The Roland RP107 is a digital piano aimed at beginner to intermediate players seeking a high-quality instrument that combines affordability with rich features. As a digital piano from Roland’s renowned product lineup, the RP107 promises a realistic piano-playing experience, innovative features, and a sleek design, all while catering to both home environments and educational settings.
After spending substantial time with the RP107, I can confidently say it stands as a strong contender in the digital piano market, especially for those looking for a budget-friendly but high-quality instrument.
In this comprehensive Roland RP107 review, I will dive deep into every aspect of this digital piano, from its design to its key action, sound quality, and functionality, evaluating its strengths and any potential weaknesses.
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Roland RP107 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | 88 keys (PHA-4 Standard with Escapement and Ivory Feel) |
| Sound Engine | SuperNATURAL Piano Sound |
| Polyphony | 256 notes |
| Piano Tones | Concert Grand, Bright Grand, Soft Grand, Electric Pianos |
| Key Action | Weighted, Graded Hammer Action |
| Pedals | 3 pedals (Damper, Soft, Sostenuto) with half-pedaling |
| Speakers | 2 x 8W |
| Bluetooth | Audio and MIDI (Bluetooth 4.2) |
| Connectivity | USB to Host, USB to Device, Stereo Mini Input, Stereo Output, Headphone Jack |
| Reverb | Yes (Adjustable) |
| Effects | Reverb, Brilliance, 3D Ambience for headphones |
| Headphone Jack | 2 x 1/4″ Stereo |
| Recording | 1-track recording |
| Display | None |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 137.7 cm x 36 cm x 87.7 cm (54.2” x 14.2” x 34.5”) |
| Weight | 40.8 kg (89.9 lbs) |
| Finish Options | Black, Dark Rosewood |
| Power Consumption | 20W |
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that strikes you when encountering the Roland RP107 is its sleek, modern design. Unlike bulkier digital pianos or acoustic pianos, this model offers a compact and minimalist aesthetic that fits perfectly in smaller living spaces without feeling cramped. The piano has a cabinet-style design, giving it a look that mimics an upright acoustic piano, which can be an attractive addition to any home.
Dimensions and Weight
At approximately 137 cm (54 inches) wide, 36 cm (14 inches) deep, and 87 cm (34 inches) tall, the RP107 is compact but not overly small. This size makes it perfect for a wide variety of rooms, and even small apartments can accommodate it without much trouble. Despite its modest dimensions, the RP107 does not look or feel like a toy. It weighs around 40 kg (88 lbs), which is manageable for two people to move but sturdy enough to stay put during intense playing sessions.
Materials and Finish
The RP107’s cabinet is primarily made of wood composite materials, giving it a sturdy and solid feel. The finish is a smooth black (also available in brown), with a matte texture that doesn’t easily attract fingerprints. This is an important feature for those who prefer a piano that looks clean and professional without constant maintenance.
The pedals—sustain, soft, and sostenuto—are made of metal, which enhances the overall aesthetic while also providing a durable and functional component that replicates the traditional acoustic piano experience. They respond well to pressure, and the positioning feels natural.
Keyboard Cover and Music Rest
The sliding keyboard cover is an elegant touch, giving the piano a sophisticated, polished look when not in use. The music rest is wide enough to hold several sheets of music or even a music book, and it’s positioned at a comfortable angle that encourages good posture while playing.
In terms of aesthetics and practicality, the Roland RP107 scores highly. It may not be the flashiest digital piano on the market, but it has a timeless and elegant appearance that will fit into most homes seamlessly.
Keyboard Action and Feel
One of the most important aspects of any digital piano is its key action and how closely it replicates the feel of a real acoustic piano. Roland has consistently been a leader in digital piano key action, and the RP107 is no exception.
PHA-4 Standard Key Action
The RP107 comes with Roland’s PHA-4 Standard key action, which is a well-regarded mechanism designed to replicate the feel of an acoustic piano. This action includes escapement and ivory-feel keys, both of which are impressive at this price point.
- Escapement: Escapement refers to the mechanical sensation that happens when you press a key softly. The key reaches a certain point where it feels like it “releases,” mimicking the feel of a grand piano. This feature adds an additional layer of realism to the playing experience.
- Ivory Feel: The RP107’s keys are coated with an ivory-like material that provides a tactile experience, preventing your fingers from slipping when playing fast or complex passages. The material feels premium and enhances the authenticity of the overall experience, which can often be a weak point in cheaper digital pianos.
