From jlcason@yahoo.com Tue Aug 05 05:43:47 2014
Subject:Re: What Windows Operating System to run Clonewheel Software?

The Lenovo stated (according to posted specs) is factory loaded with either Windows 7 HP or Pro. Therefore, factory drivers are definitely available for Windows 7. It also has either an Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processor. All of these are likely to be quite adequate for music use.
My business is computer networking. I have an eight year old Lenovo R52, which came with XP. I currently have three different HDs for that computer, and use it for music (with an eMu 1616M Audio/MIDI adapter). Most of the time, it is running Windows 7, although I also have Windows 8 which loaded with no problems (this machine is old enough not to have a Windows key on the keyboard). ALL three OS will load the Vista drivers that eMu produced for the 1616M.


HP vs Pro (or 8.1 vs 8.1 Pro) - Pro provides the capability of connecting the computer into a Microsoft server domain, which you don't need. It also has higher capability in a peer-to-peer network, hard drive encryption available, and Windows Media Center can be added (to 8.1, 7 has it built in). None of these are needed for your musical applications.


7 vs 8.1 - It doesn't really matter, except be sure that whatever audio/MIDI adapter you plan to use with it has drivers available for the OS. From my experience, almost every driver I've used with Windows 7 upgraded with no problem. The Windows 7 GUI interface is more traditional, but the 8.1 interface can be set to boot to the desktop, and you never need to even see the "modern" interface if you don't like it. Windows 8.1 does boot considerably faster, because it hibernates the machine for shutdown. 8.1 also will be supported by Microsoft for a longer time.


Microsoft Office - I know for a fact that either Office 2010 or 2013 (or Office 365) will load on either OS.


Linux - If you plan to learn enough about Linux to be able to fix problems, and are willing to use Linux based software that is different from the big companies products for Windows and Mac, Linux will work fine for you, IF you can find drivers for all the hardware in the Lenovo. If you just want to make music using tools that are mainstream, I'd stay with Windows. I've had better luck with Canonical's Ubuntu than most flavors for ease of install, use, and updating.


Hope this is helpful in making your decision.


MoodyBluesKeys
Jim