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Dell Vostro 1000 Review by DJ BriGuy
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Dell Vostro 1000 Review by DJ BriGuy

djbriguy 10:13 PM - 28 September, 2007
Dell Vostro 1000
specs:
AMD Athlon 64 X2 TK-53 (1.7GHz/512KB)
15.4 inch Wide Screen XGA LCD
1GB, DDR2, 533MHZ 2 Dimm
Integrated ATI Radeon X1150 Graphics
80G 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive /
Seagate Free Agent 250 GB EXT Hard Drive
Genuine Windows XP Home Edition SP2--No Stupid Vista!
Dell Wireless 1390 802.11g Mini Card
29 WHr 4-cell Lithium Ion Primary Battery
No software package o Anti-Virus/ Security Software

Price:
$555.54 (after tax)

DJ BriGuy's Review
Introduction:
Dell has recently offered a new line of notebook PC's. I call them their "no nonsense" PC's.

Dell offers these systems in their "Small Business" section of their website. The prices are great. You won't get the "bells and whistles" such as built in webcams, numeric pad, media buttons, etc without adding them to the system yourself (at extra cost.)

Another great thing is, Dell Vostro's can be customized brand new with Windows Vista, OR Windows XP! Its hard to find a brand new computer with XP on them today. They also give you an option to NOT include Virus software and other add-ons.

The Vostro 1000 is the "base model" or "cheapest" notebook in the Vostro line, boasting a tantalizing $499.00 before customizing. I reccomend getting at least 1GB RAM if using Serato. Vostro also offers other notebooks with 14.4" screens, and 17" screens.

Purchase and Shipping
I ordered my Vostro 1000 on Friday, 9/21/07. Once ordered, the expected delivery date (using free ground shipping) was 10/3-10/5. That part sucked. On 9/26, the order status showed as SHIPPED! It arrived on 9/28 at 11am. One week before Dell's estimated time. (I hear this is typical of Dell)

Arrival
I picked it up from the leasing office of my apartment neighborhood. I took some pics of the unwrapping process.

img.photobucket.com
Here are the contents in the box. This included:
Power adapter img.photobucket.com
Windows XP disc
Vostro recovery disc
Programs and drivers already installed disc
Manual
Quick setup guide
Warranty information.

I was happy to see that Dell sent the CD's. I had heard that people who ordered Dells have not been getting these discs unless requested.

The notebook was packed up nicely in two pieces of styrophome.
img.photobucket.com
Once opened, it was also wrapped up.
img.photobucket.com

One i opened it up, I was happy to see the build quality of the casing. It has a very rugid design. Not the traditional "shiny" or "glossy" notebooks on todays market. This thing looks like it could take a beating.
img.photobucket.com

Here are some pics of the laptop height before I opened the screen. I took pics from all sides. One, with a soda can next to it for scale. There are no "plugs" in the front of the notebook, which i was happy about.
img.photobucket.com
img.photobucket.com
img.photobucket.com

They keyboard is also very rugid. Feels pretty close to a "real keyboard" when striking the keys. The touchpad doesn't have a "smooth" surface, and the click buttons almost feel like a 'space-bar' when clicking them. This wasn't a big issue to me since I usually use a USB mouse.
img.photobucket.com

Here it is, opened up.
img.photobucket.com
img.photobucket.com
img.photobucket.com

Setup
This was my first "brand new" notebook. I looked through the manual and website to get an estimated time for the first battery charge. I ended up having to get on Dell's Customer Chat. My wait time was zero minutes, and the man told me "10 hours" right away. He said I could use it while plugged in though. So I booted up, and got it setup.

I was in Windows XP, and on-line within 10 minutes. (Although i might add, I'm pretty tech savy at connecting to networks. I can do it faster manually than letting Windows do it for me.)

Serato Scratch Live install and performance
So now that I'm all setup, time to install..... Serato Scratch Live!
img.photobucket.com

I downloaded 1.7.2 to the Vostro, plugged in the SL1 Box, and had no issues. Plugged in my Seagate FreeAgent 250GB External, loaded SSL, and everything was there!
img.photobucket.com
(don't laugh at my id3 tags, thats the 'library'... not my crates!)

I went to the SSL setup menu, switched input to LINE, of course. Checked my circles, everything looked great. Turned my USB buffer down from 10, to 3, and started playing.

I started with some basic scratches to see if the latency was an issue, and there was no lag. So i scratched over another track, no issue. So i gradually turned the Buffer down to 2, and then 1. Still no issues.
I played for the next 3 hours in the room. I did long blends, hard scratching, slam mixing, etc the laptop stayed very cool with ZERO drop outs. In fact, i don't think i even heard fans come on, unless they're very quiet.

After 3 hours, I was happy with the results. Then I realized, I had the Wireless connection ON the whole time! That is a good sign also!

In Conclusion
For the price, you can NOT beat it. Its built for us! From the rugid design, to the option for Windows XP, 4 USB ports and an Anti-Glare screen...
If you're looking for a dedicated laptop to Serato, or even a personal laptop without 100 bonus add-ons, this is for you. What sold me was its simplicity!

If you guys have any questions about it, feel free to post them there. I have a couple gigs in October and plan to update this thread to let you know how it holds up.

Dj BriGuy, out!
a-swift 10:17 PM - 28 September, 2007
Now that's a review!

Also, I always recommend buying small business PCs instead of consumer models. They put so many gimick features and crapware on consumer PCs.
Thundercat 10:23 PM - 28 September, 2007
Quote:
Now that's a review!

Also, I always recommend buying small business PCs instead of consumer models.

+1 +1
AdamJay 10:53 PM - 28 September, 2007
what's the max resolution for the 15.4" widescreen?
djbriguy 10:59 PM - 28 September, 2007
for the Vostro 1000, 1280×720
Thundercat 11:00 PM - 28 September, 2007
I have the 15.4" screen on my Inspiron 6400 (Business Line) and I picked the 1680 x 1050 WSXGA+ screen.
djbriguy 11:01 PM - 28 September, 2007
They make two Vostro's, the 1000 and 1500. The 1500 has a bunch of "media" options, and buttons. So my guess would be that the 1500 had higher resolutions.
djbriguy 11:02 PM - 28 September, 2007
I'm gonna turn it on to double check. brb
The Real DJ Maestro 11:04 PM - 28 September, 2007
Briguy u sound like a salesman...... Send this thread to Dell U might have a Job..... Sounds like u selling the red sox after they lose to the yankees in the championship games, ah poor red sox fan
djbriguy 11:04 PM - 28 September, 2007
It is 1280 x 800
D-Twizzle 11:26 PM - 28 September, 2007
I just ordered my Vostro 1700 with the DUAL internal hard drives. One drive will be dedicated for mp3s and videos. 1920x1080 screen and geforce 8600gt video card just for video mixing.
D-Twizzle 11:27 PM - 28 September, 2007
oh it's 1920x1200 on my vostro 1700
djbriguy 12:57 AM - 29 September, 2007
What was your final price Twizzle? I'm trying to bring the Vostro's to SSL user's attention :)
D-Twizzle 2:24 AM - 29 September, 2007
It was a little pricey at $1400, but I added a lot of options from the default. they start as low as $799 for the 17" tho.
Intel Core 2 Duo 2ghz
2gb ram (I was gonna get 4gb, but i'll buy that separately when serato is vista 64bit compatible)
WUXGA screen
8600GT video card
Wireless N
Bluetooth
Web Camera

Tax Deduction =)
djbriguy 3:56 AM - 29 September, 2007
I kinda wish i would've gotten the bluetooth. but my desktop has it anyways
djbriguy 3:56 AM - 29 September, 2007
I think you'll like the rugid design of the Vostro though. It's definetly not "bling bling", but i bet you could step on the thing at 200 lbs.
nik39 8:22 PM - 29 September, 2007
Quote:
Now that's a review!

Word.
djbriguy 1:02 PM - 1 October, 2007
UPDATE

I was running SSL at home again yesterday for a 2 hour long set. Everything was good. I left my setup turned on and ran some errands for a couple of hours.

I came back, everything was still on, but the USB dropout light was on, even though nothing was playing. I had to bump the buffer all the way up to 13 to elimnate dropouts!!

I figured it out. It was because the wireless interenet was on and was doing a "Dell Support" upload to Dell. I turned the wireless off, and unplugged my USB mouse. The mouse I use lights up different colors when idle. Once i did these two things, I could move the buffer back to 1.

In Conclusion
Turn wireless off!
or
Disable all automatic updates

and... Don't use a fancy smancy USB mouse :)
dj hammurabi 5:32 PM - 1 October, 2007
might pick one up for a backup to the macbook. Good review briguy!
a-swift 5:36 PM - 1 October, 2007
briguy, i learned with me E1505 when using VDJ that the laptops run better if you turn off EVERYTHING.

i was getting audio crackles when I tried to get *really* low latency. i ended up turning off firewire, bluetooth, wireless, EVERYTHING that wasn't needed to dj. the hardware ran so much better after that. i also disabled the extra processes and crapware. solid performer now.
DeezNotes 5:40 PM - 1 October, 2007
Nice review. Thanks.
Nappa 7:30 PM - 1 October, 2007
Damn, that's a serious review. Nice
djbriguy 7:32 PM - 1 October, 2007
Quote:
briguy, i learned with me E1505 when using VDJ that the laptops run better if you turn off EVERYTHING.

i was getting audio crackles when I tried to get *really* low latency. i ended up turning off firewire, bluetooth, wireless, EVERYTHING that wasn't needed to dj. the hardware ran so much better after that. i also disabled the extra processes and crapware. solid performer now.


Thanks swift. Thats what i did afterwards. Brought the lappy into the living room and ran through the XP tweaks. Turned off everything. It looks like Windows F'ing 98 now. lol

Made another profile with XP specs for my internet browsing n shit.... which i'll hardly use unless i'm on a trip. Good look though.
djbriguy 7:44 PM - 1 October, 2007
Important Info
I must add that the "look" of the laptop is NOT COOL!

My girlfriend said I should add this. She says it looks like her dad's first laptop from 1995 LOL.

