My fave setup is a multitimbral synth on the OT’s CD input and external effects on the Cue out and AB input. Right now I have a Blofeld on the CD ins and an iPad on the AB ins, though sometimes I’ll replace the Blofeld with a Micron and replace the iPad with the Biscuit or the SU700’s super effects.
A streamlined, versatile setup lets me focus on creating interesting, complementary sounds and arps as the foundation of my songs. After each song, I use the OT to slice and dice the stems to make 2 or 3 remixes. Using the whole buffalo, as they say.
A lean and limited setup keeps my choices to a minimum, forces me to devise workarounds that teaches me my gear inside and out. That keeps me constantly moving forward and discovering new tricks every day. Fun, rewarding, productive and GAS-free. For now…