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Also, Macs have historically been MUCH more expensive for the same level of performance compared to a Windows/PC. That gap has narrowed significantly since Apple started using Intel CPUs about a year or so ago. Now there is a much smaller difference in cost for the same level of performance. The latest Macs will also boot up Windows XP so you can boot to either operating system. I don't think there will ever come a time when a Dell will be able to boot up Apple's OS X, but Apple ships the software to enable you to run Windows XP with all of their computers (You still have to buy a licensed copy of Windows XP though).

iMacs start at about $1200 for a ready-to-run system for Logic, Protools, Digital Performer, Cubase, or Traction. In fact, all Macs come with Garageband which is capable of quite a bit without buying any other software. Buy an external audio interface (firewire or usb) and you're ready to roll. You would still want to buy a separate drive (firewire is best) for your audio files, but you'd do that with a Windows PC, too.

I just priced out comparable systems (biggest difference is the HD in the Mac is bigger - there was no 320GB drive available from Dell). These two systems are capable of very professional results with the right tools and skill set:

iMac 2.4Ghz Core2 duo w/2GB RAM; 20" monitor; dvd/cd combo drive. 320GB HD; 256MB Video; Wireless LAN adapter, 1-year warranty - $1550.

Dell - 2.4Ghz Core2 duo w/2GB RAM; 20" monitor; dvd/cd combo drive. 250GB HD; 256MB Video; Wireless LAN adapter, 3-year warranty - $1301.

Dell gave me a $330 discount on their web site for some reason. I'm not sure if that will always apply. Without the discount, the Dell price was $1639. You can add a 3-yr warranty from Apple for $169.

You will probably want to purchase anti-virus software for the PC ($70). You really don't need it for the Mac.

An external Firewire hard disk will add $200 or so to the cost of either system and a decent audio interface will add another $150 or more.

So although the Mac is still a bit pricier, it's not nearly the difference it was just a year or so ago and you have one company making all the parts so there are likely be fewer compatibility issues, and all Macs can now dual boot to XP or OS X.

That ease of use factor may be worth the extra $200+ difference for a lot of people. It doesn't take very many hours of my time to equal that amount of money in saved time over the course of owning the computer.

But different strokes for different folks. If you're happy with what you have, then continue making music! That's the main thing.