I'm looking to upgrade my 11-year-old PX-310. I'm considering either the CGP-700 or PX-560.
I like the "gee-whiz" semi-synth aspects of the 560--but I'm concerned that I'm not going to actually use them enough to warrant the extra $500 (with stand) over the CGP-700.
I have my 310 hooked up to the computer and have a decent collection of VSTs that I hardly use. As it is, I use plain piano probably 90% of the time (internal sound mixed with Pianoteq), and other than that will either use a single layer or split, often internal sounds, occasionally VSTs. Either the 700 or the 560 looks like it will make layers/splits both easier and 2 sounds per layer, opposed to 1 on my 310, which I think I will use. I'm doubtful I'll use the editing of Hex Tones on a regular basis. While the sounds look cool, VSTs already give me more sounds than I can reasonably use anyway.
I'm also not likely to edit (or use) auto-arrangements--I could probably count on 1 hand the times I used them on the 310.
I like the idea of an expression pedal--but not sure it's a must-have. MIDI jack are nice, but not crucial. I do have concerns about the fact that there's only a 3.5mm audio-in on the 700 instead of two 1/4" jacks. I asked about that in the 700 forum--anyone know whether the sound will be degraded by using 2 1/4" monos out of my audio interface to a single 1/8" jack using a Y-cable?
Main pluses of the CGP-700 are the speaker-stand and the price. Would like a little better sound than just internal speakers, but I don't really have a convenient place to put monitors.
How much better is the piano sound on the 560 than the 700 with AIR? I have tried out the 700 at GC, and it's definitely a step up from the 310. (After 11 years, you'd hope so...) Haven't been able to find a 560 to try out.
Convince me that I NEED the 560. Then come over to my house and convince my wife that I need it, too....
Thanks!
--Philistine