Really though . Its definetly bulky and uncool looking. But that should be the least of your worries.
djbriguy 7:45 PM - 1 October, 2007
^^but its not heavy!
DeezNotes 7:47 PM - 1 October, 2007
Has anyone seen one of those dell m1330's in person? They look pretty nice, but it only has 2 USB ports.
djbriguy 7:49 PM - 1 October, 2007
eeeek @ 2 USB ports. I hated only having 3 on my last laptop
a-swift 7:51 PM - 1 October, 2007
i think dell purposely make their cheap laptops as ugly as possible. i also think they purposely make the AC bricks bigger than they need to be in order to give their higher end machines more selling points.
djbriguy 7:52 PM - 1 October, 2007
the vostro AC brick is reeeaaaally small. I was concerned about it at first, since every AC block i've seen is huge.
CMOS 9:33 PM - 1 October, 2007
Quote:
Quote:
briguy, i learned with me E1505 when using VDJ that the laptops run better if you turn off EVERYTHING.

i was getting audio crackles when I tried to get *really* low latency. i ended up turning off firewire, bluetooth, wireless, EVERYTHING that wasn't needed to dj. the hardware ran so much better after that. i also disabled the extra processes and crapware. solid performer now.


Thanks swift. Thats what i did afterwards. Brought the lappy into the living room and ran through the XP tweaks. Turned off everything. It looks like Windows F'ing 98 now. lol

Made another profile with XP specs for my internet browsing n shit.... which i'll hardly use unless i'm on a trip. Good look though.







TO make it look like XP again, go to Start>control panel>system

Click the advanced tab, Click settings under Performance. Its probably set to either Custom or Best Performance right now.

Checking the last 3 in the window (visual styles on windows, drop shadows for icons, and use common tasks for folders)_ will give you back the "feel" of XP without the processor usage.
aLiEn 9:43 PM - 1 October, 2007
Nice review! That's a good price for a 1 buffer setting!
DJ Art Pumpin Payne 12:07 AM - 2 October, 2007
Quote:
Important Info
I must add that the "look" of the laptop is NOT COOL!

My girlfriend said I should add this. She says it looks like her dad's first laptop from 1995 LOL.

Really though . Its definetly bulky and uncool looking. But that should be the least of your worries.


ROTFL....

That's all I gotta say.

Well maybe one thing, when looks become a IMPORTANT factor on a standard laptop - "you know who" is to blame (can't mention THE name or I may be accused of a thread hijack or "battle starter"). I know U said your girl said it but....

... it is a pretty cool thread and review.

Good job Bri. I saw the post about this model's big brother (1700?) and for $550, this one is a good deal - but its still runs Win...

Errrr, must stop that.

Ooops sorry it's a habit,
Andy S 9:22 AM - 6 October, 2007
Good review mate


But let me add this

I tried a vostro 1000 and it got too hot to put on my lap after 10-20 mins

It does NOT like windows XP one bit nothing but trouble when I tried To install xp which I need for production

I myself had nothing but bad tracking and USB drop out glitches etc

Let me also say I am not a computer noob and this was not user error as dell would like me to believe

Hopefully yours will continue to work fine


I just thought Id balance out the scales


Who knows this guy could work for dell ;)
Thundercat 1:30 PM - 6 October, 2007
Quote:
It does NOT like windows XP one bit nothing but trouble when I tried To install xp which I need for production


Why didn't you get it with XP installed in the first place?
djbriguy 7:38 PM - 7 October, 2007
Quote:
Quote:
It does NOT like windows XP one bit nothing but trouble when I tried To install xp which I need for production


Why didn't you get it with XP installed in the first place?


good call.

so you say it doesnt respond well to XP? Well did you simply install XP, or did you install XP drivers for allof your hardware too? Call me a dick, but it does sound like user error. Dell Vostro's come with XP OR Vista... why why not just order it with XP.

And mine has hardly even gotten warm. maybe u should send the shit back.
DJ Overpour 10:14 PM - 7 October, 2007
Good review briguy... I just bought a Vostro 1500 about 6 weeks ago. I agree with what you said. I havent had any probs with it at all, and for the price its a great deal.
djbriguy 2:16 PM - 9 October, 2007
Update 10/9/07

USB Dropouts:
On Friday 10/5 I played out at a gig and had some horrible dropout issues.

After posting the RATT log to the mods, we figured it out. It was a simple mistake.

Make sure to DISABLE ALL NETWORK DRIVERS in the Device Manager. DO NOT simply right-click them in the task bar and disable. You MUST disable the DRIVERS from the Device Manager.

Once this was done, I was able to play for 5 hours at home with a USB buffer setting of 3.

1.7.4
Hifi sampler ON

I noticed absolutley zero lag when scratching and back spinning with a USB buffer of 3.
djbriguy 8:20 PM - 19 October, 2007
Update 10/19/07

ACPI.sys causing USB dropouts on Dell Vostro
ACPI - www.acpi.info, has caused problems on some windows machines, with USB dropouts on powerful CPUs. www.scratchlive.net


Dell Vostro uses ACPI to manage power settings for the battery when the system is plugged in to the AC outlet. When running a RATT log I was experiencig significant USB dropouts caused by the ACPI.sys

Here is the way to fix this problem:
First Create a restore point on your system, as always!
Startup the computer and enter BIOS.
There will be a setting under the advanced Menu called "PowerNow" img.photobucket.com

Disable this setting.

Also, in Windows, go to:
Display Settings --> Screen Saver tab
--> Power.. --> Power schemes.
Change this setting to "Always On"
kicko 8:48 PM - 19 October, 2007
word briguy, nice info.. i'll check it out

i have a e1505 and always just set the power settings to run in battery mode always. My audio never has drops out. I can download, chat on MSN and surf porn while i mix.
djbriguy 8:53 PM - 19 October, 2007
what is "battery mode" ?

I only see:
Home/Office Desk
Portable/Laptop
Presentation
Always On
Minimal Power Management
Max Battery
a DJ 11:58 PM - 20 October, 2007
What are the important differences between the different vostro models, other than screen size and the weight difference that comes with that?
djbriguy 3:53 AM - 21 October, 2007
Quote:
What are the important differences between the different vostro models, other than screen size and the weight difference that comes with that?


The 1000 doesnt have any of the extra media player buttons on the laptop itself.

Also, all models have a S-Video out except the 1000.
The other Vostro models also allow bigger screen resolutions, except the 14" screen.

The 1400 and 1700 models doesn't have an option to customize with XP either. Only Vista
a DJ 6:03 AM - 21 October, 2007
Ah okay thanks. I also noticed the 1000 only comes with AMD processors, so I'm just gonna get the 1500 with a Core 2 Duo, it's only about $50 more.
kicko 1:25 PM - 21 October, 2007
Quote:
what is "battery mode" ?

I only see:
Home/Office Desk
Portable/Laptop
Presentation
Always On
Minimal Power Management
Max Battery


in the video card (mine) ati x1400 you can go in to the advanced settings and select battery for power mode
treeo730 11:02 PM - 26 October, 2007
I just want to say that was a great review. I need to purchase cheap laptop for work as none of the apps work on my Imac or my macbook so I have to get a PC. I had been looking at the vostro 1500 as it seems like that one I can get with XP prof. and it seems that that is the cheapest one that has a firewire port. My external HD where I have all my music is on that drive. I still plan on using my macbook for serato but it's nice to know I have a backup that will run smooth. I saw one for $599. If anybody is using the 1500 I'de be interested to hear any feedback. Again great Review
DJ Overpour 11:45 PM - 26 October, 2007
Quote:
I just want to say that was a great review. I need to purchase cheap laptop for work as none of the apps work on my Imac or my macbook so I have to get a PC. I had been looking at the vostro 1500 as it seems like that one I can get with XP prof. and it seems that that is the cheapest one that has a firewire port. My external HD where I have all my music is on that drive. I still plan on using my macbook for serato but it's nice to know I have a backup that will run smooth. I saw one for $599. If anybody is using the 1500 I'de be interested to hear any feedback. Again great Review


I bought a 1500 about 6 weeks ago or so, its good shit for the price, if you got any specific questions holla at me
a DJ 2:51 AM - 27 October, 2007
^ If you're just getting it for Serato, possibly Pro Tools down the line, what do you suggest for CPU and RAM?
DJ Overpour 3:10 AM - 27 October, 2007
I got the dual 1.8 processors and added RAM aftermarket. I figured that 4gb of ram (2x2gb sticks) would be better than the 2.0 processors. That should be more than enough for pro tools and serato.
D-Twizzle 3:26 AM - 27 October, 2007
i got the 1700 with dual hard drives and it's a beast.
the fingerprints suck, i have to wash my hands every time before i touch it or it gets really spotty!!! i have to clean it everyday. i triple boot it. it works perfect mixing videos in vdj using vista. ssl is perfect in xp with buffer at 1. third boot is vista again with all my productions software installed.
a DJ 3:28 AM - 27 October, 2007
Quote:
I got the dual 1.8 processors and added RAM aftermarket. I figured that 4gb of ram (2x2gb sticks) would be better than the 2.0 processors. That should be more than enough for pro tools and serato.

Do you think RAM or CPU is more important for Pro Tools and Serato?
DJ Overpour 4:20 AM - 27 October, 2007
i think that you get a hell of a lot more performance boost by putting 4gb of ram in rather than the .2ghz processor upgrade
djbriguy 5:21 PM - 28 October, 2007
I plan to upgrade my ram soon.

go to www.crucial.com on the system you plan to upgrade your ram on. It will scan your system and tell you the compatable ram you can use.
djbriguy 5:22 PM - 28 October, 2007
D-Twizzle. As far as fingerprints go, are you refering to the screen? The "anti glare" screens are really hard to clean. I never touch the screen, but my girlfriend has a habit of pointing at things and slamming her finger into it. UGH!
Mr. Goodkat 8:34 PM - 28 October, 2007
it seems that its more important with a cheap laptop, to see how it performs over the course of 1 year, playing in lots of different club situations. I would think for a bedroom dj, its not that big of a deal. I did 200+ club gigs with a black macbook, and i did reedits with ableton, and surfed on the internet all the time with only 2 crashes due to corrupt files. I don't think i would trust a 550$ computer to do that.
djbriguy 1:50 PM - 29 October, 2007
Than You Debbie Downer for coming into my review thread and adding your comments.

Not everyone can afford a black macbook. This review wasn't made to make argumentive points. You don't always need the expensive equipment to "get the job done."

If it meets SSL's required specs, then it's fine.. and the Vostro has proved it to me so far.
DJ Overpour 4:54 PM - 29 October, 2007
Quote:
Than You Debbie Downer for coming into my review thread and adding your comments.

Not everyone can afford a black macbook. This review wasn't made to make argumentive points. You don't always need the expensive equipment to "get the job done."

If it meets SSL's required specs, then it's fine.. and the Vostro has proved it to me so far.


