For over 50 years, Roland has been a pioneering force in the world of electronic musical instruments. From synthesizers to digital pianos, they’ve become an industry leader known for high-quality sound and innovative technology.
In this article, we’ll be exploring Roland’s greatest hits when it comes to digital pianos and keyboards. Get ready to discover the 10 best options for practice, performance, and next-level creativity.
We’ll highlight Roland classics like the RD-88 stage piano, as well as new favourites like the portable GO:PIANO. You’ll also find versatile keyboards packed with sounds, pro-level digital pianos with authentic acoustic tone, and advanced controller keyboards ready to power your studio.
Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate player, or seasoned pro – there’s a Roland digital piano or keyboard perfect for you. We’ll cover key factors to consider as you shop, like number of keys, sound quality, and connectivity options.
Let’s dive in and find your future musical companion from one of the most iconic names in the biz! Keep reading to uncover the 10 best Roland digital pianos and keyboards.
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Roland digital pianos and keyboards are popular among musicians for their high-quality sound and advanced features. |
| The Roland GO: PIANO is a portable and beginner-friendly keyboard that is perfect for practicing and learning. |
| The Roland RD-88 is a lightweight and portable option with a range of high-quality sounds and features. |
| The Roland F-140R is a digital piano that offers a stylish design and authentic piano sound. |
| The Roland RP-501R is a home digital piano that offers a realistic piano feel and a range of practice features. |
| The Roland FP-90X is a high-end digital piano that offers advanced features and a realistic piano feel. |
| The Roland GO:PIANO is a portable and beginner-friendly keyboard that is perfect for practicing and learning. |
| The Roland JUNO-DS88 is a versatile keyboard that offers a wide range of sounds and features, making it a popular choice for live performers. |
| The Roland VR-09B V-Combo is a stage keyboard that combines organ, piano, and synth sounds for a versatile performance. |
| The Roland FA-06 is a workstation keyboard that offers advanced features for music production and live performance. |
| The Roland A-88MKII is a MIDI controller keyboard that offers a realistic piano feel and advanced control features. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Digital Piano or Keyboard
Before we unveil the crème de la crème of Roland’s digital pianos and keyboards, let’s have a little chit-chat about the factors you should keep in mind when making your choice. After all, the perfect instrument is like the perfect pair of shoes – it should fit you just right.
When picking a digital piano or keyboard, there are many things to take into account. These things can have a big effect on your playing experience. From the number of keys to the sound quality and touch response, each feature is important for making your keyboard or piano feel like the real deal.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
A. Skill Level: Are You a Newbie or a Virtuoso?
First things first, let’s talk about your skill level. Are you a bright-eyed beginner just dipping your toes into the world of pianos? Or are you a seasoned pro who can play Rachmaninoff’s concertos blindfolded? (I’m not suggesting you try that, by the way). Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum, there’s a Roland piano or keyboard that’s tailor-made for you.
B. Budget: Champagne Taste on a Beer Budget?
Ah, the eternal struggle between our musical dreams and our wallets. Fear not, my friends, for Roland has a range of options to suit various budgets. Whether you’re looking for an affordable entry-level keyboard or a top-of-the-line digital piano, Roland has got your back.
C. Portability: Are You a Homebody or a Road Warrior?
Next up, let’s talk about portability. Do you need an instrument that’s easy to lug around for gigs or just something that looks pretty in your living room? Roland’s digital pianos and keyboards come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
D. Sound Quality: The Music to Your Ears
Roland’s digital pianos and keyboards are known for their exceptional sound quality. But, like a fine wine, each instrument has its unique flavor. So, when selecting your instrument, make sure to pay attention to the sound engine, built-in speakers, and overall audio quality.
E. Connectivity Options: All Hooked Up and Ready to Rock
Last but not least, let’s talk about connectivity. Whether you’re looking to plug in your headphones for a late-night practice session or connect to your computer for some music production magic, Roland has you covered. Keep an eye out for features like USB ports, MIDI connectivity, and audio outputs when making your choice.
Now that we’ve covered the nitty-gritty, it’s time for the grand reveal! Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the top 10 Roland digital pianos and keyboards!
