Roland RP701 Review

The Roland RP701 is a feature-rich digital piano designed to cater to a broad spectrum of players, from beginners to advanced musicians. Combining advanced digital technology with the feel and aesthetics of an acoustic piano, the RP701 is positioned as an ideal home instrument. In this review, I’ll delve into every aspect of this piano, from its design and build quality to its sound, playability, features, connectivity, and value for money.

The Roland RP701 is part of Roland’s effort to bridge the gap between affordability and premium features. Marketed as a family-friendly digital piano, it promises high-quality sound and authentic feel at a price point that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re a parent looking for an instrument for your child, a hobbyist, or a seasoned player wanting a compact and reliable piano, the RP701 aims to meet those needs.

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Unboxing and Assembly

The unboxing and assembly process of the Roland RP701 is straightforward and well-thought-out, reflecting Roland’s commitment to user-friendly design. Whether you are a seasoned digital piano owner or setting up your first instrument, the experience is designed to be as smooth as possible. Let’s delve into the details.

Unboxing

The RP701 arrives in a large, sturdy box that is well-padded to protect the components during transit. Roland’s packaging is secure and environmentally conscious, with a mix of recyclable materials. The piano is separated into several pieces:

• Piano body: The main unit housing the keyboard and internal components.
• Stand: The wooden frame that supports the piano.
• Triple pedal unit: A separate piece that connects to the stand and provides soft, sostenuto, and damper pedal functionality.
• Accessories: Includes the power adapter, assembly tools, screws, and user manuals.

The box is heavy, weighing about 46 kg, so it’s best to have another person help move it to your desired location. Each component is wrapped individually to prevent scratches, and the keyboard is covered with an additional layer of foam for extra protection.

Unboxing everything takes about 10–15 minutes. Inside, you’ll find:

1. A comprehensive Quick Start Guide, outlining both the assembly steps and initial setup.
2. A soft cleaning cloth for maintaining the piano’s surface and keys.
3. The power adapter and cable neatly coiled.

Roland’s attention to detail extends to how the components are packed. Nothing feels crammed, and unpacking feels organized rather than overwhelming.

Assembly

The assembly process is straightforward and designed for the average user with minimal technical expertise. Roland provides all the necessary tools, including screws and a small Allen wrench, so you don’t need any extra equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what the process involves:

1. Setting up the stand:
   Begin by assembling the wooden frame. The two side panels and connecting bar fit together securely with pre-drilled holes, making alignment effortless. The instructions include clear diagrams showing which screws to use and where to place them.
2. Attaching the pedal unit:
   The pedal unit slides into a designated slot on the base of the stand and screws in securely. Pre-attached wiring for the pedals is labeled and ready for connection later.
3. Mounting the piano body:
   This step requires two people due to the weight of the main unit. The piano body is carefully lifted and placed onto the stand. It attaches using metal brackets and screws, ensuring a stable fit.
4. Connecting cables:
   The pedal unit and power adapter are connected to ports located underneath the piano. The labeled cables make this step foolproof. Once connected, you can neatly tuck the cables away using the provided clips, ensuring a clean and professional look.
5. Final touches:
   Attach the music stand by sliding it into its slots on top of the piano body. This stand is sturdy enough to hold heavy sheet music or a tablet.

Tips for Assembly

• Team Effort: While it’s technically possible for one person to assemble the RP701, having a second person is highly recommended, especially for lifting and aligning the piano body.
• Surface Preparation: Assemble the piano on a flat, stable surface with enough space to spread out all components.
• Follow Instructions: The Quick Start Guide is exceptionally clear, with step-by-step diagrams to ensure you don’t miss any detail.

Post-Assembly Impressions

Once fully assembled, the Roland RP701 feels like a single, cohesive unit rather than a collection of parts. The stand and piano body fit together seamlessly, with no wobbling or instability. The wooden panels are well-finished, with no visible screws or gaps that detract from its polished appearance. Despite being a digital piano, it exudes the look and sturdiness of a traditional upright acoustic instrument.

Assembly time varies depending on your experience, but most users will complete it within 45 minutes to an hour. The result is a beautifully crafted instrument that looks professional and blends into home interiors effortlessly. Whether placed in a living room, study, or dedicated music room, the RP701 makes a strong aesthetic statement.

