Hello Peter,
I recently sold my 6000 and after years of owning Technics boards decided that the 7000 (whilst MUCH improved on the 6000) was not for me this time. I did decide to go with yamaha and had long admired the 9000Pro. I played the Tyros and decided having already sold the 6000 that the wait to actually get the tyros home was impossible for me to live with! I am quite taken with the 9000pro and am happy enough but I have to agree with you. There is NO COMPARISON with the Technics pads and Yammies pads. Technics win hands down. I really miss them.

After years of Technics I am having to concentrate really hard to get used to the Yamaha way of doing things. Now if they would only start selling Yamatech 7000 pro's I would buy one tommorow The only other option is to win the lottery and then get one of each I think. Having said all that I would not be surprised if I dont buy another 6000 or maybe 6500 just because I miss it! Don't get me wrong I lOVE the 9000Pro but I knew I should have kept the 6000 in reserve....why did I not listen to myself???
Best wishes and hope you really enjoy your new 7000.
Tony