My 2010 SL mbp 13" 2.4gHz c2d is out of warranty and once mavericks hits I think I'll upgrade.
Quick check says benchmark performance doubled, but what does that mean in practice?
How much more CPU breathing room might I get? I basically use my computer as a sound module- 1 synth and some effects then record into my hardware sampler.
Aalto, few instances of Valhalla plugs, Space Designer and chipcrusher + numerology MIDI automation works, but peg my CPU - not a problem per say - except I'd like to cut down on the fan and heat. Especially the heat, as if makes it hard to use as a literal laptop! :)
I went from a 2007 MBP 15", 2.2c2D to a MBA (previous model). It is significantly faster. I didn't even mean to use it as a music rig, but it has replaced my MBP entirely until I get a Mini i7.
Especially when you're using it as a soundmodule, I don't think there's a synth that you can't run with it. If it works on your current MBP, I'm sure that indeed you'll have twice as much power with the MBA.
Hope this helps, Bram
EDIT: I must add, no problems running Aalto on my MBA (in case that wasn't clear :-)
EDIT2: I did a little test, playing a four note pad one Aalto with nothing else running, CPU usage is 10% (20 according to AULab, but I assume that's one core). MBA 1.8 dual i5, 4GB.