hi doc, you could try jamstix, which actaully plays the drum patterns according to how you play, very laid back and quiet when you are, and busy and dynamic when you are...they are also about to release Jambass, which does the same thing , except with bass lines. the site is www.rayzoon.com
BTW thought i should add this is software as you did mention a software solution as well as a hardware one

[This message has been edited by miden (edited 02-15-2006).]