Word!!
DJ Overpour 4:55 PM - 29 October, 2007
Quote:
it seems that its more important with a cheap laptop, to see how it performs over the course of 1 year, playing in lots of different club situations. I would think for a bedroom dj, its not that big of a deal. I did 200+ club gigs with a black macbook, and i did reedits with ableton, and surfed on the internet all the time with only 2 crashes due to corrupt files. I don't think i would trust a 550$ computer to do that.


Actually I do all this with my "cheap laptop" and as a matter fact, I havent even had 2 crashes due to corrupt files. Maybe YOU paid too much :p
Mr. Goodkat 9:36 AM - 30 October, 2007
its reality, deal with it
djbriguy 3:56 PM - 30 October, 2007
Quote:
its reality, deal with it

k....
djbriguy 4:07 PM - 30 October, 2007
Why dont you go make a "black macbook review" and praise its godly powers there.
DJBlisk 8:58 PM - 30 October, 2007
Its hard to feel good about your $1500 dollar purchase when somebody else with a $500 dollar purchase can do the shit.
a DJ 3:01 AM - 31 October, 2007
www.thebestpageintheuniverse.net
I finally agree with him on this one.
djbriguy 3:57 AM - 31 October, 2007
lol good find. i enjoyed that
djbriguy 3:57 AM - 31 October, 2007
Quote:
Its hard to feel good about your $1500 dollar purchase when somebody else with a $500 dollar purchase can do the shit.

+1
BriChi 1:19 PM - 31 October, 2007
Quote:
Why dont you go make a "black macbook review" and praise its godly powers there.

Exactly, Briguy tries to make a good Dell review thread and once again it has to turn into a Mac vs pc thing
kicko 3:23 PM - 31 October, 2007
For real, and its always mac dudes that throw the 1st stone.
BriChi 3:27 PM - 31 October, 2007
Quote:
For real, and its always mac dudes that throw the 1st stone.

I use macs all the time, but i try and stay away from that played out war, the topic is a review on a particular pc, so stick with the topic and leave the played out wars to the other 200 threads about it
Thundercat 3:37 PM - 31 October, 2007
They drew first blood, not me. www.figurines-cine.com
BriChi 3:53 PM - 31 October, 2007
lol
DJBlisk 4:21 PM - 31 October, 2007
after a lot of debating... I finally got my new lappy.... and its not MAC..... I weighed in a lot of shit... When I get it I'll post up my own review.
Mr. Goodkat 8:58 PM - 31 October, 2007
it didn't have shit to do with mac vs. pc. It has to do with the concept of "you get what you pay for". The price of laptops at some level has to do with quality of components, and manufacturing/build quality. I really don't see how you could argue with that. It works that way with everything from cars, to cell phones, or ANYTHING. Ever gone to a nice restaurant and got McDonalds prices? Are they sellin Benz's for Kia prices?

Don't take it personal, your Dell may last for the rest of your life and never crash. I gave my opinion, and I don't think it was a malicious attack, just my opinion.
DJ Art Pumpin Payne 12:24 AM - 1 November, 2007
Quote:
For real, and its always mac dudes that throw the 1st stone.


LOL, c'mon some of you guys always hate on the Mac Posts.

I'll admit, I did "puff the flame" a little in my post jokingly with briguy

Quote:
... it is a pretty cool thread and review.

Good job Bri. I saw the post about this model's big brother (1700?) and for $550, this one is a good deal - but its still runs Win...


.. and I have been SERIOUSLY following this thread and I admit that I am jealous as a Mac user that a $550 Dell can be a dedicated Serato machine and run as well as a $1000 Mac without problems. ("but I am secretly hoping that it fucks up - that is why I check the thread -LOL)"

But hey, I am impressed at the power of that Laptop and the job it does for $550, It is simply - a nice piece of Hardware and I did enjoy the review.

I knew somebody would do the "buy a Mac" thing sooner or later, but again, I am not here to hate on the machine - it was a good deal and it works, but I was just waiting for the Blue Screen of Death post AND IT NEVER CAME (yet).

" Dammit"

: )

Ps. It still runs Windows - hahahaha...
djbriguy 1:44 AM - 1 November, 2007
Mr. Goodkat is just a hater.

Maybe you buy into all of the hype of "expensive things work better" but i dont. I know how to make things work properly.
Thundercat 1:59 AM - 1 November, 2007
I'll bet you one of these: www.transrotor.de would play the hell out of a control vinyl but I would rather use the much more cost effective 1200.
Mr. Goodkat 2:07 AM - 1 November, 2007
Quote:
Mr. Goodkat is just a hater.

Maybe you buy into all of the hype of "expensive things work better" but i dont. I know how to make things work properly.


yeah, im a hater, i hate that wack ass dj name you have too, but its not as wack as your clothes.

viewmorepics.myspace.com
DJ Overpour 2:13 AM - 1 November, 2007
ooh....im gonna get my bong and see get a good seat for this.
DJ Overpour 2:13 AM - 1 November, 2007
^^^^^^^^^^^^ uhhhhhhh
Thundercat 2:18 AM - 1 November, 2007
Why the personal attack Mr. Goodkat? Forum Rule #1. Be nice to others.
DJ Art Pumpin Payne 7:02 AM - 1 November, 2007
Goodkat, I feel U dude, but it was THEIR PC thread and they will never really "get it" unless (or until) they actually use a Mac on the regular.

Wrong turf to try and convince them otherwise, not worth a ban.

Like I said, if the $550 machine works for serato & him and he is happy let it be.

Some people think Soulja Boy is really great Rap - others feel more "real hip hop".

Ahh, nevermind.... It's their thread, sorry guys, I said too much already.

I'm back to watching from the sides....
djbriguy 1:46 PM - 1 November, 2007
I'm obviously dealing with a child here. Not worth my time or effort. I don't want people rolling up into this REVIEW THREAD and have to filter through all this argumentive bullshit.

It ends here, from my end.
nik39 4:04 PM - 1 November, 2007
C'mon, Mr. Goodkat, that was really not necessary :( Mr. Briguy just wanted to help with this discussion and he did not bring it down to a personal level.
djbriguy 5:38 PM - 1 November, 2007
thanks nik
CMOS 6:26 PM - 1 November, 2007
Get a dell. Oh wait. lol
Mr. Goodkat 12:53 AM - 2 November, 2007
Quote:
it seems that its more important with a cheap laptop, to see how it performs over the course of 1 year, playing in lots of different club situations. I would think for a bedroom dj, its not that big of a deal. I did 200+ club gigs with a black macbook, and i did reedits with ableton, and surfed on the internet all the time with only 2 crashes due to corrupt files. I don't think i would trust a 550$ computer to do that.


this was all i said, i just stated an opinion.
Thundercat 1:29 AM - 2 November, 2007
Quote:
i hate that wack ass dj name you have too, but its not as wack as your clothes.


You said that too. Or was that someone else?
andrew b 2:20 AM - 2 November, 2007
briguy, good review bro. i think this forum needs more reviews like yours on their computers. the dreaded usb dropout is a killer at gigs.
a DJ 3:21 AM - 2 November, 2007
Quote:
Goodkat, I feel U dude, but it was THEIR PC thread and they will never really "get it" unless (or until) they actually use a Mac on the regular.

Wrong turf to try and convince them otherwise, not worth a ban.

Like I said, if the $550 machine works for serato & him and he is happy let it be.

Some people think Soulja Boy is really great Rap - others feel more "real hip hop".

Ahh, nevermind.... It's their thread, sorry guys, I said too much already.

I'm back to watching from the sides....

I don't think Soulja Boy is good. Shit annoys me.

I use Macs everyday (just used em today). I use different models, from eMacs, G4 towers, PowerBooks, MacBooks, iMacs (I've used every single one since the huge colorful smooth contour ones, even the 2 latest ones on the biggest screens). I use em for everything from web and graphic design, website programming, sound production, design, recording, engineering (Pro Tools, sometimes Garageband and Reason when I can't use Pro Tools), DJing (Serato). I still don't like em. The over simplicity has saved me during hasty times, but anything more than that and you can't really do it.

One thing I have found is that it's good for connecting with other shit quickly when you need it. Firewire, USB, networks, printers all that. It finds printers a lot easier than PCs, it does super simple things with no bullshit. But it can't do anything more. However, if you have the time to set things up, PCs have more options, everything just works better afer the initial setup.
DJ Art Pumpin Payne 4:00 AM - 2 November, 2007
^ so a "real" computer has to be complex, hard to configure and not work when U want it to to be "good"?

WTF?????????????????... Damn, let me respect the thread - no comment....
a DJ 4:42 AM - 2 November, 2007
^ No I said you can't do anything more than the overly simple things that Mac lets you do. I'll try to think of an example.

I never said anything about "real" computers.

Reason and Pro Tools are pretty good programs, but they are the same on PC. Garageband is good, until you try to export, LOL. Garageband really is a great program though, other than the exporting.

I'm not complaining, I understand why people like Macs. I just think each has its strengths and weaknesses, and I just happen to still prefer PCs after trying to get used to Macs for so long. But I am pretty resilient when it comes to solving problems on computers.
DJ Art Pumpin Payne 4:48 AM - 2 November, 2007
Quote:
^ No I said you can't do anything more than the overly simple things that Mac lets you do. I'll try to think of an example.


I'll help you.

One word (or App) - Terminal - that is like DOS to a Windows guy.

It's there but 95% of the people don't need it because Macs work as expected USUALLY right out of the box. Check it out sometimes.
SpinThis! 3:03 PM - 2 November, 2007
Quote:
For real, and its always mac dudes that throw the 1st stone.

I don't think that was GoodKat's intent... you could have inserted any number of higher priced laptops for a MacBook and would have gotten the same response. It looks a DJ's link to the anti-Mac page in reality started the war here...
djbriguy 3:14 PM - 2 November, 2007
No, his first post was just unneccesary. While I understand that forums are a place to have/post your opinions, be respectfull. If he loves his black macbook so much, why come in here and read the review, first of all. And then add in this comment
Quote:
I did 200+ club gigs with a black macbook, and i did reedits with ableton, and surfed on the internet all the time with only 2 crashes due to corrupt files. I don't think i would trust a 550$ computer to do that.


Unneccesary.
SpinThis! 3:19 PM - 2 November, 2007
for all you know he could be running SSL in Windows... what difference would that have made then?

It takes two to tango here...
DJ_Mike_Coquilla 7:13 PM - 2 November, 2007
where's tha linux guy when you need him :)

Watchwww.youtube.com
djbriguy 7:25 PM - 2 November, 2007
Quote:
for all you know he could be running SSL in Windows... what difference would that have made then?


