[sdiy] Need general advice for a uP

[Glen]

Once upon a time, I had a small amount of experience with breadboarding and
programming a "6800" based SBC. It was so primitive, it was actually
programmed in machine language, as opposed to assembly language. I also had
a little experience programming a 6502 based system in assembly language
and in BASIC. This was all in the early to mid eighties, and I haven't done
any DIY computer hardware work since then. I know, a *lot* has changed
since then.  :)

I currently have the desire to play with some simple uP designs, but I'm
not sure which devices would be the best for the types of things I'd like
to do. I'd like to eventually build some things like MIDI -> CV convertors,
a custom Poly-Synth, MIDI "knob boxes", and similar musical devices that
need some sort of brain inside them.

Does anyone have any suggestions for a "hobbyist friendly" uP? I need
something fairly simple to implement, easy to find and purchase in
single-unit quantities, inexpensive, etc. Also, I need something in a
through-hole package, instead of surface mount. Also, should I be looking
at PIC's? 

Are EPROMS totally out of style now? Is there something easier to program,
which doesn't need an expensive device programmer?

I know these all sound like very beginner-level questions. I've actually
spent several years repairing musical devices that employ uP's, but that's
totally different from actually designing such circuitry. I'd appreciate
some pointers to start me off in the right direction.


thanks,
Glen