I tend to agree with the 'find what you like and will use' idea.

I started with Pro Tools Free back in the Windows 98 days, when I was starting out. I had BIAB, but PTW at that time wasn't up to the deal, and had no audio.

I used Magix for a while.

I switched to Pro Tools LE, but I had such issues with that program that I went back to PTW.

I use RealBand, and I use Sonar. I also have used other programs which I still like for MIDI editing, but there is no audio.

It's a learning curve.

Bang for the buck, hands down is PowerTracks and RealBand, especially if you have Band In A Box. They are great places to learn the basics, and as RHarv has stated earlier, he does multiple tracks live with his Delta 1010lt card. For a program that only costs you $50 and can accomplish that, it's an amazing thing. Coupled with Real Tracks, it really is one of the best deals out there.

Learn the basics first, and then decide what you need.

Gary

I'm blessed watching God do what He does best. I've had a few rough years, and I'm still not back to where I want to be, but I'm on the way and things are looking far better now than what they were!