[Gustin]

Alright, I've decided that I want to get some synth like sounds to add some textures to different stuff and what not.

I have a powerful laptop that I pretty much bring with me wherever I go, so buying a controller and using it with my laptop is not a problem. I'm trying to figure out the benefits of a real synth (like an Alesis Micron or something) over a controller laptop combo.

I know a synth will have built in sounds which are great, but if I can find some synth stuff on my laptop getting a controller will be significantly cheaper.

What would you suggest (give suggestions of products as well please)? If you suggest the controller, can you give some suggestions of some versatile software?

Budget is pretty much anything from 100-300 for the controller route, but can go higher eventually if absolutely needed (if the synth route is the best).

Thanks a lot.

[Nate]

I know that softsynths are the name of the game right now.... but I think they're stupid and clumsy.