The #1 thing I'd look for in a laptop is reliability. The laptop must work, problem-free, while you are calling. You don't want to have to worry about it. You don't want the laptop to experience problems such as stuck keys, an errant mousepad, memory glitches, etc. As such, I recommend sticking to well-known brands. I have had two Dell laptops. The first was fine, so when it was time to retire it, I bought another Dell. This second Dell had problems. I now have a Sony Vaio, which seems to be more reliable than the Dell.

If you plan on creating your own MP3s from your record collection, you will need music editing software. I currently use Adobe Audition. It's pricey, but it's loaded with features. Other music editors may be found on our Digital Music page.

CSDS takes care of playing the music, keeping the selections organized, looping for patter music, etc.

The CSDS music player allows you to play, rewind, fade out, count beats per minute, change the tempo, etc.

A description of the music player can be found at http://www.ceder.net/csds/help/csds_frmmusicplayer.html