Keebo, I share the same story as you. Frankly, I am a bit surprised Cakewalk is still selling the product. The string section is very synthetic; not too much diffrent than the GM sound.

Jim, what instruments are you interested in getting? I am using Cakewalk's XL series that includes VSTi. It comes with the aforementioned Session Drummer along with the basic Garritan Pocket Orchestra. I use that for the bass and some odds and ends. Then, I use pianissimo for the acoustic grand piano sound. www.acoustica.com/pianissimo

Of course, Real Band is excellent. The only thing is you cannot manually program the instruments as you would a VSTi. But, if you don't mind the software making the arrangement for you, it is a great product.

RickeG