I dont condone the use of pirate copies of software!!!!!
That being said, my story is a similar one to that of 'MartynReid'.
Years ago, when I was just starting to get into computer based composing and recording, I was using a cracked version of Cubase and Reason. Needless to say, nothing really ran well, and I was plagued with problems/lack of experience.
A few years on and I wanted to get serious, as well as start to release and record commercially, and I took the steps of purchasing legitimate copies of the software I wanted, and got rid of the rest.
I now own Cubase SX, Reason 2.5, HALion VST sampler, TC Works Spark XL & Native Bundle, as well as a host of legit sample CD's. Yes, it did cost a lot, but if you are wanting to release music commercially, you
need to own your software.
For a start, you get user support, updates/upgrades, and none of the dodgy goings on associated with badly cracked appz. And, it seems as I get older, my conscience grows bigger too, along with the feeling of guilt and social morality. Software is so damn expensive because so many damn people just use cracked versions!!!!!!!!!
How can I preach about something when I dont (Didnt) follow my own gospel? Well, I cant. It is up to the individual whether he/she feels they can live with robbing and stealing, which using cracked appz is! Somebody worked damn hard to make this stuff, and you think the world owes you a favor and you can use it without paying???? Sorry, I am not having a go at anyone here......just ranting
I dont think you should assume people are using cracked copies, I think you will find some do, but most dont.....
In the end, it is up to you...
Good luck!!!