janti@athena.arc.nasa.gov (Joel Antipuesto - GDP) (06/18/91)
I'm in need of a computer. I've already posted to the Amiga newsgroups for their opinion. Basically the question here is why buy a Macintosh over an IBM PC or an Amiga? Here's what I basically want the computer to do: * At the very least have good word processing software available to it and be able to remotely log on to UNIX mainframes (via modem - terminal emulation only). C programming in a UNIX environment a possible need in the future. * Music applications, specifically in the area of sampling and sound synthesis. MIDI a requirement, but not specifically for use in live performance. * Graphics capabilities (draw, paint programs - can't specify anymore at this time). Basically, I want a computer to do school related work, but be able to upgrade the system to do music applications, and possibly graphics, in the future. Here are some questions: * Why a Mac? I've heard that the Mac is for people who want a computer but don't want to be computer people. For instance, some people say it's a pain to program on a Mac. Fact or fallacy? * If I were to get a Mac, what kind would be good for my needs. I'm a student and on a budget, but at the same time I don't want a dead-end machine that I can't do anything with in a few years time. * Music people: What kind of software is out there? How much does this software cost? How much to go MIDI? Do all Macs do 16-bit samples, and if not what kind of software/hardware do you need and what's the cost? I would really appreciate any info. Please e-mail all responses to: janti@athena.arc.nasa.gov