From tom.georges@gmail.com Thu Jun 11 08:24:36 2015
Subject:Moving from WK-7500 to VR-09

I've posted before about using the VR-09 recently for gigs. I had been using, for the past several years, a Casio WK-7500, which I got primarily for the organ function (at $300 from eBay it was a steal, as far as clonewheel organs go). I was pleased, in general, with the sound. But for a gig back in March I decided to try the iPad's Garage Band organ, and it was great - MUCH better than the WK-7500, especially the Leslie sim. I wanted a keyboard with that good sound from Garage Band, and that's what led me to the VR-09. Price, portability, sound, all-in-one capability. I looked at the sk1, which has similar capabilities, but was twice the price.

However, there are two things I miss about the WK-7500: 76 keys, and simultaneous split/layer (three voices at once). I realize that to even have split and layer with any of the sounds on the VR-09 is a great thing - but I was really spoiled on the split/layering on the WK-7500. Especially playing with the band I'm playing with, I sometimes need three sounds at once - some kind of layer and then a third sound. Not often, but enough that I am missing it. For example, I'm playing a gig where I need a BIG brass sound, and also some organ. With the Casio, I had a layered brass to make it thick, and a split for the organ (and had plenty of keys available to pull it off). On the VR-09 I have to switch registrations between a layered brass and then an organ.

However, the sound, versatility, and portability more than makes up for these shortcomings. I think of this whenever I have to pick up the VR-09 to load or unload. Ahhhh.

-Tom