When it comes to high-quality digital pianos, Roland is one of the most respected names in the industry, known for its impressive range of instruments that cater to all levels of players. The Roland FP-60X is one of their mid-range offerings in the FP series, which aims to combine premium piano features with portability, affordability, and versatility. As a digital piano enthusiast, I’ve spent considerable time with the Roland FP-60X, and this review will cover everything from sound quality and design to performance features and connectivity.
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Roland FP-60X Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Roland FP-60X |
| Keyboard | 88 keys, PHA-4 Standard Keyboard with Escapement and Ivory Feel |
| Sound Engine | SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine |
| Polyphony | 256 notes |
| Piano Tones | 15 (including concert grand, pop, jazz, etc.) |
| Other Tones | 256 tones (including electric pianos, organs, strings, etc.) |
| Rhythm Patterns | 40 rhythm styles (with metronome and tempo control) |
| Effects | Ambience, 3-Band Equalizer, Brilliance, Reverb, Chorus, Tremolo, and more |
| Touch Sensitivity | 5 levels + Fixed |
| Speakers | 2 x 8W, 2-way speaker system |
| Amplifier Power | 2 x 13W |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio |
| USB Connectivity | USB Type B (for computer connection), USB Type A (for USB flash drive) |
| Headphone Jacks | 2 x 1/4″ stereo headphone jacks |
| MIDI | In/Out via USB |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x Damper (supports optional 3-pedal unit) |
| Mic Input | 1/4″ jack with effects (reverb, delay) |
| Display | LCD Display |
| Recording | MIDI and Audio (WAV format) |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 52.2″ x 13.5″ x 5.2″ (132.2 cm x 34.2 cm x 13.4 cm) |
| Weight | 42.5 lbs (19.3 kg) |
| Power Supply | AC Adaptor (included) |
| Finish | Black or White |
| Accessories Included | Music rest, DP-10 damper pedal, AC adaptor |
Overview and Target Audience
The Roland FP-60X is positioned as a mid-range digital piano that strikes a balance between professional-grade sound quality and user-friendly features. It’s marketed toward intermediate to advanced pianists, although beginners who are committed to learning will also find value in its offerings.
Priced at around $1,200, the FP-60X is a solid investment for those looking for a long-term instrument. It competes directly with models like the Yamaha P-515 and Kawai ES8, offering a powerful combination of Roland’s SuperNATURAL sound engine, a highly responsive PHA-4 keyboard, and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless integration with modern music apps.
In a nutshell, the FP-60X is perfect for:
- Intermediate and advanced players who want a portable instrument with professional-level features.
- Home players looking for a versatile piano that can fit in smaller spaces without sacrificing sound quality.
- Gigging musicians or performers in need of a portable yet high-quality piano for live shows.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that stands out about the Roland FP-60X is its sleek, minimalist design. At a glance, it looks professional and refined, with a focus on portability without compromising functionality. Weighing approximately 42 pounds (19kg), the FP-60X is heavier than beginner digital pianos but still manageable for most people who need to move it around for gigs or reposition it at home.
- Compact Form Factor: Despite its compact size, the FP-60X maintains a full 88-key keyboard, which is essential for a complete playing experience. Its dimensions (52 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and 5 inches tall) make it easy to fit into a small apartment or a limited space in a studio.
- Sturdy Construction: The overall build is solid, with durable plastic housing that feels high-quality. The materials don’t feel cheap, and the piano has a reassuring weight that adds to its stability, especially when paired with a suitable stand.
- Control Layout: The top panel features a clean and intuitive interface. It comes with a small but informative LCD screen and a row of buttons for selecting sounds, rhythms, and settings. The buttons are tactile and responsive, and while it doesn’t have a touch screen like some higher-end models, the interface is easy to navigate.
- Finish and Aesthetics: The FP-60X is available in a satin black or white finish. The matte surface is fingerprint-resistant and has a premium feel, adding a sophisticated touch to any room or stage.
Sound Quality
The hallmark of any piano, digital or acoustic, is its sound quality, and the Roland FP-60X excels in this department, thanks to its SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine.
SuperNATURAL Sound Engine
The SuperNATURAL sound engine is Roland’s proprietary technology designed to replicate the complex tonal behavior of an acoustic grand piano. Instead of relying solely on traditional sampling, the SuperNATURAL engine combines sample-based tones with advanced modeling. This creates a more dynamic and organic sound, especially when responding to different playing styles and velocities.
