Best Set-up For A Composer?, I'm running a new G4--need adivce PLEASE Options

[Tripper]

Hey Everyone,

I'm the proud new owner of a PowerBook G4 1.5Ghz and 1.25gigs of RAM. I really need advice on the best setup to acheive my music recording goals. I'm looking for the best hardware reccomendations to connect my Alesis Qs8 Keyboard to my laptop. I will also be recording my vocals--and would sometimes like to record both at the same time. I've looked into getting an M-box--but I know because of latency issues and software compatablility issues that some don't like it.

Any Advice?
I am also looking for software that helps facilitate composing and not just multi-track recording. The composing would entail synth string/piano/orchestral instruments etc.
My best friend has tons of current OSX audio software--so I'm not too concerned about the price of the software....

What is the best hardware that combines audio/midi inputs and outputs? (I'm looking to spend between about $500 for the hardware.)

Thank you so much in Advance!!!

Jon

[JeremyR]

Sounds like Logic might be right up your alley. It does multi-tracking but also has a very powerful sequencer engine. Apple owns e-magic (the makers of Logic), so compatability is generally quite good. For hardware, all you will need is a good audio/MIDI interface. I have the M-Audio Firewire 410, and after some initial glitches, it seems to work fine. Runs $300-$400.

-JR

BTW, you may have problems getting Logic for free from a friend, if that's what you are suggesting in your post. The program itself is freely copyable, but you need a USB flash drive device called the XSkey in order to actually use it.