🎹 Roland FPE50 vs RD88 | Which One is Right for You? | Demystifying Your Decision 🎹

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#RolandFPE50 #RolandRD88 #DigitalPianos
0:00 - Video Introduction on the Roland RD88 v.s. Roland FP-E50
0:57 - Stu’s Take on the Roland FP-E50
3:11 - Stu’s Take on the Roland RD88
5:25 - Piano Sound Review
7:27 - Stu’s Take on the Piano Sound
9:20 - Final Thoughts
Light, capable pianos with onboard speakers have roared back in popularity due mostly to lighter weight material and more efficient speakers. All companies have high-performing slab digital pianos with higher-grade speakers intended for both individual and stage use. Roland’s two specialty, all-in-one pianos, the RD88 and the FP-E50 are both driven by the ZenCore synthesis engine, with onboard speakers, the PHA 4 action and a vast array of onboard sounds, so which keyboard should you choose?
Reasons to Love the FP-E50
The PHA 4 Action
This action is weighted and balanced the closest to an acoustic piano for any keyboard in this price range.
The Chord Sequencer
A fast way, particularly when done offline, to build a harmonic backing to play over. This frees up your left hand to take part in the performance. There are some great left-hand chord control options as well.
The Quality and Variety of the Zencore Sounds
The FP-E50 comes with 947 sounds built in, and you can add to that with downloadable sound packs from the Roland Cloud.
Lighter to Carry
At 10 lbs. lighter than most full-size all-in-one units, the FP-E50 is more likely to be used as a portable keyboard.
Proper Audio Outputs and Polyphony
The FP-E50 has ¼” audio outputs and 256-note polyphony
Extras
12 Watt per side downward facing speakers provide a ton of sound
Onboard mic effects are extensive; including vocoder and harmonizer effects with four variations each
USB port for mp3 and WAV playback
Centre channel cancel to create karaoke tracks
Reasons to Love the RD88
Knob Controls
The RD88 has knob controls for all of the standard parameters, as well as eight assignable controllers.
Effects Engine
The RD88 effects engine is remarkable with individual effects for all of the tones, two insert effects per scene and master effects on top of that. While paired back, this is similar in concept to the higher-end Phantom series.
Clarity and Sound Quality
There is good clarity on high frequencies that will cut through a noisy environment, and the Supernatural piano, e-piano and Zencore sound engines driving everything.
Extras
Lightweight at 29 lbs.
256 notes of polyphony
2 upward-facing tweeters and 2 downward-facing mid-range speakers for 7 Watts per side
Despite both keyboards having a good selection of onboard sounds, the same action and built-in speakers, and being priced similarly, the intended uses of each are quite different.
The FP-E50 is intended for a solo performer providing some great one-person band capabilities with beefy enough speakers that no reinforcement is necessary for smaller settings.
The RD88 is a slimmed-down stage piano that is built on real-time tactile controls, consistent with the RD series, with features such as scene presets, maximum portability and the ability to self-monitor, although the intended use is with a PA system.
The RD88 is for band and recording sessions, while the FP-E50 is for a single-person performance.
Stu’s Take
The differences are mostly in the speaker presentation, with no noticeable differences in keyboard support or vibration. With the two upward-facing tweeters, you can play with volume control by creating an EQ split between the top and bottom speakers and balancing their clarity without being too cutting.
Neither keyboard would be the first choice if playing mainly piano. Still, for a band setting where multiple layered sounds with quick recall and lots of effects opportunities are needed, the RD88 is a really well-put-together product that is intended for stage use.
The FP-E50 is the ideal choice if you’re a singer-songwriter or you perform in restaurants as it has a beefier speaker and an auto-accompaniment feature more in tune with that scenario.
Final Thoughts
The differences between these two keyboards may seem quite obvious, but there were quite a few requests to do this comparison as comparing pages of specs doesn’t always help identify the major takeaways.
There are extensive individual reviews of each of these instruments with links to those reviews in the description, along with links to the best prices for both of these keyboards.
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[@crisoliveira2644]

A video answering the question I made some days ago! Thanks, Stu! You're great, man.

