Keep Your Recording Computer In Shape

Most of us are recording and mixing on a computer these days. Whether Mac or PC, these machines (partnered with incredible software) act as our tape machine, outboard gear, and mixing console all in one. The power in today’s computers is stunning compared to what many of us dealt with just one short decade ago, but they don’t come without their problems. Today I want to give you a couple of helpful “rules” to live by when it comes to your music computer.

Via Alex Brown

Fill It Up With RAM

No matter what software you are running, the best thing you can feed your audio computer is RAM. More RAM means more power in the moment to record with virtual instruments and amp simulators and more power to mix with the all of your dazzling plugins. Yes CPU speed is crucial, but most of us can’t change our CPU after we bought the computer. RAM is both cheap and easy to upgrade. Fill your Mac or PC up with the most you can fit (and afford). Your DAW will thank you!
 

Say No To Most Updates

Assuming most of you have a dual purpose computer (studio and personal use) you have to be very careful about what you choose to update when it comes to software. DAWs can be picky about what other software you have laying around and once you get your system working nicely, you probably don’t want to disturb the beast if you don’t have to.

Personally, I don’t update anything on my computer unless it’s absolutely necessary for work. No operating system updates, no iTunes updates, no nothing! Sure I miss out on all of the latest and greatest stuff (or so it seems), but my DAW keeps on trucking without a hitch. If you absolutely MUST update something, your DAW even, try not to do it in the middle of a project. Finish the project, archive the sessions, and then do the updates. If I sound like a crazy person to you, it’s probably because I’ve been doing this longer than you have. Trust me, just say no when it comes to updates!

Avoid Upgrading Your DAW As Long As You Can

This is similar to the above point. Just because your favorite DAW has a shiny new version available for download (free or paid), doesn’t mean you should jump on board just yet. Many times the updated DAW can have bugs, compatibility problems with your current OS version, etc. It’s always safer to wait it out until you absolutely NEED those “game-changing” features. Your computer will be happier, and YOU will be happier not having to deal with sluggish, slow software that isn’t quite ready for your setup. Patience young Skywalker!

Do A Periodic Fresh Install

Finally, if you feel your computer is nearing the end of its recording and mixing life, simply backup all your work and do a fresh install of the entire OS. Pretend like it’s a new computer ready for you to install all your favorite programs. You’ll likely get a cleaner, faster, and more enjoyable Mac or PC experience and can realistically extend the life of your “aging” computer.

As you may have guessed, I’m all about squeezing the absolute most out of any purchase I make. I want value for my hard earned money and so should you. If you can keep your recording/mixing computer in top shape, you stand to save a lot of coin and make more music in the long run!