Best Computer for the job?

Mac

I think the first question is what software are you planning on using.

That will dictate your computing requirements.

I was thinking I would use the software that goes with the better computer for the job.

I'd be using an 8-16 channel recorder device hooked up to the computer.

I've heard that Macs are the way to go, and from my experience in design w/ photoshop/illustrator etc. and the way they run, I wouldn't doubt they're the best bet.

The proper way to select a computer in any buying scenario is to :

First decide how it will be used, what specifically you wish to accomplish.

Second, find the software package or packages that will best allow you to accomplish the task for which you are purchasing the computer.

Then, buy the computer to run the software.

The Mac has been long, and widely considered to be the better multimedia platform (at least among machines currently available) however, with few exceptions, software availability for the PC leads the Mac by at least 6 months (that's one reason why so many companies use the PC - "time to market" can have significant impact on the "bottom line".