Gary, Gotcha on the 'Gates snare' sentiment. I've done a lot of tech support and training (corporate & private) over the years and in all my experience, I can't say I know of anyone who willingly left the Mac platform for a Windows solution. The one that comes to mind was a media attorney with 5 machines in her office. It cost her a small bundle to move to Windows, but she did so, largely because she got tired of converting documents for the Windows-centric legal profession. When I asked about her plans as she nears retirement, she looked at me stone cold and said, "On that day, I will dump all these PCs and get a Macintosh." Hmmm... Let's make some general observations about human nature: 1. Switching platforms is always awkward, regardless of platform. (You felt empowered via your familiarity with your existing platform.) 2. Any new platform will remove that comfort level... you will feel un-empowered ...until you learn your way around the new system. 3. People resent change, especially as they get older. 4. The learning process is a humbling one that requires effort. Humans don't like to exert effort. 5. The Sopranos is the greatest work for television, to date. (er, a, um.. sorry about that, I lose focus sometimes). The platform wars will always be there. There will always be people who are entrenched in their world and can't understand the attraction to anything else. Apple has always been focused on the user experience. This vital aspect seems to have been relegated to 2nd priority on other platforms. What is magical about Mac OS X is that user's don't even have to know how to spell UNIX and yet they can be served by its power and capabilities. To be able to interface with UNIX via a plush, sophisticated interface makes one feel like they've put one over on the natural laws of the universe. I guess it's time to bow to Steve Jobs and his technology people on this one. They truly have pulled off something no less than pure magic. You will not be disappointed by a Mac, unless you get a low end unit that is not appropriate for Logic, etc. (Even the low-end G5 tower would do the trick). However, I always tell folks (especially in the music biz) to buy as much hardware muscle as their budget will allow, and they'll be happy for a longer time). The difference between Logic 5 and Logic 7 is enormous. The new features alone will make you happy you put bucks down for a new system. The world of Mac OS X will be a relief to have gotten away from the 'Gates snare'. A few caveats: The OS X version of Logic only supports AU plug-ins. If you're heavily invested in other plug-in formats (VST, etc.) you'll need to update those. Although, you'd be updating those anyway, if you're switching platforms. You'll need to get the Mac version of the drivers that support any external equipment you have (audio, MIDI interfaces, other equipment, etc.). Give the group some feedback after you make the switch. Stephen Laianca - Just up the road from the Bada Bing - Fugedaboudit! ... --