same here.
used Ableton for a while and never managed to like it.
on the other hand, i love Bitwig even though it still does not have proper MIDI export (and this is PITA when working with external hardware).
Like anything in life you can go from ‘I just don’t get it’ to ‘now I understand’ by putting in the time to learn it.
I can use any DAW, I can use any piece of gear, I can understand any musical concept by doing, experimenting, failing, trying again.
We all can. It doesn’t mean one workflow won’t be better for an individual than another - we will all gravitate to what clicks for us.
I use hardware and software because I like using both. No one was born knowing how to use an Elektron sequencer, but many have learned.
All of the popular Daws and equipment are popular because they are all good for varying reasons. Ableton is my main one, I’ve used it since Live 7 and am comfortable doing things in it. I have been using Bitwig because I like to constantly learn new ways of producing and sound designing.
I use hardware because I like to turn knobs and fiddle sliders. There is no definitive routing advantage of hardware over software other than personal preference, knowledge, and experience.
The only real advantage that n my opinion would be that the software environment offers more options in less space with less gear and less cost overall.
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