Multiple computer set up with Dorico & Vienna Ensemble Pro 7

Dorico
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Hi,
This post is addressed to those that use more than one computer at a time and also use Vienna Ensemble Pro with Dorico Pro.
I just added another computer to my set up.
I have a

  • 2020 iMac 27" w/10 core i9, 64 GB of ram & Mac OS Sonoma 14.7.6
  • 2023 MacBook Pro w/M3 Max, 48 GB & Mac OS Sonoma 14.7.6

Reason for this is that my iMac hasn’t been able to handle all the work both programs are doing. It’s been slowing down, sometimes freezing programs or even quitting. This initially tells me I’m starting to push the iMac too hard.

So I’d like to know from those that are using a similar set up, how would I go about choosing which computer to use for each program and to store all VST’s.
I know that VE Pro 7 will connect with other computers via ethernet cable, which brings me to the next question:
Do I just use an ethernet cable connected to each computer?, or will I need something else to set this up?
Any knowledge, suggestions, etc. are welcome.
I appreciate your time and consideration.
Thank you in advance.

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My setup:
MacBook Pro 2019/i9/32G RAM/SSD → Dorico
Windows 11/i9/128G RAM/SSD (3TB RAID5) → VEP 7
4-port Gb switch

I have 95% of my libraries on the windows box set up in 6 VEP instances:

  1. Woodwinds
  2. Brass
  3. Percussion
  4. Chordophones (harp, piano, glock, celesta etc.)
  5. Choir (double)
  6. Strings (doubled for divisi)

Note: each instance is 1 stereo pair back to Dorico. I do all mixing in VEP.

I’m currently using MIR Pro as well. The entire setup uses around 90GB RAM and when a full orchestra is in use, around 50-60% CPU capacity – so it gets its exercise, for sure.

Dorico by itself is pretty light-weight so you can put it on the weaker box. The VEP box is really where all the action takes place and therefore should be up to the task. I’ve heard that VEP 7 can function over WiFi, but I’ve had no luck with it, hence the 4-port switch.

If you need more details, just ask.

1 Like
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Thank you derAbgang. This is very helpful.
Do you think that it’s better to have the most ram (64) for the VEPro 7 or the faster cpu (M3 Max)?