Keith,
I agree with you statement "I for one would love to see a Mediastation type open solution that gives me all the quality and features I currently need but can be expanded to give practically anything that I may require in the future.

I think the concept is great - VST instruments and effects are fantastic and the multi sampled Giga sound libraries are amongst the best. But - I dont want to cart around a laptop and have to build the system myself. I have read Frank R's writings with interest and was even tempted to go down that route myself but I'm no techie and I'd probably strangle myself with a midiyoke - I just want to sit down and play."

As a matter of fact that was exactly how I felt when I began asking questions on this forum about soft synths. From a conveneince stand point I liked the idea of an "all in one" vs. a componet system for live performance.

I can definitely say that the Mediastation has not disappointed me at all!
It is completely stable as I have performed on it live about 9 or 10 times with no problems, other than trying to see the screen outdoors in bright direct sunlight.

The X88-Pro plays great and sounds great. I like the Steinway B1 giga piano best.

I wish there were more places to try it out, but if any SZ member wants to visit me in the U.S. I would be glad to demo the Mediastation for them. Maybe I can make the next SZ Jam in my area as well. I live in SC.
Richard