MOTM

I use protools for all my recording.  I don't like it for creating midi, 
but it will play midifiles, so you can record your synth audio output from 
playing the midi.

I have the version that came with digi001 for macintosh and i would 
happily reccomend it to anyone.  I've heard great things about the 
digi002, but haven't used it myself.  (If it's cooler, I'll want to 
upgrade, but that's not part of the five year plan, so I'm avoiding it.)

There's a free version of protools that only supports eight tracks of 
audio (and 48 tracks of midi).  Many people stay with the freebie and are 
very happy.  It is good enough for professional editting.  My wifey has 
been using it for a CD/radio project she is working on for her nonprofit. 
(www.radiom.org)

protools: http://www.digidesign.com/ there's a link at the bottom called 
"Pro Tools FREE"

As far as creating midi goes, i've just acquired Sibelius 
(http://www.sibelius.com/), and all I can say is wow.  But there's no 
freebies on it.

-- 
Celesteh@...     http://www.casaninja.com/celesteh
                                 http://www.mp3.com/celesteh
http://www.pancakesforpinkos.com/  SFW: yes