Looking for Softsynths before WinXP

[hermit01]

Hi,

I'm new and old. I'm new to the forum but I've been doing MIDI sequencing with audio output since the mid '80's (even pre-MIDI hardware days).

I'm developing a MIDI workstation that is mostly software and trying to get it off of my Internet-everything-else computer. My problem is My Internet computer is WinXP but the only one I can afford for music alone is WinMillineum (runs 98 and older well). I've got a monster softsynth (Wusikstation/3500 presets) that runs on XP/Vista only. So I need to find really good sounding equivalents that will run on Windows before XP.

Any input you folks can give will be much appreciated.

Thanks, Bruce

[brandondrury]

What is your budget, Bruce? Windows XP is $100 these days. I'd hate for you to miss out on modern features because you didn't have the cash for XP.

I don't even remember what software with MIDI sequencing even runs on Windows ME. I know that I had Cubase VST5 and I never really liked it. Now I'm FLOORED by Cubase SX3. So there was a massive improvement in recording software from Windows 98 to Windows XP.

Brandon

[hermit01]

Thanks for taking the time, Brandon. I'm aware of the operating system differences, but most of the major sequencing (Sonar, etc.) runs well on Me and 98 also, and work well as VSTi hosts.That I've done and verified.

I even ended up with an update gift for the monster softsynth I mentioned (Wusikstation) but the limitation is in the hardware, speed and memory. XP doesn't run well on anything less than pretty new and loaded hardware and that costs quite a bit more than a new VSTi. I've worked with all three and actually prefer ME and 98 to XP. Hopefully I'll locate something that can stand up to Wusikstation soon. I've been surfiing a lot. Most that come close are shareware, like it. But it's under $100 and most everything I've found coming close is a lot more expensive. I'm not sure how they do it, but the software runs beautifully.

Best, Bruce

[richiebee]

Try KVR: Virtual Instruments, Virtual Effects, VST Plugins, Audio Units (AU), DirectX (DX), Universal Binary Compatibility - Audio Plugin News, Reviews and Community. VSTi's should be pretty tolerant of whatever OS you use, as long as your host supports the format. The VSTi protocol has changed several times.

Personally, I think you're going after a false economy trying to make your stuff work on such an out of date system that has absolutely no support for it.

Good luck.

[hermit01]

Thanks. hopefully it's short term.

It's a funny thing about money. If you don't have it you can't spend it. :-)

[brandondrury]

Well, technically you CAN spend money you don't have. It's just not a good idea.

Brandon

[hermit01]

LOL Man, do I understand that! I'm retired on a fixed income. That's essentially how I get by, spending money I don't have.

Thanks for the humor,
Bruce