Many if not all VSTi Sample players like Dimension already have mapped samples. I send the MIDI style information from the T3 to SONAR then remap the sounds to a SW sampler or ToonTracks Drummer, or Garritain String Sets. In fact, my wife would rather make tracks and play the CDs on her gigs,rather then take the Arranger and be stuck with a single instrument sound set. The quality and choice of sounds using various sources is well worth the lack of flexibility playing back patterns or repeating choruses. Its all playback of pre recorded material right?

When the PC becomes taxed (or I'm too lazy to convert a Softsynth to an audio track) I then look for sounds on the Sonic Cell or Tyros I can use. SW synths are the bomb. Especially for the Drums. ToonTracks Superior Drummer is amazing.

I can and do use the Tyros for a Master keyboard. Its not all that hard as I thought in the beginning. YOu don't need a Midi controller unless you want one that controls your DAW which I am looking into now. Otherwise. The Tyros controls everything I need it to as a master keyboard for USE WITH A DAW. All the patch changes to other modules have to be done using the DAW not the Tyros...

I was using the RD700 but the wife is always taking it to a gig and leaving in the car or at the venue. I decided I will either buy another weighted controller that has DAW control surface capability and so far the CME is the only worthy choice. I am not familiar with them so I am a little hesitant.

The Roland Edirol PCR800 is great for Sonar but only 61 keys, dammit!!! I would jump all over even a 76 key model because Roland and Cakewalk are joined at the hip. The Daw control is flawless.

M-Audio has a great controller but is a chore to make work with Cakewalk. Yamaha is all about Cubase, enough said,




[This message has been edited by Kingfrog (edited 02-08-2009).]