Currently running MC 2.8 on a G5 Quad 2.5. I just finished a documentary at DV50 with media running off a SATA RAID enclosure. After following all advice on these forums, I had about 2-3 bus errors per week and about 2 kernel panics a month. In short, I was pretty satisfied with how MC held up.

Searched the forums and couldn't find anything relating to recent releases, so here's the question: I'm thinking of upgrading to an Intel Mac Pro this month. Will MC be any more or less stable than it was on the Quad G5 (considering it was the most powerful PPC)? I get nervous upgrading operating systems with Avid, let alone whole new processors.

If the difference is negligible, I may not upgrade. Thanks for any advice.

If the difference is negligible, I may not upgrade. Thanks for any advice.

.- If the difference were negligible, Apple wouldn't dumped the PPC.

The Intel chips are A LOT faster and more powerful.

But is up to you.

I would reccommend holding onto the PPC for a short time and then upgrading to Intel once the Harpertown processors are approved.

raspago,

I know the Intels are much more powerful, but I'm really more interested in stability. Mostly I'm an offline editor, and I'm happy to render longer if it's a system that doesn't behave erractically. The production company I generally work for has 45 Avid bays, all running Meridiens on OS 9 -- they're staying with the older technology because it works for low-res storytelling. Then we online with the new machines.

Just trying to figure out if I'm opening any cans of worms with my home system. Thanks.

Todd,

Not sure if I'll be able to afford a latest, greatest Harper Mac -- will likely buy a used Intel if I go that route. I seem to recall you had a G5 Quad for a time -- any change in MC behavior when you switched to a Mac Pro?

Thanks.

I would say the MacPro I have (8-core/first generation) is far superior to the Quad G5.  Not just speed wise but also much more stable.  I highly recommend this upgrade from every perspective.  The 4 internal SATA bays alone make it worth its weight in gold.  And if you are going with an 2007 model, which is great, look into what your Quad will fetch on ebay... you'll be suprised.  I'm guessing you can pull down $1400-$1700 for that thing, depending on RAM, extra HD's, etc...  might make the upgrade easier to swallow.

Just another thing to keep in mind....

Development for the Mac is quickly moving away from supporting the PPC platform. Realistically, there won't be too many more releases that will support it. So, if you are thinking of upgrading, anytime soon, it will probably be a good move.

 Also, correct me If I'm wrong, but Avid is not yet supporting Leopard???

We are holding off unti Avid Supports it---

Might want to hold off until Avid supports it :)