Hi - The advanced books are ok, but there is a lot of information contained in the X1 documentation that is also quite useful. In addition, there are hours and hours of Sonar X1 (and earlier but still relevant versions) video clips that show you how to do just about anything you need to do. If you have general questions about using the software post your specific questions and I and others will look them over and post hopefully helpful information. It is truly a great product, and I use it every day. I just finished laying backing tracks and mixed and mastered them for a gospel singer who is heading out for a European tour. Hang in there! Help is here per your needs. There is also a helpful user community to be found on the Cakewalk site (cakewalk.com), with all kinds of different forums. Good luck with it all.