Top 5 Roland Digital Pianos & Keyboards
Roland FP-30X
The Roland FP-30X is a compact, lightweight digital piano suitable for beginners and intermediate players, offering a SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine and 88-key PHA-4 Standard keyboard.
Roland RD-88
The Roland RD-88 is a stage piano designed for professional performers, featuring a powerful ZEN-Core sound engine, PHA-4 keyboard, and portability for stage performances and touring.
Roland F-140R
The Roland F-140R is a stylish, compact digital piano perfect for small spaces, offering the SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine, 88-key PHA-4 Standard keyboard, and 72 rhythm accompaniments.
Roland RP-501R
The Roland RP-501R is a versatile digital piano suitable for advanced players and professional pianists, featuring SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine and Progressive Hammer Action keyboard.
Roland FP-90X
The Roland FP-90X is a high-end digital piano designed for professional pianists and advanced players, featuring PureAcoustic Piano Modeling, PHA-50 keyboard, and a built-in four-speaker system.
Prepare to feast your eyes and ears on this delightful selection of Roland instruments that are sure to make you the envy of pianists everywhere. Let’s dive into the details, shall we?
Roland FP-30X
The Roland FP-30X is a budget-friendly digital piano that gives an authentic sound and touch. It’s perfect for both beginners and pros! Here are some of its features:
- SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine that imitates an acoustic piano.
- PHA-4 keyboard with Ivory Feel keys and escapement.
- Dual/split modes and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Portable, lightweight design.
1. Overview and features
The Roland FP-30X is a fabulous choice for beginners and intermediate players alike. With its impressive SuperNATURAL sound engine, PHA-4 Standard keyboard, and Bluetooth connectivity, you’ll be tickling the ivories like a pro in no time.
2. Ideal for beginners and intermediate players
This compact, lightweight digital piano is perfect for those who are just starting their musical journey or looking to level up their skills.
3. Price range
The FP-30X offers exceptional value for money, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget.
My Take: 8/10 – The FP-30X is a great option for those who want a portable and affordable piano. As an expert pianist, I appreciate its SuperNATURAL sound engine and PHA-4 Standard keyboard, which makes it enjoyable to play. The built-in Bluetooth connectivity is a bonus for practising with apps.
Roland RD-88
The Roland RD-88 is a remarkable digital piano. It has superb sound, portability and marvelous features! It’s one of the 10 best Roland Digital Pianos and Keyboards available.
It has Roland’s extraordinary SuperNATURAL tech. It reproduces the full-bodied sound of an acoustic piano. This makes it perfect for stages, studios, or home practice!
The RD-88 is lightweight and compact as well. This makes it simple to carry to performances or rehearsals. It has intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface. This lets you quickly customize sounds and settings.
1. Overview and features
The Roland RD-88 is a stage piano designed for professional performers. With its lightweight design, powerful ZEN-Core sound engine, and PHA-4 keyboard, this beauty is ready to rock any stage.
2. Ideal for professional stage performers
If you’re a gigging musician or a touring pianist, the RD-88’s portability and performance features make it an excellent choice.
3. Price range
The RD-88 is a mid-range option, offering a great balance of price and performance for professionals.
My Take: 9/10 – The RD-88 is a fantastic stage piano for professionals. I love the powerful ZEN-Core sound engine, PHA-4 keyboard, and portability it offers. It has a sleek design and feels durable, which is essential for touring and live performances.
Roland F-140R
The Roland F-140R is a top-notch digital piano packed with features for all levels of pianists. It’s sleek, stylish and designed to offer a dynamic playing experience without taking up lots of space.
Key features:
- – SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine for expressive sound.
- – PHA-4 Standard keyboard with 88 keys and ivory feel.
- – Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music and interactive apps.
- – Twin Piano mode for duet playing.
- – Headphones 3D Ambience for natural sound.
- – Compact and stylish design to fit any space.
For beginners or pros, the Roland F-140R is an ideal choice. It delivers superior sound quality, natural touch, and innovative features to enhance your playing.
