BOTH the Tyros & 9000pro are terrific keyboards, and both have their individual strengths, so choosing between them imo will depend more on what YOUR specific needs are. The BIG determining factor (for me) in going with the Tyros is the dimensional size and substantially lower weight (27lbs vs 50 lbs). I also hear a marked improvement in the sound of Tyros styles played on the Tyros. The Tyros styles sound to me, smoother & richer, and more alive, possibly because its improved midi timing resolution (1,920 ppq). The Tyros styles, played on a 9000pro, will not sound as impressive compared to played on the Tyros itself, because: 1) the 9000pro doesn't include mega voices, and more importantly, does not support the higher 1,920 midi timing resolution that these Tyros styles were recorded at.

I realize that the 9000pro offers sampling as well as supoprts 3 different voices for the RT part, but being primarily a performing keyboard player, these features are not as important for me.

Like the Pro, I usually take a portable music stand to gigs. I agree that the Tyros music stand is set too high, and wish the Tyros had a music stand more like the 9000pro. I too have a large repetoire, so feel a lot more secure having a lyric/leadsheet chord chart handy to refer to if needed, yet focus 99% of my attention on the audience. A fakebook is also an invaluable tool for satsifying audience requests for songs you may be familar with, but may not remember all the chords/words to, and being able to play an obsure audience request will certainly bring in substantially increased tips.

I don't know how MANY songs others of you have committed FULLY to memory, but for me the only way I can perform MANY hundreds of songs on the fly is to be able to at least have a leadsheet or chord chart handy to glance at (if needed) when performing.

On the Tyros, I'm also getting good clean vocals without the need for an additional outboard mixer.

To solve the lack of a gooseneck lamp sockets on my keyboard, I use a LittLite brand gooseneck halogen lamp:
http://www.littlite.com/product.php?id=25

with it's base attached to the keyboard using the 'industrial strength' velcro which is included with the lamp. Works GREAT.

In the end, select the keyboard which satsifys your individual needs best. The Tyros fullfills mine.

- Scott