[Luxey]

One cold make an virtual environment with only the plug ins one like and use, so each time the DAW start, it opens with plug ins in their usual rack spaces. That way no need to learn any more than in hardware based studio.

However, I understand what you mean. I prefer hardware too, but it requires space, and don't come as freeware.
Tangential - You'd be amazed how many excelent and usefull freeware there is. From basic to utterly esoteric. So, unless you're to ammas customers based on plug ins brands, freeware's (plug ins) all you'd ever need.