I agree with Rikki's conclusions---the positive statements about Technics, but maybe not the board for everyone. I've had about six Technics (losing count) and passed on the 7000 to remain with the 6500 for now. Instead, I wanted a different direction in styles, etc., so I recently added the Yamaha 2k, while waiting for the 2100 to show. The reason---I use these boards strictly in a multitrack recording environment, not live performance. So, "styles" are my primary concern, rather than SD cards and other technological gizmos. Yes, Technics corners the market in jazz, latin, big band, etc. And I love it. But what about country and pop? Upon hearing those Yamaha styles, I was stunned. They've nailed some of the Nashville sounds (guitar strums, licks, fills) that sound much like authentic session players. The styles are closer to what I've been looking for in replicating a real combo sound. In this area, Technics styles are too affected and too busy. Maybe, as others, I'm anxious to see what will show on the new 2600. Will it be more of the same in styles/sounds, or will Technics step out and offer something decidedly different from the past?