Larry,

Thanks for your response, especially in light of your experience with both of the synths I mentioned. It mostly reinforces my own thoughts.

When I moved to Win 7 from XP I lost the use of my Creative Audigy Platinum hardware synths, which were pretty good for preproduction work. I tried the Coyote, but it was quite a while ago and I wasn't certain about my memory of it. I'm not sure whether I actually need something for finished work as the plan is to import most pieces into Propellerhead Reason for mastering, but I really did like the JV. Although somewhat dated (in the sense that there are several easily recognizable patches), it had a great GM section and some really nice pads.

I never had any of the extra sound modules either, but never felt I needed them. Reason, with its optional Refills (proprietary sound sets), blows away all but the most esoteric VSTi's. Mostly I want something to give me a polished feel while working in BIAB/RB. If I never port a piece into Reason, the JV would be at least adequate for what I have in mind.

I did get one PM which mentioned IK soft synths, but I really think I have those covered with my Refills. I'll just have to share some new music and let y'all decide. cool

***

There were other valuables in the box which was lost/stolen, not the least of which was a Roland GI-10 pitch-to-MIDI converter. I had hoped to use it with my GK-equipped guitar to control some hard and soft synths directly. I don't know whether I'll be able to replace it any time soon. Oh, well; plenty to keep me busy without that.

R.

"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."