I have used a 9000PRO for the last 3 to 4 years and still love it. I agree with everything that has been said.
I use it for gigging every week and it has been, and remains a reliable work horse. It has never failed me - ever.

Compared with the "modern technology" it may be showing its age (T1 and T2, Roland and Korg) regarding latest connectivity devices, but this can be overcome with third-party products to give you usb and computer integration.

The sounds, including organ flutes, of the 9000PRO are more than competitive and can be tweaked to your own ear and situation without too much hassle.

It has a Vocal Harmoniser which isn't perfect (I haven't ever seen one which is) but it more than allows you to get the job done. I use a SURE WH20 head mic which couples with the 9000PRO without problem.

The keyboard's input/output facility is ahead of most of its modern counterparts. Being able to channel selected individual parts out through separate ports (4 plus main ports) is a real bonus.

For "programming" the ability to plug in a normal qwerty computer keyboard is another time saving facility.

When performing I use the plug-in lights, which look great (atmospheric) and are functional for when the house lights etc. actually go out (which on recent occasions has happened more often than not).

The screen is large and legible but is not colour or "gooey". It is "character". (A sign of the times).

The 9000PRO has a basic sampling facility which allows you to create new sounds, limited only by your imagination and skill and patience. The new sounds can then be stored and used in your normal work.

One of the original reasons (for me) buying a 9000PRO, is that it has two plug-in slots for two additional sound boards (synths). This makes life really interesting.

The music database comes with about 602 pre-arranged songs(styles)- not as comprehensive as the more modern keyboard offerings but is a great start to what you want to do. I have built my own databases because it is that easy.

I have got the latest version of the operating system installed.

Whenever I play, there is always some who come up and admire the technology (despite its age). They would not relate to its vintage, they just love the sound, what it can do and their good experience.

I continually evaluate the latest offerings from Yamaha, Roland and Korg. For what I do, I would only use 76 keys having already come from 61 keys. So, T2 is not an option. T3 with 76 keys would certainly be worth a look. To me Roland may be a go when (if ever) it settles down - on paper it is an awesome keyboard but, it lacks some of the nicer things that I like about the 9000PRO, as does the Korg offering.

Hope this helps you.



[This message has been edited by JonPro (edited 10-28-2005).]