16" Macbook Pro M2 Max 12 Core 64 GB RAM vs 16" Macbook Pro M3 Max 14 Core 36 GB RAM?

[Chevron]

Which would you choose for mixing audio only with Pro Tools? Maybe some light VI work.

Sessions can get up to 100 audio tracks here

[its2loud]

16" Macbook Pro M2 Max 12 Core 64 GB RAM

The reason is 64GB RAM

Bump up the RAM of the M3 Max and I’d go with that one. Same RAM but more performance cores

[Chevron]

Originally Posted by its2loud

16" Macbook Pro M2 Max 12 Core 64 GB RAM

The reason is 64GB RAM

Bump up the RAM of the M3 Max and I’d go with that one. Same RAM but more performance cores

Thanks that is the way I am leaning.

Bumping up the RAM is expensive, with 3 options.

1. 14 Core M3 Max with 96 GB RAM = + £800
2. 16 Core M3 Max with 48 GB RAM = + £300
3. 16 Core M3 Max with 64 GB RAM = + £500

[its2loud]

Maybe you can get by with 48 but there’s no way to know how you run things on your systems.

Every application open eats up RAM. Are you using the video engine? That eats up RAM. You’ve been down this road before. Look at your system monitor for a typical session and see how much RAM you’re using for all processes.

[Chevron]

Originally Posted by its2loud

Maybe you can get by with 48 but there’s no way to know how you run things on your systems.

Every application open eats up RAM. Are you using the video engine? That eats up RAM. You’ve been down this road before. Look at your system monitor for a typical session and see how much RAM you’re using for all processes.

You are choosing that RAM road I am asking specifically what to choose between these 2 machines

[its2loud]

Right. Cuz it specifically comes down to RAM between the two machines. What you gain in performance cores is meaningless if your system runs out of available RAM.

[Chevron]

Originally Posted by its2loud

Right. Cuz it specifically comes down to RAM between the two machines. What you gain in performance cores is meaningless if your system runs out of available RAM.

Your emphasis on RAM is duly noted and I appreciate your insight into its significance. However, it's imperative to take a holistic approach, considering both RAM and processing power. While the 36 GB configuration will suffice presently based on system reporting, there's a legitimate concern regarding its future-proofing capabilities. In light of this, I still find myself now leaning towards the M3 Max, which offers not only ample RAM but also enhanced processing capabilities. Thank you for your input.