A starting point
by terrabill from LinuxQuestions.org on (#5GZWT)
Hello,
Before I delve into the expansive treasure trove of info that you have amassed, I wanted to avoid long research just to find out my assumptions were on the wrong track all along. I have read the very helpful introduction topics in newbie, and once I have a starting point I will always explore the forums before asking any more questions.
I have basic needs as I only surf/shop, email, edit and listen to live music stored as FLAC on my USB external drives. No gaming, no streaming movies.
So my goals are these:
Find a non-rolling release distro that is stable, fairly light on resources, popular (for support) and able to use my existing programs either via virtual W7 or otherwise until I research LINUX based replacements. If that describes ALL of the listed distros in the list recommended for newbies that would be ideal.
Basic guidance on pitfalls of choosing a mini-box in the (base price) $200-$400 range and how much memory and processor should support my usage. I'm guessing the low end on resources would suffice.
Guidance finding a USB sound card/DAC that meets my needs listed above. Basically, will they all work with LINUX? It appears that finding/configuring a sound card in LINUX can be a formidable challenge. If I'm not misinterpreting what I have read, USB sound cards can bypass the complications and limitations?
For my needs, would my money be better spent on finding a tiny MAC for use at home?
That's it. Again, once I have a basic understanding of what I need I will explore the forums in-depth myself.
Thank you in advance!
Before I delve into the expansive treasure trove of info that you have amassed, I wanted to avoid long research just to find out my assumptions were on the wrong track all along. I have read the very helpful introduction topics in newbie, and once I have a starting point I will always explore the forums before asking any more questions.
I have basic needs as I only surf/shop, email, edit and listen to live music stored as FLAC on my USB external drives. No gaming, no streaming movies.
So my goals are these:
Find a non-rolling release distro that is stable, fairly light on resources, popular (for support) and able to use my existing programs either via virtual W7 or otherwise until I research LINUX based replacements. If that describes ALL of the listed distros in the list recommended for newbies that would be ideal.
Basic guidance on pitfalls of choosing a mini-box in the (base price) $200-$400 range and how much memory and processor should support my usage. I'm guessing the low end on resources would suffice.
Guidance finding a USB sound card/DAC that meets my needs listed above. Basically, will they all work with LINUX? It appears that finding/configuring a sound card in LINUX can be a formidable challenge. If I'm not misinterpreting what I have read, USB sound cards can bypass the complications and limitations?
For my needs, would my money be better spent on finding a tiny MAC for use at home?
That's it. Again, once I have a basic understanding of what I need I will explore the forums in-depth myself.
Thank you in advance!