Sonar 6

Glad to have you back Micah! Your new lyrics are interesting. Nate, I've got a few questions when you have time. I just started working with Sonar 6 Producer Edition. I'm hoping I can use this software to compose and record music since I don't have a band at the moment. Any suggestions on learning how to use it? I know I can figure it all out but I also know it's going to take some time and probably cause me some serious headaches. This is a big jump from Acid 2.0 Pro. Also I need to pick up a Midi Controller. 25 key would be fine and I'm on a pretty tight budget, any suggestions? I was looking at the Alesis Photon x25 or maybe the Line 6 Toneport. That's only because I've bought other gear from both Alesis and Line 6 not because I have any actual experience with the controller. Thanks!