Played both.

(As I recall correct),1500 doesnt have live!(s500 have 2 ) piano sound,have less sweet/cool voices.Ac guitars are also better in s500.

s 500 has only phone/main out,1 sustain pedal in.NO multi pads.

1500 has all ins/outs like 3k(minus vox in and tv out).mod wheel.midi ports,exp pedal in,all are there.all functions like user style writing is in 1500.same efx and EQs like 3k(unlike older Yams like 1000,1100)

OS is better in 1500(like 3k).

sound wise s500 is a litter better(like a mini 3k).

too bad only pitch wheel in s500,and no multi pads(other stuff -you can live with it.)

If s700 is coming out,It'll have mod wheel and Live! grand,then you'll have a winner.

If s500 sells for $499 it'll smoke the competition.but for $700,a little high,still a good value.

can't wait for s900.(if it's true).

[This message has been edited by jamman (edited 02-06-2007).]