Hey guys. I posted a thread earlier about my brother's old Sony Vaio and nearly gave up on the idea of using it. Tonight I decided to try Ubuntu on it as an OS. Well the damn thing works so far and have downloaded a few apps via its WiFi. The audio and video doesn't seem to have a problem though I haven't migrated any Windows audio/video files yet.

I am tickled pink to finally have the damn thing boot up without any whining about no OS installed. Speaking of whining, I have installed WINE which is an app to be able to use (some) Windows programs on the Linux OS. I haven't dug in very deep but it is apparent that it is not an emulator and that some basic commands must be used to get certain programs to run.

Is anyone familiar with Ubuntu/Linux and willing to give a few tidbits of experience that might not be easily searchable on their website (which is less than aimed at beginners).

I know I won't be able to use many of my main programs on it (like Sonar, Reaper, BIAB, 3D GameStudio, Visual Basic, Word, etc.) but have found versions of Blender, Open Office, text editors, Gimp, etc. available.

As mentioned earlier about the reliability of this unit I would not feel comfortable about using it for gigging but why not use it for something now that it breathes. Any thoughts?

Thanks.

I've been using Ubuntu for years. I like it

I use fedora linux, and love it. I still have music software on Windows, but fedora is my net surfing E-mail, daily use home computer. Open office, and a plethora of great software, and it just flat runs on an older system strong.

I've used Ubuntu for years also.I use it like Robh.

Ubuntu is a good place to start with Linux, and you can customize the O/S as your skills improve to accomplish those specific tasks that characterize your computing habits.
Go with their "long term support" - LTS - versions for maximum productivity. The current LTS version is 10.04

Stay way from Ubuntu Studio for music production - it has not been released with a real-time kernel since version 9.10.
Many Linux audio applications will work just fine on your regular Ubuntu desktop O/S, including JACK, Ardour, Audacity, LMMS, and Hydrogen.

Unlike many forum members, I use only Linux. I have found every computing job can be accomplished with a Linux application - efficiently, and safely. If you want to deploy Windoze-dependent software, there is always a way to run it under Linux... if you are willing to be sufficiently resourceful.

Like the other correspondents, i have been using Linux for years.
I have BIAB working under WINE but had a problem getting MIDI to work. I found the solution at the following link:


http://en.kioskea.net/faq/8266-use-band-in-a-box-under-linux

I used Ubuntu 11.10 for two months or so because I had to, but I will say it was a very good FREE OS complete with a basic office suite that lets you surf the net and create documents to your hearts delight.

If you want to do much more that and don't want to have to tinker just to get Windows programs to run, then Windows is the best way to go.

JMHO. Later,

Thanks for the replies.

Unfortunately I tried to install Ubuntu Studio for the music related apps but it would not install after four attempts. The install process wiped out the original Ubuntu installation and it took four more attempts to get it installed again. I'll stick with adding the apps manually though it is quite a different way of doing things.

That is what I need, another new geek tech to take away from making music :-) .

Keebo,

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That is what I need, another new geek tech to take away from making music :-) .

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If you just want to make music, ... go Windows or Mac.

Linux is for the adventurous geek who likes to tinker and try to make things work. A worthy endeavour, ... unless of course you just want to make music and use your computer!