About a $600 difference :P
Mr. Goodkat 9:00 PM - 2 November, 2007
Quote:
No, his first post was just unneccesary. While I understand that forums are a place to have/post your opinions, be respectfull. If he loves his black macbook so much, why come in here and read the review, first of all. And then add in this comment
Quote:
I did 200+ club gigs with a black macbook, and i did reedits with ableton, and surfed on the internet all the time with only 2 crashes due to corrupt files. I don't think i would trust a 550$ computer to do that.


Unneccesary.


i meant ANY 550 computer not dells, macs, or HP's. Since 550 is about the lowest price you can get a laptop, I wouldn't want to trust that level of computer for the amount of abuse that laptop get on a regular basis. I'm sure there are people that would'nt want to trust a Macbook with a gig of ram if they had to do video edits, and I'm sure they would have no problem telling me that. I wouldn't take it personal, i would just ask why they felt that way. I'm sure they would say that my computer doesn't have enough ram or storage for them.

why are you so touchy? You have what you want, it works for you, so regardless of what I said you should be more than happy. By the way, it was a well written, informative review, but if you just want comments to pat you on the back, just say so at the end of the review.
djbriguy 3:21 PM - 6 November, 2007
SPECIAL
Saw a commercial last night for holiday savings on Dell Vostro's

Starting prices
Vostro 1000 (15.4")
$499
Vostro 1400 (14")
$599
DJBlisk 3:24 PM - 6 November, 2007
its been that way for a while Briguy. I'm waiting for the 1500 to be $500
treeo730 10:52 PM - 6 November, 2007
hey i called dell and they say i need a tax id in order to purchase the vostro.. I have dell credit and they are trying to get me to buy an insipron...(more $$$) How did you purchase the vostro???
djbriguy 1:46 PM - 7 November, 2007
I clicked "Add to Cart" on their website. LOL

Why are you calling them? Just buy online
kicko 4:36 PM - 7 November, 2007
treeo730 you must have been buying a business model.
treeo730 7:21 PM - 7 November, 2007
The vostro is a business model and they said I needed a tax id number.. Thats why I was wondering how you got it djbriguy.. I did try to purchase on line as well and it asked for my business account. I guess Im going to be stuck buying the Inspiron...
djbriguy 8:14 PM - 7 November, 2007
I just added one to my cart, and am in checkout.. i see nothing about a Tax ID number...

however, it does say:
Tax Exempt Status
[*] I DO NOT have tax exempt status. Treat order as taxable.
[] I DO have tax exempt status. NOTE: An official state compliant tax certificate MUST be on file with the applicable Dell entity. If not on file, the final order price will include tax.


All you have to do is say not tax exempt...

yup.. definetly nothing asking me for a tax id number.
treeo730 8:20 PM - 7 November, 2007
thanks man I will try again if not im getting an inspiron
djbriguy 8:26 PM - 7 November, 2007
No problem. I'm sure if you click "Tax Exempt" it would ask you for a Tax ID number. But you're not a "business" who can write it off on your taxes, so don't click it.
DJ Overpour 6:17 AM - 8 November, 2007
Quote:
No problem. I'm sure if you click "Tax Exempt" it would ask you for a Tax ID number. But you're not a "business" who can write it off on your taxes, so don't click it.


or just google someone elses Tax ID number and use that.
djbriguy 1:19 PM - 8 November, 2007
shit, i verify tax id numbers at work.
djbriguy 1:19 PM - 8 November, 2007
take your pick
DJ Czar 1:37 PM - 8 November, 2007
I just got a Vostro 1700 and been messing around with it for about a week and a half. My previous laptop is a 3 year old Powerbook, that has been with me since my days spinning on Final Scratch. Now I am by no means an Apple fanboy, I evaluate things very throughly and simply go for what I consider best. I spent quite some time recently looking to get a new laptop, and decided on the Vostro 1700 due to its screen option (I really wanted a 1920x1200 display, which I think makes Serato djings a hell lot more efficient) and excellent price. Everything else was pretty much standard. I am getting nothing but dropouts in Serato and on top of that even tracks I play in iTunes (through my 57sl mixer) freeze every few seconds. The laptop is fresh out of the box, with NOTHING on it except Scratch Live and iTunes. I read through the tips in this thread regarding disabling wireless, even disabling all network drivers and disabling ACPI... I feel like if I purchase something, it doesn't need to be mickey moused with to properly function. I would DJ on my Powerbook, while downloading tracks off my record pool and recording at the same time. Sure the waveforms would freeze and stutter (it's just a 1.3 G4 after all) but never would the sound freeze or drop out. Again, I am a very objective person and these are simply my honest observations.

I think many people tend to forget that Macs nowadays are absolutely no different from the Dells, HPs, Toshibas and everyone else. They all have the same Intel chips, the same ATI/Nvidia graphics cards, the same Harddrives, same sound chips. What does make them different is the super tight hardware/software integration OS X provides. For example, I took my Vostro out on a club gig last Friday. The other DJ was spinning on a MacBook and when we started doing the switch, the Vostro would not recognize the SL-1! I ended up doing the entire set on my old Powerbook. Later, I found the problem was a lack of drivers for the SL-1. I had to go into Device manager, right click the SL-1 interface and "reinstall" the drivers. Never had to do such a thing on my Powerbook. Sure, it's a small detail and it has nothing to do with Mac vs. PC but rather with Windows vs OS X. But nevertheless, I almost feel like Serato gives the Mac versions of Scratch LIVE more preference, even though they would never ever admit it.

Finally, I decided to give XP a try thinking that maybe Vista is too bloated (is XP still recommended as the OS of choice by Serato, btw?) After some extensive Google searching I found some tutorial and links to drivers. I was able to get XP installed but now no matter what I do, I cannot get the Ethernet and WiFi drivers to work. Sure, I can try to reinstall the OS again, search some more, try a few different methods.. No thanks. If Dell doesn't want to give me simple XP support, they don't deserve my business. So I am happily returning my $1500 Vostro in favor of a $3000 MacBook Pro without an ounce of regret. I am planning to dual boot OS X and Windows XP and I know it'll work, because it's worked flawlessly on my year old intel iMac. Am I a PC hater? Not at all. I just choose the best tool for the job.
Thundercat 1:52 PM - 8 November, 2007
Why did you get Vista? Did you not research prior to making the purchase?
djbriguy 2:04 PM - 8 November, 2007
DJ Czar,

I appreciate your detailed review on the 1700. Very thorough and descriptive. Thanks.

I do think that alot of the issues you had may have generated through using Windows Vista. I will be honest and say that I am not experienced with Vista and SSL, but I only know 2-3 people using Vista with zero problems.

One thing i have NOT tried yet, is using different USB ports for my SL1. For all i know, that could solve the problem instantly. I just keep forgetting to load the USB drivers on each input. That could also be the reason your Vostro didn't read the SL1 at the club (if you were using a different USB port)

The tweaks I listed previously in this thread do not NEED to be done. I did the tweaks to ENSURE PERFORMANCE when playing out. So, if for some reason something went wrong, I could come here and say, YES, I did all of the tweaks. (eliminating room for error)
D-Twizzle 4:28 PM - 8 November, 2007
I have the same Vostro 1700. XP works good, you have to download a lot of the drivers for the Vostro 1500 because Dell didn't put them on the 1700 site for some reason. I can put the buffer at 1 and have no drop outs. I have it triple booted with Vista (because VDJ works really well in Vista) and the buffer has to be up at 4 when I run SSL in Vista. I can get it at 3 without dropouts, but the light comes on.
Main reason I got the 1700 is because you can install 2 hard drives in it. The 2nd hard drive I have is dedicated to music and videos with nothing else.
DJ Czar 10:27 PM - 8 November, 2007
Quote:
Why did you get Vista? Did you not research prior to making the purchase?

Dell does not offer XP on their Vostro 1700 line. Trust me I did plenty of research.

D-Twizzle, how did you get XP to recognize the harddrive when installing? During installation, it would simply say that no harddrive is present. I ended up injecting the drivers into the XP installer and making a custom install CD. Did you do the same? Also, these 2 harddrives you mention, does one go in place of the CD/DVD drive? Or is there room in the laptop already? Thanks.
D-Twizzle 12:09 AM - 9 November, 2007
The easy way is to go to the bios, change the sata configuration from ahci to compatibility, then install windows xp. when it's done installing, you can install the ahci drivers then change the sata config back to ahci or just leave it.

there's room for 2 hard drives. you don't need to take out the cd/dvd drive. 2 screws to access on the bottom of your laptop, take a look.
DJ Czar 1:57 AM - 9 November, 2007
D-Twizzle, thanks for the Vostro 1500 tip. The drivers I've been downloading this whole time from the 1700 Dell page were for completely different WLAN/NIC hardware.

Still though, I am very disappointed in Dell. Why do they have a dozen little files for all the components with weird coded names like "R151519?" Why not have a smart installer that will evaluate the hardware and install the necessary drivers automatically, all in one simple package. That's exactly how Apple's Boot Camp works in Windows, XP or Vista...

I'll be trying out the Vostro in XP tonight, out of curiosity, but I am still most likely getting a MacBook Pro. All these extra steps removed pretty much all my doubts.

The 1700 seems like a great laptop for the price, but the support Dell provides is again, very disappointing. It seems you need to be A+ certified to get it running. And although I have been years ago, not very many DJs are, and not necessarily should be...
DJ Art Pumpin Payne 4:59 AM - 9 November, 2007
Quote:
D-Twizzle, thanks for the Vostro 1500 tip. The drivers I've been downloading this whole time from the 1700 Dell page were for completely different WLAN/NIC hardware.

Still though, I am very disappointed in Dell. Why do they have a dozen little files for all the components with weird coded names like "R151519?" Why not have a smart installer that will evaluate the hardware and install the necessary drivers automatically, all in one simple package. That's exactly how Apple's Boot Camp works in Windows, XP or Vista...

I'll be trying out the Vostro in XP tonight, out of curiosity, but I am still most likely getting a MacBook Pro. All these extra steps removed pretty much all my doubts.

The 1700 seems like a great laptop for the price, but the support Dell provides is again, very disappointing. It seems you need to be A+ certified to get it running. And although I have been years ago, not very many DJs are, and not necessarily should be...


DJ Czar - Big Props for giving a very intelligent but personal post about the Dell (and bringing a smile to a Mac fan boys face). I like the way U handled it with the disclaimers and reasons why you were still thinking of going Mac.

