I guess I was trying to use a soft synth I didn't understand.  I started last night with a new project, did exactly what I wanted with the GS Wavetable, then added a drum kit and a strings soft synth.  Everything worked as I wanted.
 
I'll keep with the tutorials and other info you all sent.  Thanks again.
 
Now... to make some music!!!

Mark - do yourself a favour and put your entire system spec & software in your signature.

You'll be asked time & again for this information and you'll get as fed up with typing it out as we will of asking for it!

I tried once to set up my signature, but I guess I didn't get it right.  Here's another try.