- Expressive Piano Tone: The FP-60X has a rich, warm piano tone that feels incredibly nuanced. When you press softly, the tone is delicate and mellow, but when you play with more force, it opens up with brightness and power, much like an acoustic grand. The transitions between different dynamics are seamless, which is particularly impressive.
- Sustain and Decay: The decay of notes feels natural, and the sustain resonates beautifully, emulating the way sound lingers in a concert hall. This adds depth and realism to the playing experience.
Piano Tones and Voices
The FP-60X comes with 15 piano tones, ranging from classical grand pianos to brighter pop and jazz pianos. The primary tones are the standouts, offering a concert grand that works well across a wide range of genres. For classical pieces, the grand piano settings are rich and full-bodied, while the brighter tones are perfect for more contemporary styles.
- Electric Pianos and Other Sounds: In addition to its piano voices, the FP-60X offers 18 electric piano tones and a total of 256 additional sounds, including strings, organs, and pads. The electric pianos have a vintage feel, suitable for jazz, blues, and even pop music.
Sound Customization
Roland includes extensive sound-shaping options. You can adjust settings such as ambience, brightness, and various EQ settings directly on the piano. The onboard My Stage feature allows players to simulate different acoustic environments like concert halls, studios, and intimate venues. This is a great feature for live performances, enabling you to tailor the sound to the venue’s acoustics.
- Mic Input with Effects: One of the unique features of the FP-60X is the microphone input, which allows vocalists to connect a microphone directly to the piano and apply effects such as reverb or delay. This is incredibly useful for singer-songwriters or performers who need a single, compact setup for gigs.
Key Action and Playability
A digital piano is only as good as its key action, and the Roland FP-60X delivers with its PHA-4 Standard Keyboard.
PHA-4 Standard Keyboard
The PHA-4 (Progressive Hammer Action) keyboard is designed to mimic the feel of an acoustic piano. It offers weighted, graded action, meaning the lower keys are heavier and the higher keys are lighter, just like on a real grand piano. This makes the FP-60X an excellent choice for serious players who need an authentic feel while practicing or performing.
- Ivory Feel Keys: The keys are covered with an ivory-feel material that provides a subtle texture, preventing slippage during extended play. This adds to the realism and enhances the tactile response, making the FP-60X comfortable to play over long periods.
Key Response and Sensitivity
The touch sensitivity is highly customizable, with five different sensitivity settings. You can adjust the key response to match your playing style, whether you prefer a heavier touch (more resistance) or a lighter one. This flexibility is great for different genres and techniques.
- Triple-Sensor System: The FP-60X’s keys feature a triple-sensor system that ensures accurate detection of even the most nuanced playing. Repeated notes, fast passages, and legato playing all come across cleanly, without the issues of note drop-off that can occur on lesser-quality digital pianos.
Playing Dynamics and Realism
When playing pieces that require delicate control, such as Debussy’s Clair de Lune, the PHA-4 keyboard shines. The ability to express subtle dynamic changes is impressive. On the other hand, when playing more forceful pieces like Rachmaninoff’s Prelude in C# Minor, the FP-60X responds with power and depth, making the performance feel authentic.
Polyphony and Tones
Polyphony Capabilities
The Roland FP-60X has 256-note polyphony, which means you can play complex passages with the sustain pedal, layer sounds, or use intricate rhythms without running into note dropouts. For reference, polyphony refers to the number of notes that can be played simultaneously. Having 256-note polyphony ensures that even the most demanding compositions are handled with ease.
Additional Tones and Sound Library
The FP-60X includes a wide variety of non-piano tones, including strings, choirs, synth pads, and more. These sounds are excellent for layering and enhancing compositions, especially in genres like pop, ambient, and cinematic music. The ability to quickly switch between tones or layer them makes the FP-60X versatile for performance or composition.
Features and Functions
The FP-60X is more than just a digital piano; it’s a fully equipped performance tool with a host of features that cater to various needs, from casual playing to professional gigging.
Effects and Equalization
The piano includes built-in effects like reverb, chorus, and EQ controls. You can fine-tune the sound to your liking, and the reverb settings, in particular, are excellent for adding depth to your playing, mimicking everything from a small practice room to a large cathedral.
