I compared it to similar-priced Rolands and Korgs, but they had only a fraction of the features. Since I bought it, my composing has doubled. I don't notice any loop problems. Editing is more than adequate once you can find the parameters you want. Manual is better than many, but verbose.
Effects are good, but rotary sounds fake.
Expansion program cards have some good stuff. I am NOT a pianist, have played organ and synths for years. The keys have a deeper travel than I am used to, so I tend to 'stumble' a bit. The keyboard seems to lack dynamic range and most of the 'real' instruments aren't, they're too thin. THis may be to allow the filter some range of function, but I can't recommend this synth for orchestral stuff.