Need advice on new computer setup (Win XP -> Win 7)

[JerGoertz]

I've been using XP for around 7 years and never saw a need to upgrade to Vista or 7; however, my computers have starting crapping out (hardware issues) so it's time for a new (or more-recent used) computer.

If I go with Windows 7 32-bit, will I be able to run my 32-bit applications and VST plugins that ran under XP, using XP mode if necessary? Anyone have experience with this kind of migration? Is there a good chance of compatibility issues between old XP plugs and Windows 7? Suppose that my primary host is Cubase (whatever version would make most sense; I could upgrade my current 3 SX and possibly get version 5 to 7).

[Numanoid]

I think there are very few plugs that works in Win XP that will not also work in Win 7.

I think the only one I've come across is Aturia's Storm, but that's more like a DAW than a VST instrument.

[JerGoertz]

Thanks for the reply, Numanoid

So, the main compatibility issue would be 32-bit vs. 64-bit? If I use 32-bit Windows 7, as my XP installations were 32-bit, I should be okay?

[Numanoid]

So, the main compatibility issue would be 32-bit vs. 64-bit? If I use 32-bit Windows 7, as my XP installations were 32-bit, I should be okay?

Think I would go for installing 64 bit Windows 7.

For instance, I'm using FL Studio which is bascially 32 bits, but have no problems running that on 64 bit Win 7 platform.

If you are planning to use the latest version of Cubase, I most def would recommend 64 bit Windows.

If there are problems running 32 bit plugs inside a 64 bit environment, there are utilities like jbridge that can help close that gap.

[ew]

Thanks for the reply, Numanoid

So, the main compatibility issue would be 32-bit vs. 64-bit? If I use 32-bit Windows 7, as my XP installations were 32-bit, I should be okay?

Personally, I see no reason to go 32 bit these days, as almost everything's 64 bit now. And, the number of 32 bit apps will only decline over the next few years. Plus, if you're using a 32 bit host, you can always use that on your x64 machine. And, if you're using a 64 bit host and 32 bit plugins, there's always jBridge...

ew

[Throbert]

You won't be able to run any older stuff on xp that is 16 bit. Other than that you shouldn't have any problems.

[JerGoertz]

Thanks for the advice, folks. Good food for thought.