I know this is probably the wrong forum...ok...i GET it, but...
I have used ProTools since it was SoundTools. ProTools is a resource HOG, at least as my system is configured, so I started checking out "light" alternatives (MuTools, etc..). Anyway, I checked out Tracktion and found it to be the easiest, quickest, user friendly, and lightweight (resource wise) app - I decided to record a piece of music for my girlfriend for Valentine's day...
I started Friday night and by noon on Saturday had the CD in my hands.
As of today, I LOVE Tracktion. Give it a look if you've never checked it out and hate waiting for PT to load.
Eric