For recording just a few tracks like Guitar and Vox you don't really need a custom build Daw.

But,one of the reason the custom built Daw's cost more. They will work, you can get one that has been tested to work with the software and interface you have . They just freak'in work. And will work well, most of them.

Another reason, Their usally designed to run a recording software to their fullest . Not just 5 or 6 tracks.

But to do as you have asked, even one from Dell of HP would do fine. YMMV.........

Peace............Scoobie

spark, except for the computer audio interface, I'm not sure why anybody would want to purchase a desktop machine anymore?? The laptops are all so convenient, so quiet with most of versatility the desktop machines have except for the ability to plug in extra cards.

So many people do not understand what system integration means and so they tried to put together a smorgasbord computer with parts that may not necessarily be compatible with all that you want to use? In that respect, the prefabricated " music computers" have been rather thoroughly tested in use with most popular audio devices and software. Whereas I think you would find that most laptops are pretty much ready to go for your purposes? Just choose your favorite USB or FireWire recording device, which usually includes some bundled software and there you go!

Converting over to the laptop side of life
Ms. Remy Ann David

Thanks Remy and Scoobie for the very helpful advice!
Spark

RemyRAD wrote: spark, except for the computer audio interface, I'm not sure why anybody would want to purchase a desktop machine anymore?? The laptops are all so convenient, so quiet with most of versatility the desktop machines have except for the ability to plug in extra cards.

yes and a laptop even gives battery power back-up
a Laptop is more expensive

I will continue to buy large case machines ... until ALL control i/o to the computer is on an ethernet styled connection ... a connection that gives distance
and
the need for the Extra Cards has gone

I generally have my equipment in the equipment room
Air Conditioned
short signal paths
rack mounted

I like multiple screens
YES the TrippleHead product from Matrox can provide the extra screens

but the desk top gets very crowded with cables and adapter boxes etc

I like removable Media Drives
YES firewire and USB and even ethernet Drives can solve that
just how many USBs and 1394s are there on the average Laptop

I like dedicated Keyboards and Controllers and it's not always convenient to find the desk space for the Laptop.

:roll:
with a simple dual usb interface and a little recording in the Hotel Room while on tour
or for some editing on the Airplane on the way home
then a Laptop is a great addition to the equipment list

8)

RemyRAD wrote: I'm not sure why anybody would want to purchase a desktop machine anymore?? The laptops are all so convenient, so quiet with most of versatility the desktop machines have except for the ability to plug in extra cards.

ahem..actually THAT is the most important thing in PC world :)
not to mention that if a laptops for whatever reason stop working, you must send it to assistence: there is no way to "fix" it on the fly.
On a PC, you just have to find the "broken" part, throw that away and substitute with a functioning one :)