Hello,

My name is Mike and I've played around with all of the above.  I'm looking to get more serious about music creation and wanted to know your thoughts on these tools.  I think out of all of them, FL Studio seems to be the most lightweight  and powerful.  What do you think?

-Mike 

I've never liked any of the software stuff - even with external MIDI controllers I just can't into it the same as physical sound modules and gear. I know it'd probably work out cheaper in the long run, but you gotta use what works for you. Out of all of those I've only looked at Cubase - got the trial on last month's  MusicTech mag. Nup - just doesn't do anything for me. Powerful, for sure - but music is an art, not a science ... even with drum n bass

I'm drooling for the chance to work with more physical stuff but currently my budget can't call for that.  So the next best thing is to dump stuff on my laptop.  I also like the challenge of taking a cold, technical software tool and breathing some art and soul into it.

Ha, not neccessarily - I picked up my 30 year old Korg EX-800 off eBay for about $200. Korg Electribe EA-1 Mk II for $300. Yamaha AN1X (which hopefully arrives today) for $550.