32GB is the minimum for serious sample libraries.

Yes. If you’re working with large sample libraries (orchestral, cinematic, multi-mic positions), 32GB is where you start. 16GB will work for small projects, but you’ll hit the ceiling fast when you load a few Kontakt instruments or a big Spitfire patch.

Sample libraries work by loading audio into RAM for instant playback. The bigger the library, the more memory it eats. A single orchestral patch with multiple mic positions can chew 2-4GB. Stack a few of those, plus your DAW, plugins, and system overhead, and 16GB becomes a bottleneck. You’ll get dropouts, long load times, and the dreaded “system overload” message.

If you’re only using one or two virtual instruments at a time, 16GB might get you by. But for serious production—scoring, complex arrangements, or just not wanting to micromanage memory—32GB is worth it. Future you will thank you when you don’t have to purge every other track.