Here are my answers - I'm no expert but I have an XP30. >>> 1/ how do you trigger multiple patches from the same hardware synth ?? I understand its to do with the midi channel but can't figure it out ?? You load each patch into a peformance on the synth (use sounddiver) then use multiple midi outs, each set to a different channel to use the patches. Note Channel 10 is always drums. >>>2/ how do I record the hardware synth back into fruity ?? again I have the sound routed through a simple mixer and am hearing it but can't figure out how to record it ? Route the output into your soundcard and use a FL mixer track as input. You can then record via the usual method (see the manual!) >3/ How do you take into account midi delay and ensure all parts are timed correctly. If everything it set up okay it shouldn't be noticable