Weighted Keys
The keys on the RP107 are fully weighted, which is essential for developing proper technique. This ensures that beginners can transition smoothly to an acoustic piano without having to adjust to different touch sensitivities. The key weighting is graded, meaning the lower keys feel heavier than the upper ones, just like on an acoustic grand. This is a crucial feature for building finger strength and ensuring that playing feels natural.
Key Responsiveness and Repetition
The PHA-4 action is also incredibly responsive. Rapid note repetitions, which are often problematic for less sophisticated key actions, are handled well here. Whether you’re playing a slow, expressive piece or a fast, staccato passage, the RP107 manages to keep up with precision. There is a slight amount of key noise if you play very aggressively, but it’s minimal and not distracting.
Overall, the key action on the Roland RP107 is one of its standout features. It’s comfortable, responsive, and mimics the feel of an acoustic piano remarkably well for its price.
Sound Quality and Acoustic Realism
Sound quality is arguably the most critical factor when choosing a digital piano, and Roland has equipped the RP107 with its SuperNATURAL piano engine, which offers high-quality sound reproduction.
SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine
Roland’s SuperNATURAL engine is known for its ability to replicate the complex tonal variations of an acoustic piano, and it doesn’t disappoint in the RP107. The sound engine takes into account factors like key velocity, touch, and note decay to create a dynamic and expressive sound.
One of the key advantages of this engine is how it captures the nuances of the piano’s tone at different dynamics. When playing softly, the RP107 produces a warm, mellow sound, while louder playing brings out brighter, more aggressive tones. The sound evolves naturally, rather than in abrupt jumps, as is often the case with lower-end digital pianos.
Tone and Timbre
The RP107’s piano sounds are rich and detailed, with a natural decay that makes long, sustained notes feel authentic. The bass notes are deep and resonant, while the higher notes are bright and clear without being tinny. The overall tonal balance is excellent, making the piano suitable for a wide range of musical genres, from classical to jazz to pop.
Additionally, the RP107 offers a variety of piano sounds, including concert grand, bright grand, and soft grand. These tonal variations are useful for different styles of music and allow the player to experiment with different sounds.
The Roland RP107 offers a range of high-quality sounds designed to replicate the tonal variety and depth of an acoustic piano. Powered by Roland’s SuperNATURAL sound engine, the RP107 excels at producing a nuanced and expressive sound palette. Here’s an analysis of the main sounds available:
1. Concert Grand
The Concert Grand sound is the RP107’s default piano voice, and it’s easily the most detailed and refined. The tone is rich and resonant, with deep, warm bass notes and clear, bright treble. It responds beautifully to dynamic playing, offering subtle changes in tone depending on how hard or soft the keys are pressed. This makes it perfect for classical music, where expression is key. The natural decay and resonance also give it a very realistic acoustic feel.
2. Bright Grand
As the name suggests, the Bright Grand offers a more vibrant and piercing tone compared to the Concert Grand. It has sharper highs and a more pronounced attack, making it ideal for genres like pop, rock, and jazz where a piano needs to cut through the mix. This sound works especially well when you need more articulation in fast, percussive playing.
3. Soft Grand
The Soft Grand provides a more mellow and subdued tone, characterized by a gentler attack and warmer midrange. This sound is perfect for ballads, soft accompaniment, or any piece that requires a softer, more intimate sound. It’s excellent for quieter performances where the goal is to create a calm, atmospheric backdrop.
4. Electric Pianos
Beyond acoustic piano sounds, the RP107 also includes a range of electric pianos. These sounds are modeled after classic instruments from the 70s and 80s, like the Fender Rhodes. The electric piano sounds are smooth and lush, with the signature bell-like tone and a slight warble in sustained notes, making them perfect for jazz, funk, and pop.
Each of these sounds brings unique characteristics, enhancing the RP107’s versatility and making it a suitable instrument for various musical genres and styles.
Effects
The Roland RP107 comes equipped with several sound effects that enhance the playing experience and allow for more expressive performances. These effects are designed to add depth and realism to the piano’s already impressive sound engine, powered by Roland’s SuperNATURAL technology.
1. Reverb
The RP107 includes a highly customizable reverb effect, which simulates the acoustics of various spaces, such as concert halls, studios, or small rooms. The reverb can be adjusted to different levels, allowing players to control the amount of ambient sound. This feature is particularly useful for creating more immersive soundscapes, making the piano sound fuller and more resonant, much like playing in a large, echoing venue.
2. Brilliance
The Brilliance effect lets players modify the tonal brightness of the piano sound. It can either sharpen the attack for a more piercing, bright tone, or mellow it out for a softer, warmer sound. This feature is great for tailoring the piano’s tone to different styles of music, from crisp jazz to warm ballads.