[@MerriamPianos]

We received a number of requests for this comparison. We always want to make sure we're tackling the models and comparisons that are most intriguing and compelling to our viewers. Thanks again for the suggestion! :)

[@jeremiahraj34]

Thank you so much for this comparison! Right now I am between the two of these keyboard and this videos clears a lot up.

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! We're glad it is helpful in your process in deciding between these two powerhouse digital pianos. :)

[@victorcegarra]

Thanks so much Stu for this long waited comparison video

[@MerriamPianos]

Thank you for taking the time to tune in! We appreciate it! :)

[@Iceland874]

Excellent comparison. You are the best on KZbin and I appreciate all your comparisons and information. Although the new one is awesome I think I’m going to order the RD88. I’m only going to be using for my own recording with other instruments that I play but now I’m not sure. It’s a tougher decision than I realized.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks so much! We're glad you enjoyed it! We also appreciate the incredibly kind words. The RD88 still holds up as an amazing, fully-loaded instrument. I think you will be beyond thrilled with what it has to offer. :)

[@garaiss]

Thank you, very great comparrison! I would like to see your comparisson about Dexibell VIVO s7 ans Yamaha CK

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! Thanks for tuning in! We appreciate it. We will do our best to tackle that comparison for you, but we don't get many Dexibell models come through our showrooms, so it might be difficult to do.

[@Boleyn1895]

Thank you for all your help, I (Think) I've decided on the FP-E50, it just does and has so much, the app, ZEN-Core and great action all at an amazing price. Thank you again.

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! It is a fantastic choice! The cost-to-value ratio the FP-E50 presents is exceptional. :)

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@Merriam Music thanks for the reply! Well if there is any Roland I would probably say yes to is the GP9 probably because of the grand piano stle case haha! That is if I don't find a good reconditioned grand🎹🎶

[@MerriamPianos]

You're welcome! The GP9 is an extraordinary piano. Roland really knocked it out of the park with that model! :)

[@niksmusicin]

Can we install an additional sound pack in fpe50?

[@Val-wd7ny]

Hello ! Thanks for the vid :) It’s helpful Can you also see the notes/chords you are playing on the rd88 like the fpe50 do ?

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! Thanks for tuning in! No, the RD88 does not have the note/chord identification functionality that the FP-E50 includes.

[@pianoman_JP]

Thanks, Stu - I've been waiting for this video. Another advantage of the RD88 is 3 pedal inputs vs only 1 on the FP-E50. I use one for sustain, 1 for rotary speaker on/off, 1 for expression pedal. Juat wish the RD88 had a music rack like the FP-E50.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! Thanks so much for tuning in! There are definitely some functional differences between the two's designs as you've pointed out. Thanks for sharing your points, we appreciate it! :)

[@serjao9219]

Man, you can connect 3 pedals to fp e50...

[@valterfcarvalho]

@@serjao9219 Actually you can connect a 3 pedal system, which goes to a single special input on it.

[@slivkask8329]

Stu, thank you very much for the very nice and detailed review! I am looking for my 1st portable piano, and unfortunately none of reviewed ones is able to connect to Roland Piano App, which is quite deal breaker for me.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! Thanks for tuning in! The FPE50 and RD88 are not compatible with the Roland Piano App, but you may wish to explore the FP60X option, which does. The FP60X has the same PHA4 action as the FPE50, but it has a superior speaker system, which provides a very rewarding sonic experience. :)

[@slivkask8329]

@@MerriamPianos Brent, tank you very much for your reply and recommendation! I really appreciate it. 👍

[@TheBuddyKeys]

I have once owned both. I have settled on a Yamaha DGX670 for my teeny weeny solo gigs. In the past I complained about its weight for gigs, but it has all the stuff I need and a great price. Your reviews do influence me. Your reviews are really well made. PHA4 feels better than the GHS, but the rhythms in the Yamaha satisfies my goal of singing and performing Pop tunes. Just thought I would comment.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for tuning in and sharing your thoughts! We appreciate it. Every player will have their own personal preference of course. With that said the FP-E50 is quite the powerhouse, especially in terms of its auto-accompaniment and microphone features, so it is certainly an instrument worth consideration for live applications.

