Hey everybody,
I'm trying to decide on my next computer purchase. I currently have a 2.4 GHz Core2 Duo iMac that is acceptable. However, I don't plan on holding onto it for too long as its 3 year AppleCare is done in June and I find it easier to sell if it is still under warranty. I know for sure that I do not want another iMac. The limited upgradability and especially the external hard drives irritate me to no end.
As far as computer usage, I'm a part time iPhone developer who also uses my computer for Photoshop, digital RAW photo manipulation, and Windows virtualization round out my more intensive type of tasks. Depending on the model I get, I'd like to computer to last 3-5 years, which considering I could get away with my current iMac for another year if I wanted to, seems very doable.
I was thinking of going used as I don't need the computing horsepower of the newest models. However, if it would last me longer such that it would be a better value I would certainly consider it. Though the current base model seems a particularly poor deal. I was considering a 3,1 2.8 octo as it seemed to be a reasonable blend of power vs cost, though I have hardly any hands on experience with Mac Pro's to really know. One thing I am not very familiar with is the different processor families and I know certain models allow better options for CPU upgrades in the future. And I'm hesitant to play the waiting game for new models as it will likely be a while and who knows what will or won't make it in (lightpeak?). But again I could be persuaded if there is a compelling reason.
So, tell me what computer I should get ... and why
Thanks.
I'm trying to decide on my next computer purchase. I currently have a 2.4 GHz Core2 Duo iMac that is acceptable. However, I don't plan on holding onto it for too long as its 3 year AppleCare is done in June and I find it easier to sell if it is still under warranty. I know for sure that I do not want another iMac. The limited upgradability and especially the external hard drives irritate me to no end.
As far as computer usage, I'm a part time iPhone developer who also uses my computer for Photoshop, digital RAW photo manipulation, and Windows virtualization round out my more intensive type of tasks. Depending on the model I get, I'd like to computer to last 3-5 years, which considering I could get away with my current iMac for another year if I wanted to, seems very doable.
I was thinking of going used as I don't need the computing horsepower of the newest models. However, if it would last me longer such that it would be a better value I would certainly consider it. Though the current base model seems a particularly poor deal. I was considering a 3,1 2.8 octo as it seemed to be a reasonable blend of power vs cost, though I have hardly any hands on experience with Mac Pro's to really know. One thing I am not very familiar with is the different processor families and I know certain models allow better options for CPU upgrades in the future. And I'm hesitant to play the waiting game for new models as it will likely be a while and who knows what will or won't make it in (lightpeak?). But again I could be persuaded if there is a compelling reason.
So, tell me what computer I should get ... and why
Thanks.