windows XP 32 or 64 bit?

[kaiya]

Hi Slutz!!!

I'm finishing setting up my first DAW,...got the computer built, picked out windows xp32 as the OS thinking it would have a wider range compatibility with DAC's and recording software, but now i'm thinking maybe i made a big mistake and should have gotten the XP 64 bit,...

any advice on what the difference is between the 32-bit or 64-bit? Does it affect recording quality? or number of possible tracks, amount of ram usage?(the mobo has up to 8gigs of ram)

SO,.....should i switch to windows XP 64?

here's the specs
asus p5e mobo
q6600
2X2gigs ram ddr2 1000
2 --500 gig HD's
1--80gig HD for the OS
event asp8's
motu 8pre
cubase 4 or sonar 7

thanks for the input !!!

[MotifCity.Com]

Hi. You'll only get XP to see about 3GB of RAM max. That is 32 bit limitation. You will need 64 bit to max out your RAM.

As for which is better, in theory 64 bit is supposedly better for video and audio apps. I have seen bench tests and 64 wins when the app is optimized to take advantage. But therein lies the problem... native 64 bit apps are not common.. yet.

Personally I'm waiting to upgrade for another year or two. My 32 bit version of Vista SCREAMS. Have not been happier with a Windows operating system. Granted you have to tweak it a bit to get it where you want it, but once it's there , smooth sailing. All my plugins work with Vista and I'm certain it is more efficient and faster than XP I was running previously.

best of luck