As a VST developer i frequently get asked what kind of hardware i use. Here is what i can recommend (November 2018)
Soundcards:
- RME (for professional producers)
- Soundblaster (for hobbyists and gamers)
Speakers:
- Yamaha HS 80
Display:
Stay away from high-dpi or 4K displays if they are smaller than 30''. The pixels get too small an you will face technical problems with many applications (too tiny text).
I am using an Acer display with WQHD resolution which has an excellent value-for-the-money.
CPU:
- Intel I7
- AMD Ryzen
Computer casing:
- Silentmaxx
Harddisc:
- Samsung 850 EVO SSD
- Intel SSDs
Computer keyboard:
- Filco Majestouch
- Lioncast LK 20
Computer mouse:
- Logitech G502
Laptops:
- Acer Aspire
Apple products:
I do not recommend Apple products, since they are identical to PC hardware, overpriced and difficult to repair. Furthermore Apple does not care much about compatibility.
I recently ordered a Mac mini 2018.
Graphics card:
- ATI
- NVidia (for gamers)
It should have connections for at least 2 displays.
Power supply:
There is a lot of garbage on the market. If it is cheaper than $40 you should be suspicious.
A crappy power supply has very negative effects on the overall stability of your system!
It can even have negative effects on the sound quality of your soundcard.
- BeQuiet
- Enermaxx
RAM:
8GB usually are sufficient.
DVD burner:
- Plexxtor
Printer:
If you don't need colour i recommend to use with a black & white laser printer. Laser printers are more relieable and have lower costs in the long turn.
I am still using and old Brother DCP 7030 laser printer (relieable, cheap and it's possible to refill it).
Software recommendations:
DAWs:
- It should be 64 bit
- It should have native support for VST 2.4 plugins (the most common and important standard)
Operating system:
I recommend Windows 7. 64 bit is a must.
