T2, S900, whatever...

So far, I just can't grok how Yamaha would lose if a 76 S900 comes out.

Let's say that 25% of S900 users actually made the switch (unlikely, but possible)... The total number of Yamaha arrangers sold has not changed one iota. And the increase in profits (you make more off a more expensive model) is modest, but there. The cost of re-tooling for a 76 is miniscule to say something like the T3's development, as only the case needs a redesign (the OS and sounds, engine, I/O and display remain identical), and probably the modest increase in profits would cover this. Remember, being #1 in the market with volume of sales has already brought the price of the internal componentry down below it's competition (volume=lower costs), so it's less of a burden on Yamaha than say Roland...

BUT.... now add in the legions (OK, OK, but still a significant number) of fans of the Yamaha that are forced to use something else because of the lack of a 76. That's entirely gravy... Money Yamaha would have NEVER made without the 76 option. The poll showed just how significant the numbers of players here that prefer 76, given the choice. Even if as few as 15% of those would either switch or add a S900-76 (remember, you don't HAVE to get rid of your TOTL when an S900 is so affordable), ask any Yamaha salesman if he'd like to gain an additional 7% of the market next year, ask him what HE'D think of the idea... That's not chump change in anyone's book.

I really don't see how this even effects the DGX salesmen, as they don't even HAVE a product in the @$2k range. As I said, I think Yamaha would be mistaken to try testing this market out with something even MORE expensive than a T2, but a 76 S900 would give Roland and Korg a hard run... Their 61 S900 already does, why are they not going for the jugular?

Marketing? Lack of it, I'd say...