[@ivicam1984]

I am a hobby guitarist currently in the market for my first ever digital piano. After watching hours of great Roland piano reviews and comparisons on Merriam Music and trying a few of Roland pianos in person, I am seriously considering getting an FP30X or FPE50. The only thing that worries me is the infamous clicking keys problem on apparently every piano with PHA-4 action. How frequent is the clicking keys problem from your experience?

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for writing in! While I have read some isolated incidences of this clicking key problem, in my experiences Roland's PHA4 action is one of the most reliable and durable actions on the market at its price point. Furthermore, Roland offers amazing warranty support if anything were to happen. :)

[@djramosf]

Hi, thanks for the video, I was more into the RD88 because I tough that it has more professional sounds but now I am not quite sure (and still a little bit confused); I have an FP10 and I am thinking that perhaps the piano sound of the FP50 is the same; also the portability part my perception is that RD88 is more transportable because of the size

[@MerriamPianos]

You're welcome! The RD88 is a bit more portable, but the FP-E50 is really impressive. The inclusion of the ZEN-Core engine makes the FP-E50 a really compelling option! It is a tough call between these pianos. It comes down to a matter of preference and context of use.

[@germannunez8352]

Awesome keyboards! One question bro about the FPE50 it has cutoff and attack control or any way to apply it to te sound?

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent from Merriam Music here! The adjustable parameters are different depending on the patch/tone engine you are accessing. With that said, many sounds do have cutoff and attack controls. :)

[@germannunez8352]

@@MerriamPianos thanks 🙏♥️

[@xkri3]

Amazing, Good video

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks! We're glad you enjoyed it! :)

[@JasonWelchMusic]

Thanks so much for this comparison. ❤ Compared to the FPE50, does the RD88 have any problems with staying in place on the stand?

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! With the right stand, either piano should be very stable in performance situations. :)

[@Zoco101]

If I remember correctly, the RD88 is quite thick - more a box than a slab. You need a stand with good adjustment, because it will sit quite high otherwise, and some stands have surprisingly few positions. If you sit lowish and you have long legs your knees might hit the bottom of the unit. I sit high'ish anyway (instrument high'ish too) because I get less back strain that way.

[@plrooks]

Please do a CK88 vs RD88 comparison! Love to hear your playing and thoughts :)

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for the suggestion! We have a number of other videos in the queue right now, but I'll add that suggestion to the list and I'm sure our production team will do our best to tackle it for you.

[@pseudonym37]

If I would be playing with headphones most of the time, would there be much of a sound difference between the two, or would it now just depend on what headphones I am using?

[@MerriamPianos]

In terms of the piano sound, they would be quite different with headphones as well as they rely on different tone engines to generate the piano sound. With that said, the headphones you're using will also have an impact on the overall sonic experience.

[@zaphthegreat]

You mentioned that if you were looking for something that's primarily a piano, you'd pick the FP-30x (and the 60x, but my focus here isn't on it) over the FP-E50. Is there a reason for that? I ask because I just ordered an FP-E50 over an FP-30x after a lot of agonizing over it, so now I'm wondering if I'll regret it. I liked the added features on the FP-E50, but realistically, I'll be using the piano 80%+ of the time.

[@MerriamPianos]

The FP-E50 and FP30X have the same core piano experience (PHA4 action and SuperNATURAL tone engine). The FP30X is a bit cheaper because it is streamlined in terms of its feature offering. The FP-E50 offers the same core piano experience with far more built-in sounds and features. I think you will be very pleased with the FP-E50! It is an excellent value buy considering everything it does.

