absynth 2
if you are looking for both highly usable and some very unusual sounds then absynth is wonderful - if you are looking for banks of 'conventional' synth patches then look to a more genral synth - absynth has always been very characteristic.
it is my go-to synth when i have a creative block - many of the patches kind of lead to tunes in themselves.
NI have also launchd a good online set of patch banks too - also get hold of the Sounds vol1 cd - it's very good. if you can find them, the original absynth 1 patches are fantastic as well.
however - i will also sing the praises of Atmosphere at the mo too as i just think it is the most wonderfully evocative and creative synth around. the sounds are just beautiful. not great if you are looking for deep editing - but if you do any avant-garde music or soundtrack work, it's very very worthwhile a look.
have fun
paul d
tollboothmusic
