Build me a PC!!!

Sherardp

Definitely build your own rig, SSD for a boot drive though.

MADGSF

I have not bought a complete PC for literally decades. I like building my own because if something goes wrong I know how to fix it and the parts that go in it are generally better. Ramzet listed a solid build and I am surprised he found all that for a grand, well done.

My recommendation, should you choose to build your own, is to put the most money in the things that are not so easily upgraded like the MB and processor. You also need a quality power supply to run it. I would also suggest that instead of getting a dedicated sound card you look into a DAC like the HRT Music Streamer instead. My current EVGA MB has a Coax digital output which gives you many DAC options.

Having said all that that Mac is sweet and if you think you will use it as a laptop it is very hard to beat.

mikey1987

Why not build a separate server to host your data, a fast network to access it from, and buy a new laptop?

I used to run my own tower PCs and keep all my data there. I eventually ditched the tower and settled for a laptop + NAS model. Much happier in the long run - and I don't have to worry about hosing my entire FLAC collection because I clicked on the wrong link online.

If you're interested, I wouldn't mind sharing more details of my set up at home.