Thank you all for the input. I will check these out. I just wish I could find software that has:

1.Step-entry {Staves} (can use piano roll, but prefer staves)
2.Enough VST available to do at least 7 staves/instruments
and 1 track left for audio input/vocals.
3. Ability to add effects to each track.
4. Ability to burn CD without having to export to another program like my Magix or Windows Media player.

Right now I have Windows VIsta Home Premium, BTW, and am thinking of having it changed (somehow?) to an older version like XP since Vista has its own problems.

Anyone know of a program that does 1-4.WHich is basically EVERYTHING from scratch to finish. Have to decide whether to go with the external recorder (Tascam/Yamaha/Roland) or get some more sophisticated software. Either way it would cost several hundreds of dollars, so I would like the best solution for my money.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.