[@Iceland874]

Which is easier to use and has the most options? I like them both but can only get one. When I think Ive made a decision I find I haven’t. Which one do you prefer?

[@MerriamPianos]

It comes down to a matter of personal preference. The FPE50 has more accompaniment features/possibilities, so, if that is an appealing feature, that would be the ideal choice. If you are looking for a highly-portable option for music production and live performance applications, the RD88 is better aligned.

[@OkitaNamikaze]

have you tried Kawai's vpc1? kawai say's it has their rm3 grand action which is supposed to feel like a grand piano but i'm not seeing much difference in terms of the pivot length between the rm3 and rolands pha-4 , it really just looks like a compact action with a wooden key stick and the pivot points of the black keys are further to make up for the short key length.

[@Biozene]

Yeah, I was considering a VPC1 briefly, but the short pivot put me off. I'd be prepared to have a shorter pivot if I were going with a cheaper model using the PHA4, which has a pivot of just over 20cm from what I can find, but paying a premium for short wooden keys in the VPC1 is a definite no!

[@OkitaNamikaze]

@@Biozene exactly! i mean the pha-50 has almost the exact same pivot length as kawai's grand feel ii and grand feel iii when you can get an fp 90 or fp 90x for less price than a vpc1

[@MerriamPianos]

The VPC1 is exceptional! Arguably, the very best MIDI controller ever made. While the pivot length is fairly comparable to the PHA4, there is something to be said for the other aspects of the action. The all wooden-keyboard and feel of the VPC1 is extraordinarily authentic. :)

[@briannzuwah9455]

How does the vpc1 compare to the Roland fp90x?

[@Boleyn1895]

My local store doesn't have the FP-E50 but it does have the RD08 & 88 which I'm trying out tomorrow. I was wondering if you could tell me how the action differs between the E50 and RD88? Thank you.

[@MerriamPianos]

Both the RD88 and FP-E50 use the same PHA4 action, so there really isn't any difference in the feel/touch.

[@Boleyn1895]

@MerriamPianos Thank you, I asked as the Fp-30X/60X has the same keys but in your review you state that they feel better due to the more solid build on the 30/60X, so just wanted to see if the builds on the E50 and the RD's feel different. Thank you.

[@Iceland874]

Why pay more for the RD88? Is it worth it? The other one has a music holder but RD88 doesn’t? I come from an acoustic background and want one to record along with voice, 1 or 2 flute parts and eventually with Roland Aerophone Pro. Which do you suggest?

[@MerriamPianos]

The RD88 and FP-E50 have some overlap, but they're intended for slightly different functions. The RD88 is a bit more portable due to its size and it also has a different feature offering than the FP-E50. In either case, you're getting a wonderful instrument! :)

[@drepen5946]

Are these models USB bus powered capable? According to the official site E50 looks more energy efficient. Does RD-88 work only with 12v AC adapter for 1500mAh? How is E50 with USB power? The website say 11W with AC adapter and 6W usage with normal volume.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! I don't believe either of these are capable of being USB bus powered. There are some MIDI controllers that I am aware of that have that capability, but I believe both of these require an AC adapter to be used at all times.

[@drepen5946]

Thank you, I will keep it in my mind. I was thinking of it because my old Numa compact 2 worked with USB and it was pretty convenient.

[@matthewcyntje4393]

Does the RD 88 and FP E50 have the same electric piano tones? I like those FM type tones from the 1980s

[@MerriamPianos]

No, the core piano sounds are different. The FP-E50's core concert piano sounds use the SuperNATURAL tone engine, which is not present on the RD88. Thanks and all the best!

[@pianoman_JP]

@@MerriamPianos I believe the rd88 DOES have supernatural piano & electric piano according to Roland.

[@christophebrunel8875]

i confirm that the RD88 has super natural acoustic piano engine AND electric piano engine !!!

