I want to build a PC for music production, so I need a very good PC. With all of the plug-ins (programs) I use at the same time I need the PC to be able to handle it and run smoothly.

I don't have a set budget.

Basically I'm confused about things like the motherboard, processor, and things like that. Since everything has to be compatible it's very hard for someone who doesn't fully understand these things to pick whats best.

So can anyone tell me what they feel is the best Intel processor and the best motherboard that is compatible with it? I don't like asking what other people feel is best but it's just not possible for me to decide on my own. I've done a lot of research and it's still very overwhelming trying to decide what to get and making sure it's all compatible.

Hi and welcome

I know parts, but I'm not sure on your programs. Want to help me out by listing all the programs you'll be running at the same time? That way I can get some idea of what kind of build you're after.

Also what do you need for this machine? Are you simply chasing the box, or do you want the full setup - mouse, keyboard, monitor, speakers, etc...?

Troy

Well for now I use Cool Edit Pro (kind of old but it gets the job done) for recording, but I'll possibly be getting Cubase or Pro Tools in the future... anyway, when you run plug-ins within these programs, they are just like programs themselves, and they all end up running at one. Since they are plug-ins that work within the programs I'm not sure if you would be familiar with them because they aren't necessarily programs that work on their own...

I'm just looking to get help on building the actual machine. I need to be able to hook up midi as well.

Do you already have a sound card from your old computer? If so, then which one?
I suggest:
Motherboard (Socket 1156): http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx...N82E16813131404
Processor: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx...5-214-_-Product
RAM: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx...N82E16820145264 (You can get cheaper RAM, but Dominators have really good performance)
HDD: A WD Caviar Black or Velociraptor... if you really want speed then a SSD
DVD Drive: Anything is fine if it has good reviews
Graphics Card depends on what apps you run that use a GPU extensively (like gaming or or 3D modeling)
Sound Card: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx...N82E16829132001 (it comes with a PCI expansion "thing" that plugs into the MIDI header on the sound card... look at the pics to see what I am talking about)
Case: Antec 300, 900 or CM HAF 922 or RC-690.