 11:28 PM

The prob might be the ram? 4gb isn't that much and the apple operating system takes up a good bit then with two applications on top it could get unstable. If you run just the tone studio does it freeze up? I have had several imacs and I always tried ot upgrade the ram in them since it was cheap and an easy fix. You can stick a 16 gb stick in the machine and things should smooth out. But if you have another machine on the way the problem won't matter.

Posted by: jstcrsn Jan 24 2021, 03:22 AM

I think this is your dedicated graphics ram and not the computer ram, but I don't know why those spec are freezing up they should not.
If you have many pages open that might be the cause

Posted by: Mertay Jan 24 2021, 08:38 AM

My guess is its a soundcard driver related problem, bias should need ram but the katana program shouldn't.

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 24 2021, 09:57 AM

To be honest I only found out it was a 4GB RAM the last week. A thought it would of being 8GB RAM. My initial intention was to upgrade the RAM but then decided to get a new system. Had a holiday planned for Orlando Florida last September. We moved it to this September due to Covid but now decided to cancel it as it still looks like there will be issues.That freed up money that was put away for the holiday so thought it would be best used in getting a PC.






I dont have much pages opened . Even if I have nothing open and go and try open up Safari it can take a while to do so. I get the spinning wheel and when the page come up it wont let me scroll down the page.

Shouldnt be to long before I get my new PC and the Imac will be going in the bin




Bias became completely unusable. With the tonestudio for the Katana it can take a while when I click on a patch to actually change to that patch. Also disconnects and when I try to reconnect to the tone studio it takes multiple attempts before it connects. Had the same issue with my Yamaha thr10 .

Posted by: Mertay Jan 24 2021, 10:21 AM

Yeah well you're getting a very goodsystem anyway so don't worry about it save your patience on getting used to windows as that will be a process in itself, as windows users (me) can also get confused at times when using a mac.

Posted by: liveOASISforever Jan 24 2021, 10:35 AM

A have being watching Tips and tricks for windows 10 videos on YT

My dad struggles anytime he uses my iMac. He is use to Windows.