How many plugins can I my computer run togheter?

[Dakoom]

For example, my pc:

Intel(R)
Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz
2.81GHz, 1,5 GB RAM

.. with two guitar rig, one reverb and nothing else, is at 100% of CPU. Now, I'm asking.. how can I have more plugins? Should I add RAM? Right now, I could buy 2 more GBs of RAM. Will I solve this problem, being able to add more plugins?

[richiebee]

Depending on the nature of the plugin, some take lots of RAM, some take lots of processing power, some take both (and your firstborn!).

Guitar Rig is edging towards the latter category, so if your kids are running around your feet, time to put them to bed.

Reverbs, if they're decent, also tend to be in the last category.

Time for a new computer. i7, loads of RAM and a 64bit OS. Or you could freeze the channels and unload the plugs you're using so you can use more.

Guitar Rig is your biggest culprit I'm sure. Freezing or otherwise printing guitar rig to the tracks its attached to will get you a decent amount of overhead back. Keep a backup of the un-effected audio in case you need to change your mind on what you used.

[Metaltyme]

Hey Dakoom,

Another way that could save a little RAM if the two instances of Guitar Rig are running the same preset, or patch, is to load only one instance of Guitar Rig to a track folder. Basically, if you have two different guitar tracks that are meant to have the same patch from Guitar Rig, group those two guitar tracks into one track folder...then, just apply the one instant of Guitar Rig to the track folder, which automatically applies the effect to however many guitar tracks you have contained within that folder (I hope that makes a little since). I know in Sonar 8, you can do this. In your DAW software's help manual, there should be something called "track folders," or the like, if that capability exists in your DAW software...just a thought...

Also, as a general rule, the more RAM you can get, the more your computer can handle at once.

Good luck to you...

[Dakoom]

Thank you for your advice!

[brandondrury]

Depending on the nature of the plugin, some take lots of RAM

I've yet to find a plugin that used a significant amount of RAM. (I'm not counting VST instruments).

The best solution is to upgrade to a Quad core. I was in your same boat about a month ago. I put together a cheapo system with a Quad Core processor for $400. I loaded up 10 instances of Guitar Rig and then got bored. It still had power to spare. On a real mix I can be completely about what plugins I use. The same when I'm MIDI sequencing.

Brandon

[Dakoom]

I will consider your advice. Thank you, Brandon.

[richiebee]

Originally Posted by brandondrury

I've yet to find a plugin that used a significant amount of RAM. (I'm not counting VST instruments).

But VI's are plugins!

[jagcmos]

Your P4 processor uses a socket 478 connector and the best you can do is get a slightly faster one, but that will gain you little.

The ram you are using is the older ddr and costs more than the latest ddr2 and ddr3.

I would take their advice and freeze tracks until you can get the cash for a newer system.