From NJmm973@aol.com Wed Aug 14 08:06:13 2013
Subject:Re: Looking to replace my Roland VR-760. Roland VR-09 vs Hammond SK

Thank you everyone for the brisk and informative discussion. I didn't want to say anything sooner as I didn't want to squelch the discussion.

I am very much in agreement with everything said. I have been a Roland guy with my 88 key RD-300sx previously, my VR-760 and was very VR-09 focused. So it was with that intent I went to Alto Music in Middletown, NY. About an hour away from me in NJ but one of the best music stores around and for a keyboardist, its heaven witha TON of keyboards all on display to try.

So my impressions with the VR-09 sounds were great. I did like the organ (I find in a band that quality that makes our hearts stir doesn't often make much of a difference in overall band sound. And my band mates have NEVER said anything about organ sounds good or bad through my changes in equipment). I also thought that quite a few of the other sounds were VERY nice. I could see the VR-09 replacing my VR-760 very nicely at a much lighter weight. BUT.. The keyboard feel was a little off. So I have to play with it more to determine if the key feel will be significant to me.

On my way out I tried the SK1 and THAT Hammond sound grabbed me immediately as somehow different. So I ran back and forth between the keyboards but it was difficult to A/B them accurately.

By the way, I have a Vent and I will be playing either sound through the Vent most times.

Summary: I know the SK1 Hammond sound "grabbed" me. I know the VR-09 soundS (emphasis on SOUNDS, plural) really sounded nice. I also know it works very well with my Kronos from Craig's experience & expertise getting those two to play nice. But I know I was grabbed by the SK1.

So more side by side playing is in order.

As am aside, originally I was going to try to use the Korg organs with the Vent but I tried that in a jam situation recently and I wasn't getting through and couldn't dail in the CX3 engine to sound as I wanted.

So bottom line, I need to sit more with both. Unless I find the keyboard feel of the VR-09 revolting, I will likey go for the Swiss Army knife. But I will play that SK1 more to see if the organ sound seduces me (and then I'll rely more on my Kronos for most other sounds).

Thank you all again,
Gene