This is another one of these posts where they will no doubt be a massive que of "experts" all dying to tell you what to do.

Well... for what it's worth, here's my two cents worth:

I was plagued with a midi problem for around 4 years and I dare say it was probably the same thing you're talking about.

What was happening was if I had a simple tune, then it would play back fine, but if I had an elaborate very busy song, then it would tend to stutter on playback. It was kind of like having a drummer who couldn't *quite* play on time cos he was a little bit drunk.

To this day I'm not entirely sure what the problem was caused by, but from my own research I can absolutely confirm for you that changing the software will NOT solve the problem.

As for buying a new soundcard? Hmmmm... well, I'm not sure.

One thing that's absolutely GUARANTEED to solve the problem however is to record each of your midi tracks as individual audio tracks.

Now, I know that's not the answer you want to hear... but trust me- you will not look back!

Like I say... I had the same problem ruining my life for around 4 years. I was just like you! I used to swear by midi and I wasn't interested in all the fuss that comes with audio. But two years ago I started tuning into the audio vibe and I can honestly say it's opened a whole new world for me!

Using audio is not going to restrict you at all- but using only midi tracks already IS restricting you!

I mean you mentioned transposing. I say "big deal!" If you're really desperate to change keys then you can always revert back to your old midi files and make a new audio recording in a matter of minutes.

Listen man... you've GOT to tune into audio! You've got to remove this barrier that you've got in your mind about audio being a lot of extra work. Just think of all the things you'll be able to do!!! Think of all the effects, the reverbs, the EQing, and the tweaking that you're missing out on!

Audio is fun. Audio is freedom. Audio is where the action is!

I'm sorry about the longwinded response but if your story is anything like mine then I know that this has been making your life a misery.

You've got a very powerful computer. Use it!