Hello, I've read the recommendations for a machine to run Sonar but I'd like to ask the users what I should concentrate on.
I work abroad so I will need to get a new notebook for Sonar and this looks as though it will be far more expensive than the software itself, therefore, I'd like to know what is essential, so I can trim the cost.
Is an i7 4nnn better for it than a 5500U? The newer processor looks to be far slower judging by benchmarks.
Does Sonar need lots of memory? 8gb or 16gb?
I'm currently looking at a Windows 7 Pro 64 bit machine with 16gb Ram and a 1Tb Hdd running at 5400 rpm.
Do you think that is sufficient for Sonar, too much, not enough?
Many thanks for your advice.

upgrade the 5400 rpm to a SSD or a 7200 rpm HD then it's a fine machine.
 
I would recommend multiple hard drives the rule of 3 is best:  os, projects, samples - if you can swing it.
 
it all depends on what your trying to push in Sonar with the laptop.
 
if it's just a basic recording laptop for you singing scratch songs with a guitar then lower the ram and CPU specs a little.
 
if your trying to run 64 audio tracks with all VST effects running and lots of Kontakt samples playing then your gunna need lots of power.
 
regardless of what you get I highly recommend that you get one of those laptop fan extendors.  adds USB ports and cooling fans for the laptop to sit on.
 
your laptop will get hot running lots of HD audio all the time, keep it cool.