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I have also downloaded Cakewalk and the included TTS-1 64 run as a VSTi and then again it seemed just like another flavor, but the MIDI tracks were still very identifiable as MIDI type sounds.
It makes me appreciate the quality of the RealTracks. I know there are advantages to using MIDI, but I find the sonic quality of the RealTracks to be thrilling and when I play against them I just melt into the music.
It has been so interesting to learn from you all; I am really enjoying this adventure.
If you take the stock MIDI tracks and put them in the best MIDI sound source they will, in most cases, still sound, as you say, "MIDI type sounds". To get the most out of them you have to add some continuous controller (CC) data. In other words you have to emulate the sound you are after via CCs, pitch bends, and the mod wheel. For example take a MIDI track sax. To make it more realistic you must add pitch bends, vibrato, volume, etc and play it like a sax, i.e. no polyphony, stay within the sax's range, etc. You will either need a MIDI controller of some kind or add them via manual input. A MIDI controller keyboard with sliders and knobs is the best option IMHO.
Try some of the Super MIDI tracks (what a dumb name IMHO) with some better sounds. Try the pianos and organs first, you may be surprised,