Hello,

I am getting a new computer within the next couple of weeks. It will have partitions for both Linux (prob. some form of Ubuntu) as well as Windows Vista. It will be a laptop Dell, I would assume Vostro model, maybe Inspiron.

I am an audiophile who does a radio show at the local university station. I have been recording the show by sending my stereo signal to a USB converter and then to my current computer which records on an XP-supported program (dB power amp music converter). As I said, I am in the market for a new computer as my current computer is an old Dell Inspiron 1100 with a Celeron processor (slower than molasses). I am fairly happy with the recordings right now, as I've heard other, newer computers where the sound is not nearly as good, including one with a Linux setup on a laptop.

My current setup is Sigma Tel C-Major Audio. Again, I intend to buy another Dell, but do tell me if there's something else you might recommend (or should I stay away from the Dells?) I understand that High Definition Audio might be
> better (though it sounds worse on my friend's computer and I'd like to know why, something with the USB ports, perhaps?).

I am looking for any insight, including what to ask for on the Dell, if I may, and what might be causing a supposed better sound setup to sound worse.

David McWade
mcwadedfx@aol.com
'David the dj'