Hi all,
I'm a musician and currently use a 2019 iMac running the latest version of Mac OS and Logic Pro.
Lately, my machine has been running very slowly, and I think it's time for an upgrade!
Here's my problem. I'm not too sure which computer I wana get. I've been looking at the macbook Pros, and I think I'd like to go with one of those.
I'm thinking at least 32GB of RAM, and a 2TB SSD. I'm just not sure if I should get the m3 Pro or Max chip.
I work a lot with Kontakt sample Libraries from Native Instruments, and sometimes my logic projects can have as many as 30 tracks per project. I also thought about maybe getting a Mac Studio, but then I'd miss out on the portability of the Macbook Pros.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated
By John Dowling Jr., 13 November, 2023
Forum
Apple Hardware and Compatible Accessories
Comments
I have a good idea
If you’re able to speed up your Macca little bit, don’t get a new one. If you were right on usual Bootcamp at Flinders, you won’t be able to use it
current specs
What you'd want depends on what your current specs are. I see you said 32 GB of ram, but how much do you have now? That can be a large factor in new systems.
MacBook Air
If you like a lot, portable machine has really good battery life and decent enough specifications. Get the MacBook Air M1 or M2 you can get it and 13.3 13.6 and 15 each displays so I’ll recommend you get one of them and said to MacBook Pros because even though the MacBook Pros Add some extra features and extra performance and most likely better battery life they definitely way more and a more chunky definitely more chunky and trust me. I’ve had a look at some and I even had a 2012 MacBook Pro ones so I know what it’s like to have a present
not enough power
For the type of work and apps being mentioned i don't think an Air would have the amount of power required. I think the MacBook pro is the right line of thinking for portable power in this case, just knowing which model would be enough without getting too much overkill.
You’re incorrect
I’m going to Maccas right here right now is officially incorrect! Are use GarageBand and Logic pro mind you with several other apps, including you TM and Safari open on my 16 GB MacBook Air woman, Apple M1 processor handles. The dancing like a chap! This will be perfect for you The OP of this post
Some advice that I found
Regarding your question whether to go with a Mac Studio or MacBook Pro, I think you should consider the following points:
• Portability
• Availability of ports
If you value the availability of built-in ports, Mac Studio might be a good option. But if you prefer portability, MacBook Pro is definitely a great choice. In my opinion, if 3 USB-C ports are not enough, especially in the case where you need to connect lots of midi devices, DAW and other accessories, buying a doc is always an open option.
Now, for the question whether to get an M3 Pro, or M3 Max, it's a bit tricker. However, as to my understanding, the number of CPU has a much more significant influence on the workflow of Logic than GPU. It used to be the case that the Pro series and Max series have the same number of CPU, with the number GPU being the only difference. But for M3 series, it is no longer the case. While M3 Pro has 12 core CPU, with 6 efficient and 6 performance cores, the M3 Max has 12 performance, and 4 efficient cores.
With that being said, I think if you can afford it, going for M3 Max might very well be worth it the your buck.
The amount of memory is another very important point you might want to think about. Accordingly, memory is where your samples will be loaded into, so having a copious amount will definitely be very helpful, especially in the longer run. If your budget allows, I'd dare say upgrading to something a step higher than 32 GB is not a bad idea at all, especially in the context where memory is not upgradable on any of the Mac.
Anyway, I'm not using Logic Pro myself, so please take my comment with a lot of salt.
Here is the thread they discuss about very much the same topic you're asking. Please refer to it and use your good judgement:
https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/does-the-gpu-have-an-effect-in-music-production.2333449/