What is the task you are trying to accomplish? Without knowing that, no one can make recommendations.

Although Finale incorporates some functionality of a DAW, it is not one. 

Hi Mike, 

I was worried about that.  I just wanted to be able to add vocals, incorporate a larger sound library, and maybe use my full size keyboard which sits right next to my home workstation to aid in composition.  If Finale isn't the way to go, I'm willing to explore additional options.  I've been in my fair share of studios, but it's always been on the performance end... judging from your mini-resume, I'm guessing I'm talking to the right guy!

Does your full-sized keyboard have a traditional MIDI output or one that uses USB? If you have a traditional MIDI out, you will need a MIDI interface to plug into a USB input on your computer. (At any rate, you'll need the approrpriate cables.)

Although Finale can add an audio track, to add multiple tracks or process the tracks (even in a simple way to make them sound better) you really need the capabilities of a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). 

Although Finale can produce recordings, it's main purpose is to create notation. Conversely, some DAWs can produce notation, their main purpose is to create recordings. Use the right tool for the job that you need to do.

>Although Finale can produce recordings, it's main purpose is to create notation. Conversely, some DAWs can produce notation, their main purpose is to create recordings. Use the right tool for the job that you need to do.<

Yes, those who rely on DAW notation are generally frustrated that it isn't better. Support boards for every notation app are jammed with help requests to make VIs behave/sound better and for better (or any) recording ability. For most of us, the ideal solution is both.

Concentrate on the task at hand and the right solution should follow. I won't say that any one way is better — it depends on you.

Finale can sync with most DAWs through Rewire support. The basics are in the Help files. Your notation is on one side while your audio and VIs are on the other.

If your goal is to sweeten a composition, you can compose in Finale, then export the MIDI or .xml — your studio app uses this to create tracks that you assign your VIs (virtual instruments) to and lets you record and overdub to your heart's content. This is my approach.

Many composers will begin by playing in the DAW, send it to Finale, create the basic score to which they edit and expand etc. Then it is sent back to the DAW. Nearly all DAWs can import/export MIDI (there are exceptions, mostly the Lite versions included with interfaces). Many DAWs now export MusicXML and some import it as well (such as Logic on the Mac side). There are Windows DAWs with MusicXML import/export, of course.