And being able to run your laptop into the Casio stereo inputs is another plus...

That is how I am using my MZ with my trio at the Jersey shore..

I was in once to $401. I wanted it, but not as badly AJ. At least one of our guys got it.
Congrats, AJ

Bernie

Bernie, that would make you Duke62music...Right?

Congrats AJ. The organs on the MZ are really good.
Starkeeper

You got it, Fran

Bernie

Thanks Guys, and a special thanks to those who did not make me spend an arm and a leg for it. Like Fran said, not a bargain basment price, but I think I paid a good price anyway.

Starkeeper, I totally agree about the organs. I know it won't be mistaken for a real B3, but it does a pretty good job there nonetheless. I demoed it the first time at a music store in NY city soon after it was released. I started hacking around on it like I thought I was Emerson or something, doing some Brain Salad Surgery stuff, and I was so impressed with the organs that it easily swayed my decision to buy it. Unfortunately, I had to part ways with my first one in order to make room for ( Translated: pay for ) my PA80.

After thinking this through though, I am pretty glad that the "Great Silver Beast" is coming home again. During the great debate here over how we deal with brand name logos on our keyboards' rear ends, I thought of making a logo cover with the same name, as it had been pointed out by several other musos that no serious kb players show up to jobs with a Casio. I guess most of the guys saying that had never heard of the CZ5000 or the FZ1, both of which were used by several major recording acts. I chose not to though, as I didnt want to have to keep explaining that "Great Silver Beast" was not the name of my act. OTOH, more of my hair is getting grey these days, so maybe now it would be a good fit, or at the very least a cool name for a synth band.

AJ