Talk about repetitive. Same old topics, same old endless discussions, same old back-patting, same old arguments, same old counter-arguments, same old self-congratulatory claptrap, same old desperate craving for approval. We should just rename it from Synthzone to Rehash-zone. Of course the 'wily old veterans' of the board know exactly which topics, subjects, or even phrases, will get a response, and it appears that most times that is all they are looking for and have no real interest in starting a serious MUSICAL conversation.

In all my years in music, I don't think I've ever heard a first-rate musician brag about his musical prowess or how much his audiences loved him/her. They have all, with few exceptions, been content to let others sing their praises. Pro's don't need to remind people every five minutes that they are pro's.

Arrangers, Styles, MP3's, SMF's.......they're ALL crutches. Using them doesn't necessarily mean that you 'can't play', but they ARE crutches. And we all know that there is a lot of mediocre talent out there USING these crutches to make a mediocre living playing to what are essentially captive audiences. The question is, will people dress up, go out, and pay good money to see you......or go next door to see the live band?

The dilemma here is, the Arranger keyboard was designed, built for, and marketed to, amateur HOME PLAYERS. This board, however, is essentially driven by a handful of people who are NOT home players (even if they should be). Therefore, the opinions expressed on this board by the very vocal 2% of the total membership of this forum are not necessarily the opinions of the majority (and probably should not be taken as such).

Anyhoo, been away for awhile and just thought I'd chime in.

Peace,

chas