Inquiry re desktop/lap for slightly irregular VO needs...

[Allan J K]

Hello everyone,
I’m hoping you'll have opinions/insights regarding the two computers (likely a desktop and a laptop) I’m considering for the following, slightly irregular voiceover circumstance.

I’ll be using, in my home studio, either Adobe Audition or SoundForge, along with a TLM 49 and higher-end pre. For half the year I’ll be in one location and, for the other half, I’ll be packing up the gear and moving to location two. There may be occasional trips throughout the year when, for a few days, I’ll need to take the computer, mic and preamp to a third site for some recording (where there would be monitors, keyboards, etc...so if that particular computer were to be a desktop, only the tower would need to go).

I’m usually engaged in a number of writing projects, so while these new VO computers could be dedicated to recording work, I’d prefer the option of being able to load WordPerfect, FilemakerPro and the backup software for my PDA so that, should my primary writing-related PC crash, I could use either of the two new recording/VO computers in the interim. I’m experienced with the Windows platform and really don’t want to adjust to a Mac (apologies in advance). Also, because I have another computer onsite for Internet/email use, I could keep both new ones totally virgin and away from the Internet forever.

I’m often hearing that a desktop offers desirable VO-related expandability/performance and is the better recording choice. I’m willing to go that route, along with a (to-be-purchased) laptop for remote/portable recording and mobile auditions. This laptop could similarly remain entirely offline.

(Intermission)

My questions are:

1) Portability aside, is a desktop the superior voiceoverperformance/expandability choice? If so (or not), why?

2) If I have the option of keeping the two new recording computers entirely offline, is that a legitimate consideration in terms of performance stability?

3) If folks have experience with voiceover computer specs, could I ask for some computer make/model recommendations for both a VO desktop and a VO laptop, including preferred features and specs (sound card, memory, noise level, etc.) deemed necesssary?
In the past, I’ve been happy with Dell for my non-voiceover work, largely because much of my seasonal writing is done in a remote area which is mysteriously covered by their on-site, next-business-day, extended-service warranty...a feature seldom used but, like any insurance, comforting when needed. Given the absence of geeky neighbours (any neighbours, really), I also like Dell’s online support, through which I have created many enduring friendships in New Delhi.

4) Is Vista the inevitable/go-to operating system?
Thank you all very much for your time; I appreciate it!
Sincerely,
Allan