There can be multiple answers to your question. I can shed a little light, but there are probably many others who can get more into detail.

The laptop is probably being used to "sequenced" songs...

There can actually be multiple answers to your question, so I'll just give what VERY limited info I can. I'm sure there are others who will be more informed. The laptop is being used to "sequence"...

Glyph is the way to go! Sweetwater won't steer you wrong. You won't be dissappointed!

The Command 8 only has one set of stero outputs. Any secrets out there for how to connect the device to both a headphone amp AND your studio monitors??