Okay, I took the survey. Yamaha has also been known to ask for user input although not through a survey as far as I know. Korg isn't going to learn very much from those questions but at least we know they peruse Synthzone occasionally so that's encouraging. Maybe someone should start a topic like: "what features and functions would you like to see in the new Korg PA4X/PRO" or something similar.
People basically know what they want in an arranger. I personally would like a good quality and great action keybed. Stellar sounds in each and every category. Styles with 32 bar intro's/endings and styles that don't sound robotic. Also a quality harmonizer that doesn't sound robotic. Quality construction and cutting edge parts - including the processor(s). A micro editable Sequencer along with micro editable sounds. A real Sampler. SSD storage with streaming capability. Hardware expandability and additional sounds that can be downloaded. A reasonably large, high quality, high resolution color LCD (or LED) with Lyric scroll and most likely a *touchscreen* if it's a Korg. USB 3.0 plus balanced XLR inputs/outputs. MIDI in/out/thru. Auxiliary inputs/outputs. Video out. Physical draw-bars. 50W full range speakers with bass port functionality. The ability to play WAV/MP3/AIFF/WMA/AAC with a voice cancel feature that actually works as advertised. Portability under 30 lbs. plus a 76 key version. Panel buttons and menu options that are easily readable in low light situations. The PSR-s950/s750 are prime examples of how NOT to make an arranger if you want to see things in low light. Which is practically impossible on the Yammie's unless you add an external light source. See Don Mason if you have additional questions.
Oh yeah. A full three year warranty plus regular system updates that will enhance the keyboard beyond merely cosmetics. I could go on and on but hopefully Korg and others will take it upon themselves to listen and then heed user input. But ultimately we are at the mercy of the manufacturers. They ultimately decide what's best for their own bottom line(s) and if we are fortunate they throw us a bone or two or three to liven things up. Excitement ebbs and flows accordingly. The hype is where the rubber meets the road. When a keyboard lives up to the hype and when companies stand behind their product(s) it usually means a hot ticket item that garners not only customer loyalty but also achieves greater market-share for those particular companies. A win/win situation.
All the best, Mike
