A couple of questions..

[Allbaldo]

Do RTAS plugins use only computer system resources, or do they use the PCI card processing to do what they do? How about TDM plugins?

Also does anyone know if a Mac 9600 can be upgraded to a G4? I've heard it may be possible. If so, is this worth doing? How do you do it?

Thanks!

[Lee Blaske]

Do RTAS plugins use only computer system resources, or do they use the PCI card processing to do what they do? How about TDM plugins?

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">RTAS plug-ins use system resources. TDM plug-ins use DSP resources on TDM cards.

Also does anyone know if a Mac 9600 can be upgraded to a G4? I've heard it may be possible. If so, is this worth doing? How do you do it?

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">That's a bad idea. There have been many reports of problems with G4 cards in 9600 computers, mainly -6042 (PCI bus too busy) errors. You'd be better off with a G3 processor if you want to upgrade.

Be careful, though. When you start to add up all the components you need to upgrade (you might also have to get different memory to accomodate the new processor), you might get very close to what you'd spend buying a new G4. A few days ago, I saw a website selling the previous model QS 733's for under $1,200.

The newer machines can also take advantage of inexpensive IDE drives, and have built-in FireWire.

In computer terms, the 9600's are getting quite old.

Lee Blaske

[Allbaldo]

Thanks Lee...

Does the processor mean more than the memory as far as RTAS goes?

My 9600 is a G3 400 with over 400 megs of ram. I'm not sure how much further I can go with ram, or if the processor can be upgraded a little more for not much money. If it could be done cheaply, do you think it would be worth it or if I would notice an improvement in performance in the first place?

Thanks!

[FajitaTone]

The PCI bus speed in a 9600 is 66MHz, in a REAL G4 it's 100MHz. Tis alone is a huge improvement. Save your money and buy a new machine.

$.02

[img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

[Boom Chic]

You're pretty much maxed out in terms of upgrading. The G3 400 is considered (by some on some recent lengthy, in depth posts) to be the fastest. If you are running out of processing power, get a new computer. As Lee stated, there are some good deals on Quicksilver Macs to be had.

If you run out of processing power, try doing some creative bussing, i.e. Aux sends etc.

Don't feel left out of the G4 arena, I am still happily trudging along on my 9600 with Newer G3 500/250 upgrade card with a PT 24 Mix Plus system. ;

[Alécio Costa]

I had a G3 233with 4.3/8.3 and although it presented less problems than my new G4 with 5.1.1/9.2.2, I have to tell you that it is a complete different world. You will not get regretted about it. Also, in the USA prices are so good with these items!