Upgrade - keep existing C drive or clean OS install?

[noiseboyuk]

My 7820X is getting long in the tooth, and I do seem to get more and more CPU overs these days, so I'm thinking it might be time to upgrade with a new CPU/mobo/memory - prob either the 5950X or 12900K which both offer big improvements without huge TDPs - keen to keep those watts low. Probably the 12900K cos of the single core score which seems to be the biggest deal in Cubase in my experience.

I have about 7 internal hard drives hanging off it, samples and projects everywhere. Tons of VSTs and libraries. The thought of a totally clean slate with an OS install from scratch sends me running to the hills. I know that these days it is possible to swap C drives from rig to rig and Windows pretty much figures it out - back in the day that would have been an instant BSOD. But is that still asking for trouble? Also there's the Windows 11 factor - I've no need to upgrade from 10 at the moment but I understand the new processors do benefit?

What I'd most like to do is upgrade my spare rig with the new hardware and when all is working swap over all the hard drives inc the C drive. Then - if needed - update to win 11. I realise I'll need to deactivate / activate a ton of stuff, but that should be doable. Nevertheless, is this madness?

[T-CM11]

But is that still asking for trouble?

Not a 100% predictable, but more chance of trouble if you go AMD.

I'd go for Win11 (because of that new CPU).

[noiseboyuk]

But is that still asking for trouble?

Not a 100% predictable, but more chance of trouble if you go AMD.

I'd go for Win11 (because of that new CPU).

Thanks very much, that's an invaluable tip.

[Pictus]

May or may work, I would try this
https://www.techtricksworld.com/can-i-u ... indows-10/
Better create a System Image with something like Macrium Reflect before
trying the drive in the new motherboard.

BTW, I recommend some Windows tweaks for lower DPC latency.
viewtopic.php?p=8667750#p8667750

[noiseboyuk]

May or may work, I would try this
https://www.techtricksworld.com/can-i-u ... indows-10/
Better create a System Image with something like Macrium Reflect before
trying the drive in the new motherboard.

BTW, I recommend some Windows tweaks for lower DPC latency.
viewtopic.php?p=8667750#p8667750

Again, invaluable - thanks Pictus.

[Shinizzle]

It's possible however I would fresh install personally. Saves any later headaches but as you mentioned, windows handles it much better as well with 10 & 11.