[@valterfcarvalho]

I'm at a point where I watch the reviews just to see and listen Stu playing 😄

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks so much for tuning in! We're glad you enjoy Stu's playing! :)

[@jjimever4145]

Hi my friend...I have a son and he is studying piano...his teacher told me that he is going well and he must buy a digital piano...can you suggest me a piano to choose for him...I must inform you that he studies two years already...please give me 2-3 options cause I don't know the prices here in Greece...thanks a lot...

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent from Merriam Music here! Thanks for writing in with your question. It is difficult to make suggestions without more context because there are so many options on the market. Firstly, the budget will definitely be a factor in narrowing things down. There are also console and slab style models. Without knowing the preference and budget, I would suggest going the route of a console digital piano as they tend to be better value in that they come with a full package (i.e. built-in stand, triple pedal system, matching bench, etc.). The Roland RP107 and Kawai KDP120 are excellent entry-level options that both provide a good blend of action, tone, and speaker fidelity. If you're looking for something more premium, the Roland HP702/HP704 and Kawai CN201/CN301 would be the next meaningful step up in my opinion. There are of course models above those two, which offer an even greater level of authenticity. Thanks and hope this helps!

[@rac1477]

Hi Stu, I didn't know of these models. I've been looking through your comparisons of FP range vs "x". Where do the FPE50, FP-30X or FP-60X fit amongst these models that you suggest here?

[@jonos138]

Its getting really difficult to choose a piano/keyboard as all of them are becoming very good. I just record at home, i use midi a lot, but i also want good action and the most realistic piano sound onboard. I want to not always turn on my mac for a great midi piano sound. Sometimes i would like to just sit down at the keyboard and play. Im thinking of a Kawai es520 for my next purchase. Do you think this is a good choice for me?

[@MerriamPianos]

I definitely hear you on that front! It is an exciting time in the market. The ES520 is a wonderful choice and I would certainly vouch for that instrument personally. With that said, in our market here in Canada, the price gap between the ES520 and ES920 is so small that it really makes sense to make the jump to the ES920, which is an absolute powerhouse. Pending it is not too much more money, it is a meaningfully better playing experience in my opinion. :)

[@jonos138]

@MerriamPianos Unfortunately in the UK that's another £400-£500 difference between the es520 and es950. I also love the mp7se but that's over my current budget. I have also considered the roland fp60x, plus the rd88 that you feature here. See how difficult it is to choose! 😁😆😉

[@gustavogo2915]

@@jonos138 I don’t recommend the ES520

[@jonos138]

@@gustavogo2915 For what reason?

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@@gustavogo2915 why?🎹🎶

[@johnnylong2023]

fp e50 or kawai mp7se? in therms of actions keybed...

[@MerriamPianos]

I would say that the MP7SE is a substantial step up from the FP-E50, but that is also reflected in the price difference. However, the FP-E50 does have arranger/accompaniment features, as well as built-in speakers, which the MP7SE does not possess. That may factor into the decision as well! :)

[@johnnylong2023]

@@MerriamPianos thanks for answer? ! but I'm not interested the sound/ only the action of the keys/ if it's worth the price difference?

[@johnnylong2023]

@@MerriamPianos FP-E50 or Roland Juno-DS 88 ?

[@diogoqueiroz4726]

Ótima comparação. Você acha então que o pfe50 é superior ao rd08? No Brasil o 88 é muito mais caro .

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi there! The FP-E50 is a bit cheaper than the RD88 here in Canada, but the price gaps between various models do vary from market to market.

[@diogoqueiroz4726]

@@MerriamPianos aqui o e50 tem o mesmo valor do rd-08. Merece uma comparação?

[@charlesworton4020]

Something I recently discovered - to my horror - is that the FPE50 only supports one midi channel, which makes it virtually useless as a midi source. Even the RD88 only supports 3 channels, which would give you a rhythm track and two layered tones maximum. For the home musician expecting to record to a DAW - probably on a home computer - the FPE50 is a disaster. Frankly, I don't know what use a single channel of MIDI data would be useful for, other than to allow the manufacturer to claim that the keyboard supports midi.

