Ok, I'll go from there.  Thanks!

Thanks for tip.  That got me farther but still not there.  I can't seem to get Sonar to recognize Expand!2.  ilok shows it is active and the location is My PC.  I was able to get the authorization code in ilok but Sonar doesn't see it.  I uninstalled and reinstalled making sure that ilok was active and had the correct location, but still no go.  I checked the VST / Plugins mgt utility and it is not there.  When I use Windows explorer the only place I can find the files are in Downloads.  Any suggestions?  I have a question into their support but haven't heard back yet.  I wonder if I should move the files into VST folder directly.  Do you think that might work?

Bigdaddyd54
Thanks for tip.  That got me farther but still not there.  I can't seem to get Sonar to recognize Expand!2.  ilok shows it is active and the location is My PC.  I was able to get the authorization code in ilok but Sonar doesn't see it.  I uninstalled and reinstalled making sure that ilok was active and had the correct location, but still no go.  I checked the VST / Plugins mgt utility and it is not there.  When I use Windows explorer the only place I can find the files are in Downloads.  Any suggestions?  I have a question into their support but haven't heard back yet.  I wonder if I should move the files into VST folder directly.  Do you think that might work?

 
The Xpand!2 VST2 plugin is a .dll file that was placed into a folder on your PC during the install.
 
If Sonar is not seeing the plugin, it means you have not added that folder to Sonar's plugin scan path yet.
 
Search your system for "Xpand!2_x64.dll", then add that folder to Sonar VST scan paths. 
 
Edit > Preferences > File > VST Settings > VST Scan Paths > Add> (Browse to the folder you found while searching). 
 
Rescan.  Done.
 
It seems that every 3rd party installer likes to put plugins wherever they like.  I have VST folders scattered all over my hard drive.  It's truly become a big PITA!  I suppose I could re-organize them by dragging them all into one place.  But then the next time I upgrade one, and take the defaults, it's hide-n-seek time again ...

I see.  I thought it would do that as a part of the installation process.  OK then, I'll give that a try.  I did see the dll.
Thanks!

The secret to happiness is to aim Sonar's VST scan to every nook and cranny on your hard drive that 3rd party installers have installed their plugins!  Then it's simple

+1

I was able to get Xpand!2 into Sonar.  I started getting errors with the Addictive Drums2 and Addictive Keys, but was able to modify their paths and the error stopped.  They work fine in Sonar and standalone.  I haven't tried Xpand!2 yet but its UI displayed when setting up an instrument track.  Today I'll be working on mapping the LX49 to soft synths and see how it works with Xpand!2.  I learned a lot about the Sonar plugin world.  Thanks for you help on this.  I guess it's time to start digging in to all the info you've sent me.  I'll let you know how it goes.  Until then ...

Bigdaddyd54
I was able to get Xpand!2 into Sonar.  I started getting errors with the Addictive Drums2 and Addictive Keys, but was able to modify their paths and the error stopped.  They work fine in Sonar and standalone.  I haven't tried Xpand!2 yet but its UI displayed when setting up an instrument track.  Today I'll be working on mapping the LX49 to soft synths and see how it works with Xpand!2.  I learned a lot about the Sonar plugin world.  Thanks for you help on this.  I guess it's time to start digging in to all the info you've sent me.  I'll let you know how it goes.  Until then ...

Great!  I think that you will find that the included Cakewalk TTS-1 (16 track General MIDI multi-timbral) and the Xpand!2 (4-track multi-timbral) instruments will be the fastest way to set up a "band" for backing tracks for your use.
 
Also, don't forget to check out the included Cakewalk Studio Instruments, SI-Bass Guitar and SI-String Section.  They are good for quick backing tracks.  And since you have already found Addictive Drums, you are all ready to jam!
 
As I pointed out earlier, the included z3ta+ has a lot of cool synth sounds that you can use for pads (backgrounds), electronic basses, leads, etc, using just the preset sounds provided.  Then when you are inspired, it offers a deep dive into learning sound design, without getting seduced into buying fancy new soft synths with all the bells and whistles.  Use what you have! 

Well one thing is for sure.  I got to this point faster with your help!  I'll let you know how the LX49 mapping goes today.  Later!

+1
 
Have fun!!!