For the most part, I lean toward Yamaha for several reasons. First and foremost Yamaha seems to have much better factory and technical support than any of the other leading manufacturers. There are factory authorized service centers worldwide that usually provide excellent support for their products. Naturally, there are exceptions to this, but generally speaking, Yamaha seems to be at the top of this list.
As for the sounds, this, of course, is subjective. Some like the polished sounds Yamaha provides, while others prefer a rougher sound claiming it closely resembles a live band. Of course, everyone that sees you playing knows it's not a live band creating the music. I, personally, love both Yamaha's styles and individual voices.
Well said, and I agree wholeheartedly with your above statements.
I also love the Yamaha sounds and styles...definitely smooth and nicely detailed.
Support is awesome, especially in regards to styles and sounds, both third party and factory versions.
The Audya, according to some owners I have spoken with
personally, sounds excellent, with some very good styles, but sadly lacks both factory and third party support and hasn't had a good track record for reliability according to these users. One just has to read the Ketron forums to get an idea of it's how it's doing.
Also, although I have been a piano player most of my life, I am totally happy, and well served, by the beautifully made and very responsive
61-note FSX keyboard on the Tyros4 when using the instrument as it is designed to be used...
as an arranger.
Ian