[@MerriamPianos]

It is important to note that the intention of both the FP-E50 and RD88 models are to be stage pianos opposed to workstations/production instruments. Instruments like the FANTOM-0 and FANTOM series models are more aligned for that type of use.

[@charlesworton4020]

@@MerriamPianos do you know if the fantom 8 offers auto accompaniment? The fpe50 is pretty strong in that arena. Thanks!

[@anthony13299]

A POTENTIALLY HUGE ISSUE THAT IS OVERLOOKED IN THIS - AND EVERY OTHER ONLINE REVIEW ON THE ROLAND FP-E50 is the fact that MIDI implementation on the FP-E50 is crippled: it sends and receives on one channel only. So if you have created a dual sound that you love - say a piano-pad combination - and you send it to your DAW, you will only get ONE of those sounds when you play the performance back. That's right, that beloved dual voice that you painstakingly created on the FP-E50 and saved to a "scene" will only be played back through the FP-E50 by the DAW as a SINGLE VOCE. In other words, in this case, you can hear the piano, but not the pad. The FP-E50 can't play dual instruments AND it can't play split keyboard performances back through your DAW. This is a very basic maneuver for anyone using a DAW: record a performance from a piano, make changes on the DAW, play it back on the piano, and then record the perfected performance into audio. Nope. Not gonna do it on this with dual voices or keyboard splits. It also will not record anything to MIDI on the keyboard and export to the DAW. And you won't be able to play multiple FP-E50 instruments on multiple tracks on your instrument (on different MIDI channels) from your DAW. What instrument these days only sends and receives on one MIDI channel each? The FP-E50 is not a multi-timbral instrument with respect to MIDI. The RD-88 is. While the latter does not have a record or accompaniment function it SHOULD (I don't own one) perform these basic MIDI functions with dual sounds, keyboard splits and multiple instruments on multiple MIDI channels as is normally expected. For the home user, the lack of a recorder and accompaniment is easily compensated for by the simple purchase of something like Band-in-a-Box for a hundred bucks. None of the reviews I've seen online has addressed this "disability" and no one in the stores was able to explain this to me in advance (and I really tried to find out). WHAT WAS ROLAND THINKING (??) when they crippled the FP-E50 in this way??? I wish I had purchased the RD-88 for my home use to connect to my DAW.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for tuning in and sharing your very thoughtful insights on the matter! While I can certainly understand the complaint and frustration when using the FP-E50 in certain musical contexts, it is to be expected to have some limitations. It also does not have app compatibility, whereas the FP60X does. However, this is to be expected to some extend for an instrument that packs so many sounds, features, and functions into it, as well as an incredible core piano experience via the PHA4 action and SuperNATURAL tone engine, for a price point of $1500. Naturally, if you're looking for an instrument to do it all, one should expect to be in a slightly higher price category. Ultimately, some concessions had to be made, which will be frustrating to some users. I'm sorry to hear that the FP-E50 does not include the functionality that you require, but I hope you are able to find a workaround that satisfies your musical needs. :)

[@Antiextremistdude]

I would've liked to have known that, I didn't really do my homework on it, I was just looking for a controller. I think you might be able to use their Zenology plugin for your DAW which should allow you to match the keyboard patches, although I think it's only for Mac/PC DAWs. I had the same choice between these keyboards, the speakers sounded better in the FP, the screen shows a lot more and the accompaniment features a pretty fun. The FP also doesn't seem to have any key range control so you can't use dual and have the top or bottom end cut off on the second layer. I like a bit of strings on the left hand sometimes with the piano but up the top strings can overwhelm piano melodies. The 'solution' I suppose is to use a layered instrument in dual mode ie. use piano up top and piano/strings down low. But then you're extremely limited in instrument choice. I think I may switch to the RD88.

