I would use two different SSDs for OS disks as someone mentioned.
It really help to be able to disconnect one while getting dual boot set up.
I am running 2 Win10s at the moment 1) loaded with everything 2) light version with only stuff I know / use.
I use a cracked EaseUS as well (after years of using paid versions). It's done well for me, too.

 

Definitely get Windows Aero Tweaker and install the context "TAKE OWNERSHIP" script. It will prove invaluable as there are many idiotic areas of win10 that are locked down and cannot be accessed or manipulated without it. Also, Unlocker 1.9.1 (i've used it for years on win7 and now also on win 10) install it to context menu. If you want a firewall (no reason why you'd need one but just in case you do) shit can the ms firewall and grab outpost Pro 9.2. you will need KMS_VL - the PS script to auth win10 that will install local VL service. For disk image backups I use acronis true image for win10 or Backup 12.x will work with 10 as well I believe.

 

Last edited: May 28, 2023

In my experience, MPC Beats is one that needs at least 21H2. Took me some time to figure out why it would install on one pc and not on another... Anyway, that is the only software I use that is not supported by older W10.
I do think that as time goes by more software will behave like this now that W11 is out.

Personally, I would also install the latest version on a new SSD and gut the malware out of it.
I use https://christitus.com/Ultimate-Windows-10-Install-ISO/ for creating the lightest windows, and https://christitus.com/windows-tool/ for keeping it lightweight after security updates.
I have been using it for almost 4 years now, without a glitch! My old i7 is still keeping up really well on that system.

Just my 2 cents, have a nice one!

 

I read that later builds of Windows 10 have problems with DPC Latency which I wanted to avoid.

This is one consideration. How do I know my old gear, soundcards and programs are going to work flawlessly with Windows 10? I know they work flawlessly with my current set up.

I think the main point is that updating the operating system and software is investing a lot of time I could otherwise spend making music. If you like to be PC nerd running Windows scripts and backing up drives etc. that is fine, but it's not my idea of fun.

Especially for someone who favours on older programs/gear.

I also have old sessions, etc. that I need to use and I don't have the time or inclination to port everything across to a new environment.

I don't understand why people are obsessed with updating their favourite programs all the time? Does having the latest plugin version really make your music better?

I've had well over a decade of use out of my current system. A few things I want to try are not compatible on my current system. Once I update to Windows 10, I'm not expecting to upgrade it again for a very long time.

 

Folks just do not seem to understand that win update, A/v, win defender, internet connections, ms firewalls, ms store, cortana, cell phone interfacing and syncing, etc, etc, ad nauseam do not belong as part of media production system. If one gets rid of the internet connection the need for ANY of that OEM garbage is eliminated (and quite frankly never wanted in the first place)...