The digital piano market has seen an explosion of choices in recent years, catering to a wide range of budgets, skill levels, and needs. Among these, the Roland FP-10 stands out as an entry-level digital piano that offers exceptional value for money.
As someone who has been involved with music for years—both as a casual player and a piano teacher—I was particularly interested in seeing how the FP-10 stacks up against other offerings in its category.
After spending several weeks with the instrument, I can confidently say that it’s an impressive piece of equipment that punches well above its weight. This review will dive into various aspects of the Roland FP-10, including its design, sound quality, keyboard action, features, and overall performance.
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The first impression of any product often sets the tone for the entire experience, and the Roland FP-10 does not disappoint in this regard. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the simplicity and elegance of the design. The FP-10 is a sleek and compact digital piano, weighing in at around 12.3 kg (27 lbs). For a full-size, 88-key instrument, this is quite lightweight, making it an excellent choice for those who need a portable option for gigs, practice sessions, or limited space.
The build quality of the FP-10 is solid, especially considering its price point. The plastic casing feels durable, and while it lacks the premium materials found in higher-end models, it doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy. The matte black finish is understated and professional, ensuring it will blend into most environments without drawing unnecessary attention.
The control panel is minimalist, with a few buttons for power, volume, and function. Most of the additional features and settings are accessed through a combination of key presses, which can be a bit cumbersome at first but becomes more intuitive with use. The lack of a full LCD display, common in more expensive models, might be seen as a downside for some, but it helps keep the design clean and focused.
Roland FP-10 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | 88 keys (PHA-4 Standard Keyboard with Ivory Feel and Escapement) |
| Sound Engine | SuperNATURAL Piano Sound |
| Polyphony | 96 notes |
| Tones | 15 tones (including Piano, Electric Piano, Organ, Strings, etc.) |
| Effects | Ambience, Brilliance |
| Speakers | 6W x 2 (Stereo) |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 1,284 x 258 x 140 mm (50.6 x 10.2 x 5.5 inches) |
| Weight | 12.3 kg (27 lbs) |
| Headphone Output | Stereo 1/4-inch phone jack, Stereo mini jack |
| Pedal Input | 1/4-inch Damper Pedal Jack |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 4.0 (Audio, MIDI) |
| USB Connectivity | USB Type B (for MIDI) |
| Metronome | Yes (adjustable tempo and time signatures) |
| Transpose Function | Yes (in semitone steps) |
| Tuning | 415.3 Hz to 466.2 Hz |
| Twin Piano Mode | Yes |
| Included Accessories | Sustain Pedal, Music Rest, AC Adaptor |
| Power Consumption | 4W |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Design and Portability
One of the most appealing aspects of the Roland FP-10 is its compact design. At just 1,284 mm (50.6 inches) in width and 258 mm (10.2 inches) in depth, it’s one of the more space-efficient digital pianos available. This makes it ideal for small apartments, dorm rooms, or any setting where space is at a premium. The depth, in particular, is worth noting, as it’s considerably slimmer than many competing models, which can often feel bulky.
Despite its slim profile, the FP-10 doesn’t compromise on key size or spacing. The keys are full-sized and properly weighted, providing an authentic playing experience. This balance of size and functionality is a significant achievement and one of the key reasons why the FP-10 is so highly regarded.
Portability is another strong point for the FP-10. Weighing just over 12 kg, it’s light enough to be easily transported by one person. Whether you’re moving it between rooms or taking it to a rehearsal or gig, the FP-10’s portability is a major advantage. The inclusion of a music rest and pedal adds to its practicality, making it a versatile choice for a variety of situations.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of a digital piano is arguably its most critical feature, and the Roland FP-10 excels in this area. Roland is well-known for its SuperNATURAL sound engine, which is featured in many of its higher-end models, and the FP-10 benefits from this technology as well.
SuperNATURAL Sound Engine:
The FP-10’s sound engine provides a rich and dynamic piano tone that closely mimics an acoustic grand piano. The tonal quality is warm, with a clear and resonant bass, balanced mid-range, and sparkling highs. The SuperNATURAL engine allows for seamless transitions between notes, providing a natural decay and sustain that adds to the realism of the sound.
Polyphony:
With 96-note polyphony, the FP-10 offers more than enough capacity for even complex pieces. This ensures that all the notes ring out clearly, even when using the sustain pedal or layering sounds. While some higher-end models offer 128-note or even 256-note polyphony, 96 notes are sufficient for most players and genres, especially at this price point.
