Despite its faults, which there are some major ones, it's a cracking piece of kit for throwing stuff together and sparking creativity. Its so much fun to use, and so easy to get around. I guarantee you'll be using your software less if you get one, you'll mostly be using the DAW. It's synthesis is sample based, but it sounds quite good. Snappier envelopes than any Rompler I've used before. In tandem with your ESI32 for the serious multisampling, it'd be awesome. MPC1000 is good too, especially with the hacked JJOS, but quite different from the 909. The RS7000 is more similar, but while it's a heck of alot deeper than the 909, it's nowhere near as easy to use IMO. My friend has an Korg ESX too, and that unit impressed me. I was expecting it to be Mickey Mouse due to it's lower sampling rate, but it sounds excellent and is as easy to get around as the 909. Great synth and effects too....if they had put USB on it, it would've been perfect.
Really, any of these units are great, but depending on your budget I would go with either the MC909 or ESX. Just don't be suprised if you find yourself using your software less.
