I know these either/or things tend to be kinda silly, but I am looking for an 88 key board, and the only thing I've gotten to play is the S80, so I'm calling on all those who have played both those keys. I'm primarily a piano player, so hardcore synth sounds aren't as important as good piano, rhodes sounds. Still, people love that XV! So tell me, folks, which is it?
Josh

I bought the XV-88 but they're both great. I like the keyboard action on the XV better (more piano-like to me) but the "stock" piano on the S80 sounds slightly better IMO. However, the SRX-02 Piano expansion board for the Roland sounds fantastic. I will buy one as soon as I can afford it. Haven't had a chance to hear the Yamaha expansion cards. I'd give the edge to Roland on the EP's, plus there are more of 'em.

BTW, you might want to check out the 'XV-88 vs. S80' discussion at The-Gas-Station.

I have the Roland XV-88 with the SRX-02 Concert Piano expansion card. Sounds fantastic and the keyboard action is great.

Word of caution - make sure if you buy and XV-88 to get it from a music store that will make repairs/replacements as painless as possible. The XV-88 is a new product and based on my experience has the possibility of some problems.

I will shortly be recieving my 3rd XV-88. The first unit I recieved didn't even power up. My current XV-88 is not responding to aftertouch from the keyboard. Luckily I bought the XV-88 from a local music store and they have made this experience as painless as possible.

In fact the music store is going to deliver to my door the 3rd unit now on order and pick up my current unit.