I'm still mildly surprised that none of the big three has incorporated a modular approach for at least one model, so that the buyer can add the main functions of choice.

Sure they add plug ins for sounds and even analog modeling modules, but what about being able to add a Tyros arrangers functions to a workstation ala the Motif ES ( but fully expandable ), or a hardware module with PA1x arranger functions or another with the karma functions for the Triton Extreme ( without having to spend 8 grand for an Oasys and possibly paying for many things you won't ever use ).

It's probably fodder for another thread but looking at the kb manufacturers and their corporate structures I can't help but think of it as a microcosm of life in general in today's times. We are blessed with so much technology and conveniences that many of us couldn't have dreamed of a few decades back.

Still, I kinda miss the days when you could build a modular synth from ( or almost from ) scratch, and readily be able to find parts, or when I could walk into a Radio Shack and actually find enough parts to build an entire ham Radio station that worked and was different from what the next guy had. Today every moderate to large sized town looks pretty much the same to me. They all have the same chain stores with the same inventory whether I'm in NY, Pa, or Florida, and it seems there are very few little guys with specialty items that can make it in a storefront today. Every radio and TV station has a clone in another market, or so it seems. Not good times for the "rugged individualists" I'm afraid. Sorry for the temporary hijack of your thread Donny. I'm off the soapbox for now

AJ