Zoom-in Online

This blog was contributed by Adam Brawerman, Zoom In Online's music channel assistant.

The release of Windows Vista was surrounded by controversy among musicians. Many were apprehensive to make the switch from XP because their software and hardware lacked the proper drivers to run on Vista.  Performance tests showing XP to run more efficiently added more fuel to the fire, resulting in many sticking with the older platform.  However, with Microsoft pulling XP off the market on June 30th, 2008, you more than likely have to "upgrade" sooner than later.  Many computers, including my own, came with Vista already installed.  So, unless you would like run a dual system, the choice may have already been made for you.

Fortunately, there are some precautions you can take that will ensure the quality of your work will not be compromised.  In November 2008, Martin Walker of Sound on Sound magazine wrote a fantastic article called "Alter Vista," which includes a checklist of tweaks that will free up some valuable CPU and help stave the dreaded cracks and pops of an inefficient computer.  Here are some of the tips that I found to be very useful:

Recordist, not environmentalist

Problem:  Windows Power Schemes attempt to increase battery life and lower your electric bill.  However, side effects may include drop-outs due to your CPU changing speeds, and the powering down of your other components.

Solution:  Launch the Power Options applet in Control Panel and click the radio button labeled 'High performance.'  This will keep your CPU running at 100 percent at all times.  If you are using a laptop, be sure to keep an eye on your your core temperature, as permanently running at 100 can lead to overheating.  To monitor your cooling system, use a utility like OOCCT.  As for being environmentally conscious- shut down your computer and turn off your monitor whenever you are not using them.

Processing Problems 

Problem:  Having your Processor Scheduling set at 'Programs' can lead to lower performance of your ASIO drivers at low-latency.

Solution:  Change your Processor Scheduling to 'Background Services.'  This step has been proven to reduce CPU overheads and cure random audio crackles on many systems and is even recommended by manufacturers such as Steinberg, however, make sure it works for you.  On some systems changing this setting can have an adverse effect.  So make the switch, and if you start to experience drop-outs, go back to your original settings.

YOU'VE GOT MAIL!

Problem:  Audio notifications and other routine sounds can interrupt a recording session.  Even if the sound does not come through your playback system, the event could interrupt your audio stream.  Unless you want all your listeners to know you received an email, you may want to mute this option.

Solution:  Launch the Sounds applet from Control Panel and select its 'No Sounds' option.  You shouldn't have other programs running in the background anyways, but the situation still may arise.

Lose the Safety Net

Problem:  Although System Restore can be useful in turning back the clock when things go awry, the overhead it eats up can be taxing.  

Solution:  Select System in your Control Panel, then click on System Protection in the left-hand Tasks Pane.  Deselect all the boxes in the Available Disks area and click on OK.  It is always a good idea to back up your work onto an external hard drive, regardless.  You can also make a backup disc of your own at any time, and if you regularly run a third-party imaging utility such as Acronis True Image or Norton Ghost you don't need the extra protection anyways.

Defrag Can Be a Drag 

Problem:  Running a Deframentation of your hard drive from time to time is a good idea.  It is not a good idea to do this while you are recording or editing.  By default, Vista automatically runs this program once a week at 1am on Wednesdays.  If you are inclined to burn the midnight oil when working on a project with a pending deadline, it would be wise to change this setting.

Solution:  The quickest way to access the Vista Disk Defragmenter is to enter 'defrag' into the Search box on the Start menu and press return.  It can also be found under 'Accessories' in your program list.  Deselect the box labeled 'Run on a schedule' and click OK.  Instead run the program manually when you see fit, such as before you go to sleep.

Startup Spam

Problem:  Many hardware manufacturers and software developers install utilities that run each time you boot your PC, and remain running in the background.  This can certainly affect your audio performance negatively.

Solution:  Disable these programs in the lower right corner of your PC.  If you then find they are not missed, permanently remove them from your startup process.  To do this, click on 'Performance Information and Tools' in your Control Panel and select 'Manage Startup' in the left pane.

Personally, I have noticed a difference in performance by taking these steps.  Let me know how they work out for you.  Christopher Rios of our marketing department also recommends you check out TuneUp Utilities for further customization of your PC.  If you have any other tips to share, we would love to hear them.