- **Three-Band EQ**: The EQ settings allow for adjustments to the low, mid, and high frequencies. This is especially useful when playing in different environments or when trying to achieve a specific tonal quality for live performances or recordings.
Split and Layer Modes
Like most high-end digital pianos, the FP-60X supports split and layer modes, which allow you to divide the keyboard into two distinct sections or layer two sounds on top of each other.
- Split Mode: This mode lets you assign different sounds to the left and right hand sections of the keyboard, such as bass on the left and piano or strings on the right. It’s a fantastic feature for those who like to experiment with their arrangements or are performing solo.
- Layer Mode: In layer mode, you can combine two sounds to create a richer tonal texture. For example, layering a piano with a soft string section creates a cinematic, emotional sound. This feature is great for those who enjoy adding depth to their playing, especially in genres like film scores or ballads.
Rhythm Patterns
Another useful feature is the built-in rhythm patterns, which provide a virtual backing band for practice or performance. With a variety of styles ranging from jazz to Latin and pop, these rhythm patterns can be a great tool for improving timing and creativity. You can even adjust the tempo and volume of the rhythms to match your playing style.
Connectivity and Integration
In today’s digital world, connectivity options are crucial, and the Roland FP-60X offers an impressive suite of connectivity features.
Bluetooth MIDI and Audio
One of the standout features of the FP-60X is its Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to wirelessly connect to music apps on your smartphone or tablet. You can stream audio directly from your device through the piano’s built-in speakers or use Bluetooth MIDI to interact with apps like GarageBand, Logic Pro, or Roland’s own Piano Every Day.
- Wireless Audio Streaming: The ability to play along with songs from your phone or tablet without the need for cables is a huge convenience. Whether you’re practicing with backing tracks or learning new pieces from YouTube, the FP-60X’s wireless audio streaming adds an extra layer of flexibility.
USB and Pedal Inputs
For more traditional connections, the FP-60X includes USB ports for connecting to computers or external storage devices. You can record your performances as MIDI files or audio files directly to a USB flash drive, which is perfect for sharing or editing your recordings later.
- Pedal Inputs: The piano comes with a standard sustain pedal, but it also supports three-pedal units (sold separately), which allows for more nuanced control over sostenuto and soft pedal effects, replicating the feel of a grand piano.
Piano Every Day App
Roland’s Piano Every Day app is designed to work seamlessly with the FP-60X. The app offers a range of features for practice and performance, including sheet music access, song learning tools, and the ability to track your practice sessions over time. This integration makes the FP-60X not only a performance instrument but also an excellent learning tool.
Portability and Setup
Despite its solid build and high-end features, the FP-60X maintains a relatively portable design. Weighing in at 42 pounds, it’s not the lightest digital piano on the market, but it’s still portable enough for musicians who need to take it on the road. The included music rest is sturdy, and the controls are easy to access, even in dimly lit environments like a stage or studio.
Price and Value for Money
The Roland FP-60X is priced at around $1,200, positioning it in the mid-range market. For the price, you’re getting an exceptional digital piano that combines authentic sound, professional-grade features, and a wealth of connectivity options. When compared to its competitors, such as the Yamaha P-515 or the Kawai ES8, the FP-60X holds its own in terms of sound quality, key action, and features.
While beginners may find this price a bit high, serious students and performers will appreciate the long-term value that the FP-60X offers. It’s an instrument that can grow with you, from intermediate to advanced levels, and it’s suitable for both home practice and stage performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- SuperNATURAL sound engine provides incredibly realistic and expressive piano tones.
- PHA-4 Standard Keyboard offers excellent feel and responsiveness.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless MIDI and audio streaming.
- 256-note polyphony, perfect for complex pieces and layering sounds.
- Portability with a sleek, minimalist design.
- Comprehensive set of features, including split, layer, and rhythm patterns.
- Mic input with effects for singer-songwriters.
Cons
- Lack of physical knobs for real-time sound adjustment during performance.
- The included sustain pedal feels basic; many players will prefer upgrading to a full pedal unit.
- LCD screen is small and not a touch screen, which could be a drawback for some users.
- Slightly heavier than some other digital pianos in its class, which may affect portability for some users.
