I use Studio One 4.6 as my DAW. I have multiple midi controllers, but just last week purchased Native Instrument's Komplete Kontrol M32 keyboard, for the specific reason that it ties in with Komplete Kontrol. That is a great way to not only manage all your VST and sample libraries, but it gives you direct control to things like modulation, lfos, filters, volumes, and such to manipulate as you are performing it while you're recording. It is the "rug that ties the room together" for me, as a Big Lebowski reference there.
I have multiple instruments from Native Instruments, and I also have Arturia's Series V version 7 library, which is absolutely fantastic. They just came out with version 8. Wait until things go on sale with them, same with Native Instruments, as things go 50% or more at times. So the series V collection lists at $499, but I got mine for $249 this time last year, around the holidays.
Also, there's a bunch of really powerful free stuff I could point you to, like Spitfire's Lab series, which are fantastic samples, as well as the free version of BBC orchestra, complete. Very nice. Very usable.
I spend a lot of my time immersed in that world, so anything you'd like to know, ask away. I don't know everything, but I do know a fair amount.