Roland RD-300NX Digital Piano Review
I was enrolled in the for intro intermediate piano lessons, and I had them in the next week. I also had a concert to play at a wedding soon after, and I was devastated when my old Yamaha Motif XF6 wouldn't turn on. I took it to the repairman, and he said there was nothing that could be done for it because it'd cost more to repair it than what it was worth, so I had to hunt for a new one.
What to Consider Before Buying a Digital Piano
Before you buy a new piano, you should check the sound on it and preferably look for one with more piano keys because this hands you the full range on the piano. A full 88-key keyboard is ideal if you want to play the full range on the keyboard, and it's a must for those who play classical music. Not mention, any decent electric keyboard will have the full 88 keys.
The Roland RD-300NX
As a practice piano in the home, it does a more than adequate job. You have a lot of bells and whistles with this piano, which some musicians will find unnecessary, but you do have them in this product. For a professional musician, this piano is lighter, which makes it much easier to carry. The Roland RD-300NX is the predecessor of the Roland RD-300GX.
Features and Benefits
SuperNATURAL:
One of the most profound music technology breakthroughs, the SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine recreates sound like an acoustic instrument, and the technology creates instruments that sound more realistic. Recording a sample of instruments only captures one dimension of the sounds, but the SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine has manufacturers who use a velocity-driven filter with brighter samples. In fact, the New E. Piano, which is another feature of Roland RD-300NX, actually uses the SuperNATURAL technology to create the sounds.
New Ivory Feel-G Keyboard
The New Ivory Feel-G Keyboard is a feature having to do with keyboard keys, and unfortunately, a lot of piano players have complained how the keys are sluggish and lacking in response compared to other choices like the PHA III Ivory Feel-S on the FP-7 is a little better. Meanwhile, the PHA alpha II is totally different.
Intuitive U/I: Graphic LCD
This equates to tons of high quality sounds on the keyboard. For example, you have the 10 Virtual Tone Wheel Organs. You have built-in storage for over 100 live sets.
Optional RPU Triple-Pedal Unit
A great feature for the piano, the optional RPU-3 triple-pedal unit hands you the experience of a grand piano. It is made into three for convenience and to get rid of the clutter. You have separate 1/4" outputs for each of the outputs. If you do choose to add this, it provides you with a hands-free experience where you can seize control over the different instrument functions. For example, the optional RPU-3 triple-pedal unit works with the RD-700 and the FP-7F. It would work well with the FP-7F's harmony and looper effects.
Rating
Design
4
Performance
4.5
Construction
4
Value for the Money
3
User Satisfaction
3.5
Alternatives
Kawai ES100 88-key Digital Piano
In terms of price, the Kawai ES100 only costs $729.99, compared to the $1,199 price tag of the Roland RD-300NX. This keyboard doesn't have the same amount of features, but the fullness in the speakers make up for it.
Comparison:
- Onboard Alfred piano lessons
- Increased flexibility of keyboard keys
- Dual and split modes
- Great quality for the low price
Casio PX560BE 88-Key Digital Stage Piano
In terms of price, the Casio PX560BE checks out at $1,199, which is the exact same price as the Roland RD-300NX. You can, however, get this piano for cheaper because it comes with free shipping while the Roland RD-300NX costs $29.95 for shipping.
Comparison:
- Crystal-clear built-in speakers
- LCD touchscreen
- Responsive keyboard
Yamaha CP40 Stage Piano
Topping the list as the most expensive keyboard, you will pay $1,399.99 for the Yamaha CP40 Stage Piano. Outside price, however, it has fancier features and a better sound than the RD-300NX.
Comparison:
- Superb piano sound
- Natural wood keys
- Professional quality electric organ
Final Thoughts
The Roland RD-300NX has some fair quality for someone who wants a solid electric keyboard. It definitely reaches to professional quality, and the lighter 21-pound weight of the keyboard makes it easy to carry around. You also have plenty of bells and whistles to make it a fun keyboard to play. We have other variety of best intermediate piano, you may want to check it here.
