Mike, I have to respectfully disagree with you that a 88 key, weighted, TOTL arranger, if made available, would be the top seller. Of course, in both our cases, this is only OUR opinion.

Although Diki bases his opinions on his own preferences, experiences, uses, and playing style, he is still probably correct in most of his assertions. But Ian also has some valid points. True, 76 semi-weighted keys is certainly a compromise between 61 unweighted and 88 weighted, but it seems to be generally regarded as the most acceptable compromise for those who choose to work with a single keyboard. Studio, permanent installations, and home situations should not even factor into this discussion. We're talking working pro only, here; one without the benefit of roadies or huge stages.

I play piano; not "world class", but well enough to play solo piano gigs or as pianist in a jazz group, but over the years, I have primarily played organ and synths, to the point where my finger strength has been seriously diminished. At this stage, a semi-weighted keybed feels more comfortable to me, even playing piano on it, especially with fast runs. I instantly change my playing style as soon as I sit down at an acoustic piano. I know that it's to accomodate the heavier keyfeel.

I actually like the action on my Tyros 2 although I seldom ever play it, and remember fondly the action on my old DX7. The PA1X Pro's action is slightly heavier (than the T2's) but I've become accustomed to it since I play it far more frequently.

I doubt if we'll see a 88key, fully-weighted, arranger in the near future because I doubt there will ever be a huge demand, but again, this is only my opinion. I disagree that 61 keys is "probably" enough for arranger-only work. Even in arranger mode, I need the extra range of a 76'er for RH jazz piano solos. JMO. BTW, nobody is wrong, here. Different strokes for different folks.

chas