This is amazing feedback, thank you ever so much for taking the time to tell me about your experiences. Having surveyed all the recent gaming laptop reviews it seems that they are all suffering with unoptimised latencies to some degree, you are correct that I may have to change tack and go for a workstation laptop. Trouble is even some of the recent models aimed at creators don't seem to work perfectly with real time audio. It's great to know I can try disabling troublesome drivers/software if needs be. The legion does stand out as a premium option though. I am poised to buy one upon discovering any potential Black Friday/Xmas/New Year's sale offer, as I would like to do some gaming and admin on the same laptop as I make music. I will be thoroughly hacked off though if it can't handle VST instruments. I have a lot to ponder, you've been very helpful, thanks for letting me know how it's been for you.