So are you currently using Renoise for your current compos?
Right now I'm trying to look for decent VST plug-ins that are free. I am also trying to learn how to sample some of my own nice acid samples (With a touch of BASS) without trying to use the built-in Modtracker VST plugins for sound effects like Flanger/Phaser effects, without getting too much distortion, or noise.
When I tried an older version of Reason, it wouldn't work with my MIDI keyboard. I guess I am unfamiliar with the function of MIDI keyboard channels, or perhaps finding them manually on the computer. Since I've only been using my MIDI keyboard for about 5 months now.
The only reason why ModPlug excepts my MIDI I/O is because I am running a Soundblaster AWE64 ISA on my old P166, and the software automatically configured it for me, and it worked instantly, I just had to use and set the regular presets on my 10 year old YAMAHA.
Before I was simply using the keyboard shortcuts for notes, which is hard as hell when you're trying to Transponse higher and lower notes, by sound.
Basically all I need is some good samples to start with, or better yet, try to sample some of my own samples (Which I've done, with great difficulty.) I've also used Cool Edit Pro to synth. my voice, or some sounds.
ModTracker may be old, but it's still better than trying to familiarize myself with all this new stuff, like Reason, and Fruity Loops. Since both of them took up way too much memory when trying to compose and complete something new.
I just don't think paying out the ass for music writing software justifies that this isn't anything more than a hobby. My friends seem to think otherwise.
I'd have more fun with the software if I had someone to mix/compete mods with.
