Korg and Roland each have their own 'sound'.

I don't necessarily agree that the Rolands sound more 'realistic'. I think that many of the Triton's acoustic programs (the acoustic piano is shit though!) are very good particularly the enemble strings, saxes, acoustic guitars and electric guitars. The drums are also great particularly factory preset 'Standard Kit 2' with it's awesome snare sounds!

The XV's are more powerful in terms of progrmmability and synthesis power. The filters are much more flexible for a start. There are a number of different oscillator structures including ring modulation etc that is not found on the Triton unless you have the MOSS board installed.

However, the Triton's synthesis capablities are still reasonable (I don't think too much of the HI filters though!) and the modulation routings are very flexible. Yes, Arvon 45 is right- the MOSS board adds what to me is the most powerful 'affordable' physical modelled synthe to the Triton.

Whilst the XV's effects sound great and offer much variety, the Triton's multiple effects system is the clear winner (the best of any synthe as Arvon45 pointed out above). And yes, I love using my Triton as an fx unit also. It makes my other synthes really shine!!

If you need a sampler, don't bother with the XV synthes as they can't sample. I find this stupid in the case of the XV5080! Why give such detailed sample loading options without going the extra mile to add a full function sampler?????????? The Triton's sampler is not as powerful as say something like an Akai or Emu but it certainly gets the job done and is easy to use.

I have always found Korg synthes easier to use than Rolands and Yamahas. However, you get used to anything after a while! I am soon to become the proud owner of an XV3080 so I just have to say- GET BOTH AN XV AND A TRITON!!!!!!!!!! No seriously, go to a good music shop and extensively try both out side by side. You'll soon know which is the right one for you! DECISIONS, DECISIONS! Good Luck.

PS- Regarding the Trinity and JV series, just because they are superceded doesn't mean they are not worth chasing after- again you'll know quickly what is best for you.