Suggested PC laptop models for computer audio


I am looking for advice directing me towards an inexpensive, simple Windows based laptop - used or new - to which I will add an external solid state hard drive to use as a server for a computer audio front end at home.

I currently use a one year old Dell Latitude at work with a WD external hard drive running iTunes and JRiver Media Center 21, and it sounds remarkably good (although music software programs not ideal companions within enterprise networked office environment:\). Given my current budget and space constraints, the advantage of having the screen, keyboard processor and I/Os all in one chassis, combined with my familiarity with PC systems and software, I would probably not consider a Mac Mini at this time.

Music file procurement, storage, handling and reproduction would be the sole purpose of the laptop. Currently running FLAC, AIFF and mp4 files at resolutions up to 24/96, with capacity to handle higher res files in future. Lots of ripped redbook files. DAC will be Arcam irdac for the time being. No DSD files for now.

Your PC laptop suggestions very much appreciated.

kn
Ag insider logo xs@2xknownothing
Thanks Kijanski, so you are saying that asynchronous USB defeats problems with data input and output using the same serial bus? This makes some sense because in my office system that uses an AQ Dragonfly, the external USB drive sounds at least as good as the internal laptop drive that I assume is SATA.
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From what I understand USB 2 and USB 3 are different systems, so there should be no conflict. I would try it both ways and see if you can hear a difference. The only thing is to make sure which ever one you use for audio, don't put anything else on it. USB 3 is backwards compatible, so you can plug USB 1 and 2 devices into it if you use USB 2 for audio.
Knownothing, Placing different peripherals on the same USB bus affect timinig. Since timing is removed in asynchronous USB scheme it should not make any difference.