Hi All,
Looking for a 2nd DAW  - possibly switching from Pro Tools.
I'm guessing I can live with Professional (save some $$). 
What does Platinum buy me as opposed to Professional?
They both seem to have Patch Points/AUX tracks, and Pro Channel.
I already have a bunch of WAVES, IK Multi, and UAD plug-ins (using Apollo Twin USB3.0 as interface), and use IK Sample Tank and external synth for VIs./MIDI.
 
Do I really need Platinum?
 
Thanks,
Danny V.

http://www.cakewalk.com/Products/SONAR/Versions#start
 
This is the comparison list. And really the big thing was the lifetime membership for me. I originally was very happy with Professional as I didn't really need all the extra plug ins etc. Mostly what you get with Plat is the bigger collection of add ons. The core functions are the same. I'd still be on Pro if they had not offered the lifetime deal. 
Try Pro first , they will offer you a deal eventually if you wish to upgrade. Make sure to subscribe to the Emails as that's where the best offers come from. 

I would second Cactus' suggestion, I don't think there is any functionality in Platinum that you would miss, given your plug-in collection.