Hi Capn,

The DXi synth handles MIDI output. Windows 7/64 bit includes a synth "MS GS Wavetable synth", so you will get a very similar sound to the VSC DXi . It is just that the synth isn't a plugin (DXi or VST), so the MIDI sounds cannot be rendered (converted) to an audio file (WAV).

So for just playing and listening, you will have a MIDI synth. To get a plugin type of synth, then yes, either the Coyote Forte ($40 from PG Music) or the Roland TTS-1 ($40, included with CakeWalk Music Creator www.cakewalk.com) would work.

And yes, if you are only using RealTracks, the MIDI synth is irrelevant, since no MIDI data is getting sent.,

Have Fun!
Peter Gannon
PG Music Inc.