Summary: Reason is an all-encompassing music studio with great sonic potential and lots of neat tricks. It can be controlled externally via MIDI. Easy-to-learn for the more experienced electronic musician.

Pros: Works with Windows and Mac platforms and is a great value. If you were buying the hardware equivalent of this package, you'd end up paying upwards of $3,000.

Reason comes loaded with tons of cool onboard sounds. The Subtractor Synth sounds and works like real analog synthesis. If you have a large hard drive, you'll get monstrous sample power. The toggle feature is awesome.

Cons: Some of the functions are not very intuitive. Beginners may want try Rebirth before tackling this big boy.

Company: Propellerhead Software

Available: Now

List price: $399

System requirements for Windows: Windows 98/ NT/ 2000, or later; Pentium II or better; 233 MHz or faster; 64MB RAM; CD-ROM drive; 256-color monitor or better, 800x600 or larger.

Helpful, but not necessary: 16-bit Windows-compatible sound card; MIDI interface; MIDI keyboard.

System requirements for Mac: Power Macintosh with 604, 604e, G3, G4 processor or better; 166 MHz or faster; 64MB RAM; CD-ROM drive; 256 color monitor or better, 800x600 or larger, OMS 2.x or later (included).

Helpful, but not necessary: MIDI interface; MIDI keyboard.