Windows 7 and music?

[kosokuadam]

OK, so one of my best friends is a music major, and she's in need of a new computer. I've been talking to her about considering other options than a Mac, and so far I think I've been making headway. Of all the PCs available with Windows, which one might be best for a music major, requiring power to record, edit, and compose music?

 

[Dwarf]

There are a number of programs which allow you to compose, record, edit and playback music on a PC. Some are quite pricey, so it depends on your budget.

Here are a few options:

Anvil Studio Catalog
NoteWorthy Software - Home of NoteWorthy Composer Music Notation Software
http://www.forte-notation.eu/en/index.htm
Finale Music Composing & Notation Software
Sibelius - the leading music composition and notation software

 

[Gornot]

May I also add: FL Studio Homepage

 

[tw33k]

I'm no expert but I would suggest she get at least a quad-core CPU. An AMD 965BE would be a good, cheap option. At least 4GB RAM. AN SSD would be great for the working file/s and a decent spinner for backups etc. Again, depending on her budget, look for the best sound card she can afford.
If you can give us an idea of her budget, we can be more specific.

 

[allend66]

Sony Soundforge for wav editing and midi triggering.

I'd get full duplex soundcard, not half duplex.