I've got an AWE64 value thingo and I use it with FT2, IT and everything else under the sun.
I must say that I was not aware that the sound quality varies depending on the volume.
Are you sure this is correct? I'm gonna go try it asap to find out for myself but maybe the
reason I've never noticed is because the AWE is doing the trick. My main point though is that if you're gonna get an AWE64 and you can afford it the Gold is way better. I'd like it just for those gold RCA's, plus if you get into MIDI sequencing you'll need more on-board ram than what the value gives you.