In the production studio, the computer plays a fundamental role. It’s the center of everything, from recording to using plugins, editing, mixing, and everything else. Now, if the computer is a central piece, then the operating system we work with is also central.
That’s why deciding between Windows and Mac is crucial when selecting the central computer for the music studio.
I’ve used both operating systems. I won’t reveal which one I currently use until the end of the article, but it’s clear that both have their pros and cons. In this article, I’ll discuss the essential points to consider when choosing a Mac or a Windows computer for your music production and recording studio.
Windows vs. Mac for Music Production: Main Differences
Audio Integration
When working with music production, the audio integration factor will be fundamental. In Windows, you require ASIO to use audio in any digital audio workstation (DAW). Most audio interfaces have their driver created with ASIO.
So far, so good. The problem arises when you attempt to run multiple audio programs with ASIO, as it is not possible. I spent a lot of time fighting against this problem in Windows, which isn’t very pleasant.
On the macOS side, as it is an operating system designed for multimedia, it comes with an integrated driver called “CoreAudio” that works smoothly with any audio interface and can open multiple audio programs without issues.
This is a critical factor in which macOS has an advantage: seamless integration of audio devices and audio programs.
MIDI Device Support
Both Windows and macOS are compatible with MIDI devices. That’s for sure. In my experience, you need to connect any MIDI device that works on Windows and Mac.
Likewise, both systems can also work with multiple MIDI devices. But there’s a difference: you can’t run two (or more) audio programs with the same MIDI device in Windows.
When you open a second program, it informs you that you cannot use the MIDI device because it is already in use by another program. This is not a problem on Mac; you can use a MIDI device with multiple audio programs.
Plugin Compatibility
Okay, now.. another critical point: how compatible are they with plugins? Both operating systems are compatible with VST/VST3 plug-ins; additionally, macOS supports AU plug-ins as well. The installation procedure is similar: you install the plugin with the installer or drag it directly to the native plugin folder.
Since the macOS version is called Catalina (released in 2019), developers must notarize (i.e., authorize) their plugins with Apple for them to function correctly. As this was released some time ago, most developers have already updated to it, and almost all work is now complete. However, some audio plugins (usually some free and old ones) are not notarized.
Some plugins can be allowed through the security system with a simple settings change, while others require additional configuration. In my experience, 95% of the VST and AU plugins function correctly, but the remaining 5% do not.
The new M series processors from Apple are too good, but developers must update their software audio plugins to work natively. If they are not updated, you can use Rosetta, and they function equally well.
In Windows, any VST plugin I tried so far works without impediments.
Price
I often heard, “I use computers with Windows because Macs are too expensive.” And the point is, yes, when Macs first came out on the market (0km), they were too expensive.
For new computers, those that come with Windows are generally more affordable. It’s complex to compare here, as there are many models. Additionally, Windows is not a computer brand, but rather an operating system that many brands use.
However, used or refurbished Macs drop significantly in price and remain affordable, offering the same quality. If you start checking used prices, you won’t see a difference between used computers of both kinds.
Equally Good factors
There are factors in which both systems are sound, and they should be mentioned:
- DAW: With both, you can run any DAW without any problem. All DAWs are also notarized for Mac and have native compatibility with new M-series processors.
- Recording instruments and voices: I find no differences when recording instruments or voices on Windows and Mac. In both systems, you can do it without problems.
- Audio latency: In macOS, there are no latency problems due to the native CoreAudio driver. In Windows, there are also no problems using the ASIO driver that comes with most audio interfaces.
- Security: Although it has little to do with production, it is worth highlighting. You don’t need any antivirus for macOS because it has an integrated security system. A long time ago, Windows Defender was ineffective in Windows, but it has since become so effective that you may not need another antivirus.
Choosing the best DAW can significantly enhance your ability to create, mix, and complete music projects.
Summarizing Mac’s Main Points
- Native integration with audio, without impediments to run multiple audio programs simultaneously.
- Native support for MIDI devices with multiple programs at the same time.
- Compatible with VST/VST3/AU plugins, but with some obstacles in plugins (mostly some free ones) that are not notarized.
- High prices for new products are just launched, but they become cheaper for used products.
Summarizing Windows’ Main Points
- Difficulty running multiple audio programs at the same time with ASIO.
- There is no problem with MIDI devices, but you can’t use the same devices in multiple audio programs simultaneously.
- Complete compatibility with VST/VST3 plugins.
- Competitive pricing in new and used products, as many brands launch computers with Windows.
No operating system is inherently better than another, but each has its pros and cons. I recommend considering these points and thinking about the intended use. In my experience, I have always used Windows as my primary computer, but a few months ago, I switched to a Mac as my main computer, as it is essential for the first two points of my work.
This does not mean it’s the ideal answer for everyone, but it’s essential to analyze the main points and see how useful they are for your work.
