Dennis, I am on your side. I have been using a software based arranger system for many many years and plan to continue with it. For those interest in my system you can search this site to find out more.

My system is reliable and of high quality. In addition, there is no issue concerning latency ... and there never was one even years ago...with smaller and slower computers. My definition of latency is the time it takes from when you hit the key to when you hear the sound. This is a function of your equipment and the sound card drivers, e.g., ASIO. Usually, you can set it to the level that is required for excellent performance and load on the computer system. The computer system is generally far more powerful then anything you would find in a hardware based arranger system.

Now, with MS you will get a much better user interface. I have gotten used to mine but there is no doubt that MS is better.