Tony, I spent lots of time communicating directly with Yamaha, and, they apparently saw my point of view from a marketing perspective, otherwise, I don't think they would have done anything. Not only did I talk with Yamaha USA, I also talked with Japan. And, at the time, I was still writing newspaper and magazine columns and doing product reviews for some major publications, which may have had a bearing on the subject, though I'm not sure about that.
Now, I've owned lots of brands of keyboards, and they all had some great features, but they all required some workarounds for some of the things I wanted to do. I never owned one that I didn't like at the time, regardless of the workarounds - Hell, I've owned lots of things that required workarounds, including cars and vans. Not every product will meet my exacting specifications, and I can live with that. No one has ever heard or read anything from me about the drawbacks of any arranger keyboard I've owned, however, I have spent a lot of time helping folks work out their problems within the limitations of their keyboard's operating system. It's something I enjoy doing, and don't ask anything in return.
As for loving Yamaha, absolutely! I love what I hear, which is the reason I purchased Yamaha, Korg, Roland, etc... I loved what I heard at the time. I also listen very carefully to every demo, and to the guys in the field that provide entertainment for the folks in my area. In most instances, the player is the big difference - not the operating system. For me, I'm not a player - instead, I'm a singer and entertainer. That's what made me successful. If I were paid for my playing skills, I would have starved to death. Most everyone on this forum is a better musician than me, and I freely admit that. Therefore, I utilize every feature an arranger keyboard has to offer in order to keep my vocals at the forefront, and make the best of my limited musical skills. So far, Yamaha has not let me down. I have two more jobs before I head into full retirement, and believe me, I will really miss being an entertainer. One thing for certain, Yamaha's many features have made me the best entertainer I could ever have dreamed of being.
All the best,
Gary