Fact statements of peoples opinions on sound quality should be taken with a large chunk of salt. There is no doubt that there are many iPad apps with high quality sound, usability, and features.
One of the greatest strengths of the iPad ecosystem is the relationships of low cost of apps compared to PC/VST equivalents. This allows you to slowly, or rapidly amass a large and esoteric library of musical programs.
Many will be poor choices, unsatisfactory or lacking. Others will be top notch and will rival other software and yes - will also rival hardware. These results will vary by the individual users ear and needs.
One persons disappointment will be another persons jewel. Neither person is wrong in their assessment. There are a handful of clear standouts in the realms of DAW/sequencer/looper/synth/drum apps.
All are worthy of the price of a cup of coffee or a decent plate of dinner. The iOS ecosystem is meant to entice consumers to purchase. I recommend skipping a few coffees and take out burritos to tryout various apps knowing some will be duds for an individuals personal needs.
Drambo
AUM
Cubasis
Beat maker
Loopy pro
Moog synth collection
FabFilter collection
BLEASS apps
All of the various midi sequencers
Scaler 2
The various granular synths
The many, many FX apps
And many, many more. Set a monthly budget, buy an Apple gift card once a month and take the gamble. You will win, you will lose, your library of apps will constantly expand.
Good luck!
