Wow - great input from all of you. I am glad I joined this forum before I take the plunge and purchase the XV-88. From what I gather, at least for me, the XV-88 will be a good choice.Even though some of you sound a bit dissapointed my guess is that it will be a big step up the ladder from my current synth.

I am rather new to all of this,and not at all savvy concerning all the synths you folks have knowledge of. I am a guitar player that is venturing into a new realm. To get my feet wet, so to speak, a year ago I purchased an Alesis QS6.1 ( apparently not a synth that deserves mention in this company - sorry for mentioning it ). I also bought a new computer and set it up as my digital audio, and midi work station.

I am teaching myself to play the keys - and wanted to upgrade to a full 88 key, fully weighted keyboard. I started looking around for just a digital piano but then I caught wind of the XV coming from Roland and thought it was worth looking at, since I would gain both the full keyboard plus additional synth capabilities.

I wish I could actually play one before I buy it, but no stores around here have one,nor do they anticipate ever having one on display.Roland isn't even shipping until May 20th according to the latest info I have. So I am relying on what I hear from you who have actually got your hands on one and your comments.

Thanks again.