Built-in Speakers:
The built-in speakers of the FP-10 are surprisingly powerful for such a compact unit. While they lack the depth and volume of larger, more expensive models, they perform admirably in small to medium-sized rooms. The sound is clear and well-defined, with minimal distortion even at higher volumes. However, for a more immersive experience, especially in larger spaces, using external speakers or headphones is recommended.
Headphone Experience:
When using headphones, the FP-10 truly shines. The sound quality through headphones is exceptional, with every nuance of the SuperNATURAL engine coming through clearly. The built-in headphone jack is conveniently located, and there’s an additional stereo mini-jack for connecting external devices.
Sound Customization:
One of the drawbacks of the FP-10 is the limited sound customization options. While the piano sound is excellent, there are only 15 different tones available, including electric piano, organ, and strings. This might be limiting for those looking to explore a wider variety of sounds. However, the available tones are all high-quality, and for many users, the focus will be on the acoustic piano sound, which the FP-10 delivers superbly.
Keyboard Action and Feel
The keyboard action is another area where the Roland FP-10 truly excels. Roland has equipped this model with the PHA-4 Standard keyboard, which is the same action used in some of their more expensive models. This is a significant advantage for an entry-level digital piano, as the PHA-4 provides an authentic and expressive playing experience that rivals much higher-priced instruments.
Weighted Keys:
The keys on the FP-10 are fully weighted and graded, meaning the lower keys are slightly heavier than the higher ones, just like on an acoustic piano. This feature is crucial for developing proper technique, as it mimics the feel of playing a traditional piano. The key action is responsive and consistent across the entire keyboard, making it suitable for both beginners and more advanced players.
Ivory Feel:
The keys are also coated with Roland’s “Ivory Feel” material, which provides a textured surface that mimics the feel of real ivory. This not only adds to the realism of the playing experience but also helps prevent fingers from slipping, especially during longer practice sessions.
Triple Sensor System:
The PHA-4 keyboard features a triple sensor system, which accurately detects the speed and depth of each key press. This allows for precise control over dynamics and expression, enabling players to perform with nuance and subtlety. Whether you’re playing a soft, delicate passage or a powerful, fortissimo section, the FP-10 responds beautifully to your touch.
Touch Sensitivity:
The touch sensitivity of the FP-10 can be adjusted to suit different playing styles. There are five levels of touch sensitivity, ranging from super light to heavy. This customization allows players to tailor the response of the keys to their personal preference, which is particularly useful for those transitioning from different types of pianos.
Features and Connectivity
For an entry-level digital piano, the Roland FP-10 comes packed with features that enhance its versatility and functionality. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it offers everything a beginner to intermediate player could need, and then some.
Bluetooth Connectivity:
One of the standout features of the FP-10 is its Bluetooth connectivity. This allows the piano to connect wirelessly to various devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or computers. You can use this feature to stream audio through the piano’s speakers, practice along with your favorite songs, or use piano learning apps. The Bluetooth MIDI functionality also enables you to connect to DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) or virtual instruments, making the FP-10 a great tool for music production.
USB Connectivity:
In addition to Bluetooth, the FP-10 has a USB port that allows for a direct connection to a computer. This is particularly useful for recording MIDI data or using the FP-10 as a controller for software instruments. The USB connectivity is plug-and-play, so no drivers are required, which makes the setup process straightforward and hassle-free.
Twin Piano Mode:
The Twin Piano mode is an excellent feature for teachers and students. It splits the keyboard into two equal halves, each with the same octave range, allowing the teacher and student to play side by side. This is a fantastic tool for one-on-one lessons, as it enables direct comparison and imitation, facilitating more effective teaching.
Built-in Metronome:
The FP-10 includes a built-in metronome, which is an essential tool for any pianist. The metronome can be adjusted to different time signatures and tempos, helping players develop a strong sense of timing and rhythm. It’s simple to use and can be activated with a quick button press.
Recording Functionality:
Although the FP-10 lacks an onboard recording feature, you can still record your performances by connecting the piano to a computer or mobile device via USB or Bluetooth. This allows for easy capture and playback of your sessions, which is invaluable for practice and self-evaluation.