No thread jack.... Back to the Dell discussion.

BTW, a friend girl of mines was looking to buy an inexpensive Windows laptop - Macbook is out of her budget right now - (unemployed, long story) and I mentioned the above $550 laptop. She's just doing resume, job search stuff, in MS Office basically.

Of course I tried to push her towards a Macbook, but she's brainwashed (but nice boobs) and thinks she NEEDS a Windows laptop to be "professional". I gave up convincing her to go Mac when she went out and bought a AOL Computer ($299 and 24 Months of REQUIRED AOL service at $24.95). Some jerk she knows in trying to sell her a older IBM Thinkpad with 128MB of Ram for $250 and I mentioned the above Dell to her.
djbriguy 1:15 PM - 9 November, 2007
^^she got hustled!

That stinks. There are so many machines out there that are terrible. People see the price tag and come running!
Kind of like the Black Friday Walmart computers.
SpinThis! 5:35 PM - 9 November, 2007
Quote:
she's brainwashed (but nice boobs)

But did you hit it?

Quote:
Some jerk she knows in trying to sell her a older IBM Thinkpad with 128MB of Ram for $250 and I mentioned the above Dell to her.

Classic example of blonde ignorance. The jerk she knows is her boytoy and is great in bed so he must be good at computers too...
SpinThis! 5:37 PM - 9 November, 2007
Quote:
I tried to push her towards a Macbook

interesting article here: [ machinist.salon.com ]
djbriguy 6:30 PM - 9 November, 2007
Who would want to sell a computer in a year anyways
DJ Art Pumpin Payne 2:02 AM - 10 November, 2007
Quote:
Quote:
she's brainwashed (but nice boobs)

But did you hit it?


Naw, I moved into the friend zone quickly, she's too High maintenance, actually she is one of my Best friends. She came across as a "snooty bitch" the first day I met her and that is why I liked her and she liked me because I wasn't all up on her, trying to push up.

We were actually in NYC for a Music conference back in the day (she wanted to be a singer) and I crashed in her room, thought about taking it to the next level, but we both decided not to. Been the best of friends ever since.

Quote:
Some jerk she knows in trying to sell her a older IBM Thinkpad with 128MB of Ram for $250 and I mentioned the above Dell to her.

Classic example of blonde ignorance. The jerk she knows is her boytoy and is great in bed so he must be good at computers too...

Nope, dude helped her with her AOL computer when she had problems (my rule is I don't do Windows so don't ask - period). He took her for a nice chunk of change (if it was a Mac, I could have done what he did in 1/2 the time and for free). As her friend, I stopped trying to push her towards Mac. It's like when your boy marries or hooks up with a slut you hate, but you "be cool" and avoid because he is your boy.
DJ Overpour 2:31 AM - 10 November, 2007
Quote:

We were actually in NYC for a Music conference back in the day (she wanted to be a singer) and I crashed in her room, thought about taking it to the next level, but we both decided not to. Been the best of friends ever since.


How do you do that? My dick never listens
DJ Art Pumpin Payne 2:38 AM - 10 November, 2007
Quote:
Quote:

We were actually in NYC for a Music conference back in the day (she wanted to be a singer) and I crashed in her room, thought about taking it to the next level, but we both decided not to. Been the best of friends ever since.


How do you do that? My dick never listens


LOL, you've never been to Winter Music Conference or New Music Seminar before - especially back in the "prime days". You get like 2 or 3 hours of sleep a day for the whole week (get in at 6am, wind down for a hour- sleep until 11 or noon)- too much day activities and clubbing at night.

It was like try and hit or go to sleep, it was a toss up. Plus in that condition (half drunk and tired), I may have been know as her One Minute Friend for the rest of my life.
DJ Overpour 2:41 AM - 10 November, 2007
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:

We were actually in NYC for a Music conference back in the day (she wanted to be a singer) and I crashed in her room, thought about taking it to the next level, but we both decided not to. Been the best of friends ever since.


How do you do that? My dick never listens


LOL, you've never been to Winter Music Conference or New Music Seminar before - especially back in the "prime days". You get like 2 or 3 hours of sleep a day for the whole week (get in at 6am, wind down for a hour- sleep until 11 or noon)- too much day activities and clubbing at night.

It was like try and hit or go to sleep, it was a toss up. Plus in that condition (half drunk and tired), I may have been know as her One Minute Friend for the rest of my life.


hahaha...thats some funny ass shit
Mr. Goodkat 2:59 AM - 10 November, 2007
Quote:
Who would want to sell a computer in a year anyways


that dude is just a hater
uno seis 9:13 PM - 19 November, 2007
Dell is sellin these for $399

www.gotapex.com
djbriguy 9:19 PM - 19 November, 2007
Get your Dell Vostros kids.
Kadilac 10:15 PM - 25 November, 2007
Quote:
^^she got hustled!

That stinks. There are so many machines out there that are terrible. People see the price tag and come running!
Kind of like the Black Friday Walmart computers.


I got a Toshiba A205-4707 with 2.0ghz running 2gb's of ram from Wal-mart on black friday for $388!! Then I added 2 more gb's of ram (Kingston @CompUSA) for $59.99 which is gonna make this a BEAST! I LOVE BLACK FRIDAY!!!
djbriguy 5:02 AM - 26 November, 2007
Good deal Kadilac. Bear in mind that Toshiba might not uphold a factory warranty on products produced for walmart. This is usually the trend for black friday specials. Although Walmart will still uphold it. Sweet steal though, good job!
djbriguy 9:31 PM - 27 November, 2007
www.gotapex.com
Big Vostro 1400, 1500, and 1700 deals, expire tomorrow.
Topher85 9:52 PM - 27 November, 2007
kadilac:

cant 4gb of ram only be recognized in a 64 bit system? does serato support 64bit windows os's?
djbriguy 9:54 PM - 27 November, 2007
Quote:
does serato support 64bit windows os's?

no
sjømmør 12:14 AM - 22 December, 2007
i've been thinking about it, and because of shortage of reviews of the product i think i'm dropping it for a FSC or something - so i'm gonna ask real quick - what's with the ADVENT computers? are they as crap as they seem, or are they just cheap pcs with good specs and no bogus?

www.pixmania.co.uk
Mr. Goodkat 8:58 AM - 22 December, 2007
ask briguy if he's had any probs with his inexpensive pc. just get a mac. have a problem, take it to the store get it fixed for FREE, tell me if the cheap PC has that. A good friend of mine bought a used MacBook, the keyboard went haywire and the screen was fucked. Mind you it was a USED, maybe stolen laptop(no receipt, didn't even have the admin password, he took it to the mac store, and 1 wk later it was back fixed, no apple care.
Mr. Goodkat 8:58 AM - 22 December, 2007
ask briguy if he's had any probs with his inexpensive pc. just get a mac. have a problem, take it to the store get it fixed for FREE, tell me if the cheap PC has that. A good friend of mine bought a used MacBook, the keyboard went haywire and the screen was fucked. Mind you it was a USED, maybe stolen laptop(no receipt, didn't even have the admin password), he took it to the mac store, and 1 wk later it was back fixed, no apple care.
a DJ 6:25 PM - 22 December, 2007
My 1500 is working out just fine. Except I shoulda got the 1400, it's a much better size. The 1500 is a bit bulky for my taste, especially for DJing. I coulda sworn they weren't offering the 1400 with Windows XP, and I didn't wanna go through even more trouble of reformatting and installing XP when I could just have it installed straight away, so I went for the 1500. But now it looks like they are offering the 1400 with XP. Maybe I just didn't see it right the first time.
DJBlisk 12:11 AM - 23 December, 2007
you get what you pay for.... regardless of PC or MAC.
djbriguy 5:58 AM - 26 December, 2007
I havent had any problems with my $555 Dell Vostro. =)
Dj Kabrini Greens 7:43 PM - 26 December, 2007
ducktales...... +1
Mr. Goodkat 2:21 AM - 27 December, 2007
Quote:
I havent had any problems with my $555 Dell Vostro. =)


what about this

Hey Jeff. I'm working on this, as I am experiencing some similar issues. If MEMEOSERVICE.EXE is not in your task manager processes, then you dont have it. It might be something from my external hard drive software.

I've tried various solutions.. some which seem to work, but then the dropouts come back a couple days later or something...

The most recent thing I've done is taken the battery out. I was still getting dropouts like you described above (no music playing, even after restarting software, etc)... But then I did a fresh restart to my computer, and didnt get 1 dropout for 3 hours. Very weird. (this was with 1.8 PB2 beta version though)

I've since downgraded back to 1.7.4

I'll keep you posted on my findings. Have you tried running a RATT report yet?
Try that, I want to compare your report to my reports to see what we can come up with.
djbriguy 1:48 PM - 28 December, 2007
hater.
Mr. Goodkat 7:27 PM - 28 December, 2007
well wasn't that a problem? i didn't have any problems, with 1.8.
djbriguy 8:14 PM - 28 December, 2007
Ya. It was a beta version. no problems with 1.8 final.
Nser Uame 10:06 AM - 2 January, 2008
I just bought a Vostro 1500.
It's on its way and I plan to write a little review... I agree with Briguy, Dell laptops seem dope for serato. Cheap and basic (although I went a little overboard on mine).

Its a 2.0ghs 2mb cache 800mhz intl Core 2 duo, 2 gigs of DDR 667mhz ram, 160gb 7200rpm hard drive and 256mb video card...
i'm hoping to be running with everything set to the most demanding settings with no dramas.. but we'l see how that turns out.

anyway, i'll let u know how it goes once i've got it in my sweaty sweaty palms
sjømmør 10:28 AM - 2 January, 2008
this may have been mentioned earlier in this post, but anyway: considering 2g core duo w/ 2g ram being nearly an overkill for a dedicated serato laptop (w/ v1.8), how fast do you suspect the system requirements will grow with new serato versions? how much can we expect that a version 3 years from now require, not considering video-sl? i'm thinking of buying a 1.6 intel core duo w/ 1-2gs of ram, but i'm getting second thoughts...
djbriguy 1:39 PM - 2 January, 2008
Nser Uame, definetly let us know how your Vostro works out for you. Add your own review here. That'd be great.
DPR250R 3:45 PM - 2 January, 2008
Quote:
ask briguy if he's had any probs with his inexpensive pc. just get a mac.


Quote:
what about this


Chill man.... why do you care?

