Between DJing, producing, and my business, I've come to the conclusion that a laptop is quickly becoming something I need rather than something I'd like to have.  It just makes sense for my business, and for music it makes sense for reasons you all know.  When I do get one, I'm planning on also getting Numark TC and switching my entire setup over to software based, so the laptop will be the heart of my gig rig.

Most people I talk to tell me if I'm going to buy a laptop, I should go with a Mac (even the Wal-Mart sales guy told me that when I asked him about the ones they sell).  But, I've also seen a few references to Dell's on TF.  Having never had a laptop of my own, I have no idea what the 2nd best (assuming Macs are the best) choice is.  So, what do you all who have actually used them in a gig environment recommend?

I have the newest version of the macbook pro. Its amazing, i run both vista and leopard. There are some plugins that don't work with an apple system so. But its amazing, fast, and a sexy machine. 2 gig ram and 4.4 ghz cpu. I would def recommend.     

I know we could get into a debate but every dell i have had(which is two by the way) has failed or had something break without my doing. My sisters laptop broke as well(Dell) and my dad's laptop just failed(Dell) I'm not saying they are horrible machines I'm just saying they seem to not want to work. I know dell have the longest battery life but to me that really doesn't matter 

Hahaha, basically, all computers are prone to breaking. I've had some Toshiba Tecra's that worked for years, freaking Clydesdale's they were. But then we had a whole batch of newer Tecra's that were terrible.

And you've got to remember one thing, regarding quality. Apple decides what you need, and puts in (generally) high quality parts. Dell and others "let you decide" what you need, and thus run the risk of choosing an Inspiron full of crap. It's the illusion of choice, for the most part, because any sane person who'd done the research has to choose quality components. But at the end of the day, I find Dell's price point is still better, and their warranties are excellent. That's another point to remember, as Latitudes come standard with 3 year warranties.

Again, decide what you need, and see who offers it for the best value.

I've got a Macbook right now, seems to be Ok, super fast...the pros are even nicer.  Every company has there issues I guess.  I had a bad battery in mine, and they replaced it for free. 

2x

xp 

with Traktor?