Let me see if I can satisfy all questions with just one post!
For Scott:
1) Are the acoustic piano(s) sample(s) the same one used on the SD1?
>>> Identical.
2) How do the XD-9 sounds/styles compare to the SD1/X1?
>>> A little of both but with a whole lot more new styles.
3) Any hard drive or mass storage device included or available as an add on option?
>>> Yes, HD 7 Flash Cards.
5) I know that the Sd1 is a fantastic board, so what features on the SD1 (except for 76 vs 61 keys) are MISSING on the XD-9?
>>> Some include Wave Sync, Sampler ...
6) And lastly (I knew you would be wondering WHEN I was going to ask this ): Does the XD-9 support the Bill Evans jazz style 'rootless voicings' that is included on the SD1?
>>> Yes in both split and full keyboard modes.
Also, is the XD9's keyboard feel similar to the SD1 (hopefully) or more like the X1's?
>>> Similar to SD1 keyboard fill but with 61 keys instead!
Great to hear that the XD9 has built in speakers too. I typically like to use them as a monitor. Any new speaker design enhancements compared to the X1?
>>> Yes - Special enhanced Bass Boost circuitary, speakers & ports!
Unfortunately no one at the Guitar Centers around here knows about Solton-Ketron keyboards. Hopefully you can work with Justin to change that.
>>> Work is currently in progress to expand marketing of KETRON products, including other Guitar Centers.
For Mario:
Short and sweet question. Is the manual anything like the X1s/SD1?
>>> The manual will be more detailed (I am currently working on it now).
More info can be found on the Italian website (
www.ketronclub.it) wrt size, dimensions etc.
Thanks,
AJ