Starting All Over Again Options

[mishmashmole]

Hi everyone,

I need to start all over again. But this time, I want it to be the last time for a long time. Um...

You see due to reconfigs, system updates I have rejigged my setup so many times I never get settled into a workflow.

I have a Powerbook G4 1.5Ghz, 1.5G RAM, a Stanton Scratch amp for my soundcard, a Remote SL25 and about 25 Gigs of samples/ loops.

I've always used Ableton Live. i recently tried the demo of 7. My computer struggled even without playing anything so I've given that up and actually went back to Live 4! It starts in like 2 seconds and the CPU isn't strained at all. I like that.

What I want to do is have a basic setup. I'd like to know maybe a couple of good free, easy to understand VST synths and maybe a drum machine to use with my Remote SL25.

Any suggestions for loop/sample management? Most of them come from computer music magazine (which I can borrow from my local public library). I have about 3 gigs that I have organised myself.

Any ideas/advice? All welcome!