> as for playable RTs i note that no one has really responded saying playable RTs are as flexible and easy as midi for note for note creation of hooks or riffs.

Bob,
yes, playable RT’s are as flexibility as any MIDI sound, and would be a good choice in many situations. They can be chosen just like a MIDI sound, by choosing a “Hi-Q” sound. The playable RT (and RealDrums) show up there.

realTracks have two things going for them.
1. - a real instrument
2. - an world-class musician expertly playing the instrument.

A good “middle ground” between older midi styles and realTracks are the “MIDI SuperTracks”. They have a MIDI sound, but have pro musicians playing parts, so sound very realistic. Especially for keyboards (piano etc.)

Someone who likes RealTracks but wants to explore MIDI, might want to start out with a MIDI SuperTracks of piano. It will likely sound almost as good as the RealTracks one. And then they can see the flexibility by changing the patch from acoustic piano (1) to electric piano (5). Then they can expiriment by editing the notes.

Have Fun!
Peter Gannon
PG Music Inc.