Just a few bits of information to clear up a few points. When Roland released the VA7 through their contemporary keyboard dealers, the decision was made that the CK division would not bring in the VA76 because all the CK keyboards include speakers and they thought that the CK dealers would not want the VA76, which has no speakers. Next, when the VA76 came out a year later through the Pro Roland Division, I didn't receive an exclusive and never claimed to. I thought that the Pro division was asking too much money for this keybaord because the VA7 was already on it's way out and was being sold new in the $1800.00 price range and Roland Pro was listing the VA76 for $2900.00. My feelings then were correct because I only sold a few VA76's until just a few weeks ago when Roland discontinued their MAP price of $2395.00 and are now allowing dealers to advertise as low as they want to go. Of course, I'm sure Roland is going to discontinue this board shortly.
Finally, Don, it was the Korg District Manager and well as the arranger product manager who told me we would not see a 61 key with speakers in the USA. I only pass on the information I'm told. Sometimes, the information changes however. First they said shipment would begin in October, but as we all know, now they are telling me November, and soon it could be December, who knows?
George Kaye
Kaye's Music Scene
Reseda, California