3. Ambience Effects
In addition to reverb, the RP107 includes 3D Ambience, specifically designed for use with headphones. This effect enhances the spatial depth of the sound, simulating the experience of playing in a large acoustic space, even when practicing quietly through headphones. It makes private practice sessions more engaging and natural.
These sound effects on the Roland RP107 significantly elevate its expressiveness, enabling players to fine-tune their performance environments and styles.
Polyphony
The RP107 comes with 256-note polyphony, which is more than enough for even the most complex of pieces. Polyphony refers to how many notes the piano can produce simultaneously, and having 256 notes of polyphony ensures that even with heavy use of the sustain pedal and layering, no notes will cut off prematurely. This is an impressive feature for a digital piano at this price point and makes the RP107 suitable for more advanced players as well.
Internal Speakers
The piano is equipped with two speakers that deliver 8 watts of power each. While these speakers are not as powerful as those found in more expensive models, they provide clear, accurate sound that’s more than sufficient for practice and small performances. The sound is rich and enveloping, and the speaker placement ensures that the sound projects outward, filling the room evenly.
However, for larger spaces or performances, you may want to connect the piano to an external amplifier or speaker system. The RP107 includes audio outputs for this purpose, allowing for easy connection to external sound systems.
Headphone Experience
For those who need to practice quietly, the headphone output on the RP107 is a standout feature. Roland uses 3D Ambience technology, which creates a natural, immersive listening experience through headphones. It simulates the way sound would reverberate in an acoustic space, making it feel as though the piano is still filling the room, even when only you can hear it. This is a significant improvement over the flat, sterile sound that some digital pianos produce through headphones.
Features and Connectivity
Beyond sound and touch, the Roland RP107 offers a host of features that make it a versatile instrument for practice, learning, and performance.
Bluetooth Connectivity
One of the RP107’s standout features is its Bluetooth connectivity, which allows for wireless audio and MIDI connections. You can stream music from your phone or tablet directly to the piano’s speakers, which is great for playing along with your favorite tracks. Additionally, the Bluetooth MIDI functionality allows you to connect to various music apps and software, opening up possibilities for learning, composing, and recording.
Roland Piano App Compatibility
The RP107 is compatible with the Roland Piano App, which provides a wealth of educational resources and tools. Through the app, you can access sheet music, interactive lessons, and even adjust settings on the piano itself. The app is user-friendly and is a fantastic resource for beginners who want to improve their skills or for more advanced players looking to track their progress.
Recording and Playback
The RP107 includes a basic recording function that allows you to capture your performances and play them back for review. While this feature is relatively simple compared to the multi-track recording found on some higher-end models, it’s still useful for self-assessment and improvement. You can save recordings to a USB stick, making it easy to transfer your performances to a computer or other devices.
Metronome and Other Practice Tools
For students and those focused on improving their timing, the built-in metronome is a helpful tool. You can adjust the tempo, time signature, and even the sound of the metronome to suit your needs. The piano also includes a variety of rhythms and accompaniments, which can make practice more engaging and enjoyable.
Connectivity Options
In addition to Bluetooth, the RP107 includes a variety of physical connectivity options:
- USB to Host: Allows you to connect the piano to a computer for MIDI control or recording.
- USB to Device: Enables you to plug in a USB drive to save recordings or import sounds.
- Aux In/Out: For connecting external audio devices or amplifiers.
This wide range of connectivity options makes the RP107 a highly versatile instrument that can easily be integrated into a home studio or live performance setup.
Pedals
As mentioned earlier, the RP107 comes with three pedals—soft, sostenuto, and sustain—mimicking the setup of a traditional acoustic piano. The sustain pedal, in particular, is highly responsive and supports half-pedaling, which allows for more nuanced control over sustain. This is a crucial feature for classical players who need precise control over the length of sustained notes.
The pedal board is sturdy and feels well-built, so you won’t have to worry about it shifting or wobbling during intense playing. The pedal action feels smooth, with just the right amount of resistance, making it suitable for both beginners and more advanced players.
Educational and Practice Features
As an instrument aimed at beginners and intermediate players, the Roland RP107 includes several features designed to make learning and practice easier.
Dual Mode
The Dual Mode feature allows you to split the keyboard into two equal parts, each with its own middle C. This is especially useful for lessons, as both the student and teacher can play the same notes simultaneously without having to share space on the keyboard. This is a thoughtful feature for anyone learning to play or for parents teaching their children.
