I think an arranger keyboard is a chameleon, and can only be defined (in the moment) by HOW it is being used and by WHOM. As with most instruments, traditional or electronic, they are going to sound better in the hands of a professional than an amateur. As Abacus so often says, it's the 'easy-play' features that relegates it (in the minds of most people) to the status of a 'home' instrument, and in many cases, is marketed as such. They are usually the least featured or displayed instrument in most music stores and, feature wise, the least understood by music store salesmen.

If you're looking for a triangle or a cowbell (the musical kind), I'm sure you can find a 'cheapo' or a 'professional' model (with the corresponding disparity in price ). I'm not sure what that has to do with anything but I'm sure I was about to make some kind of point ....eh, old age.

But Don is right, you shouldn't have to defend using an arranger, not only on an arranger forum but on ANY forum. What I was attempting to address was the concept that more and better technology (and the never-ending lust for it) is the way to improve our musical prowess. Also, the trend towards prioritizing the technology over the music.

There is no question that in some musical situations, an arranger keyboard is the absolute best tool for the job. To paraphrase Capt. Russ, it's only when it's used as a CRUTCH (instead of a tool) that it's stature and status among instruments is diminished.

chas