For the very first time, from what I understand, they'll also be releasing a VST soft synth version mid-2024, which is crazy (but about time too!!). I'll wait to see what that looks like as that could be a viable option and game changer as there's no way I'm parting with the Montage 7.
The Montage M fund has now started in earnest as I'd be going all out for the M8x this time round if I do decide to bite the bullet. Hopefully they will release it in white again. I would never forgive myself if I bought the standard version only to see them release the white one later. So I'm prepared to wait a year or so. They've addressed some of the 'shortcoming's of the Montage and ramped things up a few notches with the AN-X Analog engine, polyphonic AT, mad polyphony and double the onboard and user memories as well as loads of other cool features.
The only thing that I wish they'd implemented better was having a proper ribbon controller like the HydraSynth and somehow integrating some proper faders for expressive control. There's certainly enough space on the 88-key chassis for that. And again, they've skimped on the outputs round the back, though TWO USB ports are a big improvement (but why just stop at two??). Anyway, it looks and sounds great. I'll be watching that space!
I didn't realize it was a I/O too, very cool. After looking at the price, I'd think you may want to set up some sort of account.... Offshore maybe? lol
I'm holding out for the White version, if they produce one. The VST may be an option. Hope they extend the free offer to existing Montage registered owners, rather than just the Montage M owners.