Since this is a hobby and I dont plan to do any live gigs, and I like the tactile feel of real hardware.  I'm going to try the Hybrid thing.  I love VST's, but I also love real gear... and its amazing how cheap old gear is.  I picked up a Fully Loaded EMU 5000 Pro Sampler for $200, it would have sold for $2000 ore more back in the 90's.