rpm of the drive isn't so important when you are dealing with data rates in the 2000-3000 kbps range.
RAM is cheap get 4GB just don't buy it from Apple. If you can afford the 2.4 get it, VSL can use all the processor you throw at it.

is this true??

A 100MB file can be read from the disk in less than 10 seconds so I can't see it being a huge issue. If you were trying to use DV as your codec then disk speed will come into play. Obviously harddrive speed is good but if I was buying a laptop for VSL and was offered the choice between a large 5400RPM drive or a smaller 7200RPM drive for the same money I would go for the 5400RPM.

Steven Wah Wah Wah Wayne, lol... Here he goes again...

Also 5400 RPM drives generally don't heat up as much as 7200, if that is a concern...

yes

Thats why you buy a 3rd party hd and have an authorized mac service center put one in for you. You can get up to 320gb at 7200rpm now.

Im looking at getting a 2.6 or wait a few weeks and snag the rumored 2.8 :)

Damn VSL! my bank hates you! lol...

2.4 w/ 4gigs ram MBp is smooth.

I run a mbp 2.16 with 2g and it runs vsl about about 10 pecent choppy, i play with it like that in the clubs 5 to 6 nights a week but now I cant wait to see what the new specs on the new mbp's once they are released very soon here!

2.4 is adeuate for VSL the peak processing was 80% but it stays low at 55% most of the time. For the Memory just get the 2 gig then upgrade it your self to a 4 gig for $100.00 instead of $500.00 thru apple.

whaddup foo! no worries, you got my number, hit me up when you start hitting some speed bumps....i'll be waiting for your calls!!!

thanks for the help guys. 2.4 here we go. $2500....ouch!

Again... I run a MBP 15" 2,4 4gb ram. All video on external WD 1TB (FW800) disk, works great with Video-SL

Won't be calling you as I have my cpu down to 70% while running video... Now what?!?!?!?!?

I see no mention of Video Card Graphics......Now with the new ones out especially, is 256MB enough or is worth spending the extra 500 for 512MB???

Thanks all

256mb is fine for video-sl on the mbp. i personally don't think the $500 is worth the extra upgrades (video memory, hd size, cpu speed), but if you got the money, go for it.

K, I have the original MacBook Pro (Core duo) with only 128mb....Im wondering if i should get the new baseline or the last model at a substantial discount (providing it is 2.4 and 256mb Vram)

a bunch of us got the refurbs, it's a decent deal..

Refurb is definitely worth it. Id buy one, but I just got the latest one in november. Could have saved 600 if I waited. Thanks Apple.

Im waiting for my College Computer Store to release there prices on the "old" models.....last time they had a sick deal for a fully loaded 17" for only 1200.......then I can make my decision.