Great advice above from Mario.

I can't comment on AMD; haven't used it in decades, dating back to when there were software compatibility issues (which I think is not the case now).

I have built all my PCs since 1983. You can see what I'm using in my signature below.

If I recall correctly, an i3 with a slightly faster processing speed may still be slower than an i5 with a slower processing speed. The number of cores, whether they are real or virtual, and the amount of cache memory are a few considerations, especially if the software is written to take advantage of them. Same for moving from an i5 to an i7. In other words, there is more to the architecture than just processing speed. As I understand it, having an i7 that runs slower than an i3 or i5 is actually good, as it may draw less electricity and thus generate less heat. However, this is all relative and not of a great deal of consequence in today's PCs. My laptop is an i5 and I'm very happy with it.

There are two main things that determine speed using BIAB:

The first is the choice of disk drive, to load the program and then to load RealTracks. I have the program on an SSD, and the RealTracks and RealDrums on a fast (10,000 rpm) hard drive by themselves. About loading the program, PG Music recently (this spring) sped up the loading time dramatically, so this no longer matters: we're talking only a few seconds difference now. It does make a difference loading the RealTracks.

The second is the choice of processor. This determines the speed of regenerating the RealTracks. The faster the processor, the less wait you will have regenerating a song. This probably makes more difference in using BIAB than anything else, if you change your song often. I'm a composer and I'm always regenerating, so I have a fast i7.

To put all this another way, things of less consequence for BIAB are RAM and graphics. The exception for RAM would be, as Mario said, if you like to use a lot of software synths or effects. But I tend not to use any of that in BIAB, and do my processing in my DAW (SONAR).

If you really want to consult an expert who builds custom PCs for musicians, then contact Jim Roseberry. He can be found on the SONAR forum. You can have him build you a PC and load all your software (and stand behind the purchase), or just hire him to give you specs of components he knows work well together (and there are plenty that do not).


BIAB 2026 Win Audiophile. Software: Fender Studio One 8, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6, Song Master Pro, Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Presonus Quantom HD8 & Faderport 8, Royer 121, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors.