Topic: Laptop vs desktop for tapers

[Massive Dynamic]

Just got a raise at work, so a computer may be in the works. The main decision is whether to go laptop or desktop (then mac vs pc  ).
Here's what I need it to do:
1. Do bit-perfect transfers of old (and future) DAT masters to HDD.
2. Burn to CD or DVD with either internal or external burner.
3. Transfer MiniDV home movies to HDD (USB & Firewire) for editing, burning to DVD for relatives. Might do an occasional concert DVD with DAT audio and MiniDV footage.
4. Laptop-taping is something I'd consider, since I open tape almost exclusively, but it's not a big factor unless it's really easy to do.

I guess my main question is whether both have the same level of connectivity & upgradeability: soundcards & input, burners/peripherals, etc. Any help from others who've already done this would be appreciated, or point me to a previous thread I missed.  Thanks.

[dnsacks]

These days, you can do pretty much anything you want via usb2/firewire external devices.  The real question in my mind is price (and reliability).  For similar power/storage space/etc. a desktop pc is going to be a LOT less expensive than a laptop.  Further, a desktop is more easily servicable than a laptop and would likely last longer (due to its less congested layout).

However, if you can afford one, the portability of a laptop could sure be nice. 

[Massive Dynamic]

Yeah, I am a big believer in price vs performance, so I'm leaning toward a desktop. I mostly tape an annual 5-day festival, so powering a laptop that long is not likely. My DAT is 4 years old, so I've been eyeing the new disk recorders, as well. I guess I'll just avoid those that use CF cards in favor of the internal HDD varieties. Thanks.

Now, Mac or PC, Mac or PC...

[dnsacks]

mac vs pc -- I'll let others hash out that debate.  If you don't have a problem installing stuff like soundcards, dvd burners, video cards, etc., I'd keep a close eye on www.slickdeals.net for dell specials on their 8400 dimension pc.  I recently picked one up for $550, including a nice video card, 512mb of ram and a 19" lcd monitor.  A Large hard drive will run another $100 via aftermarket suppliers, an audiophile 2496 another hundered and a dvd burner another $60 and you'll be set, hardware-wise for a good audio/video editing setup.

[raya]

I recently had to buy a computer for work and was challenged with the same question. If you are going to do field recordings then you have only one choice, a lap top. If you are just copying shows and not actually taping them, then a desk top is the better value. I went with the HP DV1170 and got it after discounts for around $1100. It has a DVD/CD burner and lots of power. After loading my programs I have about 80 hours of hard drive to use for live recordings. It is relatively compact and has USB and Firewire inputs. Get yourself EAC, Wavelab and Nero and your set.