It's posts like yours that make Mac users look bad.
djbriguy 5:37 PM - 2 January, 2008
+1
a DJ 9:02 PM - 2 January, 2008
Quote:
this may have been mentioned earlier in this post, but anyway: considering 2g core duo w/ 2g ram being nearly an overkill for a dedicated serato laptop (w/ v1.8), how fast do you suspect the system requirements will grow with new serato versions? how much can we expect that a version 3 years from now require, not considering video-sl? i'm thinking of buying a 1.6 intel core duo w/ 1-2gs of ram, but i'm getting second thoughts...

That's not too much overkill.

I have 1.4Ghz Core 2 Duo and 2GB RAM, and already 1.8 is getting more random USB lights on full settings. On 1.7.4. I never had any problems, though I used to have completely random USB lights. Still no dropouts or even glitches while recording, but I think I might use 1.7.4 for gigs.
nik39 9:10 PM - 2 January, 2008
There are people using 1.8 with a 1GHz single core CPU w/o dropouts.
treeo730 2:09 AM - 3 January, 2008
I just want to chime in... I have an inspiron 1420--perfect screen size BTW.. It has a 1.5 core chip with 2 gb ram, vista. I've had it for about 3 months and it has worked very well(got it for work). It is working better than my Imac G5(only has 512mb)... I also have a macbook 2.0 core with 1gb ram and I've actually have been using the the Dell more and it only cost me $650.

As far as USB dropouts...yup I was getting them on the Dell but I have a Lacie D2 external which has USB 2, Firewire 400 and 800. I switched it the firewire and flawless.... I recommend a drive with multiple connections BTW.. Most of the time I don't bring my laptop I just plug my external and I'm good to go...
recordpusher 2:57 AM - 3 January, 2008
I went with a Dell Vostro 1500 and LOVE IT......
recordpusher 3:00 AM - 3 January, 2008
oh.. and I went with the XP on mine...
Nser Uame 6:11 AM - 3 January, 2008
oop, yep forgot to mention that. I got XP Home.
recordpusher.. what specs did u get?
djbriguy 4:42 PM - 3 January, 2008
chalk up a few more for Dell.
djbriguy FTW
Nser Uame 7:15 AM - 5 January, 2008
Just got mine today.
So far so good!
bourbonstmc 5:10 AM - 1 February, 2008
www.adrants.com
Nser Uame 6:35 AM - 11 February, 2008
thought I'd come back and mention that I have not had a single audible USB drop on my Dell 1500.
I have seen the USB light come up, but could not hear a pop. I haven't done any tweaks but Ive got my first gig coming up on the 29th and I plan to do them before then, just in case!
If someone asked me what laptop to get for Serato, i'd tell them for value for money a Vosto is a great choice, and if I was buying laptops I'd get the same thing.
Dj YoW 9:39 AM - 8 March, 2008
This is a pretty helpful reviews about Vostro laptop. Because i'm getting a 1500 vostro for my serato for 549.00 right now.
Thanks djbriguy!
djbriguy 12:08 AM - 10 March, 2008
i wish i would've gotten the 1500, i wont lie. Because the 1000 has no dedicated video card. So if you're looking to get into Video SL, dont get the Vostro 1000
a DJ 1:54 AM - 10 March, 2008
^ Naw the 1400 is better.. I got the 1500 and it's huge. 15" is bigger than you think it is (no homo) The 1400 is more portable for DJing purposes and still comes with a dedicated video card. I coulda sworn it didn't come with Windows XP when I was looking at it, but I might be wrong.

I'm still very happy with it. Windows XP, minimal crap installed when it came, works great even with 1.8.
Corex 2:59 AM - 10 March, 2008
The 1400 is perfect size! I picked it up after reading this review, and I couldn't be more happy, although I could nitpick at the battery as it dies within 2 hours of just word processing even... Other than that it's perfect, especially for Serato. I threw on a Serato profile just for good measure too and it didn't really make a difference, the biggest thing that helps with the dropouts though is turning off wireless, soon as I do that I can put the buffer onto 1.
I picked up a vostro 1400 with:
1.4 ghz, 1 gig ram, 80 gigs hd space, xp, i'm using the default choice battery which i'd reccomend to everyone to upgrade as even after the month and a half i've had it it already annoys the hell outta me.
lastly, it was mad cheap even in Canada. thanks for the heads up on this one briguy.
djbriguy 3:30 AM - 10 March, 2008
a DJ, the 1000 is 15" as well. I think its the same size as the 1500, but the 1500 has a few more addons and better specs.
a DJ 3:42 AM - 10 March, 2008
^ Ah I didn't know that. Well yeah it's too bad you didn't get the 1500. Why didn't you get it anyway? Did you not know the differences? (I admit I didn't, I just knew they had the Black Friday deals on them so I went with the best I could get considering my needs). Thanks a lot for the review, it convinced me to get one, and I'm very very satisfied with it. I had never even heard of the laptop before your review.

Corex, do you mean disabling it in the device manager? I was able to run it at buffer 1 with it enabled in the device manager, but I just didn't use the internet. During the process of trying to get 1.8 to work without dropping out, I disabled them, though it didn't help immediately. The thing that finally did it was the USB drivers and BIOS update from the Dell site.
sixxx 3:50 AM - 10 March, 2008
Quote:
Important Info
I must add that the "look" of the laptop is NOT COOL!

My girlfriend said I should add this. She says it looks like her dad's first laptop from 1995 LOL.

Really though . Its definetly bulky and uncool looking. But that should be the least of your worries.


I finally browsed through this thread and when i saw the first picture you posted of the actual laptop I said the same thing. But, as long as it runs like a champ, looks shouldn't matter.
a DJ 4:04 AM - 10 March, 2008
I think it looks good enough. I was looking at my setup from afar for the first time at a semi-relaxed state, and thought.. damn the laptop dont look too bad. It's just black with a lil silver circle. It really doesn't look too bad. And even up close, it looks fine. Sleep black. The Inspirons, now those things are gotdamn ugly! different shades of gray and silver and different parts ughh that shit looks UGLY.

It does seem to have a lotta finger oil marks, but that's prob cuz I use it in sweaty and hot situations..so I don't really care. Plus it's not that noticeable until you're up close in light.
djbriguy 12:33 PM - 10 March, 2008
Quote:
During the process of trying to get 1.8 to work without dropping out, I disabled them, though it didn't help immediately. The thing that finally did it was the USB drivers and BIOS update from the Dell site.


Ahhhh, Dell finally has driver updates?? Cuz i'm still having dropouts with long term use on 1.8

a DJ i'm gonna start a pm with you.
djbriguy 12:40 PM - 10 March, 2008
Quote:
Well yeah it's too bad you didn't get the 1500. Why didn't you get it anyway? Did you not know the differences?


Well, at the time i wasn't considering video or anything... I only wanted a laptop that met and exceeded SSL's specs of the time.

Two reasons why i wish i would've gotten the 1500:
1. Dedicated video card
2. Higher screen resolutions.

When i bought my 1000, the price was $555 total and I think the 1500 was close to $700... If the prices were as close as they are now, i would have changed my mind.
garlick 9:05 PM - 10 March, 2008
Well, I just joined this wonderful discussion and I thought I would add my $.02.

I have owned both an Apple (2 actually) and a PC (3 comps currently). I just thought I would let everyone know about my experiences with each, and throw something out there for everyone to consider.

I work in the electronics industry. I've been selling electronic components for over 8 years now, and Apple has been a customer of mine for some time. I also have Dell and Alienware as customers of mine. I'm extremely computer savy and know hardware better than most of the average joe's who claim to have computer knowledge but have barely cracked their cases to do mods.

I'm not boasting, I'm just qualifying my knowledge. I can tell you right now, Apple hardware is no better than any PC that you buy, and I can verify with PO's from Apple headquarters that they actually don't buy top of the line products to integrate as they claim. I really hate the arguement that an Apple is better than a PC, and I wish both sides would shut their traps.

Whoever posted about operating systems is absolutely correct, it's not about the hardware at all but it's about the OS that you're using. The issue is that the Apple OS is written in such a way that to me it makes no sense whatsoever. I can't use it. It doesn't operate properly for me in a way that makes sense to my learning and understanding of computing. Some people really like it, and that's OK with me.

Here's my issue, on my PC laptop, a Vostro 1400, which by the way, I've had no problems with whatsoever, I run XP and I can make that thing fly. I've had zero hardware issues, and I do love the simplicity of the machine. My experience with Apple has been less than stellar when it comes to hardware. My optical drive has failed 4 times in 5 years on my Ibook, and my G4 tower has had 3 hard drive failures since I've bought it.

If you really like your OS/X, my suggestion is buy a PC laptop or build a PC for yourself using top of the line equipment, and install OS/X on it. It's not a hard mod, and if you search you can find the instructions for it. You will have a flawless machine with THE BEST hardware, and no issues. Most people don't realize this is an option, but I have a home built PC with OS/X on it, and have done it for 3 of my friends and they have nothing but rave reviews for the computers and how they operate. Just please, oh please, for the love of all that's holy, quit talking about the quality of Apple hardware. I can atest first hand knowledge that's it's not true that it's any better than the $550 laptop that Dell builds.
nik39 9:10 PM - 10 March, 2008
Quote:
If you really like your OS/X, my suggestion is buy a PC laptop or build a PC for yourself using top of the line equipment, and install OS/X on it. It's not a hard mod, and if you search you can find the instructions for it. You will have a flawless machine with THE BEST hardware, and no issues. Most people don't realize this is an option

Last time I checked, it was illegal. Did Apple authorize this?
DJBlisk 9:23 PM - 10 March, 2008
Quote:
Quote:
If you really like your OS/X, my suggestion is buy a PC laptop or build a PC for yourself using top of the line equipment, and install OS/X on it. It's not a hard mod, and if you search you can find the instructions for it. You will have a flawless machine with THE BEST hardware, and no issues. Most people don't realize this is an option

Last time I checked, it was illegal. Did Apple authorize this?


Installing the OS/X shouldn't be an issue, but the drivers are what scares me.

and garlick is right.
garlick 9:40 PM - 10 March, 2008
It's not illegal and never has been, as long as you have a registered copy that you can buy from Apple, you're all good to go.

They can't regulate what machine you run YOUR copy of OS/X on.
Serato, Support
Matt G 9:50 PM - 10 March, 2008
Quote:
If you really like your OS/X, my suggestion is buy a PC laptop or build a PC for yourself using top of the line equipment, and install OS/X on it. It's not a hard mod, and if you search you can find the instructions for it. You will have a flawless machine with THE BEST hardware, and no issues.


