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Looking for laptop Windows 10 for music only.

Morning.  Been looking through the PC section here and don't see many recent Windows PC threads.
I would like to get a new laptop PC (only) for my music.  I am currently using a Samsung Series 9 with Windows 10, updated from Windows 7.  JRiver 21 as  listening source.  My wants are specifically: Must be PC, Windows 10, backlit keyboard, HD space not that important as I use a external 2TB hard drive for storage.  It will be used only for music but this does include Tidal, Radio Paradise, etc.  The Samsung works great but I would like to keep the music system separate for convenience.
By doing a little online research it looks like almost anything will do.  I am no computer wiz kid, so simple things for my simple mind would be great.
So my questions are: 
Is there a preference for a laptop?  Or anything OK?
Processor speed;  Is Intel I7 necessary, AMD ok...?
Memory size?
How about Windows versions.  Home Edition, Pro, etc?
If anyone can advise  proper Windows 10 settings or point out a source/thread that would be cool.
Does Windows allow a user to turn off all the fluff running in the back round, or does that matter any more?

System;  USB out to Benchmark DAC2 HGC, Krell KCT Pre, Krell FPB300cx amp.  Using JRiver 21, music ripped using Apple lossless.

I can't thank you all enough for all the great information I've read and received here over the years.
-John





jsd52756
erik_squires
5,268 posts
 
Does it have to be a laptop? I use a DIY 2TB 16 GB micro tower which cost $650.

I do use Xubuntu with Logitech Media Server though, so didn’t even pay for Windows. Eat that Microsoft! Hahah. :)

I could add a mega-graphics card if I wanted serious gaming too. :) I don't , but I could. :)

Best,


Erik
jsd52756's avatar
jsd52756 OP
345 posts
 
I really like a laptop for ease.  They are so powerful now & I can move it any place with such ease.  I even want a very small screen size.  I dig my Samsung series 9 just for that reason.  Perhaps another one is in order.  It has an SSD hard drive, it is super thin, light and reliable as a rock. Maybe I can get my IT guy at work to strip the fluff programs off it so i can run JRiver and listen to Radio Paradise & Tidal without any back round junk running.
-John
gdnrbob
2,421 posts
 
John, I have to say those laptops Almarg recommended can not only be configured to your needs, but are a very good deal, IMHO.
 I spec out one with 16gb memory, a 1TB hybrid drive and 128gb M2 (C drive for under $1K
http://www.eluktronics.com/w650rz1
They also seem like they wouldn't have the usual bloatware that major laptop manufacturers would add, but don't quote me...
almarg's avatar
almarg
8,673 posts
 
They also seem like they wouldn't have the usual bloatware that major laptop manufacturers would add, but don't quote me...
Yes, that's true, Bob.  The only software they install on Eluktronics branded laptops is Windows and necessary drivers.

Also, until the end of November they are offering a promo code discount on configurations pricing out at $1K or greater.

BTW, M.2 SSDs are amazing!  I have a 256 gB "Eluktro Pro-X Performance M.2 PCIe SSD" (which is actually a Samsung) in my Pro15RE, for which HD Tune measures read speeds of around 1150 MB/second.  That's not a typo!

Best regards,
-- Al
 

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