New Pro Audio Computer Thoughts
New Pro Audio Computer Thoughts
Upgrade Motivation:
My previous i7 6700 HQ laptop has reached its limits. It struggles to manage tasks that require a 2048 buffer, making real-time playback or recording from my MIDI controller impossible due to excessive latency.
Budget Options:
Around $5k is what I’m aiming for.
Upgrade Timeline:
This year.
Operating System:
Windows 11 Pro – considered the most future-ready; I’m fine with Windows 10 so far.
Graphics:
Only relevant for professional audio, as some GPUs add noticeable delay to audio setups.
Digital Audio Workstation:
Cubase 12 Pro
Audio Interface:
RME Babyface Pro
Potential Models Under Review:
Titan C261 - 13th Gen Intel Core Series Processors Mobile Mini ITX Workstation PC for CAD/CAM up to 24 CPU Cores – regarded as the top CAD workstation at Titan Workstation Computers
Intel i7 & i9 13th Gen Intel Core Series processors offer significant performance improvements.
More info: www.titancomputers.com
Specific Specs:
i9 13900KS (3.2GHz base, 6GHz turbo, 32GB L3 cache, 24 cores/32 threads)
Key Points to Consider:
#1) The system needs to support the most demanding hybrid electronic or orchestral projects.
#2) Maintain low latency during composition and mixing, ideally under 512 buffer, preferably 256.
Questions for You:
Since I’m not a tech expert, what are your thoughts?
Should I add more cores/threads? Could that affect performance or stability?
And regarding crashes or freezes – any advice or alternatives?
From the site provided, it is important to keep in mind that systems with hybrid architecture processors, like the 12th Gen Intel Core™ or newer, are not compatible with Windows. Using Cubase 12 on such hardware may cause audio interruptions and lower performance. It would be better to opt for a Ryzen-based PC instead of a high-end workstation setup or the unusually high cost suggested. Creating a PC is manageable. If you prefer a compact build, consider the following components:
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7700X 4.5 GHz 8-Core Processor
Price: $319.00 (B&H)
CPU Cooler: Deepcool LT520 85.85 CFM Liquid CPU Cooler
Price: $87.99 (Newegg)
Motherboard: MSI MPG B650I EDGE WIFI Mini ITX AM5
Price: $274.27 (Amazon)
Memory: TEAMGROUP T-Create Expert 64 GB (2 x 32 GB) DDR5-6000 CL34
Price: $164.99 (Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Black SN850X 2 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 4.0 X4 NVME SSD
Price: $89.99 (Newegg) x 2
Storage: Western Digital Black SN850X 2 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 4.0 X4 NVME SSD
Price: $89.99 (Newegg)
Video Card: ASRock Intel Arc A380 Challenger ITX Arc A380 6 GB
Price: $99.99 (Newegg)
Case: Corsair 2000D AIRFLOW Mini ITX Tower Case
Price: $114.99 (Newegg)
Power Supply: Phanteks Revolt SFX 650 W, 80+ Gold Certified, Fully Modular
Price: $89.99 (Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 11 Home OEM - DVD 64-bit
Price: $99.99 (Newegg)
Total cost: $1431.19
Includes shipping, taxes, and available discounts
Generated by PCPartPicker
2023-07-12 10:17 EDT-0400
If you aim for more performance in a slightly larger case, consider the alternative list above.
Hey Lucky_SLS! Glad you're happy !!
This would eliminate any Intel CPUs with both P-cores and E-cores. Amazing !
The delay in my system stems from two factors:
#1) My audio buffer size.
#2) Any plugins I use that might add extra lag...this can be reduced in Cubase by disabling those problematic plugins temporarily using "Constrain Delay Compensation".
When creating an orchestral arrangement with 20 or more VST instruments, maintaining a low buffer of 512 or even 1024 becomes difficult. Recording additional parts becomes challenging due to this significant latency. Adding a complex piano part is nearly unfeasible under these conditions.
For comparison with the AMD, which Intel CPU offers the highest number of cores without being hybrid?