I think you're over stating it a little there, garlick. There are many potential hardware and software support issues in that configuration. In any support discussion you have with any company, your non-standard and unsupported arrangement of hardware and software will be a roadblock to getting proper support.

If you're fond of any particular PC hardware manufacturer then I strongly recommend you stay with Windows (XP over Vista still, at this stage. Vista has some maturing to do). If you go for the frankenstein option then you'll invariably end up shouldering support issues yourself that would otherwise have been a manufacturer's responsibility. There's also the chance that some manufacturers will outright refuse to support your machine, leaving you with no warranty.
garlick 10:27 PM - 10 March, 2008
Matt, you're absolutely correct, I build these machines and service them myself so I don't need support from the manufacturer, but I've also found that the issues with the "frankstein" configuration, as you so put it, are GREATLY overstated. Most of the manufacturers offer enough support that you can build a machine very easily with just a little bit of research and acheive what you want with high quality, reliable products.

My main point was that there shouldn't be any discussion in hardware because all the internal parts are identical when you get to the board level, and to say one is better than the other in hardware is a completely asinine arguement that can't be won either way. Same goes for OS. Each has their place and each has their benefits.

I just hate the misnomer that's been perpetuaded that Apple only uses top shelf hardware, because that's so far from the truth it's laughable.
Serato, Support
Matt G 10:48 PM - 10 March, 2008
Quote:
Most of the manufacturers offer enough support that you can build a machine very easily with just a little bit of research and acheive what you want with high quality, reliable products.


Perhaps for people who are familiar with building their own PCs. For the average computer user however it is not particularly good advice. Coupled with considerable loss of time there will be support issues beyond their knowledge that the manufacturers may leave them out in the cold on.

Quote:
My main point was that there shouldn't be any discussion in hardware because all the internal parts are identical when you get to the board level, and to say one is better than the other in hardware is a completely asinine arguement that can't be won either way.


Each manufacturer has certain a reputation and history of stability and reliability (or lack of) in their system builds. Some are more heavily tested and qualified than others. That the chipsets are made by the same manufacturers does not mean that the overall build quality and testing will be identical. Whether Apple's current build quality is superior to competitors is debatable, but there definitely are differences between manufacturers that contribute to the overall reliability of the systems, and should be factored into purchasing decisions.
garlick 11:03 PM - 10 March, 2008
Ok Matt, sorry to inform you of this, but Apples build specifications and testing are the same as Asus and Intel, as they all buy from the same Contract Manufacturers in Flextronics & Sanmina SCI & Jaibal Circuits.

I've visited and spoken to the facilities outside of Cupertino that Apple contracts with, and they tell me same thing. The build quality that Apple seems to be known for is non existant because the parts are bought from the same sources and the hands that handle the actual manufacturing are the same.

Call Apple and ask who actually does their manufacturing and they will tell you. It's the same people that do the manufacturing of your favorite PC components, and their quality control is identical.
garlick 11:04 PM - 10 March, 2008
sorry for the second post, but it's the perceived "reputation" that Apple holds that I have a problem with, not the systems themselves.
Dj_KaGeN 11:07 PM - 10 March, 2008
whaaaa.... Dellintosh time.
Serato, Support
Matt G 12:07 AM - 11 March, 2008
garlick, there's the process of building the physical machines and then there's the design and testing of the combinations of components that happen before mass production begins. That differs greatly between manufacturers. Acer, for example, have had a history of poorly integrated hardware and software designs. There's important testing there that happens more or less depending on the manufacturer, and is a major factor in whether you trust an IBM/Lenovo or Dell laptop more than an Acer.

Everything is built in China these days. That's not the point. They're designed somewhere else. The decisions of what components to put together in which combinations don't happen in the production facilities in China.
garlick 2:02 AM - 11 March, 2008
So what you're telling me, and I want to make sure I have this correct, is that reliability of a product is based on the design of the product and not the quality of components used in the design??

And what you're also saying is that Apples high reliability preception is based on the fact that there are less problems with their designs than Acer's designs and integration??

I just want to be clear here.
Dj_KaGeN 2:05 AM - 11 March, 2008
[just a fly on the wall]
Serato, Support
Matt G 2:36 AM - 11 March, 2008
Quote:
So what you're telling me, and I want to make sure I have this correct, is that reliability of a product is based on the design of the product and not the quality of components used in the design??


I'm saying there are multiple factors, and just because an Acer and a Dell use the same chipset, CPU, GPU, or otherwise, does not mean they will have equal reliability.

Quote:
And what you're also saying is that Apples high reliability preception is based on the fact that there are less problems with their designs than Acer's designs and integration??


I've said nothing of my opinion of Apple's current quality. Although I have said that I've witnessed a history of Acer producing unreliable hardware (and software) designs.

You stated this:

Quote:
My main point was that there shouldn't be any discussion in hardware because all the internal parts are identical when you get to the board level, and to say one is better than the other in hardware is a completely asinine arguement that can't be won either way.


Which I consider untrue. There are definite factors that allow you to say one manufacturer's computers are better than another's based on hardware, regardless of whether the individual components are similar. To claim that they are all equal in hardware is not correct.

I don't think it's good for people here to be reading advice that tells them to install OS X on a PC, or to disregard the hardware reputations of laptop manufacturers. These are not ideas that will help shoppers.

BriChi began this thread with a review of a specific laptop, letting us know how it performed, how reliable it's been, etc. Other laptops with similar or better specs may perform worse, may be less reliable, and so forth. This may be due to the manufacturers not spending adequate time testing the hardware design and combinations, the drivers, etc, etc.

Simply selecting another laptop with all the same supposed specs would not necessarily generate the same quality of experience. To suggest this is not helpful. Reputation and history are important in deciding what hardware to purchase, as they demonstrate the level of care and attention to detail the manufacturers put into their products at the hardware level.
djbriguy 3:16 AM - 11 March, 2008
its actually briguy, but thanks matt.. haha.


and holy thread jack!!!
Dj_KaGeN 3:21 AM - 11 March, 2008
this thread needs a "BUY A MAC" -- how has anyone managed to refrain?
garlick 6:01 AM - 11 March, 2008
Matt, here's the issue that people have brought up, saying that Mac is of higher quality and you will get a better experience by buying one, but one can't ignore the intial quality reports that were released by consumer reports in 2006 that stated Mac Book Pro's had a 16% rate of problems or failures within the first 90 days of ownership, and Acer laptops had a 17% rate of issues over the same period.

The difference in initial quality was only 1%. Yet Apple's are considered a more reliable computer in most circles. You stated it's because of design and integration. What I'm telling you is if that's true than the inital quality should be much better, not 1%.

This did start as a review of Dell Laptop that quickly got into a debate about how you can do the same things an Apple can do with a $550 laptop, and I feel that's true, and it's been proven that it can be true depending on how you use your laptop and treat it.

I don't think throwing around advice like, spend more on a Apple because you'll get a more reliable laptop is the right use of this forum either. So I thought I would add an opinion that hadn't been added. My advice to build a computer and put OS/X on it wasn't meant for everyone. I doubted anyone on here would even take me seriously, and that wasn't the point of my post. The point of my post was that you DON'T need to spend $1700 on an Apple because they're "known" to be more reliable because I don't think that's true and people need to start speaking up about it.

I also know that what you're talking about with the quality of design can be true, but reliability has more to do with the components that you use, and the reliability of those individual pieces and less to do with the integration of the system. So it DOES have to do with GPU's and transistors, and resistors, capacitors, and logic chips, and all the little things that make the difference in how long something lasts. It's also about the welding and the quality of the drives and cables and connectors that makes a big difference in how long things last, and you can get a computer of much higher quality as far as components goes, for much cheaper than any Apple.

So while you're right, I've hi jacked this thread, I hi jacked it because I thought people needed to see another perspective on things.

But again, back to the laptop review, I have a Vostro and I can attest to the simplicity and quality of the laptop itself. I also have a tip, if you want one you should check out the Dell outlet, as you can get a pretty well equiped Vostro 1400, 1500, 1700 for sub $800 total with more than enough than you will need to Scratch Live, and in the outlet they definitely don't limit who can buy them, so you won't need a Tax ID number. The refurbished part isn't great, but Dell does a good enough job backing the refurbished products.
sixxx 6:23 AM - 11 March, 2008
Quote:
My experience with Apple has been less than stellar when it comes to hardware. My optical drive has failed 4 times in 5 years on my Ibook, and my G4 tower has had 3 hard drive failures since I've bought it.


Your experience is different than most it seems. I've had an iBook that's almost 4 years old and I haven't had a single issue. I have a PowerPC G5 that's older than that (first ones to hit the market) and no issues. I did replace the drive for a dual layer drive and added more RAM plus another internal hard drive within the last 2 years.

You're still missing the all mighty problem of adding more variables to a PC regardless of whether you're building it yourself or is built by someone else.

As far as the Macbook Pro's in 2006... This is 2008. If those were first generations, they usually have lots of problems as with first generation anything.

I've always recommended a PC or Mac as long as it fits your needs... except now. I do recommend Mac over PC for VSL and we all know why. As of now, that is.
djbriguy 12:28 PM - 11 March, 2008
ahem... you know, this is a great discussion n all... and would probably draw lots of attention in its own thread.. garlick, why dont you start your own thread about it. please?
djgs 1:45 PM - 11 March, 2008
hey thanks to dj briguy

after reading his review i went and got myself a vostro 1500

had no problems what so ever

thanks briguy

djgs
nik39 5:19 PM - 11 March, 2008
Quote:
It's not illegal and never has been, as long as you have a registered copy that you can buy from Apple, you're all good to go.

They can't regulate what machine you run YOUR copy of OS/X on.

Are you sure? I dont think this is true.
djbriguy 6:57 PM - 11 March, 2008
it should be true.. i mean, u did buy it n' all. But if you're installing it onto many computers for friends, now thats illegal.
Serato, Support
Matt G 7:29 PM - 11 March, 2008
Quote:
its actually briguy, but thanks matt.. haha.


Oops, my bad :)
djbriguy 8:10 PM - 11 March, 2008
its all good! if thats the only mistake a great company can make, then i'mok with that! (no on knees for SSL mods)
garlick 3:48 AM - 12 March, 2008
Quote:
Quote:
It's not illegal and never has been, as long as you have a registered copy that you can buy from Apple, you're all good to go.

They can't regulate what machine you run YOUR copy of OS/X on.

Are you sure? I dont think this is true.


100% sure, once you own the intellectual property rights, you can do whatever you want with it as long as you only use it on one machine and don't copy the software, there's absolutely no way they could regulate what type of system you installed the OS on.

