I use Logic Pro with a cheap 49 key midi keyboard. It works great for all sounds. It gives me limitless (and I do mean limitless) options for editing sounds. Logic Pro is about $200 and for MAC only. I use it for making music as well so it is worth every penny. But you could probably use...
I would suggest against using threaded couplings such as the one pictured (b) in derekleffew's post. I have them on the battens in the theatre I work at in Excelsior Springs. About a month ago the coupling broke
The best pair of boots I have ever owned are black Timberland Mudsills. I bought them with the intention of wearing them only on days when I need the steel toe but now I just wear them everyday to work even if all I do that day is press the Go button. I highly recommend them.