I need to know if I'm getting what I want.

[richardson.hila]

It's just in my opinion that Dell really isn't the way to go, but i respect the people that do like, and have had a successful run with them. It's just from experience that i say to keep clear, it seems to be that they're always the ones out the back in the tech room needing to be repaired, and after reading a few articles online, it seems that their customer service rating has dropped catastrophically in the last few years as well (not that Mac have the best track record either.) Why are Dell laptops so cheap anyway? I'm guessing it's because they use budget hardware...

 

[chaosbunny]

... Why are Dell laptops so cheap anyway? I'm guessing it's because they use budget hardware...

To be fair, a(nother) reason for this certainly is that they sell much more machines than smaller companies and therefore can get better deals from their suppliers.

To the op, I guess the suggestion to get a refurb or used mbp is a good one. As far as I know even a CD and not C2D mbp should run games better than the current mb and it certainly will have no problems with logic etc. And I believe it's possible to get one for around 1000-1200 if you are lucky.

Also, I would buy the best affordable machine in terms of processor and gpu, ram & bigger hd can easily be added later.

 

[imac/cheese]

It seems to me that your passion and focus are all on your music. Since that is the case I would highly recommend getting the macbook with Logic versus the Dell. When you get to college in a couple years you will already be familiar with the software you will be using as well as the operating system. The macbook an handle music pretty well. You will not regret buying a computer that will fit in with your passion (music) instead of buying one that works better for your recreational hobby (gaming).

 

[Sirmausalot]

Logic Express is a mere $199 with educational discount. You can upgrade for the full version for another $299 -- which means you save $1 if you had just gone straight to the Logic Studio. And logic studio includes Sound Track Pro 2 which ain't ready for prime time. (trust me on this one)

Don't plan on getting an apprciable amount of money for used equipment. But make sure you only get 1GB ram and do the upgrade yourself by purchasing the other 1GB elsewhere.