It's like photoshop. Most of us can resize photographs, crop them and make basic adjustments to contrast and colour with simple programs.

But some of the amazing fakes that can be produced if you really know what you are doing demand skills and software beyond the average user.

I played for years with midi backing tracks from BIAB and PowerTracks played through a basic Roland Sound Canvas. For most pop songs and the like GM is adequate for live performance in a semi-pro world.

When it comes to tracks listened to 'cold' in a hi-fi (do we still use that term?) listening situation maybe GM midi is not up to it - hence the vast array of samples and synths and the need for a really sharp learning curve.