Mike the Yamaha's I have owned and heard have a problem reading the correct drums in SMF's.

It is definitely a Yamaha error[not conforming to the GM standard or GM2 standard in this area..

The other problem I noticed is in consistent volume levels of the GM sounds used for SMF playback..

As for sounds , you are right, it is a matter of taste..

All of the other manufacturers do not share the same problems associated with the Yamaha playback tables..

You asked for my opinion...Here's hoping no one blames me for bashing Yamaha..

As in all things..if it works for you, what do you care what others think.