This may sound a bit hypocritical for a forum devoted to arranger keyboards, but I just feel that this should be put forth. With all of our debates over the pros and cons of each keyboard, the question over which is the "ultimate" high end arranger, etc., I think that there are two important points to bear in mind. First, correct me if I'm wrong, but I'd estimate that 90% or so of the details and nuances that are constantly fussed about (exact quality of sounds, styles, variety, etc.) are only really noticed by one person -- the musician. From what I can tell, most audiences can't tell the difference between a PSR-9000 and a 540 - nor do they care to. Now this obviously isn't to say that the details are not important to the musician, but it's something to keep in mind throughout these discussions. My second point is that when it really comes down to it, the keyboard isn't what makes the music come alive, the musician does. The keyboard may have every feature and trick in the book, but it's nothing more than a tool. A skilled keyboardist will sound great on most any board available today. An unskilled player will not become a virtuoso because he's sitting behing a $3000 arranger. Of course the specs can make some difference, but the real issue is the musician, not the keyboard. Just thought I'd put in my two cents.

MarcK, I agree with you. What you say here has been stated MANY times before. I too wish this board included much MORE discussion about arranger keyboard playing techniques/tips and other arranger 'music making' related topics, but it appears that more people here prefer comparing the latest arranger keyboard models/features. I had hoped that Notlos' excellent summer song demos & topic thread entitled "Summer Class" would take us in this direction but then (disappointedly) there seemed to be very little interest(?) as witnessed by the relatively few posting replies to his thread. I too enjoy reading about the latest gear, but a new keyboard won't make you a better arranager KB musician, this can only be achieved thru the "time" you devote to improving your keyboard playing skills.

Scott/Mark....I agree with both of you and have decided NOT to respond or contribute to those topics any longer!!! One comment I would like to make with regard to "THE BEST ARRANGER KB". The "ONLY" way to determine the Ins and Outs....Ups and Downs....of a KB is to take it home (or better yet on a job) and play with it!!!!! You can talk about it....You can read about it... You can look at pictures about it... You can gather piles of data about it....But the Bottom Line is...(read the above)

Well said......
Eric