Comparison with Alternatives
Roland FP-60X vs. Yamaha P-515
The Roland FP-60X and Yamaha P-515 are both highly respected mid-range digital pianos, catering to serious players looking for premium features at a reasonable price. Priced similarly, each offers a distinct set of features and a different playing experience.
Sound Quality
The Roland FP-60X features Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine, which blends sampling and modeling technology to deliver a rich, organic tone. This sound engine captures the nuances of an acoustic grand piano exceptionally well, particularly in its handling of dynamics and overtones. On the other hand, the Yamaha P-515 uses Yamaha’s CFX and Bösendorfer samples, providing two iconic concert grand piano tones. These samples are stunningly detailed, with the CFX tone being bright and powerful, and the Bösendorfer tone more mellow and resonant.
Key Action
The FP-60X uses Roland’s PHA-4 Standard Keyboard, which provides an authentic graded hammer action with textured keys for an ivory feel. The PHA-4’s responsiveness is fantastic, making it easy to control dynamics and expression. The Yamaha P-515, however, uses Natural Wood X (NWX) keys, with wooden key construction and synthetic ivory keytops. This gives the P-515 an edge in terms of realism, offering a tactile experience that’s very close to an acoustic piano, especially with its weighted keys.
Features and Connectivity
Both pianos offer advanced connectivity options, including Bluetooth MIDI and USB ports, but the FP-60X also allows for Bluetooth audio streaming, which adds flexibility for playing along with external music. The Yamaha P-515, meanwhile, features Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM), which simulates string resonance for added realism.
Verdict
Both models offer exceptional sound and key action, but if you prioritize a more acoustic-like feel with wooden keys, the Yamaha P-515 has the edge. If you prefer a broader range of connectivity and sound shaping options, the Roland FP-60X offers more versatility. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you lean toward Yamaha’s detailed sampling or Roland’s expressive modeling technology.
Roland FP-60X vs. Kawai ES8
The Roland FP-60X and Kawai ES8 are two direct competitors in the mid-range digital piano market, both delivering high-quality sound and excellent key action for serious players. However, they differ significantly in their approach to sound design and playability.
Sound Quality
The FP-60X relies on Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine, which combines sample-based tones with advanced modeling to deliver a highly expressive and dynamic piano tone. The Kawai ES8, on the other hand, uses Kawai’s Harmonic Imaging XL sound engine, which is known for its beautiful, detailed grand piano tones. The Kawai ES8 also excels in replicating the subtle tonal changes of an acoustic piano, offering a deep and resonant sound, particularly when playing classical and jazz pieces.
Key Action
Both pianos offer high-quality key actions. The FP-60X features Roland’s PHA-4 Standard Keyboard, which is well-regarded for its responsiveness and graded hammer action. It’s great for delivering a consistent playing experience, with a nice texture that mimics the feel of ivory. However, the Kawai ES8’s Responsive Hammer III (RHIII) keyboard offers a slightly more refined experience. The RHIII action has a more realistic feel, with better weight distribution across the keys and a smoother, more fluid response. This makes it particularly appealing to classical pianists who value a true acoustic feel.
Additional Features
When it comes to features, both pianos offer extensive connectivity options like USB, MIDI, and line outputs. The FP-60X stands out with its Bluetooth audio streaming, making it easier to integrate with modern devices, while the Kawai ES8 offers a built-in recording feature and virtual technician, allowing you to fine-tune the instrument’s sound to suit your playing style.
Verdict
If you’re seeking the best key action and a sound engine that excels in replicating acoustic piano nuances, the Kawai ES8 is a strong contender. However, if you want more modern connectivity options, especially with Bluetooth, and a piano that’s equally suited to a range of genres, the Roland FP-60X might be the better choice. Both are fantastic instruments, but the Kawai ES8 leans more toward traditional acoustic realism, while the FP-60X is slightly more versatile.
Roland FP-60X vs. Casio PX-S7000
The Roland FP-60X and Casio PX-S7000 are both positioned as mid-range digital pianos, but they offer vastly different approaches to design and performance. The Casio PX-S7000 is part of Casio’s flagship Privia series and is known for its ultra-slim design, while the Roland FP-60X focuses more on a balance of sound quality and professional features.
