After doing some follow up I noticed you can display lyrics on the dual LCD for SMF and mp3/WAVE apparently; but mp3+CDG can only be displayed using the video output socket i.e. through an external monitor. So that's good to know that at least SMF and mp3/Wave lyrics can be displayed on the dual LCD's.

From what I've seen from the photos the LCD images seem grainy and even fuzzy but it was obviously a business decision done on purpose to basically get people to purchase an iPad if they don't already have one. I think Roland made a huge mistake and it could very well backfire on them since a lot of people might balk at the idea of purchasing a $500 accessory that shouldn't be required to see things in color. And as a result it could discourage a lot of people from getting the BK-9. Which is a shame.

Once I play it I'll be able to make a final determination. As I've stated before the Korg PA600 is $999 and it has a nice higher-resolution color *touchscreen* LCD that runs circles around the BK-9 dual LCD. Oh well, like it or lump it I guess.

There's so much to like about the BK-9 but the obvious kink(s) in its armor could ultimately be its undoing. Hopefully it will sell like hotcakes and thus fatten Roland's wallet so they'll have enough money next time around to give the BK-9 successor a high-resolution color LCD. And a vocal harmonizer. And after-touch. And a Sampler thank you. And perhaps 50W speakers?? Don't hold your breath. Because if Roland's current high-end arranger timeline means anything it means we may not see a BK-9 successor until the year 2020 or possibly longer! By that time Yamaha will be on the Tyros7 if not the Tyros8 by then.

All the best, Mike