I started with producing about 4-5 years ago and I started with the 505. I must say i've learned a lot from it, it's fun to use. The step sequencer is easy to use (but rather limited). Synth engine is ok too (you can really create complex sounds with 4 individual waves, having there own filter/pitch/amp adsr curves to build one patch + a fm modulation alike option) -definately better then the yamaha grooveboxes-. I found the 8 tracks (+8 subdivided in rhytm) good to start with but after a while you will feel you need something better with more possibilities + if you need to control other synths bear in mind that rx and tx settings are a global setting which is a bit of a pain. So if it are your first steps in producing i would definately recommend it, given the 2nd hand prices. You will be able to build professional songs , sounding much much better then the typical fruity sound (all those peop who say grooveboxes suck, they sound bad, are crap, are just newbs ) It is a hardware synth so it does not give any critical errors on crucial moments , I gigged it some times, never had problems. After a few years you will feel the need for a better sequencer and an analog synth but untill then you'll have great fun with it.