Apple-brand or PC, it's a personal preference that simply depends on which operating system you prefer, whether your desired peripherals are compatible, and software choices. Hardware quality is no difference.
Bob,
Fitting the computer to the person and task is a talent! w/o overkill or underkill on the product or budget.
What do you consider to be a solid, basic choice in a desktop computer? My current projects are:
-writing a book, 200-300pp. in length with many images, audio and video clips.
-digitize a sizable library of analog tapes--make CDs and DVDs
-sound recording with limited editing. This is the one area where I think that laptop could win--the ability to take it to rehearsals and concerts. OTOH there are other personal recording devices for a lot less money.
I can't even pretend to keep track of the changing computer product lines. New stuff is released every single month, prices shift daily, and each model has an infinite number of possible configurations.
I build my own computers anyway and use standardized, high quality, easily-replaceable/interchangeable components. So I can't even begin to recommend a particular model for your specific needs. I can, however, give you some ideas of what to look for given your stated tasks.
Video - you didn't mention gaming, but plan some video editing. Look for a good-quality graphic card with appropriate connectors on the rear: S-video for example. Maybe even a card that offers video-in. But you
won't need a high-dollar gaming card.
Sound - seems like you're big into this. I suggest a very good set of a speakers and a real sound card (not 'onboard' or 'integrated') that offers the various jacks you'll utilize (midi, optical, whatever). Might even consider a more expensive sound card with a front panel so the jacks and controls are easily accessible.
Hard drive - video editing, photo editing, storage of you converted files... Sounds like you need a larger than average hard drive. And for your book in progress, I suggest a second hard drive dedicated to daily backups. Perhaps even configure two hard drives as mirrored RAID for continuous backup of the entire system. With hard drives priced at $40-$80, it's a very cheap insurance policy.
CD/DVD-RW drive. Useful for backups, mailings, making your converted audio files playable on other sources.
Multi-card reader. Darn near everything nowadays (cameras, GPS, PDA...) uses some sort of miniature memory cards. Having a card reader built into the computer is very convenient.
Plenty of USB plugs, like at least 8. Printer, scanner, calculator, GPS, PDA, DSL modem, flash drives... it seems like everything in my house connects to the computer via a USB cable, even my calculators!
Adding other quality components (metal case with plenty of space, power supply, monitor, memory, etc) will put a home build machine head-and-shoulders above almost any computer available at retail outlets.
Sorry I couldn't be more specific, to just say "Buy this computer model X," but I think it's good info that you can apply to whatever route you choose. Stuff to think about...
and found that they were too narrow. My current keyboard is 20" across at the bottom and 23" across at the top and I can make it even wider. For me it makes a huge difference to have that width. Here's the link if you would be interested: 