I had an Atari STFM with a ram upgrade running cubase on a monchrome monitor alongside a Korg M1. I'm using a Roland FA08 now with ableton live and sometimes cubase on my laptop, but mostly just enjoy playing live stuff and messing with the internal workstation features on the synth. Bought a Korg krome, but sent it back because the the keys were terrible (my roland is weighted). I also play drums in a band doing rock covers. I'm really into retro synth stuff at the moment, as a result I'm pretty much the only person enjoying Muse's new album. there is a music thread around here somewhere, feel free to drop in and post anything you have created.
Regarding Laptops, keep an eye on Hot UK Deals (google hukd) it's where you'll find some good bargains.