Twin Piano Mode
In addition to Dual Mode, the RP107 also offers a Twin Piano Mode, which allows for two people to play different notes and sounds simultaneously. This is ideal for duets or lessons where the teacher needs to demonstrate a part while the student listens.
Transposition and Tuning
For those who need to play along with other instruments or singers, the RP107 offers easy transposition options, allowing you to shift the pitch of the piano without changing the key you’re playing in. The tuning feature is also useful for matching the piano to other instruments that may not be perfectly in tune.
Pricing and Value
At the time of writing, the Roland RP107 is priced around $1,000 to $1,200, depending on where you purchase it. This places it in the mid-range category for digital pianos. Given the quality of the key action, sound engine, and features, the RP107 offers excellent value for money. While there are cheaper digital pianos available, they often lack the key features that make the RP107 such a well-rounded instrument, such as the PHA-4 key action, SuperNATURAL sound engine, and Bluetooth connectivity.
For students, hobbyists, and even intermediate players, the RP107 provides an impressive combination of quality and affordability. It’s not the cheapest digital piano, but it offers enough high-end features to justify the slightly higher price tag.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- PHA-4 Standard key action with escapement and ivory feel for a realistic playing experience.
- SuperNATURAL sound engine delivers rich, dynamic piano tones.
- 256-note polyphony, ensuring no notes are cut off during complex performances.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming and MIDI control.
- Compact design that fits well in smaller spaces.
- Pedals support half-pedaling, providing nuanced control over sustain.
- Affordable price for the features and quality offered.
Cons:
- Internal speakers could be more powerful for larger spaces.
- Limited recording functionality, with only a single track available.
- Plastic cabinet materials may not appeal to those seeking a more premium build.
Weaknesses
While the Roland RP107 excels in many areas, there are a few weaknesses to consider, particularly when compared to other digital pianos in its price range.
Speaker System
One of the most noticeable shortcomings is the speaker system. The RP107 is equipped with a 2-speaker setup, each delivering 8 watts of power. While this is sufficient for home practice, the sound can feel somewhat underwhelming in larger rooms or during performances. Competitors like the Casio PX-870 offer a 4-speaker system with more robust sound projection. Without external amplification, the RP107 may not fill a larger space as effectively.
Limited Recording Features
The RP107’s recording functionality is fairly basic, allowing for only a single track. This is a drawback for those who want to layer multiple instruments or create more complex compositions. Competitors in this range often offer multi-track recording, which can be more useful for musicians who want to compose or record their performances.
Plastic Cabinet
While the piano has a sleek and modern design, the use of composite wood and plastic materials in the cabinet construction might not appeal to those looking for a more premium build. The lightweight material, while practical for portability, lacks the high-end finish found in more expensive models or even some competitors, such as Yamaha’s YDP series, which offer more refined wooden finishes.
Sound Customization
Though the RP107 offers solid reverb and brilliance effects, the options for customizing sounds are somewhat limited compared to more feature-rich digital pianos. For players looking to deeply modify their tones, the RP107 may not offer the depth of customization they seek.
Comparison with Alternatives
Roland RP107 vs. Yamaha YDP-145
The Roland RP107 and Yamaha YDP-145 are both excellent digital pianos in the entry-level to mid-range market, catering to beginners and intermediate players. However, they bring different strengths to the table, offering distinct experiences in terms of touch, sound, and features.
The key action is a key differentiator between the two. The RP107 features Roland’s PHA-4 Standard key action, which offers escapement and an ivory-feel texture, providing a highly realistic and responsive experience. The graded weighting mimics that of an acoustic piano, where the lower keys feel heavier than the higher keys. On the other hand, Yamaha’s Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action is decent but less refined. It lacks the same level of responsiveness and realism found in Roland’s keys, and the plastic keys feel smoother, lacking the textured surface that helps with grip during long playing sessions.
In terms of sound engine, the YDP-145 uses Yamaha’s CFX Grand Piano sampling, delivering a bright and clear piano tone, particularly suited for classical and contemporary music. However, Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano engine excels in dynamic response, offering a more detailed, nuanced sound, especially in softer passages or mid-to-low registers. The tonal range on the RP107 feels more expressive, making it an excellent choice for classical performances and pieces that require a wider tonal palette.
Both models offer Bluetooth connectivity, but Yamaha lacks the headphone-based 3D Ambience effect found in Roland, which enhances the experience during private practice. The YDP-145 offers a more basic set of effects compared to the RP107’s adjustable Reverb and Brilliance options, which allow players to shape the tone to suit various genres.
