i have digi 02 with protools 6.9.2 and also with reason 3.0. i also do a
lot of sampling. i mainly track a mellow style of hip hop, hard beats
with cool sample loops, vocals, scratching and some syths from reason.
everything is sounding great, but now it is time for mixdown and
getting wet in some mastering. I want to get a good bundle of plugins
to start with and i need some feedback. i have been looking at waves
native power pack and digis pro factory bundle. Are these good options
and what else should i consider? also where could i get good info on how certian plugins should be used and the right situation?

I've never been a huge fan of the waves stuff but for mixing I have always loved Filterbank EQ's from McDSP. I know they have a native bundle that is more affordable. I'm not sure they are included but it's worth checking out for great EQ's. I've never tried their new verb but compressor bank is useful as well.

http://www.mcdsp.com/

You should check the UAD card. The plug ins are excellent.

thanks

The PT factory bundle is only just ok for decent results. Bombfactory compressors are good. as to the Joe Meek EQ.

There is a new 7-band EQ II from Digidesign that is worth the download, its free fro registered PT users.

other plugs that are great when mixing,

Pultec EQ's
Fairchild Limiter.
Bluetubes bundle, fairly good
MCDSP, are top quality, the analogue channel plug, works wonders on a mix.
Waves, bundles are top quality.