Pedal and Music Rest:
The FP-10 comes with a basic sustain pedal, which is functional but lacks the quality and durability of higher-end pedals. Fortunately, it’s compatible with Roland’s DP-10 pedal, which offers half-pedaling functionality for more advanced players. The included music rest is sturdy and does a good job of holding sheet music or a tablet in place.
Learning and Practice Tools
For beginners and those looking to improve their skills, the Roland FP-10 offers several useful learning and practice tools.
Piano Partner 2 App:
Roland’s Piano Partner 2 app is a free companion app that connects to the FP-10 via Bluetooth. The app offers a range of features, including interactive rhythm accompaniments, flashcard-style exercises, and access to sheet music for various songs. It’s a valuable resource for beginners and makes practice more engaging and fun. The app also allows for remote control of the piano’s functions, which can be more convenient than using the onboard controls.
Rhythm Accompaniments:
The FP-10 includes a selection of basic rhythm accompaniments, which can be a great way to practice timing and develop a sense of groove. While the variety of rhythms is limited, they cover the essentials, such as waltz, swing, and bossa nova. These accompaniments can be adjusted for tempo, allowing you to practice at a speed that suits your current skill level.
Transposition and Tuning:
The FP-10 allows for easy transposition and fine-tuning, which can be particularly useful when playing along with other instruments or recordings. The transposition function lets you shift the pitch of the entire keyboard up or down in semitone increments, while the tuning function allows you to adjust the overall pitch to match other instruments. These features are straightforward to use and add to the piano’s versatility.
Performance and Durability
In terms of performance, the Roland FP-10 delivers a level of quality that is impressive for its price range. The combination of the SuperNATURAL sound engine and PHA-4 keyboard results in an instrument that is responsive, expressive, and satisfying to play.
Live Performance:
While the FP-10 is primarily designed as a practice and learning tool, it’s also capable of holding its own in a live performance setting. The lightweight and compact design make it easy to transport to gigs, and the sound quality is more than adequate for small to medium-sized venues. However, if you’re performing in a larger space, you might want to connect the FP-10 to an external amplifier or PA system to ensure sufficient volume and presence.
Durability:
The build quality of the FP-10 is robust, with no noticeable flex or creak in the casing. The keys feel solid and well-constructed, with no signs of wear after several weeks of use. The buttons and connectors are also of good quality, and the overall impression is that the FP-10 is built to last. While it may not have the premium materials of higher-end models, it’s more than capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use.
The FP line from Roland
The Roland FP line is a series of digital pianos known for their exceptional sound quality, realistic keyboard action, and portability. This line caters to a wide range of pianists, from beginners to professionals, offering a versatile selection of models that suit different needs and budgets. The FP series is celebrated for incorporating Roland’s SuperNATURAL sound engine, which delivers rich, expressive tones, and the PHA-4 Standard keyboard, providing an authentic piano feel. These features make the FP line a top choice for those seeking a portable yet high-quality digital piano experience.
The Roland FP-10, as the entry-level model in the FP series, is designed to deliver the core qualities of the FP line at an affordable price. It shares many features with its more advanced siblings, such as the FP-30 and FP-60, including the SuperNATURAL sound engine and PHA-4 Standard keyboard. However, the FP-10 stands out by offering these premium features in a more compact and budget-friendly package.
Despite its position as the most basic model in the FP line, the FP-10 doesn’t skimp on quality. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or those with limited space, offering a taste of Roland’s superior piano technology without the higher price tag of the more advanced models. In essence, the FP-10 fits perfectly within the FP line by providing essential features in a highly accessible format, making high-quality digital pianos more attainable for a broader audience.
Comparisons with Other Models
To provide a more rounded perspective, it’s worth comparing the Roland FP-10 with other digital pianos in the same price range. Two of its main competitors are the Yamaha P-45 and the Casio PX-160.
Roland FP-10 vs. Yamaha P-45
The Yamaha P-45 is another popular entry-level digital piano, and it’s often compared to the FP-10. Both pianos offer 88 weighted keys and a realistic playing experience, but there are some key differences.
- Sound Engine: The Yamaha P-45 uses AWM stereo sampling technology, which provides a good sound but lacks the depth and realism of Roland’s SuperNATURAL engine. The FP-10’s sound is generally richer and more dynamic, with better sustain and decay.
