... Another factor (probably over-looked) is the build quality of the T3 versus the others. It wasn't surprising when I looked under my units (4 that were sent in from Germany with 1 being returned) and found out that they were all made in .... JAPAN !!! Are those that are being sold in the US also made in Japan (George, please confirm)?

GREAT!!!!

That might explain why ...
* The screen has equal brightness from left to right, top to bottom (unlike most T2s were it was sometimes uneven) - which could be why the LCD contrast button has been eliminated?
* The keybed feels more sturdy (try wiggling keys from left to right - then do the same on the T2 or T1).
* Internal components - you can now (by switching 2 wires) change the voltage required between 110v (US) and 220v (World).
* USB sockets wired directly to CPU board versus previous extra circuit boards.
* Better ventilation on power circuit boards.
* etc ...

... Then again, all Tyros' were designed in Japan so it could just be modifications in many instances due to what was learned and researched in the field by the previous models (as many manufacturers do). However, beign designed in Japan and built with Japanese components using Japanese Labor is a HUGE difference as opposed to designed in Japan and built in ... e.g. China?

Either way, the build quiality of the T3, the SA1 and SA2 voices plus the extra control capability (Art1 & Art2) offered to control these from the panel (rather than only via the footswich) are great improvements. I however reserve my personal views on the "Arranger aspects" and features - especially drums and bass!!
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[KETRON - USA]
Design Engineer & Product Specialist.
www.KetronAmerica.com