Sound Quality
The FP-60X uses Roland’s SuperNATURAL sound engine, which blends high-quality samples with modeling to create expressive and detailed piano tones. It’s designed to capture the nuances of an acoustic grand piano and excels in its dynamic range and realism. The Casio PX-S7000, on the other hand, uses AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) sound engine. Casio’s tone engine is very good, with clear, detailed piano samples, but it may lack the depth and complexity found in Roland’s SuperNATURAL technology.
Key Action
The Roland FP-60X features the PHA-4 Standard keyboard, offering a graded hammer action with excellent responsiveness and an ivory-textured surface. It’s ideal for players who want a realistic, weighted feel. The Casio PX-S7000 comes with a Smart Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard, which is slightly lighter and more compact due to the slim design of the piano. While the PX-S7000 offers a decent playing experience, the FP-60X feels more substantial and closer to a traditional acoustic piano.
Portability and Design
One of the Casio PX-S7000’s most significant selling points is its design. It’s incredibly slim and portable, making it perfect for musicians who are frequently on the move or those with limited space. The FP-60X is larger and heavier, but still reasonably portable, weighing about 42 pounds compared to the PX-S7000’s lighter frame. If portability and space-saving design are priorities, the PX-S7000 has a clear advantage.
Features
Both models come with advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity for MIDI, but the FP-60X adds Bluetooth audio streaming, which the PX-S7000 lacks. The FP-60X also offers split and layer modes, rhythm patterns, and extensive sound customization options, which give it an edge in terms of versatility for both live performance and practice.
Verdict
The Casio PX-S7000 stands out with its stylish design and portability, making it ideal for those looking for a piano that blends aesthetics with functionality. However, in terms of sound quality and key action, the Roland FP-60X offers a more realistic playing experience and greater depth in its tone engine, making it a better choice for players who prioritize performance over design.
Weaknesses
While the Roland FP-60X is an impressive digital piano with many strengths, it does come with some weaknesses that may impact certain users’ experiences.
1. Basic Included Pedal
The FP-60X comes with the DP-10 damper pedal, which, while functional, feels basic compared to more advanced pedal systems. It only supports a single sustain function, and the plastic build lacks the sturdiness many advanced players expect. Roland offers a three-pedal unit (sold separately), which provides more nuanced control, but the out-of-the-box experience could be underwhelming for those expecting a full acoustic piano-like setup.
2. Lack of Real-Time Controls
Another drawback is the absence of physical knobs or sliders for real-time control over sound adjustments. While the FP-60X has customizable effects and EQ options, changes must be made through menus on the LCD display, which can be cumbersome during live performances. Competitors like the Yamaha P-515 offer more physical controls, which many musicians appreciate for quick, on-the-fly adjustments.
3. Small Non-Touch LCD Screen
The LCD screen on the FP-60X is functional but small and not a touch screen, which limits its ease of use. For those accustomed to modern touchscreens, navigating through settings and customizing tones using buttons can feel outdated. In comparison, some similarly priced digital pianos, like the Kawai ES8, have larger, more intuitive displays.
4. Heavier Weight
Though the FP-60X is marketed as a portable digital piano, its weight of 42.5 lbs (19.3 kg) makes it heavier than many competitors in its class. This may be a downside for gigging musicians who need a lighter instrument for easy transport.
5. Limited Built-In Songs and Rhythms
Lastly, while the FP-60X includes rhythm patterns, the selection is somewhat limited. For those seeking extensive accompaniment options for varied practice or performance, other digital pianos like the Casio PX-S7000 may offer a broader library of styles.
Overall, while the FP-60X excels in many areas, these weaknesses could affect its appeal to certain players, especially those seeking more robust customization and portability.
Conclusion
The Roland FP-60X is an outstanding digital piano for serious musicians who value a realistic playing experience, exceptional sound quality, and a host of modern features like Bluetooth connectivity and rhythm patterns. While it might be overkill for beginners, it’s a great investment for intermediate and advanced players, offering professional-level performance in a relatively compact and portable package.
The SuperNATURAL sound engine and PHA-4 keyboard make the FP-60X one of the most expressive and playable digital pianos in its price range. Whether you’re a gigging musician, a home studio enthusiast, or a passionate pianist looking for a reliable instrument, the Roland FP-60X is an excellent choice that strikes the perfect balance between price, performance, and features.
If you’re in the market for a versatile, high-quality digital piano that can handle everything from classical to jazz to modern pop, the FP-60X should definitely be on your radar.