i've only tried cubase, but i think learning curve should be about the same. it's easy to learn the basic in cubase (recording audio, midi, vst, FX and such), but there are a lot of things to learn in cubase if you want to get the most out of it.

The Steinberg products are pigs on the Mac.

Apps like DP4, and Logic7 are more efficient with cpu usage.

Using Logic or DP will allow you to use 40%-60% more plugs.
Even PTLE is more effecient than SX & Nuendo, shouldn't have any problems getting max plugs and tracks(32 Max) with PTLE.

8)

Thanks for the replies!

Is Cubase and Neundo really that bad running on a Mac? I was told Neundo runs great on a Mac. I also thought that if I tried Pro Tools first, an didn't like it.I'd have the option of trying the others, or vice versa.

Thanks

Pro Tools LE is by far and away the easiest sequencer to learn, IMHO a Vitual Tape Machine and Mixer... Easy.

Did you consider Digital performer? Its the premier daw for the mac and its digital and midi heaven.

I've used the steinberg stuff and find it very simple to use. It has about the same learning curve as a new mixer. You just have to think about it as a virtual studio, from selecting inputs, arming recording, busing signals, effects and everything. If you've never used software to record, but have a fairly good knowledge of the analog recording process I assume 6-9 months would be a good amount of time to be confident in your abilities.

if you go mac, DP or Logic rules (IMO it does anyway!) i personally would stay away from anything steinberg, or protools unless you want to waist money!! protools is IMO weak for midi and far to expensive hardware, you get much better ad/da for the buck and steinberg's GUI sucks plus it sounds rubish* plus it is a CPU hog on a mac!, *but that's just what i hear, me remembering lots of angry replys on that topic 8)
DP and Logic are giving you the best of audio and the midi world and are both native to MAC.

If your plans include mixing outside projects or shipping your beds out to be mixed elswhere I would go with Protools. In my city, every commercial studio has Protools. I get a lot of outside mix work, and while it's not that hard to convert files back and forth to cubase, logic etc., it's a heck of a lot easier just to open their session and go. I also don't buy the argument that Protools hardware is expensive, at least the 002 line. All the other hardwares make you buy the descent software seperately, so when you add it in it is usually about the same money. I make a good living with my 002R doing albums and TV work.

002R/Rosetta 800/G5Dual 1.8/2Gigs Ram/PT LE 6.7