With its intuitive assembly process, Roland ensures that setting up the RP701 is a satisfying introduction to your new piano. The care taken in packaging and design ensures you’ll enjoy your instrument from the moment it’s unboxed.

Design and Build Quality

The Roland RP701 is a testament to thoughtful design and meticulous craftsmanship, blending aesthetics, functionality, and durability. It is clear that Roland intended this piano to be not only a high-performing musical instrument but also a stylish addition to any living space. In this section, we’ll take an in-depth look at the RP701’s design features, materials, finishes, and overall build quality, exploring why this digital piano is as much a piece of furniture as it is a musical tool.

Aesthetics and Style

At first glance, the Roland RP701 stands out for its elegant and minimalist design. The piano manages to strike a balance between a modern aesthetic and the classic charm of an acoustic upright piano, making it a versatile fit for different home interiors. The clean lines, smooth curves, and compact profile create an impression of sophistication without being overwhelming. This makes the RP701 a particularly good choice for urban homes or smaller spaces where every piece of furniture must count both functionally and visually.

Roland offers the RP701 in four distinct finishes, catering to various tastes and décor styles:

1. Classic Black: Timeless and professional, ideal for a traditional or formal setting.
2. Light Oak: A natural wood finish that works beautifully in contemporary, Scandi-style interiors.
3. Dark Rosewood: A rich, warm finish that complements traditional or rustic spaces.
4. White: Clean and modern, perfect for bright, minimalist rooms.

Each finish is textured to mimic the look and feel of real wood, enhancing the piano’s aesthetic appeal while maintaining a level of durability superior to that of actual wood.

Build Quality and Materials

The RP701 is constructed from high-quality engineered wood, designed to provide durability while keeping the overall weight manageable. Roland has clearly focused on delivering a product that feels substantial and sturdy without being overly cumbersome. The use of engineered wood ensures that the piano can withstand variations in temperature and humidity, common issues in home environments, without warping or degrading over time.

The wooden panels are precisely cut and fitted, creating clean seams and a polished overall look. The keyboard lid slides smoothly and fits snugly into the piano’s design, offering protection for the keys when not in use. This detail ensures both functionality and an uncluttered appearance.

Key areas of the piano, such as the pedal unit and stand, are reinforced for stability. The pedal unit, for instance, is firmly connected to the stand and feels solid underfoot, mimicking the resistance of traditional acoustic piano pedals. Meanwhile, the stand’s legs are robust and evenly balanced, ensuring that the piano remains steady even during vigorous playing sessions.

Compact and Space-Saving Design

The RP701’s compact dimensions are another strong selling point. Measuring approximately 1,379 mm x 423 mm x 992 mm (W x D x H) and weighing around 46 kg, this piano fits easily into smaller spaces while still providing the presence of a full-sized instrument. The shallow depth is especially beneficial for apartments or rooms where floor space is limited. Despite its compact footprint, the RP701 does not feel undersized, retaining the stature and elegance of a full upright piano.

Ergonomics and User Comfort

The RP701 has been designed with user comfort in mind, ensuring that players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy extended practice sessions without discomfort. The bench height (if purchased as part of a bundle) is carefully matched to the keyboard height, promoting proper posture and reducing strain on the back and wrists.

The keyboard itself is positioned at an ideal height for most players, with the music stand angled perfectly to minimize neck strain. The music stand is sturdy and wide enough to hold multiple sheets of music or even a tablet device, catering to players who use digital scores or learning apps.

Pedal Design and Functionality

One often-overlooked aspect of digital pianos is the pedal unit, but the RP701 does not disappoint here. The triple pedal unit is firmly built, with a realistic resistance that mirrors the feel of acoustic piano pedals. This ensures a natural playing experience for those transitioning from or practicing for acoustic instruments. The pedals are designed to withstand consistent use, making them suitable for both beginners and more advanced players who require nuanced pedal work.

Thoughtful Details

The RP701 is packed with small yet thoughtful design details that enhance the overall experience:

• Sliding Keyboard Cover: Protects the keys from dust and accidental damage while maintaining a sleek, uninterrupted design when closed.
• Cable Management: The rear of the piano includes dedicated clips and channels for managing cables, ensuring a clean and organized appearance.
• Soft Edges: The edges and corners of the piano are softly rounded, giving it a refined look and making it safer for households with children.

