Any seasoned users of Mac's Garageband? (desktop, RAM, hd, keyboard)

[Visvaldis]

I have a desktop G4 (dual processor) and like to play with the Garageband. It's better than watching TV. I use a 25 keyboard midi. It has several buttons and knobs which I don't know how to use, the instructions sounded like mumbo-jumbo, as if the midi is just a small part of a large recording set up.
I bought this Mac used and the Garageband does not have a number, such as Garageband 2. Is there a cheap way I can get the latest version. Is the latest version much different?
Also, I like to add effects to the instruments without putting a huge burden on the memory. Is this only possible starting with Garageband 2?
Recently I discovered that more instruments are available. Adding classical violins, cellos, etc would add to the fun. Anyone know of where I can download these instruments, possibly for free?
I'm interested in any info. Thanks very much.

[Bo]

Originally Posted by Visvaldis

I have a desktop G4 (dual processor) and like to play with the Garageband. It's better than watching TV. I use a 25 keyboard midi. It has several buttons and knobs which I don't know how to use, the instructions sounded like mumbo-jumbo, as if the midi is just a small part of a large recording set up.
I bought this Mac used and the Garageband does not have a number, such as Garageband 2. Is there a cheap way I can get the latest version. Is the latest version much different?

There is no upgrade price for owners of previous versions of iLife. You just have to purchase the new version of the iLife suite. Garageband '08 is the third and newest version.

Also, I like to add effects to the instruments without putting a huge burden on the memory. Is this only possible starting with Garageband 2?
Recently I discovered that more instruments are available. Adding classical violins, cellos, etc would add to the fun. Anyone know of where I can download these instruments, possibly for free?

The instrument sets for Garageband are called Jam Packs, and they're $99 You can purchase them from places where iLife is sold, or directly from Apple at the link below.

Apple - GarageBand - Jam Packs (http://www.apple.com/ilife/garageband/jampacks/ - broken link)

My son has the Symphony Orchestra Jam Pack. It's quite cool.

You really need to have your Mac maxed out on RAM to take full advantage of Garageband. Check out the system requirements if your Mac is more than a year or two old.

[K-Luv]

I have Garage Band, and it is okay. Personally I think that Sound Track is much better and easier to use but good luck finding a copy (if you can, buy it) as it is not offered as a stand alone application anymore and it is now a part of Apple's Final Cut Pro studio suite

Chances are you are using Garage Band 1, which is not so bad and is more or less built for G4's. I would suggest that you max out your RAM and get a newer, faster hd if you do not already have one.