Program combo for techno musician

[ps_7]

Hi there!
Im learning more and more as I go along now, finally figured out how to set things up, how midi works, etc.
Now I have another question: which programs to use.
I really like the Reason 3.0 instruments and set up, but find the sequencer downright baffling. I cant seem to use the stupid thing.
I want to use reason for sure, just wondering what would be a good compliment program. Im looking for something easy to record in, easy to read layout of sequencer, colour coded, and where I can draw in dynamics and panning over the tracks with lines.
I also need a program has easy access to effects and working with them. For electonic music, I find that I like to be able to quickly work effects into the sounds.

My ideas:
- Cubase SX (all the expansion capabilities I need, ability to support VST instruments, ability to record external sources)
- Acid 5.0 (simple to use! easy to shift songs around, Rewire supported, easy to plug raw samples and loops into the track and morph them, a bit less of the options of Cubase.)

Money is not an issue for me right now, I want to do it right. Suggestions??
Thanks!

 

[Echelon]

I use reason 3 and cubase sx 3.0... killer combo. I find cubase easy to use, but extremely professional sounding. The sequencer in reason is kind of tough to figure out at first, but it ultimately works the EXACT same as any other sequencer does. I would encourage you to learn how to use it.