Ease of use, color screen, USB connectivity and the MegaVoice sounds give some edge to the 3000, especially if you really just want a nice 61-note keyboard with built-in speakers for home use. It's a new keyboard that will be supported for a least a few years to come.

The 9000 Pro is discontinued but it has far more pro-level features than any other Yamaha arranger, hence the "pro" name - including options for an internal hard drive, lo-z XLR mic input, voice expansion cards, and LittleLites. It does have sampling but it's mono only. I use my 9000 Pro on stage 4-6 nights a week and have no trouble transporting it at 45 pounds, but that's hefty for many users. Great keyboard feel and the sounds are excellent (taken from the Motif) - even the guitars are very good but they are not "megavoice" variety like the Tyros and the 3000.

Overall the 9000 Pro is one of the most versatile and powerful stage keyboards ever made, but frankly Yamaha never supported it well whereas lots of nice goodies come with the Tyros like OPT panels for voice editing when sequencing - I assume the 3000 will have the same level of support. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the 9000 Pro for stage and the 3000 for home use. And I still think that some day a "3000 Pro" keyboard would be a great concept.