Hello and thanks again guys!

Arbaz & Scott: I used a PC and a SoundBlaster Live soundcard (Line in) to record my PA80 (L/R Mono Output). Can't really afford a quality soundcard right now, but it does the job. I used the soundcard's recording software (creative recorder) to record my songs to wav format, and then I used audiocatalyst (xing tech) to convert wav to mp3 format.

All 3 songs were recorded in realtime in back sequence mode, meaning it records when I'm playing with a style. All of the styles are preset (I'm still learning how to make custom styles). The intro from Tornado (I assume you mean the various SFX sounds like the thunder, the wind, the helicopter...ect) are from the PA80's 4 custom pads. Then I selected the style (pop ballad 2), and I started playing the piano intro and so on.

The PA80 is my first arranger keyaboard, and I almost bought the PSR740, but I really like the PA80 sounds. I wish I could have tested out the Rolands, the Technics, or the Soltons, but unfortunately the only available arrangers locally were the PSR9000 and PSR740. Luckily one of the local Sam Ashe had a PA80 for me to test out before I purchased it. I'm very satisfied with the PA80 mainly because of its sound, drums, and the styles (I like pop/rock/hipop/R&B). I felt the PA80 sound best suited for my music. I'm actually starting to get into many different genre like the jazz and the Latin because of PA80's preset styles.

Things I don't like on the PA80...hmm...the plastic structure...the keys could be more sturdy because sometimes I hear a tiny "crack" sound if I press too hard. The OS can be a bit friendlier (although I got used to it after a few days and reading the manual). Oh, the Fade in/out button don't work in back sequence mode, and the synchro start button don't work either (maybe next OS?) I wish they would have a numbering system on the program sounds (this means a 10 key numbering input like the PSR740 would be nice)...but the good definitely outweighs the bad.

Like I said, this is my first arranger keyboard, and I am so fortunate to have found out about this forum before I purchased my PA80. Thanks to many who have previously voiced their opinions (good and bad) on the PA80 in this forum.

PS: Now I have some questions (for forum memeber). How do you record your music onto mp3 if you're not using a PC and its soundcard? Also, I would like to get a microphone for some vocal recording for the PA80. My budget is around $100. Is there a recommendation in that range? Thanks for any suggestions.

Mikey