[@dudububucouple]

@@MerriamPianosit is important to analyze thoroughly if the piano suites your needs. Because if it does, I think it will be remarkable. My husband bought me the FP E50 for my birthday and I absolutely loved it especially the accompaniment feature that it has. It really rocks on that area.

[@nyongyudi211]

Maybe next video roland rd 88 vs yamaha ck 88

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for the suggestion! We will do our best to tackle that comparison if we can. :)

[@ElektronicCricket]

I have the RD88 … not bad but you have to work on your sound to make it better. If I make a sound (scene) with 3 layers is it not possible to use that scene separately in a split function. For example, a Rhodes + hammer noise + fm sound … this scene using in the lower part and using a lead sound in the upper part … is not possible , can’t find a solution for that … or maybe I’m wrong ? Also if you want to work with a sequencer, like a mc50 , you can’t choose your channels … very limited in basic functionality. The JunoDS88 , is much better in stacking tones … that’s because you have 16 channels , that means you can make a sound with max 16 layers and all the functions to edit and a nice feature … a smooth transition between splits ( volumes) … in other words: new instruments are not always better.

[@MerriamPianos]

The RD88 is quite the powerhouse for the money! With that said, I don't believe you can use a "scene" as a patch within split mode. I could be wrong about that and there may be some clever workaround, but, based no my understanding and experience with the RD88, I don't think that functionality is possible. In any case, it is an impressive, fully-loaded instrument for the money. :)

[@kimlyons4670]

I bought the FPE50 It blows the fp30x and fp60x the RD 88 out of the water went to Sweetwater yesterday played alot keyboards you can't beat this keyboard it's price range sets between the 30x and 60x and the RD 88 is higher priced but with all it has to offer it plays sounds so good and with all it has to offer you that you get is right up there with the flagship of the Roland's it should be priced much higher but I'm glad it isn't what a great instrument its great for home studio and gigs love it

[@MerriamPianos]

Congrats on your new FP-E50! It is quite the powerhouse and is the perfect amalgamation of the FP30X/60X and RD88 models in my opinion. It is the perfect gigging instrument with an excellent cost-to-value ratio! :)

[@kimlyons4670]

Yes and thank you for all these comparisons on all these keyboards

[@richardpeterson2357]

How about we start with what we dont like about it the support

[@MerriamPianos]

I have never heard of this "paid support" model to be honest. In my experiences, it is the complete opposite situation. Roland Canada is incredibly helpful and always great about answering questions and offering support to customers.

[@richardpeterson2357]

@@MerriamPianos Realy wow, now if there was just some why to get a hold of thoes people like maybe an email address or a phone number, no then they would have to support they product. No way to contact them on there website.

[@andreanarcisi97]

Fantom 08 review?

[@MerriamPianos]

It is certainly on the list of pianos that we plan on tackling! :)

[@synergypiano]

Is it the same action between the two? I think I didn't notice Stu talking about it on the RD88.

[@MerriamPianos]

Yup! Both pianos have the PHA4 action. :)

[@x-plane11photovideo19]

At 4:12 you say the RD88 has 256 notes of polyphony, but it's 128 notes as far as I know.

[@MerriamPianos]

Yes! You are correct. While Roland does not formally post that max polyphony on the RD88's product page, it does have 128 note polyphony.

[@Instrumental-Covers]

There is one category of stage keyboards that Roland might be updating soon and could very well compete with the RD88 and FP-E50, and that is: Combo Organs. The VR-09-B and VR-730 were released in 2017, and their successors will likely include the SuperNatural piano engine as well as built-in speakers. This upgrade will be a tempting choice for organ players because those models have the proper organ drawbars. Although digital pianos always have organ sounds, they don't have the same level of sophistication as dedicated organ keyboards.

