Transitioning

Typically, I prefer consistency and tend to shy away from change. However, when I feel restless and recognize the need for a shake-up, I pursue it relentlessly.

About a year ago, I began to gravitate toward deeper involvement in content creation. After six years of hosting three live radio shows weekly, it was clear that the format had run its course and wasn't sustainable for my future.

I evaluated my commitment to radio, dedicating over 30 hours weekly without any financial return. Despite my passion for the medium, the time investment was becoming increasingly illogical. Like many others, I had to rethink my career path post-COVID.

M1 Max Chip to the Rescue!

During lockdown, I immersed myself in YouTube content, contemplating whether my skills could be more effectively utilized in that realm. Once I committed to this new direction, I swiftly began upgrading my studio hardware.

My studio was primarily set up for audio during my radio days, featuring a 2019 Intel 15-inch MacBook Pro as my main machine. While I produced podcasts and broadcasted, the audio demands were manageable. However, video work, especially when shooting in 10-bit log V3, overwhelmed my Intel Mac, resulting in a slow and frustrating experience.

With the introduction of Apple Silicon, I upgraded to a new MacBook Pro, which has significantly transformed my workflow.

A Bold Investment

This was a substantial investment for me, costing over £4000, so I had to ensure it was a sound decision for the foreseeable future.

I wanted flexibility, so while the Mac Studio is impressive, it wasn't for me. Working from various locations appealed to me, which led me to the 16-inch M1 MacBook range.

Initially, I considered the M1 Pro chip, but the lingering uncertainty about its capability prompted me to opt for the M1 Max, featuring a 10-core CPU, 32-core GPU, and 32GB of Unified Memory. I had initially planned for 2TB of storage but ended up with 4TB due to availability issues.

Not Just About Specs

You’ve likely seen the benchmarks for the M1 series, and I can confirm they are accurate. The M1 Max is a creator's dream, offering unmatched power and flexibility.

My MacBook primarily connects to a Studio Display via Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, but its true capabilities shine when unplugged. The battery life is exceptional, allowing for intensive work without needing to recharge frequently.

I’ve set up my studio to be always ready for use, with microphones and cameras in place. My audio setup includes presets saved in Adobe Audition, enabling me to edit video or podcasts from anywhere.

The six-speaker system on the MacBook is impressive enough for casual listening, but as an audio enthusiast, I prefer using my trusted Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X headphones for precision.

The Perfect Pairing

With the M1 Max in my bag and my headphones, I can edit and work from any location. The ample storage allows me to work directly from the MacBook's SSD, making external storage unnecessary for most projects.

This investment has genuinely transformed my creative process. The cost was substantial, but the freedom and performance it offers have proven to be invaluable.

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Originally published on June 22, 2022: https://talkingtechandaudio.com