Ultimately, the Roland RP107 edges ahead with superior key action, more dynamic sound, and enhanced headphone performance. However, the Yamaha YDP-145 might appeal to those who prefer a brighter tone or are specifically drawn to Yamaha’s acoustic piano sound.
Roland RP107 vs. Casio PX-870
When comparing the Roland RP107 to the Casio PX-870, it becomes clear that these two digital pianos cater to different player preferences, though both are excellent choices in the mid-range market.
Starting with the key action, the Roland RP107 features the PHA-4 Standard key action, renowned for its escapement and ivory-feel keys. This action provides an authentic playing experience, with graded hammer action that closely mimics an acoustic piano’s touch. The Casio PX-870 uses its Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II system, which is also graded and responsive but lacks the same level of refinement found in Roland’s action. While the Casio keys are responsive, they feel slightly lighter and less textured than Roland’s ivory-feel keys, which can impact long playing sessions where tactile feedback becomes essential.
In terms of sound, Casio’s AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) sound engine is impressive, delivering a rich and vibrant tone, particularly with its 4-speaker system, which outshines Roland’s 2-speaker setup in terms of raw sound projection. The Casio PX-870 excels in filling larger rooms with sound, making it ideal for home performances. However, Roland’s SuperNATURAL sound engine focuses more on nuance and tonal depth, with more natural decay and a more complex tonal range that responds better to dynamic playing. The RP107’s sound might not be as loud as the PX-870, but it’s more expressive, particularly in quieter passages where tonal subtleties are more noticeable.
Casio offers built-in features like Concert Play, which allows players to perform alongside an orchestra, making it a fantastic learning tool. However, Roland’s integration with the Roland Piano App, coupled with its Bluetooth audio and MIDI support, provides a more versatile, modern platform for learning and practice.
In conclusion, the Roland RP107 stands out for its more realistic key action and nuanced sound, while the Casio PX-870 is better suited for those looking for louder speakers and built-in educational features.
Roland RP107 vs. Kawai KDP120
The Roland RP107 and Kawai KDP120 are both highly respected models in the digital piano world, offering great value to beginner and intermediate players. While they share several similarities, they each bring distinct characteristics to the table, catering to different player preferences.
The key action is a notable area where these two pianos differ. The Roland RP107 features the PHA-4 Standard key action, which includes escapement and ivory-feel keys, delivering a realistic, textured, and highly responsive touch. The escapement mechanism replicates the sensation of pressing a grand piano key, making the Roland action highly suitable for classical and more intricate playing styles. The Kawai KDP120 comes with the Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHC II) action, which is also weighted and graded but lacks the escapement feature and ivory-feel texture. Kawai’s action is smooth and reliable, but Roland’s key action edges out in overall realism and tactile feedback.
When it comes to sound engines, Kawai uses its Harmonic Imaging technology, which provides a warm, rich tone that is ideal for classical music. The sound quality is excellent, particularly in the midrange and high notes, where Kawai’s tone shines with clarity. However, Roland’s SuperNATURAL sound engine offers more dynamic expressiveness across a wider tonal range, especially in lower registers where Kawai’s sound can feel slightly subdued. The RP107 excels in providing detailed tonal changes in response to touch, making it more versatile across genres.
Both pianos offer 256-note polyphony, but Roland’s integration of sound effects like Reverb, Brilliance, and 3D Ambience for headphones gives it an edge for immersive play, especially when practicing privately. While Kawai provides a solid headphone experience, it lacks Roland’s spatial sound features, making the RP107 a more compelling choice for quiet practice.
Connectivity-wise, both models include Bluetooth, but Roland’s more advanced integration with apps and wireless MIDI/audio streaming provides greater flexibility for tech-savvy players.
Overall, the Roland RP107 is the better option for players seeking a more tactile, responsive key action and detailed sound, while the Kawai KDP120 offers a warmer tone and remains a strong choice for those focused on classical repertoire.
Final Verdict
The Roland RP107 is a fantastic digital piano that strikes an excellent balance between affordability and quality. Its key action and sound engine are impressive for its price range, making it a suitable choice for both beginners and more experienced players. The added features, such as Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with the Roland Piano App, enhance its versatility and make it a great tool for learning and practicing.
While it may not have the advanced recording capabilities or the power of a higher-end model, the RP107 more than makes up for it with its superb sound, realistic touch, and overall value. If you’re in the market for a digital piano that offers high-quality performance without breaking the bank, the Roland RP107 is definitely worth considering.