Diki, you know I agree with you 90% of the time (maybe even 95% ), and much of what you say is true, however, I still hold that I don't see the point of using pre-programmed backing (in whatever form) for a bar/club/lounge-type gig. There is a difference between what we generally think of as a 'gig' and a 'show'. A show is a PRODUCTION where the 'band' is not the primary focus. If the band WERE the focus of the 'show', then they'd be playing live. I really don't have a problem (and who would care if I did) with using an arranger in a OMB situation (although if I were a paying customer I'd personally rather hear solo piano), but in a BAND, as in three or more, I just can't see it. My own feeling is that I don't think arranger keyboards were ever intended as a professional performance instrument, anymore than the auto-accompaniment organs that preceded them. Sure, the technology is there, the sounds are there, the price is certainly there. But there is no way you're going to convince me that a keyboard with little instrument and drum icons painted under the keys is an instrument designed for professional players in professional venues.

As far as Herbie Hancock using backing tracks, I've been watching Herbie since he played with Miles (at least 25 times in person) and I've never seen him using any backing tracks.

As far as being retired and financially able to pick and choose gigs, isn't that one of most common goals of most musicians?

Look, I don't want to pick a fight and I probably shouldn't have shown such disdain at the concept of calling the playing of mp3's a gig. I guess I'm just 'ol' skool' where playing a gig meant 'playing' a gig. Hey, different strokes for different folks, right.

Hey, I still enjoy my arrangers (the Tyros2, not so much) but hardly play them anymore as I'm still trying to get my chops back on organ (you know the joy of rediscovery, after a long hiatus). Plus, when I hear that 'B3' voice (even if it's coming from a Nord C1), it still makes my sphincter tighten up the way no synth ever has. Have a good one.

chas