Hi

I am sure your method works just fine. If you always are in patch-mode, you have all possibilities at any time.

But, still I would like to say:
It is fully possible to make complete music with the effects-system on the XP/JV/XV. You just have to create patches that depend less on effects to work. It is not always easy, and it may take time, but the reaults are usually very good in my experience.

I agree that these synths are a bit too "small" on effects, but I also think we are about to get spoiled here. There was a time when synths had no effects AT ALL, and people still made music!

When I make music, I use the internal sequencer. When I make the patches, I try to make them without effects, so that I have the EFX processor free to use where it is most needed. Usually there is not much more than one part that really _needs_ serious processing by the EFX.

In the end it comes down to the fact that all synths have limitations, and we have to try and figure out how to use them as good as we can.

Stig