I've finally figured out why there is so much disparity on this board in our views on arranger keyboards. It's simple, really, and I'm sure it's been brought up before, so no epiphany here.

Aside from the usual cultural, generational, and economic biases, and of course, brand loyalty, I believe that the biggest source of disagreement is the fact that we belong to three (3) separate and distinct camps and that we tend to judge, opine, defend, recommend, love, hate, everthing relating to arranger keyboards from the perspective of our individual camp.

There is -
1. The true 'working pro' who uses an arranger KB, along with vocals, as the centerpiece of his/her act. This person usually operates as a OMB and derives most or all of their income from performing.

2. The true 'working pro' that does NOT use an arranger KB (or uses it sparingly or in a subordinate role - to say, a piano or organ). This person usually owns one or more arrangers and enjoys playing them but not 'tinkering', setting up, experimenting, "delving deep", creating styles, fine-tuning, and other 'geekey' stuff.

3. The home player. This category (like the first two) could be subdivided even more, into say, well trained amateurs capable of playing at a pro level (but now the demands of being a doctor, lawyer, or corporate executive doesn't allow the time to 'gig' - like back in college), and the largely untrained beginner who now has the financial wherewithal to feed his musical delusions of being a pop star (at age 60) with the help of this marvelous toy. Both of these types are usually pretty well-heeled (along with being gadget freaks).

Most of the people on this board fall into one of these categories. Obviously, both their needs and desires, in terms of arranger keyboard features, is going to be very different. The 'working pros' are going to be most adamant about their opinions, believing that their 'pro' status makes their views and opinions more valid than the other guy's. In truth, it does, FOR THEM. In fact, there will even be disagreements WITHIN this group depending on things like type of music played or whether or not the person is a vocalist (built-in mic input, harmonizer, etc.).

The point is, there is no single 'right answer', but a reasoned, rational, (and civil) response can still provide good information even if it's biased towards your particular group. So, let's agree to disagree; politely, but not to the point of boredom. After all, we're big boys (and girls).

chas

[This message has been edited by cgiles (edited 03-15-2008).]