I'm interested to know if this Roland deal is unique to the UK.

The world is a much smaller place now due to the Internet and also to much cheaper travel etc. I bought a Ketron XD3 when they first came out and all 4 dealers (that I could find) in the UK wanted full retail for this brand new product at the time. As you guys have already said, no-one pays full retail for musical instruments so I bought from Belgium at just HALF the price it was in England including VAT and delivery - Sure, it's a bit further to send for a repair but unless Roland make this policy worldwide then there will be people willing to deal with "grey imports" like myself.

I'd like to mention that I have found their UK support somewhat lacking and their documentation difficult but this has not stopped me from buying or really liking Roland stuff in the past nor will their price fixing approach stop me in the future.

Perhaps, as already mentioned, the "old dog of a keyboard" trade in approach gives dealers a chance to differentiate on pricing.

Incidently, You can get a new Tyros in the UK for a smidge inder £1800 although there are plenty of dealers selling for more and adding "value" such as support and freebies.
I know that lots of people support their local dealers and that is great for them as they get what they want from their deals but I need competitive pricing, not neccassarily the cheapest deal but a deal that suits me.

Just my own (selfish) two peeeees worth.

KF