Durability and Long-Term Use

Roland has a reputation for building instruments that stand the test of time, and the RP701 is no exception. Its high-quality materials and robust construction make it an investment that will last for years. The finishes are resistant to scratches and stains, ensuring that the piano retains its new look even after prolonged use. Regular maintenance involves little more than dusting and occasional cleaning, making it a low-maintenance option for busy households.

The electronic components, including the SuperNATURAL sound engine and control panel, are housed securely within the piano body, protected from dust and physical damage. Roland’s long history of reliable digital technology inspires confidence in the durability of these components.

A Family-Friendly Design

Families with young players will appreciate the RP701’s combination of safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Its compact design, rounded edges, and sliding lid make it a safe and attractive option for homes with children. The ability to play silently using headphones also makes it a perfect choice for shared living spaces.

Final Thoughts on Design and Build Quality

The Roland RP701 excels in its design and build quality, combining aesthetics with functionality and durability. Its versatile finishes ensure it can blend seamlessly into a variety of home interiors, while its robust construction provides peace of mind for long-term use. From the compact yet sturdy stand to the thoughtful touches like cable management and ergonomic design, every element of the RP701 has been carefully considered.

For those seeking a digital piano that looks as good as it sounds and performs, the RP701 offers an excellent balance of style, practicality, and durability. It is clear that Roland has prioritized not only the playing experience but also the integration of this instrument into the modern home, making it a standout choice in its category.

Sound Engine and Tone Quality

One of the most important aspects of any digital piano is its sound engine and overall tone quality. The Roland RP701 is equipped with the SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine, which is one of Roland’s most acclaimed technologies. This advanced engine combines traditional sampling techniques with physical modeling, resulting in a realistic and expressive sound that closely replicates the dynamics and nuances of an acoustic piano.

In this section, I’ll explore the sound engine, tonal characteristics, polyphony, and how these elements contribute to the overall playing experience.

The SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine

The SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine is at the core of the RP701’s impressive sound performance. Roland’s technology is renowned for its ability to blend high-quality sampling with physical modeling, creating a dynamic and organic tonal response. Instead of relying solely on pre-recorded samples, SuperNATURAL technology uses modeling to fill in the gaps between samples, producing a seamless tonal shift across different velocities and playing styles.

Key Advantages of the SuperNATURAL Engine:

1. Dynamic Range: The RP701 responds naturally to touch, offering delicate pianissimos and thunderous fortissimos without sounding artificial or compressed.
2. Resonance Modeling: Simulates the complex interactions of strings, soundboard, and pedals found in an acoustic piano.
3. Expressive Control: Allows players to achieve subtle nuances, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres and styles.

Core Piano Tones

The default grand piano tone on the RP701 is warm, resonant, and versatile. Whether you’re playing a tender classical piece, a lively jazz standard, or a powerful pop ballad, this tone adapts beautifully. The piano’s rich sound projection, combined with the nuances of the SuperNATURAL engine, ensures that even advanced pianists feel at home.

Characteristics of the Grand Piano Tone:

• Bass Register: Deep, resonant, and full-bodied, without becoming overly muddy or boomy.
• Middle Register: Balanced and warm, perfect for melodies and accompaniment.
• Treble Register: Bright and clear, with just the right amount of sparkle to stand out without being harsh.

These tonal characteristics make the RP701 a great option for both solo practice and ensemble playing, as it blends well with other instruments.

Tonal Customization

One of the strengths of the RP701 is the level of tonal customization it offers. Players can tweak the sound to suit their personal preferences or the requirements of specific pieces. The piano allows you to adjust parameters such as:

• Damper Resonance: Controls how much sympathetic resonance you hear when using the sustain pedal.
• String Resonance: Adjusts the interaction between strings when multiple keys are played simultaneously.
• Key-Off Resonance: Reproduces the subtle sound of keys being released.
• Hammer Noise: Adds an extra layer of realism, simulating the sound of hammers striking the strings.

These adjustments are invaluable for advanced players who want to fine-tune their sound or emulate the tonal characteristics of specific acoustic pianos.

