Fran,
I'm talking about the original EXR-7, not the EXR-7s. I think it's the EXR-7s that has upgraded the memory. However not sure if they changed the sequencer or added style recording (from what I've seen it doesn't appear that they have).
The EXR may have 16 tracks, but what use is a sequencer if you can't do basic things such as panning, and volume adjustments of tracks (after) the tracks have been recorded? My $399 Casio has only 6 tracks, but allows me to edit them (after recording) and save those changes.
What use is it to have styles (on a $1,000) keyboard if you can't edit them or record your own? That's what the beauty of an upper end arranger should be is the ability to record your own styles. Sorry to say, but so what if they allow you to load new styles.
When you say 100 user programs does that mean you can save edits such as "Reso. Cuttoff, Attack Time, Release Time, ect" to an individual voice and recall that for later use? I don't recall seeing anywhere where the EXR's save those specific voice related settings. They did however add this to the GW-7.
I do agree about a few things. Yes the keys are bigger, action is probably better, there are 76 of them, but it takes more than that to justify a price of $1,000. Sure I agree there are some really nice sounds in there too, but Roland really dropped the ball in the recording department in regards to songs and styles with the EXR series.
DNJ,
What am I looking to do with a keyboard??? Well if I spend $1,000 on an arranger that has a 16 track recorder, and styles... For that price what I expect to do is be able to edit my songs after recording and record my own user styles. Maybe some people are happy with the limitatins of the recording features on the EXR's. However, for my needs I can't and won't spend that kind of money on a keyboard without those basic features. Giving a 16 track sequencer with no editing features after recording is like a jelly filled donut without the jelly. It's just leaves a dry taste in your mouth
Squeak