1. Overview and features
The Roland F-140R is a stylish, compact digital piano that’s perfect for small spaces. With its SuperNATURAL sound engine, PHA-4 Standard keyboard, and built-in rhythm accompaniment, this piano offers a rich, immersive playing experience.
2. Compact design suitable for small spaces
If you’re short on space but big on musical ambitions, the F-140R is the perfect fit.
3. Price range
The F-140R is a mid-range option, offering a great balance of price and performance for home users.
My Take: 8.5/10 – The F-140R is perfect for those with limited space. It offers a stylish design, SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine, and 72 rhythm accompaniments. I enjoy the realistic feel of the PHA-4 Standard keyboard, and the rhythm accompaniments are great for practice.
Roland RP-501R
The E. Roland RP-501R is amongst the top 10 Roland digital pianos and keyboards. Its sound is of high quality and has great features that make playing enjoyable.
It has Roland’s “SuperNATURAL” sound tech, providing an acoustic piano sound and feel. The Ivory Feel-G keyboard is realistic to touch. Plus, there’s a library of over 300 songs and a “Rhythm” function with accompaniment in various genres.
A headphone jack and USB port are also included for private practice and recording/playback. Intermediate and advanced players looking for a realistic digital piano should definitely consider the E. Roland RP-501R.
1. Overview and features
The Roland RP-501R is a versatile digital piano suitable for advanced players and professional pianists. With its SuperNATURAL sound engine, PHA-4 Concert keyboard, and onboard recording features, this instrument offers a premium playing experience.
2. Suitable for advanced players and professional pianists
If you’re an accomplished pianist looking for a top-notch digital piano, the RP-501R is a fantastic choice.
3. Price range
The RP-501R sits in the upper mid-range price bracket, offering excellent performance for a reasonable investment.
My Take: 9/10 – The RP-501R is a versatile digital piano suitable for advanced players and professionals. Its SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine and Progressive Hammer Action keyboard provide a highly expressive playing experience. I appreciate the range of features it offers, including the Twin Piano mode for side-by-side practice.
Roland FP-90X
The Roland FP-90X is renowned for its remarkable sound quality, realistic touch, and innovative features. It’s one of the best digital pianos out there! Let’s take a look at the features that make it stand out:
- SuperNATURAL technology for a realistic acoustic piano sound.
- An 88-key PHA-50 hammer-action keyboard for an expressive touch.
- Bluetooth audio and MIDI to seamlessly integrate with other tech.
- A built-in speaker system and ambient effects for an immersive sound.
- Multiple sound options, like electric pianos, organs, strings, and more.
- A sleek and portable design – perfect for transport and storage!
From professionals to beginners, the Roland FP-90X is great for enhancing musical expression and creativity.
1. Overview and features
The Roland FP-90X is a high-end digital piano designed for professional pianists and advanced players. With its PureAcoustic Piano Modeling, PHA-50 keyboard, and built-in four-speaker system, this instrument delivers an exceptional playing experience.
2. High-end model for professional pianists and advanced players
If you’re a serious pianist who demands the very best in sound and feel, the FP-90X is the perfect choice.
3. Price range
The FP-90X is a premium option, offering top-of-the-line performance for a higher investment.
My Take: 9.5/10 – As a high-end digital piano, the FP-90X offers an exceptional playing experience. I am highly impressed with the PureAcoustic Piano Modeling and PHA-50 keyboard, which provide rich, authentic sounds and a natural feel. The built-in four-speaker system adds depth and clarity to the overall sound.
There you have it, dear piano aficionados! The first five of our top 10 Roland digital pianos and keyboards. Stay tuned for the final five keyboards, which we’ll cover in our next instalment. Happy playing!
Top 5 Roland Digital Keyboards
Roland GO:PIANO
The Roland GO:PIANO is a portable keyboard with 61 full-size keys, ideal for students and beginners, offering built-in speakers and Bluetooth connectivity for a user-friendly experience.
Roland JUNO-DS88
The Roland JUNO-DS88 is a versatile keyboard designed for live performances and studio work, featuring an 88-key weighted-action keyboard and a wide range of high-quality sounds.
