Q: Buying vs. making a system. Why choose one over the other?

A: If you're a novice it's best to buy a system. We encourage you to learn by tackling smaller projects, such as adding a new CD burner to your existing PC. If you're comfortable opening your computer case and feel ready to take on the project make sure you read the rest of the FAQs below, and be sure to order your parts from a reputable vendor. (We've assembled a list here). If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Reasons to buy an assembled system:

• Warranty & Support—buying an assembled system usually means your PC will be covered by warranty for a period of time. You'll also have access to the PC builder's technical support staff if questions arise.
• Immediacy. If you need it now, buy rather than build. It's easier and faster to buy a pre-built system.

Reasons to build:

• Out of pocket savings. Buying the components is typically cheaper than buying an assembled system.
• Complete control of the parts that go into your system.

Q: Do I need to buy the most expensive computer?

A: No, definitely not. Do your homework. Try pricing similar systems with different vendors and shop for the best deal. Money isn't the only thing to consider. A warranty and a competent support staff are valuable in ways that are harder to quantify. Are they worth an extra $200? You may think so if your PC acts up in the middle of a session.

Q: Who would I call/contact with further questions?

A: That depends, but you can start by emailing Cakewalk at pcresource@cakewalk.com. If we don't know the answer, we'll point you in the right directions.

Q: Which is better, desktops or laptops?

A: That depends. Desktops and laptops are built with different applications in mind. To complicate matters, laptops come in different configurations as well. In general, a properly configured laptop can do anything a comparable desktop can do.

The most lightweight laptops are intended to be good traveling companions. They're made with lightweight components at the cost of performance. There's also a variety of laptops called desktop replacements, designed to be as fast as a typical desktop. Consider your needs and the costs involved before deciding.

Desktops are less expensive, easier to customize and more difficult traveling buddies.

FAQ continued