- Keyboard Action: The PHA-4 keyboard on the FP-10 is superior to the Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) keyboard on the P-45. The FP-10’s keys are more responsive and have a better feel, particularly for advanced playing techniques.
- Features: The FP-10 offers Bluetooth connectivity and a more extensive range of features compared to the P-45. The P-45 is more basic in its offerings, which might appeal to those looking for a straightforward, no-frills instrument, but the FP-10’s additional features make it more versatile.
Roland FP-10 vs. Casio PX-160
The Casio PX-160 is another strong competitor in the entry-level digital piano market. Here’s how it compares to the FP-10:
- Sound Engine: The PX-160 features Casio’s AiR sound engine, which provides a realistic and pleasing piano tone. However, the FP-10’s SuperNATURAL engine still has the edge in terms of depth and expressiveness.
- Keyboard Action: Both the FP-10 and PX-160 offer high-quality keyboard action, but the PHA-4 on the FP-10 is generally considered more advanced. The PX-160’s keys are responsive and comfortable, but the FP-10 offers a more authentic playing experience.
- Features: The PX-160 has some advantages over the FP-10, including a wider range of sounds and built-in speakers with a bit more power. However, the FP-10’s Bluetooth connectivity and superior sound engine make it a more compelling choice for many players.
Pros and Cons
To sum up, here are the key pros and cons of the Roland FP-10:
Pros:
- Exceptional Sound Quality: The SuperNATURAL sound engine provides a rich, realistic piano tone that’s among the best in its class.
- High-Quality Keyboard Action: The PHA-4 Standard keyboard offers an authentic and responsive playing experience, ideal for both beginners and more advanced players.
- Compact and Portable Design: The slim, lightweight design makes the FP-10 easy to transport and store, perfect for those with limited space.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The inclusion of Bluetooth for both audio and MIDI adds significant versatility, allowing for easy connection to devices and apps.
- Affordable Price: Considering the features and quality on offer, the FP-10 is excellent value for money.
Cons:
- Limited Sound Customization: With only 15 sounds to choose from, the FP-10 might feel limiting for those looking for a broader range of tones.
- Basic Pedal: The included sustain pedal is functional but not as durable or responsive as higher-end options.
- No Onboard Recording: The lack of an onboard recording feature might be a downside for some users, though external recording options are available.
Weaknesses
While the Roland FP-10 is a remarkable digital piano for its price, it does have some weaknesses that may affect certain users, depending on their needs and expectations.
One of the primary limitations of the FP-10 is its relatively limited sound customization options. With only 15 tones available, users who desire a wider variety of sounds might find it lacking compared to other models in its price range. This restricted sound palette might be a drawback for those interested in experimenting with different instrument voices or genres beyond the core piano sounds.
Another area where the FP-10 falls short is in its onboard features. Unlike some of its competitors, the FP-10 does not include an onboard recording function. This omission may be disappointing for musicians who wish to capture their performances directly on the instrument without needing to connect external devices. Additionally, while the included sustain pedal is functional, it is basic and lacks the durability and responsiveness of higher-end pedals, which could be a downside for more advanced players seeking finer control over pedal techniques.
The built-in speakers, while adequate for personal practice, may not provide sufficient volume or depth for larger rooms or performances without external amplification. Furthermore, the reliance on key combinations to access certain settings can be cumbersome, particularly for users who prefer a more intuitive, menu-driven interface.
In summary, while the Roland FP-10 excels in delivering high-quality core features, its limitations in sound variety, onboard functions, and accessory quality may pose challenges for some users.
Conclusion
The Roland FP-10 is an outstanding entry-level digital piano that offers a remarkable combination of sound quality, keyboard action, and features at an affordable price. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first piano or an intermediate player seeking a portable practice instrument, the FP-10 delivers on all fronts. Its compact design makes it suitable for a variety of settings, and the SuperNATURAL sound engine ensures a rich and satisfying playing experience.
While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of more expensive models, the FP-10 focuses on what matters most: providing an authentic and enjoyable piano experience. The addition of Bluetooth connectivity, a high-quality keyboard, and a well-crafted sound engine sets it apart from many of its competitors in the same price range.
In conclusion, the Roland FP-10 is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for an entry-level digital piano. It offers exceptional value for money and is a testament to Roland’s commitment to quality, even in their more affordable products. Whether you’re practicing at home, teaching, or performing, the FP-10 is a reliable and enjoyable instrument that will serve you well for years to come.