Very Basic Question About Software Options

[webslave]

I have an Alesis QS8.1 hooked up to my 17" iMac (OS10.2) via a Midisport 2X2 USB interface. I have configured the connections in my Audio MIDI set up utility and am wondering what to do next in terms of software that will allow me to record sounds coming from the banks in my QS keyboard. I am really confused about what software I need to get for something as basic as multitrack recording. I own Cubase VST for OS9 but have never used it and would have to get the fairly expensive upgrade to the OSX version of it. Would that be the way to go? Can I use the sound banks in my Alesis?

Also, is there a way to have my keyboard utilize the Quicktime midi instruments in the meantime? I also own SoundStudio Pro and AudioHijack software and am wondering if they are adequate for recording the QT instruments if I get those working with my Alesis?

Daniel

[webslave]

Thanks for both responses! I thought that it was possible to use my QS8 as both a controller but also use its sound banks as the Midi instruments that would be in turn be controlled and recorded by whatever software I would be using for that purpose, like Cubase SL. I probably just don't know enough to know better! I just spent some time looking at USB Audio interfaces online from Edirol, Aardvark and M-Audio. Another labyrinth of choices, but I guess I could then use the analog rather than MIDI outputs from my keyboard to input into my Mac and recording software.

Any more suggestions from you or anyone else will be well appreciated.

Daniel