Dave Smith Instruments SYNTHESIZERS

I know that strictly speaking this isn't "Evolver-related", however I 
figure it's worth asking this group since you're all hard-core synth 
people by virtue of owning an Evolver.

Has anyone here tried out the Alesis Ion/Micron?  I need a decent 
"virtual analog" synth for live performance and recording.

I am currently using my Nord Lead 2, which I like very much, however I 
want something that has a more sophisticated synth engine.

The Ion seems like a great deal at ~$600, even if it's only 8-voice.

Thoughts?