I would ask you this, what would they prosecute you for if you installed it on a PC?? How would they even know what type of system you're running the OS on?? Once you get down to it, the boards and system parts are all the made by the same manufacturers, so before you install your OS there's really no difference between a PC and an Apple anyway. That's a very general statement, and I know some people will say there's small differences, but those small difference don't change the fact that you're still using RAM, ROM, Optical drives, SATA connections and so on.
DJ Art Pumpin Payne 5:35 AM - 12 March, 2008
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
It's not illegal and never has been, as long as you have a registered copy that you can buy from Apple, you're all good to go.

They can't regulate what machine you run YOUR copy of OS/X on.

Are you sure? I dont think this is true.


100% sure, once you own the intellectual property rights, you can do whatever you want with it as long as you only use it on one machine and don't copy the software, there's absolutely no way they could regulate what type of system you installed the OS on.

I would ask you this, what would they prosecute you for if you installed it on a PC?? How would they even know what type of system you're running the OS on?? Once you get down to it, the boards and system parts are all the made by the same manufacturers, so before you install your OS there's really no difference between a PC and an Apple anyway. That's a very general statement, and I know some people will say there's small differences, but those small difference don't change the fact that you're still using RAM, ROM, Optical drives, SATA connections and so on.


Basic License agreement allows you to install 1 copy of the OS on 1 computer (excludes Family Pack). Apple doesn't serialize the OS yet like Microsoft so the install is pretty painless. There is also a app that runs on the Install that makes sure the Computer is compatible with the OS. The hack that allows u to install on a PC disables this I think.

Basically by installing on a PC you throw any Apple TECH SUPPORT - only drawback, but if you can do the install hack for a PC you probably won't need it.

I think I used to say "Lipstick on a Pig" ...

Hardware is basically hardware to a certain degree, it's the OS that makes a difference.

Respect to Garlick for taking on the task. You'll be sipping the Apple Kool-Aide soon enough.

<evil laugh>
garlick 2:37 PM - 12 March, 2008
Actually the hack doesn't completely disable the app, it just overrides a couple of the component checks. I've also talked to Apple about the Tech Support issue, because one of my "customers" (really my good friend) was worried about it, and Apple was OK with the whole thing. They just thought I was weird for not wanting the Apple hardware.

Trust me, I will never drink the Kool-Aide, it would probably kill me if I did.
sixxx 2:40 PM - 12 March, 2008
Every time I see Vostro.. I think of this. hahaha

www.oafe.net
SpinThis! 7:54 PM - 12 March, 2008
Quote:
100% sure, once you own the intellectual property rights, you can do whatever you want with it

you own no intellectual property rights by "buying" software. specifically, you "own" a license to use the software on an Apple-branded computer. Pulled from the Leopard EULA:

Quote:
2. Permitted License Uses and Restrictions.
A. Single Use. This License allows you to install, use and run one (1) copy of the Apple Software on a single Apple labeled computer at a time. You agree not to install, use or run the Apple Software on any non-Apple-labeled computer, or to enable others to do so....


Quote:
what would they prosecute you for if you installed it on a PC??

Quote:
You'll be sipping the Apple Kool-Aide soon enough.

Realistically, they won't. Apple has better things to do than crack down a hackers trying to install OS X on unsupported hardware. if anything, OSX86 is helping Apple sell more computers. The most dedicated hackers I've seen end up buying Apple's hardware anyway.

Quote:
Hardware is basically hardware to a certain degree, it's the OS that makes a difference.

Apple is a hardware company but they just happen to make the best OS... but don't forget the fact that the OS is partially superior because of the tight integration with the hardware it talks to.

Quote:
Basically by installing on a PC you throw any Apple TECH SUPPORT - only drawback, but if you can do the install hack for a PC you probably won't need it.

And software updates. Some things you can install via Software update, others you may have to hack every 10.x.x update.
Serato, Support
Matt G 8:53 PM - 12 March, 2008
Quote:
I've also talked to Apple about the Tech Support issue, because one of my "customers" (really my good friend) was worried about it, and Apple was OK with the whole thing. They just thought I was weird for not wanting the Apple hardware.


I very much doubt this to be true. I also believe Apple would be within their legal rights to revoke your license to use the product as you are in breach of the license agreement. garlick, I think you are again heavily over stating your position.
DJMark 10:51 PM - 12 March, 2008
I smell a rat...or is it just the pungent aroma of garlic?

:-)
sixxx 1:40 AM - 13 March, 2008
hahaha DJMark

Big props on that one... and you're usually not funny. :P
garlick 6:33 PM - 14 March, 2008
I haven't been on here in a while, so I couldn't respond, but as of October 26th last year when they released Leopard which is X86 compatible to work with the Intel chips they're using, this is what the license agreement reads:

2. Permitted License Uses and Restrictions. This License allows you to install and use one copy of the Apple Software on a single computer at a time. This License does not allow the Apple Software to exist on more than one computer at a time, and you may not make the Apple Software available over a network where it could be used by multiple computers at the same time. You may make one copy of the Apple Software in machine-readable form for backup purposes only; provided that the backup copy must include all copyright or other proprietary notices contained on the original. Except as and only to the extent expressly permitted in this License or by applicable law, you may not copy, decompile, reverse engineer, disassemble, modify, or create derivative works of the Apple Software or any part thereof.

So there's no mention of apple only computers. So no it's not illegal, nor was it before. They could revoke your license, but they wouldn't be able to prosecute you for the install because they couldn't. You violated a license agreement, and could have been sued, but there's no law that states you would have gone to jail. There's a big difference between violating a license agreement and violating the law. License agreements are not law. SO NO IT'S NOT AGAINST THE LAW.

Now if you change the program and then distribute, that's a different story because it's distribution of stolen property, which is a law, but an end user doesn't do that.

So yes I did call Apple, and yes they confirmed that the license agreement says as much, and yes they tried to convince me that I would have problems with stability, which I still have yet to experience any stability issues. There's some hardware compatibility issues with my wireless card, so I have to run a cord to my computer, but I don't really care about that.

So please, don't call me a rat, I'm just giving you my experience.
djbriguy 7:37 PM - 14 March, 2008
ugh, start your own thread.
garlick 8:47 PM - 14 March, 2008
You're right, I'm so sorry this has turned into a mess, you wrote a great review, and this thread did end up hi-jacked. I won't post again in this thread, and if I could delete my posts, or transpose them I would, but I won't reply again. Sorry.
Dj_KaGeN 8:51 PM - 14 March, 2008
this is probably the only thread ever to get hijacked... ya right.
Serato, Support
Matt G 9:16 PM - 14 March, 2008
garlick, I wonder if you intentionally misquoted the license agreement. The actual first line of section two is:

This License allows you to install and use one copy of the Apple Software on a single Apple-labeled computer at a time.

Thus usage of OS X on a non Apple computer is in clear breach of the license agreement, and as such they can revoke your license:

Your rights under this License will terminate automatically without notice from Apple if you fail to comply with any term(s) of this License. Upon the termination of this License, you shall cease all use of the Apple Software and destroy all copies, full or partial, of the Apple Software.

Again I state that your recommendation is poor advice to other users. They will be left without warranty, and in breach of their license agreement, which puts them in breach of the law.
Dj_KaGeN 9:27 PM - 14 March, 2008
uhmm. wtf. this would be a non-issue, if Serato had a working product...for PC
DJBlisk 9:34 PM - 14 March, 2008
here we go.
sixxx 10:01 PM - 14 March, 2008
Quote:
uhmm. wtf. this would be a non-issue, if Serato had a working product...for PC


Did someone say Nancy?

www.theweblogproject.com
skinnyguy 11:21 PM - 14 March, 2008
Quote:
uhmm. wtf. this would be a non-issue, if Serato had a working product...for PC


they do. ssl runs fine on pc.



does slapping an apple sticker on your computer count as an apple-labeled computer?
djbriguy 1:05 PM - 20 March, 2008
Vostro Users
Be sure to check the dell website. They have chipset/USB/BIOS updates available.
a DJ 4:38 AM - 22 March, 2008
^ Yup.. USB drivers are under chipset.. Btw did that fix your 1.8 problem?
Dj Ak-ryte 8:05 AM - 23 March, 2008
Briguys thanks to you i just went on the website and bought this laptop lol thanks dude
u-sho 4:08 PM - 2 April, 2008
Just got my Vostro 1400 this week.

Spent 2 nights tweaking it and I'm happy with the outcome.

I originally had Vista on it, but it's not going to be a dedicated Serato rig so now I have it dual booting with a barebones XP Pro on a separate partition. Only program installed on there is Serato. I only have 1 gig of RAM (will be upgrading sometime this week myself), but it's running Serato like a champ.

Time to transfer all my music. Will probably end up doing a rehaul of my music organization while I'm at it. I've been needing to do it.
djbriguy 4:42 PM - 2 April, 2008
u-sho, check out www.crucial.com for RAM upgrades. Upgraded mine to 2GB for $50 after tax/next day shipping.
u-sho 5:33 PM - 2 April, 2008
Thanks. I'm going to be upgrading to 4GB. Buy.com has has 2 gig Kingston sticks for 32.95 each after rebates. Free shipping also, and can get an additional $10 off by adding Google checkout.
bourbonstmc 6:59 PM - 2 April, 2008
Quote:
Time to transfer all my music. Will probably end up doing a rehaul of my music organization while I'm at it. I've been needing to do it.


It's a process, not an event.
Discobee 9:57 AM - 4 July, 2008
First gig tonight with new black Vostro 1500...no drop outs, no glitches, no lagging. Serato on 1.8.1 was flawless.
DJ Overpour 7:35 PM - 6 July, 2008
Quote:
First gig tonight with new black Vostro 1500...no drop outs, no glitches, no lagging. Serato on 1.8.1 was flawless.


Same here every night for me (no homo)

1500 FTW
Discobee 6:41 AM - 7 July, 2008
I'm glad to hear that about the vostro :) I will use it with confidence.
Nser Uame 7:31 AM - 7 July, 2008
My 1400 is still pimpin' hard
dELfONiK 3:04 PM - 7 July, 2008
I've been using the 1400 for a few months with no problems. I have a 1.6ghz Core2duo w/ 2 gigs of RAM. The only tweaking I did was disabling the wireless connection while I dj. I'm running the USB Buffer at 2 as well with no drop outs or warning lights.
djbriguy 5:59 PM - 7 July, 2008
Good stuff.