Setting Up My Home Studio

Hello Everyone!

Just had a few question in regards to setting up my new studio. I am currently working on PC with Windows 10 x64 and Cubase 8.5.

Computer Hardware
-MSI z97a gaming 7 Motherboard
-i7 4790K @ 4GHz
-32gb GSkill DDR3 1600 MHz
-2 250gb Samsung Evo SSD’s
-1 WD CB 500gb 7200 Rpm Sata 6 32mb cache
-EVGA GTX 970 FTW edition

My first question would be what drive’s to prioritize for music production and what is the best way to install Cubase for best performance?

Second question is how to maximize performance for Windows 10 for music production. Is anyone else using Windows 10 x64 and Cubase 8.5? How are your results? (i guess thats 3 questions in one? :wink: )

Third is what sample rates/buffer are the standard for mixing and recording these days? I am currently using the UR44 for monitoring and recording audio along with Yamaha H8’s.

Would loves some feedback or suggestions. Thank you!

-Salty