Contemplating A MacBook For PT LE

[PureMagic]

I'm looking at, new or used, I have a mbox2 micro:

MacBook Pro
13-inch: 2.26GHz
Intel Core 2 Duo
4gb Ram
150GB HD (would use external for my audio files)



Is this set up good for running PT or are there any issues? And for the price differential (used is not that bad but still) is the 2.53GHz version of the 13inch really worth it? Also, if I already used my PT Authorization code when installing PT LE 8 for Windows (DLed from digidesign) will I be able to use that same one on Mac?

- Thanks

[DigiTechSupt]

This should work great - I get excellent performance out of a MBP 2.2 C2D.

Make sure the external drive you get has a compatible FW400 chipset. Typically any Oxford chipset is fine.

You can use the same code on the Mac as you used for your PC...

[DigiTechSupt]

Oh, and typically the premium you pay for the faster model isn't necessarily worth it. I doubt you would see much of a difference, performance-wise, between this model and the faster one.

[Concerttom]

I've also had a good experience running PT on my MBP. Runs nice & fast, with few glitches (and most, if not all, of those are my fault -- neglecting to adjust hardware buffer between recording and playback, that kind of thing). The only possible drawback I'd see for you is screen size -- seems pretty small to me. Mine's 17 inches, & I wouldn't mind a larger one. But if you've got sharp eyesight (and/or a tight workspace), I'd say go for it!

[getz76]

The only major issue with the non-Pro MacBook is the terrible LCD. The size is manageable, but the actual LCD is awful. The viewable angle is pretty narrow, and you'll find yourself shifting the screen quite a bit. Fine for tracking, but it can be fatiguing if you are mixing for long periods.

Performance-wise, it runs great. Honestly, the difference between my MacBook Pro and my MacBook is insignificant. The best upgrades are cheap; 4gB RAM and 7,200rpm internal drive.

[DigiTechSupt]

Keep in mind you get get a 22" monitor for under $200 and connect it to the DVI port on the MBP...

[getz76]

Originally Posted by DigiTechSupt

Keep in mind you get get a 22" monitor for under $200 and connect it to the DVI port on the MBP...

Indeed. Depending on the version of the MacBook, you only need an adapter which can be had on the cheap from monoprice.com .

[Obsidian Dragon]

The only ones to avoid are the ones with no Firewire (first unibody Macbooks). Protools requires an external firewire drive for the audio.