Roland VR-09B
The Roland VR-09B V-Combo is a performance-focused keyboard designed for live shows, offering a wide range of essential sounds and real-time controls for a dynamic stage presence.
Roland FA-06
The Roland FA-06 is an all-in-one music workstation designed for music production and composition, featuring a 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, over 2000 sounds, and advanced sequencing.
Roland A-88MKII
The Roland A-88MKII is a top choice for MIDI keyboard controllers, featuring 88 hammer-action keys, advanced MIDI capabilities, and customizable controls for studio and live use.
Roland GO: PIANO
The Roland GO: PIANO is a great choice for starters who want a portable, affordable digital piano. It’s a compact keyboard with high-quality sound and advanced features. These include:
- Portability and lightweight design
- 61-keys
- Authentic sound and feel of an acoustic piano
- Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music and connecting to educational apps
- Music-learning software for beginners
- Built-in speakers and headphone output for playing and practicing anytime, anywhere.
The GO: PIANO’s size and Bluetooth make it a great option for pianists who want to perform and practice on-the-go.
1. Overview and features
The Roland GO: PIANO is the ultimate portable keyboard for students and beginners. With its 61 full-size keys, built-in speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity, you can practice and play anywhere, anytime.
2. Perfect for students and beginners
The GO: PIANO’s user-friendly design and affordable price make it an ideal choice for those just starting their musical journey.
3. Price range
This wallet-friendly option is perfect for those who want a quality instrument without breaking the bank.
My Take: 7.5/10 – The GO: PIANO is an excellent option for beginners, offering a user-friendly experience with 61 full-size keys, built-in speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity. I appreciate its portability and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for students and those starting their musical journey.
Roland JUNO-DS88
The Roland JUNO-DS88 is a top-notch digital piano from Roland, a premier producer of digital pianos and keyboards. What makes this piano stand out?
- It features an 88-key weighted keyboard with a realistic touch and feel, perfect for pro pianists.
- It has over 1200 sounds, such as piano, strings, brass, and organ.
- It comes with advanced performance features like a built-in 8-track sequencer and phrase recorder.
1. Overview and features
The Roland JUNO-DS88 is a versatile keyboard designed for live performances and studio work. With its 88 weighted keys, the powerful sound engine, and a plethora of professional-quality sounds, this instrument is a true workhorse.
2. Versatile keyboard for live performances and studio work
Whether you’re a gigging musician, a studio producer, or simply a keyboard enthusiast, the JUNO-DS88 offers a wide range of features to suit your needs.
3. Price range
The JUNO-DS88 is a mid-range option, delivering excellent performance without breaking the bank.
My Take: 9/10 – The JUNO-DS88 is a versatile keyboard designed for live performances and studio work. I love its 88-key weighted-action keyboard and the wide range of high-quality sounds it offers. The Phrase Pads and real-time controls make it incredibly fun to play, providing an immersive experience for both stage and studio settings.
Roland VR-09B V-Combo
The Roland VR-09B V-Combo is one of the top 10 digital pianos and keyboards. It gives both beginners and experienced players plenty of features. Live sets let users customize sounds and phrases for each gig. Plus, its D Beam adds a unique touch to performances.
Here are some key features:
- Lightweight design – easy to take around.
- 7 effects – rotary, delay, and reverb.
- Intuitive interface – easy to navigate.
- Dedicated sound engines – organ, piano, and synth.
- USB memory port – store and transfer sounds and settings.
Roland VR-09B V-Combo is great for musicians and home players. Versatile and high-quality option!
1. Overview and features
The Roland VR-09B V-Combo is a performance-focused keyboard designed for live shows. With its intuitive interface, top-notch organ, piano, and synth sounds, and real-time controls, this instrument is a live performer’s dream.
2. Designed for live performances
If you’re a keyboardist who loves to dazzle audiences with your onstage prowess, the VR-09B V-Combo is the perfect companion.
3. Price range
The VR-09B V-Combo is a mid-range option, offering an excellent balance of price and performance for live performers.
