The differences do seem enormous when one first encounters linux. They shrink every install though, but it takes some time for the magic to wear off.

Nice! I need to learn recovery methods. I am so used to scorch earthing an install when it goes wrong, which is not useful.

I guess I can try it, since I did not like, wipe everything.

Yes. The cost is reasonable, and think it is worth it!

Right now I am using Tracktion Waveform, but I do not love it.

I am looking at Reaper, and I do like the workflow, but the way it loads plugins puts me off. Not horrible, I just need to do extra work to make it work.

That is what I am starting to realize. Every paid program that I used to desire is now subscription based.

Also, I am coming to terms with how truly powerful FOSS programs are. People seem to pay for the workflow, the user interface, more than the capabilities. At least I feel that way with DAWs. Ardour does everything. Vital makes every sound. I can be happy with that. I need to focus on making music.

If you find it please link it. I would love to read it. I think I am happy with my setup, and Flatpaks make it possible.

It certainly has simplified things for me! To get anything so up to date, I would need to use something like Arch or the AUR, which is fine but I find unappealing (using Arch).