hello, i'm new to this list too..and just for reference, i have a
modest system of mixed doepfer/analog
systems/blacet/metasonix pieces.

in your post you mention: "> I have no real interest in the typical
"techno" or beat oriented

> sounds, I'm looking for noises (not really the typical analog
> blurbling, more harsh type sounds like the EMS), sound

effects,

> drones, etc..."

well, from my experience w all this stuff, for what you're looking
for, it's worth taking a look at blacet modules, check out the
darkstar module as a good starting point. that said, i don't think
you'll find a easy substitute for the vcs3 'sound'. then again,
now that i think of it, i recently played w an arp 2600 that was
certainly happiest making the types of sound you describe. it
really has a mind of it's own sometimes, much like the vcs3, and
is somewhat similar in nature.

good luck.