Guys,

On the demo, Genesys sure sounds terrific. But then on a demo any instrument sounds terrific - I am yet to see a manufacturer who would put anything other than their best sounds and features forward when making a promotional video. We can argue about the specs, as to whether a 2 gig HD is big enough (where the heck did they get a 2 gig disk? no one makes them anymore), or whether 64 voice polyphony is enough (in the WK/SK voices were using multiple notes of polyphony, so it was possible to use individual sounds which used up multiple notes of polyphony, not to mention layering - I hope this is not the case with the G, because with my playing style I can see myself running out of 64 notes quickly with using layered sounds and accompaniment going).

The real test for me is how I can make this instrument sound when I get my hands on it. And herein lies my problem - NONE of the 4 stores who are authorized GEM dealers in metro Phoenix area are having it displayed, because of the high price. None of them offer a return policy, so if I were to guy one, I'd be plunking my 000s of $ for a basically unknown quantity.

One think I do know from the specs - the thing is BIG and HEEEAVYYY - there is no way I would be carrying it to gigs. But even if there are people who are stronger than me and actually enjoy carrying heavy objects (because it is good for their physique or perhaps reminds them of the good old days carrying real grand pianos on their backs), I am sure they would want to ask GEM the same question I would: if you are making the instrument so big, WHY NOT put in 76 keys?

Indeed, I have seen pictures of the Genesys Pro - without speakers, but even it, I am sure, is longer than a Ketron SD1. To me this is an indication of the poor design.

I do not dispute the quality of the instrument, nor the fact that GEM is a make well liked by the professionals. The ability to intclude audio on the HD is also a plus. But lack of avaliability, high price, and lack of portability take this instrument out of contention for me.

Regards,
Alex