Polyphony: Performance Without Limits

The RP701 features 256-note polyphony, a key specification that ensures no notes are cut off, even during the most complex pieces. This high polyphony count is especially important for:

• Pieces involving heavy sustain pedal use, where multiple notes resonate simultaneously.
• Layered sounds, such as piano and strings, where each sound requires its own set of polyphony.
• Advanced compositions or arrangements that include rapid, overlapping notes.

For comparison, many mid-range digital pianos offer 128-note polyphony, which can struggle in these scenarios. The RP701’s 256-note capacity guarantees a seamless playing experience, no matter how demanding the music.

Variety of Instrument Sounds

In addition to its exceptional grand piano tone, the RP701 includes a wide range of additional instrument sounds. While the primary focus of this instrument is the acoustic piano experience, these extra tones make the RP701 versatile for various musical genres and creative experimentation.

Categories of Sounds:

1. Electric Pianos: Bright, funky tones reminiscent of vintage Rhodes or Wurlitzer keyboards.
2. Organs: Perfect for classical, gospel, or rock music.
3. Strings: Rich and lush, ideal for layering with piano tones.
4. Harpsichord: A crisp and historically accurate sound for Baroque music.
5. Choirs and Pads: Great for creating atmospheric layers.

These sounds are thoughtfully designed, with high-quality samples and smooth dynamics. They expand the RP701’s usability beyond traditional piano repertoire, making it an excellent choice for multi-genre musicians.

Modes and Effects for Enhanced Sound

The RP701 offers multiple modes and built-in effects that allow players to further enhance and personalize their sound.

Playing Modes:

• Dual Mode: Layer two sounds, such as piano and strings, for a rich, textured performance. The piano retains clarity while the strings add a lush backdrop.
• Split Mode: Assign different tones to the left and right hands (e.g., bass in the left hand and electric piano in the right).
• Twin Piano Mode: Split the keyboard into two identical tonal ranges, ideal for teaching or duets.

Effects:

• Reverb: Adjustable levels of reverb simulate different acoustic environments, from small rooms to large concert halls.
• Chorus: Adds depth and dimension to electric pianos and other tones.
• Brilliance: Fine-tunes the brightness or warmth of the sound to suit the piece or player’s preference.

The Speaker System and Tone Projection

The RP701’s sound engine is perfectly complemented by its robust speaker system. The dual speakers produce clear, well-balanced audio with enough power to fill a medium-sized room. The sound is directional, mimicking the way an acoustic piano projects sound outward and upward. Whether you’re practicing alone or performing for a small group, the piano’s tone remains consistent and immersive.

For silent practice, the RP701 supports headphones with Roland’s 3D Ambience technology, which creates a spatial sound experience. This makes it feel as though the music is emanating from an acoustic piano rather than directly into your ears.

Realistic Piano Response

One of the most striking aspects of the RP701 is how authentic the piano feels in terms of sound response. The SuperNATURAL engine ensures that every nuance of your playing—whether a soft, lingering chord or a sharp staccato note—is accurately reproduced. This level of realism is particularly beneficial for players transitioning between digital and acoustic pianos.

Final Thoughts on Sound Quality

The Roland RP701 delivers an outstanding tonal experience that rivals even higher-end digital pianos. Its SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine offers dynamic and expressive tones that feel alive under your fingers, while its extensive tonal customization allows for a tailored playing experience. With rich resonance, advanced polyphony, and an impressive variety of sounds, the RP701 is well-equipped to meet the needs of both casual players and serious musicians. Whether you’re practicing at home, recording, or performing, the RP701’s sound engine provides a truly inspiring musical experience.

Key Action and Playability

When choosing a digital piano, key action and playability are among the most critical aspects to consider. These elements greatly affect the player’s connection to the instrument, especially for those transitioning from or aspiring to play an acoustic piano. The Roland RP701 features the PHA-4 Standard Keyboard, an advanced hammer-action keyboard designed to replicate the feel of a traditional acoustic piano. In this section, I’ll explore the nuances of the RP701’s key action, touch response, and overall playability, highlighting how it performs across different skill levels and playing styles.

