For actual sound I pretty much agree with Trax. Digital audio is what it is, once it hits the convertors in the card and becomes digital, it is a bunch of data, the conversion back returns it to sound. While it's in the machine it is just data.


Some software comes with different plugins, that can instigate a certain 'sound' but at this point we aren't comparing recordings anymore, but the other tools involved.
PGMusic does include nice effects for a lot of stuff. And unique ones too, like ACW, a decent vocal remover and all the basic necessities. Plus they run most DXi VST plugins out there, and there are a lot of them available.
Reaper is developing a way to network the plugins (use separate machine for FX) which seems like a pretty cool concept in theory. However their interface has a bit of a learning curve even for people experienced in recording. PGMusic isn't as pretty, but it is intuitive for many. So they all have their unique features. None of the others have Realtracks though, and they keep getting better and giving more variety.

The user interface is noticable. No argument there.

I do not work here, but the benefits are still awesome
Make your sound your own!