Quote:
Originally posted by Diki:
What colors many peoples' opinions here depends on their experience as keyboard players.........

Have you ever played in a REAL band?
Have you ever played in a GOOD live band?
Were you the best player in a good live band?

Different (honest) answers to these questions can color your opinion of an arranger.

If you've never played in a full band, you're probably trying to sound like a CD.
If you've played in a live band, that's probably the dynamic you are looking for.
If you weren't the best player in the band, you are probably looking for an arranger that takes care of nearly all the parts for you, and provides inspiring accompaniment.
If you were the best player in the band, you are looking for more supportive, sideman accompaniment, not overwhelming your contribution.

Different needs take different arrangers. None are 'best', just some are 'best' at a particular task.

Far to many Tyros2 owners claim their 'board rules because when they sit down and play it, no matter what skill level they are at, it sounds fantastic. Never mind the fact that the machine is doing nearly all the work - you could virtually get a gig just playing chords and singing, you don't need a right hand at all! You sound just like a CD......... brilliant!

However, for many of you with greater skills, the Tyros' ability to overwhelm you is an obstacle, not a benefit. You want to sound like YOU, not a Tyros.......... You want to sound like a band, NOT a CD..........

But for each type, THEIR choice is the best keyboard. The hard part comes in acknowledging the other's point of view and needs........... Perhaps if we were more honest in posting our skill levels and experience, these pissing contest here would fade to a distasteful memory, and we could get on with the task of helping each other become better MUSICIANS, not keyboard salesmen.


Good observations, good analysis and advice, and well said!!
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TTG