PHA-4 Standard Keyboard: An Overview

Roland’s PHA-4 Standard Keyboard is a well-regarded hammer-action mechanism that offers a convincing replication of the feel and response of an acoustic piano. This action is designed to meet the needs of a broad range of players, from beginners just developing their finger strength to more advanced musicians who require subtle dynamics for expressive playing.

Key Features of the PHA-4:

1. Weighted Action: Uses a graded hammer action where the keys in the lower registers are heavier, mimicking the feel of a real acoustic piano.
2. Ivory Feel Texture: The white keys have a synthetic ivory surface, while the black keys have a matte finish, providing a tactile, non-slip grip.
3. Escapement Mechanism: Simulates the slight “click” or notch felt when pressing a grand piano key softly, adding to the authenticity.

These features ensure that the RP701 delivers a highly realistic playing experience, helping players develop proper technique and making the transition between digital and acoustic pianos seamless.

Graded Hammer Action: Realism in Every Octave

The RP701’s graded hammer action is one of its standout features, making it a great tool for pianists who want an authentic playing experience. This feature replicates the natural mechanics of an acoustic piano, where the keys in the lower register are heavier due to larger hammers, while the upper-register keys are lighter for faster response.

Benefits of Graded Hammer Action:

• Encourages proper finger strength and technique.
• Provides the subtle resistance needed for expressive playing.
• Prepares beginners for playing on acoustic instruments.

The key action is smooth and consistent, offering a predictable feel that inspires confidence, whether you’re practicing scales or performing a demanding classical piece.

Touch Sensitivity and Dynamic Range

The RP701 excels in touch sensitivity, a critical factor in how a piano responds to a player’s nuances. The keys are capable of detecting even the smallest variations in touch, from the lightest pianissimo to the boldest fortissimo, ensuring the tone produced matches the player’s intent.

Adjustable Touch Sensitivity:

The RP701 offers several touch sensitivity settings, which can be adjusted to match the player’s style or preference:

• Light: Requires less effort to produce louder sounds, ideal for younger players or those with lighter touch.
• Standard: Mimics the feel of an acoustic piano, offering balanced resistance.
• Heavy: Requires more effort for dynamic expression, suitable for experienced pianists.

This adjustability is especially useful for households with multiple players, as each person can tailor the touch to their specific needs.

Textured Key Surfaces: Comfort and Control

The key surfaces of the RP701 are designed to enhance playability and comfort. Roland has included a synthetic ivory texture on the white keys and a matte finish on the black keys, which prevents slipping during extended practice sessions or performances.

Advantages of Textured Key Surfaces:

• Feels more like an acoustic piano, adding to the overall authenticity.
• Reduces the likelihood of fingers slipping, even during fast passages or in humid conditions.
• Provides a satisfying tactile experience, especially for advanced players who value a premium feel.

These small but significant details make the RP701 feel more like a traditional piano, adding to its appeal for those who value authenticity.

Escapement for Acoustic Piano Realism

A notable feature of the PHA-4 keyboard is the inclusion of escapement. This is the slight notch or click felt when pressing a key lightly, replicating the mechanism found in grand pianos. The escapement feature enhances realism, particularly for pianists accustomed to the touch of an acoustic grand.

Why Escapement Matters:

• Helps advanced players perform pieces requiring precise dynamics and articulation.
• Adds to the overall tactile feedback, making the piano more engaging to play.

While beginners may not immediately notice or benefit from this feature, it becomes invaluable as they progress and develop more refined techniques.

Responsiveness Across Genres

One of the RP701’s greatest strengths is its versatility. The keyboard is responsive across all musical genres, whether you’re playing a delicate classical sonata, a lively jazz improvisation, or a driving rock ballad. The action supports intricate fingerwork and rapid passages with ease, ensuring that the piano keeps up with the player’s demands.

Examples of Performance:

• Classical Music: The nuanced dynamics and realistic resistance allow for expressive performances of Chopin or Debussy.
• Jazz and Blues: The smooth key action makes it easy to execute quick runs, trills, and complex chords.
• Pop and Contemporary: Balanced keys enable both rhythm-heavy accompaniments and lyrical melodies.

The RP701’s playability shines in all contexts, making it a versatile instrument for diverse musical needs.

