Yesterday, there was a post here on the synthzone discussing the Yamaha DGX305 and the DGX505 models. The discussion followed with posts of a model which could have more of the current PSR3000/Tyros features. One member listed the pros and cons of the DGX keyboards and as I read these my thoughts were exactly the same. Wouldn't it be great to have more tracks to sequence, a style recorder, more polyphony, etc.?

I would like to ask the members of this forum for your thoughts as to whether or not a keyboard with the DGX305 and DGX505 key touch and a 76 and 88 note keyboard would be something you would want to own, and how much you would be willing to pay for products like these?

For many years, I've discussed my customers needs and desires for new products with Project Managers working on arranger keyboards, and often I've seen my recommendations implemented on new products.
I thought with such a big audience here at the Synthzone, I could really find out what the majority of you want. I remember several years ago talking with Yamaha about building a 76 key or 88 key arranger. Not too expensive, and with a moderate price tag. Yamaha asked "Would customers buy these models without weighted keys?" My answer was "yes, if the prices were not to high". These models have been winners throughout the country. At their current price points, they are great values.
Could a DGX type keyboard with PSR3000 features and with a piano type action, not with a weighted keyboard be something you would be interested in owning? Mega Sounds, 16 track Sequencer, Vocal harmonizer and all the other features currently found on the PSR1500 and PSR3000 should be included.
How much would you imagine having to pay for a keyboard with these features?
I would suggest about $1500.00 for 76 keys and $1995.00 for 88 keys.
Do you think this would be a good target price?
If Yamaha is considering a Tyros with 76 keys, like the 9000PRO's keyboard, would you prefer the 76 and 88 Piano Type keys found on the DGX models? Also, keeping in mind that a Tyros Pro keyboard would probably sell for twice that of the DGX type keyboard I am suggesting.

As a store owner, I know I could sell more keybaords at a more attractive price but I also need to know.....how important is the key action?
Should an 88 key model have weighted keys vs light piano touch keys and at what price?
Is it OK for the 76 key to be lighter keys but still shaped and sized larger like a piano? My thought would be weighted on the 88 key version and lightly weighted on the 76 key. This would also keep the cost of the 76 somewhat lower I should think......What are your thoughts?
Thanks in advance for any thoughts you might contribute and I promise to foward any of your comments to Yamaha for their evalutation.

George Kaye
Kaye's Music Scene
Reseda, California