I spoke to RoandUS. I asked them again about setting up "patches" for live playing on the GW8. They explained that THEY are not even sure about it because....it's a prototype! Anything could change when a "prototype" is introduced. It could even NOT go into production if the "supreme Allied commanders" at Roland decide that.

Also, it's an "entry level" keyboard and, even though it was introduced at NAMM, it still has not arrived at Roland in California for examination. They said with a bit of luck, if it does go into production it will probably not be in the stores until around Xmas.

With this in mind, I'm thinking about the Audya. Roland explained to me that with a "prototype," the manufacturer slaps together a new board from what they have "laying around" (even Roland does this). If buyers show interest at NAMM, then they go ahead with full production.

I don't think I'm going to wait for the Audya. Not only does it have to hit the market yet, but it's got to be around long enough to have a "track record." That will be another year or two and by then the exchange rate will be so bad it would probably be cheaper to buy Italy!

This being a "groupie" for new equipment is wearing me out. Better to be a 1st class musician with a 2nd class keyboard than the other way around.

P.S. Roland said the G-70 is STILL in production...or read that as: they are still on the shelves at RolandUS. I'm not sure that translates to "they are still in production!"

The bright spot in all this is with one phone call and not more than 3 minutes wait time, I'm speaking immediately to a Roland "product specialist." Great customer support (especially when you line them up alongside Ketron). So one must decide...do you want solid customer servicing (Roland) or do you want probably the greatest arranger keyboard on the planet (Ketron)?

Lucky