hi Frank,
you didn't read the end of my post.

"Doesn't mean the end of my softsynth system, just adds more sound options."

I'm mainly considering the sd2 as an option for the style parts, there aren't that many at the moment ie soundfonts, hypersonic 2, hypercanvas, and Bandstand ?? I gather, none of the above you'd really consider as a top of the line choice for melody voice?
So if I got myself a software sample player, I could use it for melody voice, & the sd2 ( or sd1) for style parts & not put too much strain on a laptop. Haven't decided whether I'll get a new laptop or upgrade the memory in my dell 512mb laptop, ( which is currently working again, though not sure for how long haa haa).

I'm thinking of maybe getting Garriton's Big Band, & maybe the personal orchestra.
I'm not after a GM set, rather individual acoustic type instruments that I could use for melody. I use strings, saxes , trumpets etc
Collosus would be too expensive for what I want, and I doubt my laptop would be up to the task anyway.

best wishes
Rikki