for a start if u want 2 get out a bit from the "virtual world" look around 2nd hand shops. Some interesting and "cheap" synths are the novations. Virus is also VERY good, but I luv the easy programing on the Novation, and I guess it's easy 2 learn!

I am a sucker for waldorf (pulse mainly), this might b found really cheap ...

My guess is u can get started on VST Is, the new SX2.2 has the new monologue which can do some really mad sounds. More that the synth it self is knowing what does dreaded knobs do! ;) That's what we're here 4! ;)

Z