Whether it's the "simple yet comprehensive" feature set, the flexibility/expandability, or the biggest bang-for-the-buck known to man (given all the free synths, fx/processors and even a built-in guitar tuner)(!) ... Sonar is the only winning package that both beginners and pros can really get into. Midi or audio, soft-synth-based or loop-based, automation or variable fades, blues or rave --- this monster covers ALL!

Best of all ... it's made in USA! This home-boy wizardry (love also to Sonic Foundry in Wisconsin!) will make the user and his virtual studio proud!

Sonar has a large feature set and is very intuitive to use. Competitively I think it can match or beat any sequencer on the market as far the spectrum of things it can do. That is not to say it is the best at everything. The program is more stable than previous versions of Cakewalk (it is in fact rock solid). This program is also compatable with Reason if you use Steinberg products. The best thing I can say about Sonar is that with it I can work faster in it than I have been able in other software. Another great plus is studioware panels - which allow you to remotely edit your hardware synths from your computer monitor. Studioware panels are awesomely customizeable, allowing you to have all controls for your synth or only the ones you decide you need. The only negative I see in Sonar is it is not the most exciting graphically. It isnt ugly, yet it isnt as flashy as Logic, or even Cubase, so check out some screen shots on Cakewalk's website first if that might be an issue for you. Anyway, I recommend Sonar highly, but find a sequencer that YOU like and can work in whether or not it is Cakewalk Sonar.