There is a package called REASON that does everything, it is a recorder as well as an effects unit as well as rhythm machines and several synthesizers.
All in one. Mind you, I only like to use hardware.
MOOG
ACCESS VIRUS
DAVE SMITH (EVOLVER and PROPHET)
NORD.
Look for Rack Mounted versions of the machines these people produce. Same thing as the big ones, just smaller without keyboards. I bought a Zoom mini studio for £100. Ebay.
I got a Tascam DP 02 as I don't want to use soft synths and Logic Pro, Cubase etc. Hardware Ocd, that is me.
Synthesis... x