Macbook Pro For Live Playing, Buying used, requirements and suggestions? Options

[HillbillyWannaB]

Hey guys, I've been researching this for months now and I think I'm close to making a purchase. I've decided to run my keys and bass pedals via a laptop for live gigging using Mainstage with some VSTs. Right now I'm using internally programmed synth sounds via a Juno D and SH32 table top synth for pedals.

Anyway, I'd like to try to purchase a Macbook Pro used to save a little money, plus get a little more for my money. I was wondering what your thoughts were on minimum requirements for what I want to do. I may get into some recording/sequencing down the road, but nothing serious. I need this for reliable, live music. I wouldn't go more than a year or two old as far as the macbook. Seems like I can get a decent one with Logic Pro already on there for just under $1000 locally.

If I stay within the last year or two, will I pretty much be okay as far as hard drive size, RAM, etc?

Any advice is appreciated, thanks.

[houstonmusic]

more recent macs will be plenty powerful, processor-wise.
spend on RAM, and consider an external 7200 rpm hard drive.
samplers will either be disc intensive or RAM intensive. large keyboard parts, sustain pedal piano, etc, will tax the internal drive. you'll be happier with a decent audio interface than native too.
good luck!