No doubt, Bill. But the present seems closed.

As intimate with VSTi's as Yamaha are (some of their newer keyboards operate as a VSTi in a computer environment, but are still 'closed' in themselves), you can probably come to the conclusion that they won't make an 'open' or all software arranger until it IS possible to be better than the 'closed' ones they currently make. Something that Wersi haven't grasped, I think.

'Open' for 'open's' sake is a very expensive idea. Until 'open' is superior across the board to 'closed', it remains a rich man's toy. The truth is, most of the 'open' music making going on (and, as I've said, I use it all the time in the studio) is being done on relatively inexpensive computers, in a non-realtime environment. At it's best, it is amazing. But not quite ready for realtime and portable hardware and the demands of arranger players, probably the most versatile, drop-of-a-hat players out there.

As a studio tool, it is without question superior. But as a live performance arranger, it remains just a hair or two short of being better than 'closed' systems. That will change in the future. But how long it takes may rest with the majors, who seem the only ones with deep enough pockets to voice and style it to the next level.

I believe it IS no coincidence that Wersi will play Yamaha styles, and MS try to pirate their sounds (or at least condone it)... Until the promise of 'open' becomes a reality, this is how these instruments try to sound better, and be more popular....

By copying a 'closed' one, NOT being vastly better.