[HelloNateR]

Any reccomendations?

I'm debating between picking up the pricey 17" MBP with a high def display OR a less expensive 15" MBP for $400 less, and then spending that on an external LCD.

I do mostly audio production (Pro Tools) and digital media design (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, etc.).

I probably do 60-70% of my work at home, so I was leaning towards the 15" + external LCD option so I could have "dual monitors" set up at home, but I've heard the 15" doesn't perform as well as the 17" for some reason, despite having the same specs otherwise.

[mduell]

I'd go with the 15" MBP + 24" LCD; more space where you are at home, and more portable when you're not at home. Performance for the 15" should be the same as the 17".

It's too bad Apple is still crippling the display resolution options. C'mon guys, Dell/Sony has been offering 15" HD since 2003.

[OreoCookie]

Since you can get 20 or 22" screens for very little (much cheaper than 24" displays), I don't see why you shouldn't get an external display in either case (perhaps a little later). If you need a mobile setup (e. g. you work in someone else's studio every once in a while), the 17" has a clear advantage, screen-wise at least.

[thefourthtenor]

I've used both a 17inch Hi-Res and a 15-inch with a 23inch apple display. I like the 15inch w/23inch much more because of the reasons that mduell put up.

The 17hi-res is great... but there are screen discrepancies and well ultimately, it becomes such a bother. I often rolled my eyes while taking it out of my bag... because of how ridiculously heavy it was.

G'luck on making your decision.

[PhotoBug]

i Am going with the 15" + 23"

[MacHeadChef]

Go with the 17" Macbook Pro High Def. a very nice notebook.