Im having terrible trouble deciding which Mac Pro is the best choice regarding price/future proofing. I am a first time Mac buyer/user, Im buying a Mac pro as I require a powerful computer that can act as a creative suit for a full spread of programmes, Final Cut Pro, CS5 suite(photoshop, after effects etc), Logic, Aperture, etc (I dont need it for gaming). I wont be upgrading for 3/5 years so I want the best configuration possible in terms of bangs per buck. I am on a tight budget (arent we all) but if I'll feel the benefits I am prepared to stretch (if I must).
I realise that all the machines listed will deal comfortably with what I can throw at them, Im also sure that once I have a machine sat at home Ill be extremely happy with any of them. I think what Im trying to avoid is being restricted in the future whilst making the most economically sound choice for today.
Im torn between the following options
2010, 4 Core, 2.8Ghz Nehalem, 8G Ram, £2,299.01
2010, 6 Core, 3.3Ghz Westmere, 8G Ram, £3,259.00
2010, 8 Core, Two 2.4GHz Westmere 8G Ram, £2799.00
Theres also the cheaper option of the 27inch Quad core IMac or even a refurbished 2008 8 Core Nehalem Mac Pro!!!!!.
Ive researched bench tests/clock speeds etc but have found contradicting opinion. Software isnt currently harnessing all the cores on offer (though it no doubt will more in the future) so an extra grand for a Westmere seems possibly unnecessary. Having said this I want to buy the most up to date machine possible, so the Westmere options seem more attractive because of their newer architecture?
My other concern is the fact that the MacPro is currently Mid Term in its product cycle and the on set of Sandy Bridge processors next year? I need a machine now regardless.
I apologise for the broadness and lack of clarity in this post. Im desperate chaps!!! Please Help!!!!!!!
Many many thanks
I realise that all the machines listed will deal comfortably with what I can throw at them, Im also sure that once I have a machine sat at home Ill be extremely happy with any of them. I think what Im trying to avoid is being restricted in the future whilst making the most economically sound choice for today.
Im torn between the following options
2010, 4 Core, 2.8Ghz Nehalem, 8G Ram, £2,299.01
2010, 6 Core, 3.3Ghz Westmere, 8G Ram, £3,259.00
2010, 8 Core, Two 2.4GHz Westmere 8G Ram, £2799.00
Theres also the cheaper option of the 27inch Quad core IMac or even a refurbished 2008 8 Core Nehalem Mac Pro!!!!!.
Ive researched bench tests/clock speeds etc but have found contradicting opinion. Software isnt currently harnessing all the cores on offer (though it no doubt will more in the future) so an extra grand for a Westmere seems possibly unnecessary. Having said this I want to buy the most up to date machine possible, so the Westmere options seem more attractive because of their newer architecture?
My other concern is the fact that the MacPro is currently Mid Term in its product cycle and the on set of Sandy Bridge processors next year? I need a machine now regardless.
I apologise for the broadness and lack of clarity in this post. Im desperate chaps!!! Please Help!!!!!!!
Many many thanks