These extra components essentially double the price of the rig, so a fairly cheap computer like the Mac Mini is an attractive option. There are two Mac Minis in the rack on the left.īuilding a redundant keyboard rig means you’ll need two computers, two audio interfaces, a KVM switch, and an audio switcher like the Radial SW8. For example, I’ve used Synthogy’s Ivory and IK Multimedia’s Amplitube on a dual-core Mac Mini. With proper programming (aliasing, minimizing insert FX, using global reverbs and delays, etc.), the Mac Mini can even run a few third party plugins. Realistically, a dual-core Mac Mini is more than capable of running dozens of instances of MainStage’s stock plugins. Thus, we’re left with dual-core Minis that are severely underpowered for today’s most demanding sample libraries and plugins. Unfortunately, Apple killed the quad-core option in the 2014 refresh. This made it an extremely attractive option for redundant keyboard rigs - two decently powerful computers side by side in a 1U rack space. In the good ol’ days, the Mini was configurable with a quad-core processor. Mac MiniĢ012 was the golden age of the Mac Mini. Sonnet makes a cool-looking 4U mounting kit. Lastly, you’ll probably want to figure out how to mount the Mac Pro in a rack. Next, you’ll need to get a keyboard and mouse - because Apple knows you can afford it after dropping $3000 on the computer. First, you’ll need to purchase a monitor display. If you’re set on building a keyboard rig around the Mac Pro, there are a few associated costs to consider. If you really need a CPU with more than four cores, you’re better off building a Hackintosh. It hasn’t received a proper update in years, and contains useless components (dual video card) for musicians that drive up the cost of the machine. The Mac Pro, in its current state, represents a terrible value for a MainStage computer. I use an iMac running Keyscape and Kontakt. I’ve used the 21.5″ iMac in several shows on Broadway and Las Vegas, and it’s become my go-to option if redundancy isn’t a requirement. The 21.5″ iMac with a 3.3GHz quad-core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB of flash storage comes out to $2299, which is significantly cheaper than a comparable MacBook Pro. While the larger 27″ iMac supports up to 32GB RAM and 1TB of flash storage, try imagining such a large computer on stage - what an eyesore. It’s configurable with quad-core i7 processors, high enough capacity SSD storage, and enough RAM. In my opinion, the 21.5″ iMac w/4K Retina Display is the best computer for MainStage if you’re looking for a desktop solution. Apple has three desktop computers - the iMac, Mac Pro, and Mac Mini. If you’re putting together a keyboard rig for a long-term or sitdown gig, a desktop can be a more cost effective solution. As with the 15,” max out the RAM to 16GB and decide on storage based on your needs. Thus, a clock speed upgrade to 3.1GHz or 3.3GHz on the Touch Bar version isn’t a bad idea. Keep in mind quad-core processors aren’t an option on the 13″ MacBook Pros. I recommend skipping the no Touch Bar version because the CPU maxes out at 2.4GHz. The latest 13″ model comes in two flavors - Touch Bar and no Touch Bar. Don’t let the compact form factor fool you! The only reason I upgraded to a 15″ model this time around is the decrease in size thanks to the shrunken bezel. Before I purchased a 2016 15″ MacBook Pro, I was programming and performing on a 13″ MacBook Pro from 2013. The 2016 13″ MacBook Pro is also a very capable machine. You’ll lose the quad-core CPU, but gain a lot of the storage price for the same price or less. If the 15″ MacBook Pro is over your budget, do consider getting a 13″ model instead. The lowest priced stock configuration starts at $2399 compared to the previous generation’s $1999 entry point. Lastly, the 2016 MacBook Pro has received a lot of price-related criticism. Don’t bother upgrading the video card unless you also do high end photo and video editing (Adobe Photoshop & Final Cut Pro X).Upgrade to 1TB storage if you have lots of sample libraries, and don’t want to carry an external hard drive around.
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