<i>&quot;Well there are some things that a lot of computer software VSTs cannot do unless they are specifically programmed to do so&quot;</i><p>That describes every problem that a computer might be called upon to solve.<p>The state of analog synthesizer modeling is very, very good, including emulating modular synths (Arturia, Native Instruments, and many others produce competent modular emulators). I say this as someone that has owned a number of analog synths, and, if I had the space for them (I live in a travel trailer) would still own them. Nonetheless, the notion that there are sounds unique to analog synths is mostly superstition at this point.<p>It is <i>fun</i> to play with it in hardware. But, it is not <i>necessary</i> to play with it in hardware.