My Take: 8.5/10 – The VR-09B V-Combo is a performance-focused keyboard designed for live shows. I enjoy the wide range of essential sounds and real-time controls that allow for a dynamic stage presence. The organ, piano, and synth sections are particularly impressive, making it a powerful tool for live performances.
Roland FA-06
The Roland FA-06 is one of the 10 Best Roland Digital Pianos & Keyboards. It has key features like:
- 61 Key velocity sensitive keyboard with over 2000 sounds from Roland’s flagship synthesizers.
- 16-track sequencer with 8 pads for loop recording and performance.
- Built-in effects, such as amp simulator and a range of modulation and delay effects.
- Connect to computer using USB as MIDI controller or audio interface.
- Lightweight and portable design for gigs or studio sessions.
No matter your skill level, the Roland FA-06 offers many features and sounds. Its intuitive interface and high-quality sounds make it an ideal choice for any musician who wants to upgrade.
1. Overview and features
The Roland FA-06 is an all-in-one music workstation designed for music production and composition. With its 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, 16-track sequencer, and over 2,000 built-in sounds, this workstation is a powerhouse for creativity.
2. Ideal for music production and composition
If you’re a composer or producer looking for an instrument that can handle every aspect of music creation, the FA-06 is an excellent choice.
3. Price range
The FA-06 is a mid-range option, offering a great balance of price and performance for music producers and composers.
My Take: 9/10 – The FA-06 is an all-in-one music workstation designed for music production and composition. As a pianist, I value the 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, over 2000 sounds, and the advanced sequencing capabilities it offers. The built-in sampler and 16-track sequencer make it a powerful and flexible tool for creating music in various genres.
Roland A-88MKII
The Roland A-88MKII is an amazing pick for musicians in need of a top-notch digital keyboard. It offers a real piano-playing experience, with its PHA-4 hammer action keyboard tech. It has 88 keys with Ivory Feel keytops, providing a natural and comfy playing experience.
Plus, it has customizable controls, such as 8 assignable pads and 9 assignable knobs. It also links to DAW software, allowing you to control your software with the keyboard. And, it’s lightweight, making it easy to transport and fit any home studio.
This digital piano is compatible with Roland accessories like the KSC-90 stand and the KPD-90 pedal unit. In conclusion, the Roland A-88MKII is an exceptional option for musicians looking for a high-quality digital piano and a realistic playing experience, plus customizable features.
1. Overview and features
The Roland A-88MKII is a MIDI keyboard controller designed for studio and live use. With its 88 hammer-action keys, advanced MIDI capabilities, and customizable controls, this instrument is a powerful tool for any keyboardist or producer.
2. MIDI keyboard controller for studio and live use
Whether you’re a touring musician or a studio producer, the A-88MKII offers the control and versatility you need to express your creativity.
3. Price range
The A-88MKII is a mid-range option, offering excellent performance at a reasonable price.
My Take: 9.5/10 – The A-88MKII is a top choice for MIDI keyboard controllers. Its 88 hammer-action keys, advanced MIDI capabilities, and customizable controls make it an exceptional option for studio and live use. The Ivory Feel-G Keyboard with Escapement provides a highly expressive and authentic playing experience, making it a favourite among professional pianists and composers.
Conclusion
There you have it, my piano-loving friends! Our top 10 Roland digital pianos and keyboards, each with their unique strengths and features. Remember, the perfect instrument is the one that matches your individual needs and preferences, so don’t be afraid to explore and try out different models.
With a Roland by your side, you’ll be ready to conquer the world of music, one key at a time. These instruments are designed to bring out the best in you, whether you’re just starting your musical journey or are a seasoned professional.
As you explore these fantastic Roland digital pianos and keyboards, keep in mind the factors we discussed earlier: your skill level, budget, portability needs, sound quality, and connectivity options. And don’t forget to have fun and let your creativity soar!
To learn even more about these amazing instruments and to compare them with offerings from other top brands like Yamaha and Casio, be sure to check out digitalkeyboardpiano.com/roland/.
Now, go forth and unleash your inner virtuoso! The world is your stage, and your Roland digital piano or keyboard is your trusty sidekick. Play on, my friends, and let the music fill your soul!
