Suggestions Please, What hardware/software Options

[BobAdamson]

Hello musicmakers,

I have a few questions before I get into the meat of the subject. I am a long time Mac user (][e). My wife has a 17" Powerbook. My kids all have iMacs or Ibooks. The house is wireless. I purchased iLife to play around with GarageBand. Just as I was starting to get into it, my wife complains that she can no longer get on her Mac. See, I have my office at home and unfortunately, MY computer is a Dell. So, to keep the peace (and avoid buying another Mac for now), can anyone suggest something that might work well (I know that is redundant) on Windows?

I am a long time amatuer guitarist/keyboardist/singer/songwriter. My wife is a teacher. What I want is some kind of setup that allows me to record a few back up tracks to accompany live playing. It doesn't have to be elaborate, but I might want to do more than that, who knows? So, any suggestions?

[BobAdamson]

Wow, did I touch a nerve or what?

Please, I have been as much involved as any of you in the Mac PC debate. Even before then, when I used (still own) the Apple ][e or the Apple GS (almost left Apple products after that one, but still stayed with them, but still own). I outfitted my business initially (6 people working for me) with 6100's (still have several, I never can bring myself to throw away a Mac) after first trying an IBM system 36 (another fiasco), before having, yes having to use Windows machines to run specific software. When it came time for me to upgrade again, I really wanted to go with G5's. Unfortunately, Microsoft bought Connectix and Virtual PC does not run on the G5. Yes, it will run on the G4, but I have so learned not to buy technology that is not the latest, greatest, and most up to date.

I posted my question because I was forced to make MY computer a Dell. I was hoping for some sympathetic advice on how I could make my Dell less distasteful. Instead I am being used as the basis of slamming others in General.

I apologize. I will post no more.