You might be right guys... I'm wondering if it's to replace the E-09.., which you have to admit was reasonably priced (especially for Roland).

I'd be surprised if it costs more than the GW-8 though. If it does.., well just fill in the blanks here ______ing insane!

I predict $999.99 - $1199.00 street price.

[This message has been edited by Dnj (edited 01-16-2009).]

Well.., I'll be optimistic and estimate it hitting the street at $750-$800

No Way

What is disappointing is the absence of a new TOTL arranger to replace the aging E-80/G70...and which would showcase upcoming new arranger technology, as well as generate excitement for the fanboys(as well as inspire more confidence that Roland plans on staying fully in the game).

Yamaha fans have a good idea what's going to be on the next S-series, as the T3 technology and features will no doubt trickle down to the mid-range instruments, and ultimately down to the entry level.

The Prelude is repackaged technology...nothing really new or exciting...no new voice technology or style tricks...E-80 and G-70, although still very good arrangers, are falling behind Korg and Yamaha's latest offerings.

Let's hope Donny's prediction of a G90 is true...certainly it is sorely needed to boost Roland's image and let it return to standing shoulder to shoulder with Yamaha and Korg.

I also hope the Prelude is marketed with more savvy than the E-series and the G70...IMO Roland can't afford to make another blunder...this market segment is dominated by Casio and Yamaha, so they best do it right if they want a share of the pie.

Ian

Donny.., the reason I estimate that price is because this looks to be replacing Roland's current low end arranger the E-09. The E-09 hit the street at reasonable price. So (I know I'll get heat for this), but "assuming" this model is possibly replacing the E-09 I would then estimate the price to be less than the GW-8.

Ian: I owned BOTH the E313 and E403. E313 is cheaper than E403(synth knobs) but the amplified sound is much better than E403.

E403 amplified sound is muffled somehow. But the cheaper E313 sounds clear but of course is a lesser keyboard with less features.

If E403 or the newer E413 has a clean sound then it is a very good keyboard. Those knobs are very useful in live situation.

Roland doesn't need another Arranger. The Fantom G series is the MAC of keyboards. IF one cannot construct and arrangement on that GUI......

Saying the Fantom G is the equivalent of an arranger is like saying that George Bush was the equivalent of a President.

Ian

Careful, Ian... Don't bait Froggy

It must be those cheap Canadian prescription meds kicking in...