You can go a long way with LMMS or Ardour and free sample packs. Most big sample production companies provide royalty-free samplers. The free stuff from Sonniss (GDC freebies) and Black Octopus Sound could last an entire career. Throw in the free Komplete Start (or Helm and Surge if you prefer open source) and you have all your synthesis needs covered: https://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/bund...