MIDI Hardware Secrets - Multi-Computer Composer Setup - Part 1 of 3
LogicProHacks
In this video I explain how to setup the hardware and explain what works and why it works this way. I also show how to route the MIDI and Audio for the perfect dual PC combination of Reason 10 and Logic Pro X. I also explain why I choose to not use Rewire anymore. The main purpose is to distribute the processing power between two computers, A mac Pro and Mini ITX Windows 7 PC.
Yes, I could by a new Mac Pro, but the cost of a new one is in the 4K~6K range for a nice used one from eBay, yes, I said used. I found by upgrading some key parts in my old system and adding in a cheap 2nd PC. I was able to gain a huge CPU performance and save big on my limited budget.
You want to follow along and you are using Logic Pro X and Reason, you will need two computers, a decent older Mac Pro, and PC, plus two Audio/Midi interfaces. All of this can be found for very cheap on eBay, Craigslist or the local Pawn shop. My local pawn shop is great, as they offer Layaway. The PC does not have to be the best, just enough to run Reason, I am running the latest, version 10.
Over time, I have also made some custom upgrades for each computer, which includes a heavy amount of memory, a decent CPU and hard drive for the OS, plus a fast 2nd hard drive to be used as samples and project storage. When you offload your samples and projects to secondary fast hard drives like SSD or a 10K Raptor (7200 RPMs will not cut it anymore), you will gain a huge performance boost.
Keep in mind, certain audio interfaces offer both Audio and MIDI and certain interfaces offer only Audio. Plus some interfaces will only offer one main audio output and many inputs, whereas other interfaces will offer may audio-outputs and only a few audio-inputs; so it's important you do your research before you buy.
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