Pro Tools, ..motu, ..or Logic?, What to buy and what all do I need? Options

[Nels]

Well, I've read and then read some more, but I'm still a bit in the dark. Currently I own a modeling synth(Technics WAS1), digital multitracker(Fostex DMT 8vL), DBX 160SL Stereo Compressor, effects proccesors, etc. I want to get into the world of computer sequencing, recording, editing, mixing and hopefully mastering and I'll be laying down guitar & Bass tracks as well, but I'm wary as to what to get in the way of software/hardware.. Now, I'm aware that Pro Tools is the most widely used for it's ease of use, but it doesn't offer a suround application right out of the box as I've read, Logic does. And if I'm not mistaken, Motu also offers a surround apllication. So the question that I have is, ..Pro Tools 002, Logic 6.2.2, or Motu 828mkll & DP4 Machfive? And I'm not certain exactly all that I'll need, specifically. The only thing I've been confident in buying so far was the new Mac G4 Laptop w/ Superdrive. ...If anyone can help me with specifics on any or all of the platforms mentioned, as to what all I'll need to get to have a complete system set up and running, Id so appreciate it. For example, when Digidesign 002 says to just plug in the firewire cable, install the software and your ready to record, is that really all there is to it? Asside from having a monitor source(speakers), good mics, etc,. of course. Also, can I and if so, should I make use of my beautiful DBX 160SL, which I paid big big bucks for or should I sell it along with my outboard digital multitracker? ....Any specific help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Miles

[The King of Hell...]

Hi Nels!!.
I just bought a Motu 828 and I am quite happy with it but maybe you should listen to somebody that has had the chance to compare the Digi 002 and the Motu 828 to be able to draw some conclusions.Anyway I just wanted to say to you that the Software that comes with Motu 828 MKII is not DP but Audio Desk 2 for OSX and 1 for OS9 and none of them support Surround capabilities.
I would not sell the DBX compressor, it is handy to use it when recording (specially percussive stuff, like the snare, kick drum) before converting the signal into digital audio to have a better control of it and avoid digital distortion.
I do not know the digital mixer you have but bear in mind what kind of recordins you want to do.If you are planning to record drums or maybe live gigs you need plenty of mic preamps and you only get two with the MOTU 828 and four with the Digi 002.

I hope it helps!!!