Beginner-Friendly and Professional-Ready

For beginners, the PHA-4 keyboard provides the resistance and tactile feedback needed to develop proper hand positioning and muscle memory. Its graded hammer action and realistic response make it easier to transition to acoustic pianos, ensuring that foundational skills are built on solid ground.

For more advanced players, the escapement and nuanced touch sensitivity allow for precise control over dynamics, phrasing, and tone. Whether you’re practicing complex pieces or recording intricate compositions, the RP701 offers the tools needed for professional-level performance.

Longevity and Maintenance

The PHA-4 Standard Keyboard is built to last. The keys are durable, resistant to wear, and maintain their smooth movement even after years of heavy use. Unlike acoustic pianos, the RP701 requires no tuning, and its key action remains consistent over time, making it a reliable choice for long-term use.

Final Thoughts on Key Action and Playability

The Roland RP701’s key action and playability are among its strongest features, offering an experience that closely rivals acoustic pianos. With the PHA-4 Standard Keyboard, players benefit from weighted keys, textured surfaces, and nuanced touch sensitivity, all of which contribute to an authentic and satisfying playing experience. Whether you’re a beginner building foundational skills or an advanced musician seeking dynamic control, the RP701 delivers a keyboard that inspires confidence and creativity at every level.

Features and Functionality

The RP701 comes equipped with a host of features that enhance its versatility. Below are some standout functionalities:

Built-in Sounds

The piano offers over 300 instrument sounds, covering everything from orchestral strings to modern synths. This variety is particularly beneficial for those exploring composition or wanting to experiment beyond classical piano.

Modes

• Dual Mode: Layer two sounds (e.g., piano and strings) for a rich, layered texture.
• Split Mode: Assign different sounds to the left and right hands.
• Twin Piano Mode: Split the keyboard into two identical zones, perfect for student-teacher lessons.

Lesson and Practice Features

The RP701 is loaded with practice tools, including:

• Metronome: Fully adjustable tempo and time signature.
• Recording Function: Record and playback performances to monitor progress.
• Integrated Lessons: Preloaded with standard etudes and exercises.

Effects

Reverb, chorus, and brilliance adjustments let you refine the sound to suit various styles and settings.

Connectivity Options

The RP701 excels in connectivity, making it a modern and versatile instrument.

Bluetooth

The built-in Bluetooth connectivity supports:

• Audio: Stream music from a smartphone or tablet to play along.
• MIDI: Connect to apps like Roland Piano Partner 2 or learning platforms.

USB and MIDI

The RP701 includes a USB port for connecting to a computer, making it a capable MIDI controller for DAWs. The USB drive also allows for easy storage of recordings.

Ease of Use and User Interface

The Roland RP701 stands out for its simplicity and user-friendly design, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. Roland has carefully crafted the user interface to ensure that navigating the piano’s features is intuitive, whether you’re a beginner exploring the instrument or an experienced musician customizing its settings.

Control Panel Design

The control panel of the RP701 is sleek and minimalist, with only a handful of buttons and a rotary knob. These controls are strategically placed above the keyboard for easy access while maintaining the instrument’s clean aesthetic. The button layout is logical, allowing users to quickly locate essential features like tone selection, metronome control, and volume adjustment without feeling overwhelmed by too many options.

The lack of a cluttered display works in the piano’s favor, especially for users who prefer a streamlined and distraction-free interface. Instead, Roland opts for simplicity, letting the tactile controls handle most functions.

Companion App: Roland Piano Partner 2

The RP701 pairs seamlessly with Roland’s Piano Partner 2 app, which enhances its ease of use by offering additional features and a more visual interface. Via Bluetooth, users can:

• Access an interactive song library.
• Adjust settings such as tone, effects, and playback options through an intuitive menu.
• Use built-in practice tools, including rhythm accompaniments and flashcard-style note recognition exercises.

This app-based integration is a game-changer for users who prefer managing the piano’s features through their smartphone or tablet.

Quick Start and Accessibility

The piano’s Quick Start Guide makes it easy to set up and use right out of the box. Additionally, most features can be accessed with minimal learning curve, making it especially beginner-friendly. The RP701’s straightforward interface ensures that players can focus on playing rather than navigating complex menus, enhancing the overall experience.

