[QUOTE=Kevin Taylor]

The trouble with free software is that it's usually very limited and not very reliable. Especially when it comes to syncing up tracks.

QUOTE]

Hey Kevin, just regarding Reaper, check it out if you havent already. It does more than ProTools (discounting dsp processing) and is sleeker than Cubase (I personally use Cubase SX3 because I am used to the interface). Also bear in mind it is created by the developers of Winamp - no adware, crippled functions or spyware. If I was starting again I would just go straight for Reaper and save myself the 700 quid on Cubase. It's also VST friendly - check it out, I think you'll be very impressed.