Suggestion on new laptop

[EssKayKay]

I have an older HP Pavilion laptop (Win 8.1, i5, 12GB RAM, 500GB SSD, 4 USB-2 ports). I use this primarily as a small audio/sound system (can’t really call it a studio) where I record simple music, electronic drums, Spotify, etc. For the most part when functioning properly it does everything I need. However, I have been experiencing some intermittent problems (USB conflict, WiFi issues, etc.). Therefore I’m considering purchase of a new laptop.

My biggest question is having access to enough USB ports. I currently am using six including two audio interface devices, two webcams, MiDi access cable, external WiFi adapter, one 4-port USB-2 extension unit, plus a couple small audio mixers. I believe many of the newer laptops no longer offer multiple USB ports, nor headphone/mic jack, or even power input; the idea being all shall be addressed by connecting through a USB-C port extension device.

Since I am a PC guy and quite limited in my workspace area, I want a smaller laptop (probably 13-inch or small 15-inch) Windows machine (Win10 would be fine). Budget $800± (I would be open to a used machine). My primary question is will any of these machines allow me to run all my peripherals via some type of enhanced USB-C port extender?

Any suggestion as to laptop(s) or more particularly what USB extension device(s) would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Steve K.

 

[Lafong]

Do you have specific reasons to think some of your current hardware is defective...rather than software issues?

Is there some reason you have not put Windows 10 on the current hardware?

Nothing wrong with upgrading just to relieve the itch, but I'm wondering if it is necessary?

 

[EssKayKay]

Thank you Lafong for your quick response and concern.

I do have other newer laptops (Dell XPS13, i7, 8GB, 500GB SSD, only two USB ports). I did install all software etc. on this machine and did not have the problem. However, getting all my devices to run concurrently is a bit of a challenge.

I did install Win10 on the HP but that actually seemed to cause more problems (I don’t remember exactly what as it was quite a while ago). So, I reinstalled Win8 (which was also a real pain).

I replaced the internal WiFi/BT adapter in the HP twice. It worked each time for a while (maybe a few weeks) then stopped providing an internet connection (it did however still connect to my local network). So I now just use an external USB WiFi dongle which works fine.

With all this futzing around I just thought maybe it’s time to bite the bullet and move on to something newer. Maybe I'll first try another Win10 install as like most of us, I have more time than money.