Speaker System and Headphone Experience

The Roland RP701 offers an exceptional auditory experience, both through its built-in speaker system and its headphone output. Designed to reproduce the rich, nuanced tones of an acoustic piano, the RP701 delivers impressive sound quality that enhances both practice and performance. Whether you’re playing aloud for an audience or practicing silently in a shared space, the RP701 ensures a satisfying listening experience.

Speaker System

The RP701 is equipped with a dual-speaker system that delivers clear, well-balanced sound. The speakers are strategically placed within the piano’s cabinet to project the sound outward and upward, simulating the natural sound dispersion of an acoustic piano. This design creates an immersive listening experience that fills the room, making it ideal for home use in medium-sized spaces.

Speaker Highlights:

• Clarity: The sound remains detailed and crisp across the entire tonal range, from the deep resonance of the bass to the brightness of the treble.
• Power: The speakers are powerful enough to project sound during casual performances, ensuring that the piano is audible without external amplification.
• Authenticity: The piano’s internal acoustics mimic the way sound resonates in an upright acoustic piano, adding depth to the overall experience.

The volume is easily adjustable, allowing you to play softly without disturbing others or turn it up for a more engaging performance.

Headphone Experience with 3D Ambience

When silent practice is needed, the RP701 offers an equally compelling experience through its headphone output. Roland’s Headphones 3D Ambience technology ensures that the sound retains its spatial qualities, making it feel like you’re playing in an open acoustic environment rather than listening directly through headphones.

Benefits of Headphones 3D Ambience:

• Creates a natural, immersive soundstage for extended practice sessions.
• Reduces ear fatigue by simulating the resonance and depth of a physical piano.
• Supports high-quality headphones for maximum audio fidelity.

The combination of a robust speaker system and superior headphone experience makes the RP701 versatile for all playing environments.

Durability and Maintenance

The Roland RP701 is built with durability in mind, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. Roland’s reputation for creating robust and well-engineered instruments is evident in the RP701’s design, materials, and construction.

Durability

The RP701’s cabinet is made of high-quality engineered wood, chosen for its strength and resistance to environmental factors like humidity and temperature fluctuations. The finish, available in four attractive colors, is resistant to scratches and stains, ensuring that the piano maintains its polished appearance over time. The keys, pedals, and internal components are designed to withstand heavy use, whether it’s a beginner practicing scales daily or an advanced player tackling complex pieces.

The PHA-4 Standard Keyboard is another durable aspect of the RP701. Its advanced mechanics are built to perform consistently, even after years of intensive playing. The pedals, which are firmly attached to the base, feel solid underfoot and are designed to handle frequent use without loosening or degrading.

Maintenance

One of the biggest advantages of digital pianos like the RP701 is their low maintenance compared to acoustic pianos. There’s no need for regular tuning, and cleaning is simple—just dust the surface and wipe the keys occasionally with a soft, dry cloth. Software updates can be installed via USB to keep the piano running smoothly, ensuring its longevity in terms of both hardware and features.

This combination of durability and minimal maintenance makes the RP701 a practical and worry-free investment for years of reliable performance.

Comparison with Competitors

The Roland RP701 sits in a competitive segment of mid-range digital pianos, targeting families, beginners, and intermediate players looking for an affordable yet high-quality instrument. While Roland has carved out a niche with its innovative SuperNATURAL technology and thoughtful design, it’s worth comparing the RP701 to some of its closest competitors to understand how it stacks up.

Yamaha YDP-165

The Yamaha YDP-165 is a direct competitor to the RP701 in terms of price and target audience. It features Yamaha’s CFX Grand Piano Voice, which is derived from their flagship concert grand. While the YDP-165 delivers a bright and detailed piano tone, its sampling-only approach doesn’t match the dynamic realism of Roland’s SuperNATURAL sound engine. The RP701’s blend of sampling and modeling results in more natural tonal transitions, especially when playing with nuanced dynamics.

In terms of keyboard action, the YDP-165 uses Yamaha’s Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) keyboard, which is lighter than Roland’s PHA-4 Standard. While the GHS action is decent for beginners, the PHA-4 offers a more authentic feel, with escapement and textured keys that mimic ivory and ebony surfaces, making it a better option for players seeking realism.

