What didn't you like about the Line 6 Toneport?
Had 2 HI-Z inputs? what happened to them? Is the ESI still usable? Anyway, input impedance has nothing to do with software.

Audacity is quick, easy and free.

If you want to multi-track Reaper is good for the money.

I like the tone port. If I had to buy something, as far as plug ins are concerned I'd go with either Guitar Rig or Amplitube. Both are awesome but I prefer hardware. (Vox Tonelab). Kristal is a decent free multitrack program.

sorry - i meant i have 2 HI-z inputs. I didn't like the toneport (UX8) because it was a massive processor hogger and i didn't like the gearbox software, ill look into those programs - thanks

i didn't like the toneport either. it just sounded thin and too digital for my own taste. i highly recommend the waves gtr. it sounds very warm and stunning. you can download a trial at their website. give it a try and you'll see/hear what i am talking about.

GTR is nice. The thing with pretty well all of these emulators is that they're resource hogs. It takes a lot of juice to emulate a good amp. Especially if you want it to respond with any sort of dynamics.