Ok, Douglas, peace between us.

I understand your feeling. There is a social presure to buy yamahas. A lot of store men say "better yamaha" (I have listened it), perhaps because a lot of store men don't have Tecnics at their store...? Why? I don't know.

When I asked for Technics, some honest but not good salesmen said to me: "Technics? I don't know Technics, sorry. I have only Yamahas".

And some not honest nor good salesmen said: "Oh, no, don't buy Technics; they aren't as good as Yamahas... (and I haven't Technics at my store, too)"

Only a honest and good salesman would say: "Technics? Yes, I have Technics. I will explain you the similarities and differences, pros and cons, of different arrangers. But you must play them, and decide yourself. I help you to decide only if you want".

Best wishes