Connectivity is another differentiator. The RP701 includes Bluetooth for both MIDI and audio, allowing seamless integration with apps and devices. The YDP-165, on the other hand, lacks Bluetooth functionality and relies on USB connections, which can be limiting for modern users.

Kawai KDP120

The Kawai KDP120 is another strong contender in this price range. It features Kawai’s Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHCII) keyboard action and the Harmonic Imaging Sound Engine, which are highly regarded in the digital piano world. The RHCII action offers smooth, responsive playability, but it lacks the escapement mechanism found in the RP701’s PHA-4 keyboard, making the Roland feel closer to an acoustic piano.

In terms of sound, the KDP120 provides rich and warm tones, particularly appealing for classical and lyrical music. However, the RP701 offers more versatility with its variety of tones and extensive customization options, including adjustable string resonance, hammer noise, and damper resonance. Additionally, Roland’s built-in effects like reverb and chorus provide more options for shaping the sound to suit different genres.

Casio AP-470

The Casio AP-470 is a value-packed alternative with impressive features for its price. It uses Casio’s AiR Sound Source, which produces clear and articulate tones. However, while the AP-470 excels in offering an affordable entry into the digital piano market, its sound lacks the depth and expressiveness of Roland’s SuperNATURAL engine.

The AP-470 also features a Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard, which is responsive and durable but doesn’t match the nuanced feel of the PHA-4, especially for advanced players seeking escapement and textured keys.

Why the RP701 Stands Out

The Roland RP701 differentiates itself through a combination of:

1. Sound Quality: The SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine provides unmatched tonal realism in this price range, with expressive dynamics and natural resonance.
2. Keyboard Feel: The PHA-4 Standard Keyboard offers escapement, graded hammer action, and textured surfaces, making it a standout for players seeking a realistic touch.
3. Connectivity: Bluetooth MIDI and audio support, along with USB, make the RP701 a modern and versatile option for tech-savvy users.
4. Design and Aesthetics: The RP701’s stylish cabinet and range of finishes give it a premium look that blends well with modern interiors.

While competitors like Yamaha, Kawai, and Casio each have their strengths, the RP701’s combination of advanced technology, authentic playability, and user-friendly features makes it one of the most well-rounded digital pianos in its class.

Target Audience

The RP701 is ideal for:

• Beginners: Thanks to its lesson features and Twin Piano mode.
• Intermediate Players: The realistic key action and tonal variety support skill development.
• Families: Its silent play and compact design make it a great choice for home use.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• High-quality sound engine with 256-note polyphony
• Authentic PHA-4 keyboard action
• Bluetooth connectivity for audio and MIDI
• Sleek, compact design
• Robust speaker system
• Beginner-friendly features

Cons

• Limited to the PHA-4 keyboard (advanced players might prefer PHA-50)
• Assembly can be cumbersome for one person
• Pricier than some competitors

Final Verdict

The Roland RP701 is an outstanding digital piano that seamlessly combines advanced technology, authentic playability, and elegant design. It strikes a balance between being beginner-friendly and offering enough depth to satisfy more advanced players, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of musicians.

At the heart of the RP701 is Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine, which delivers rich, expressive tones that rival those of much more expensive digital pianos. The ability to customize tonal parameters such as string resonance, hammer noise, and damper resonance ensures a highly personalized playing experience. Paired with the PHA-4 Standard Keyboard, the RP701 provides a realistic touch that closely mimics the feel of an acoustic piano. Features like escapement, textured keys, and graded hammer action make this a great option for those developing their technique or transitioning from an acoustic instrument.

Its modern features, including Bluetooth connectivity for MIDI and audio, add tremendous value. The ability to stream music, connect to apps like Roland Piano Partner 2, and use headphones with 3D Ambience technology enhances its versatility, making it perfect for shared living spaces or silent practice. Its compact design and range of stylish finishes allow it to fit seamlessly into any home.

While competitors like Yamaha, Kawai, and Casio offer compelling alternatives, the RP701 excels in its combination of sound, playability, and features. Whether you’re a beginner, a family looking for a versatile home piano, or a serious player seeking an affordable digital option, the Roland RP701 delivers exceptional value and performance.