Wait a second. In the steps you are talking about why the concern about regeneration times? We are talking a few seconds. And once you have something to work with you freeze it.

My computer is not the latest greatest or best but I don't see an issue there at all. NOW, if you load up RealTracks with 8 Realinstruments and leave them all to regenerate each time, sure, you are going to end up with 20 seconds where you wring your hands.

As to what gear to use, I knew a guy here with one of those, he was too important for we the great unwashed. Alas he bought an apple computer and his 'baby' sat in one of the gear stores, he was trying to get 900 bucks for it.

I certainly don't understand having RealBand, then saying I don't use it due to some concern.\\
I have it, have used it, and mostly don't.

That's because I love to practice 50 random pieces a day and no one needs a 'DAW' to loop Satin Doll.

John Conley
Musica est vita