Yes, it WAS touted as an all in one piece of gear. big deal. The TB303 was designed to be a backup bass player for bands, and see how THAT turned out.

anyways, This sequencer ROCKS. its the perfect blend of ease of use (i can bang out ideas super quick), and pro features (could use a better quantizer). This type of sequencer really is going to change how people do live shows (finally we can actually say we're playing live as opposed to hitting start on the sequencer). I have a Korg Triton, Waldorf XT, creamware pulsar, and a FR 777 (used). This really adds to your live set, allowing people to associate visually with whats going on musically. I really enjoy the step sequencer, and i'm surprised it took someone so long to put one out so intuitive.

As for the sounds, at this point i could really care less. YES, they're not bad sounds, but with only two audio outs it makes it difficult to you outboard effects properly.

I beg of any of you who buy it, DON'T use the preset patterns. This sequencer is so powerful and akin to creativity, it'll be a shame if you do so. Write your own damn music; you just spent 600 bucks didn't you?

For all who wonder, like me, if this is a good buy, I would say don't hesitate, the resale value is close to the purchase price, they seem to sell fast(if you can find someone to sell it to you), and most people sell them cuz they are desperate for money rather than trying to get rid of it. I payed $599+tax at Guitar Center, and I probably could have done better than that if I was good at that kind of thing.

Finally, I have had an Ensoniq SQII sequencing synth keyboard for a year or so, which helped me to learn how to sequence. Other than that I am basically a beginner, so my opinions may not be good for a more experienced musician. But I have to say that, after waiting a long time to make this purchase, this thing kicks serious ass, and I can't believe I waited to buy it. I could have been having lots'o'fun, but instead I was sitting wondering "RM or MC, RM or MC.... I may be slow, but I am pretty confident that I made the right decision. And the floppy drive for quick, easy, cheap storage seals the deal. I love it!!! I give it a 5 knowing that it might be lust. I will post a note if I change my mind and we decide to split-up(not likely!)

Now who can help me to make my next purchase. I think I need a sampler, but I have never used one and really dont know what they do exactly. I know that there are lots of sounds out there available on cd, but I am just learning and I dont really understand how they work. After reading some posts I was attracted to the ASRX(I think thats what its called). The post suggested that along with my RM1X I would be ready to pump out some serious noise. I have a SQII w/midi for what that is worth, but I have not used midi yet and I am eager for any advice from complete amateurs to pros. Thanks, -EPIMP