Step Sequencer VST/DXi?

I'm looking for a step sequencer to use within SONAR and Project 5, preferably as a DXi or VST, although I suppose Rewire is ok too.

The main features I'm looking for are:

-Sequence audio samples and VST/DXi/Hardware MIDI instruments within the same pattern
-Quick and easy recall of patterns and variations (preferably by MIDI control)
-Lots of sound sculpting features
-Automatable with MIDI learn
-The ability to do odd meters (7/8, 11/4, etc.) would be very helpful for my music.

I like the interface of FruityLoops, and it seems to fulfill most of these needs, but I'm also intrigued by Sonicbytes EST and Fxpansion Guru. (although the latter is a bit out of my price range -- I'd like to keep it at $99 or below, although if the perfect program is $149 I can be a bit flexible).

Any thoughts?

Thanks,
chris.