Ian, my statement may offend someone (if the shoe fits....) but I'll bet if you were able to fact-check it, it would be essentially accurate. As far as Oscar is concerned, that's a really poor example, as Oscar didn't need to try to fool anyone, need a 'crutch', or prove anything. As you said, he was a gadget freak, and what RICH, musically-oriented, gadget freak wouldn't be attracted to an arranger? If I were rich, I'd own every one ever made. The TRUE test; did you ever see him play a gig with one? Use one on a recording? Base an arrangement on an arranger style? Like I said, Oscar? Poor example. There is a big gap between technology and artistry. Neither is a substitute for the other. JMO.

chas