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

Still wating for what will happen to the Yamaha P-125🎹🎶

[@MerriamPianos]

I can certainly see that update happening, which would be welcomed on the market with open arms as I know there are a lot of gigging players out there that require both a high-quality piano and organ sound for their gigs. I suppose time will tell if Roland launches this update soon. :)

[@Instrumental-Covers]

@@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12 Me too. 🎵🎵

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@@Instrumental-Covers I really hope Yamaha won't go the way of Kawai by increasing the price of the P125 successor. In your opinion do you the upgrades on the ES120 were meaningful enough to command a higher price than it's predecessor?🎹🎶

[@Instrumental-Covers]

@@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12 No, I don't think so. The ES120 doesn't seem to get any reviews on the different online sellers, while the Yamaha P125a, Roland FP-30X and Casio CDP-S160 get a lot of reviews. I think the much higher price of the ES120 compared to the rest is the main reason. 🎵🎵

[@Frank-in-NY]

Excellent overall comparison. These boards are close in many respects, but as Stu points out designed for different uses. The RD for Stage and Studio. The FP more for home or small gigging venues. Pricewise, just a couple of hundred US dollars difference between the two. I own the FP-E50, and I am very happy. Love the PHA-4 Key action, Supernatural Piano Patch, and the host of other sounds. Also appreciate the expandability with the Zen Core Technology. Certainly enough to keep most of us busy. My only caution is as Stu mentioned, the RD is suited for Stage and Studio. And with Studio it has USB MIDI and Audio. The FP-E50 only has USB MIDI. Choose wisely.🤗

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for tuning in and for your kind words! Also, thanks for sharing your thoughts. The connectivity is definitely a good point to bring up and will be a very important deciding factor for some piano shoppers. :)

[@MM-ww6rg]

FP-E50 has USB AUDIO function. It works under generic driver.(not ASIO dtiver)

[@Frank-in-NY]

@@MM-ww6rg I'm interested, please elaborate.

[@MM-ww6rg]

@@Frank-in-NY I found the "USB Audio Input Vol" setting in Menu function. (Reference Manual Page 59). In fact, when I connected it via USB, the PC recognized Audio device named "Roland Digital Piano".

[@Frank-in-NY]

@@MM-ww6rg Thanks, but not quite what I'm talking about. It's outbound Audio. I think they are maybe referring to the USB B port Input volume as they state its use as "Connect to your computer via USB cable. This lets you transmit/receive MIDI data and record the audio that’s playing on your computer". Yes, Windows recognizes the FP-E50 via the output from the USB "B" port, it's how MIDI Data gets to the DAW. I can even say the Keyboard audio makes it way to a Webcam, not very good, but it gets there. However, the DAW doesn't recognize it as a Audio Interface. My $200 Yamaha PSR-EW310 has a Windows Driver, and that does show up as a Audio Interface in my DAW. All the sounds that the PSR can be directly input to a track, what you hear is what you get. The RD-88 has a Windows Driver, unlike the FP-E50. I'd be thrilled if the FP-E50 had USB Audio out, but for now the LIne-Outs will get the job done. 😃

[@sale6257]

RD2000 has updated the sound of the German piano. I want to hear Mr. Stu's thoughts😆

[@MerriamPianos]

We are going through the process of updating some older reviews of some models. I will add that to the list for our production team and I'm sure they will do their best to tackle it. :)

[@antonioperillo1182]

I've listened to this cimparison more times and, it could be strange, but all the times my impression Is that fp50e sounds more round and clear than rd88. This last infact in the middle notes seems to be "plastic", on the contrary Fp50e sound is very similar to fp30x(for me the BEST)but unreacheble it. This opinion listening to with my headphone, probably the live comparison could me change ideas,obviously.....

[@Zoco101]

Did anybody else notice a tonal shift with the same patch used on each model? The FPe50 sounded more interesting to me (a good bite on the lower mids) but I guess that was a fluke.

[@MerriamPianos]

The FP-E50's piano tone is certainly very impressive (especially for the price point)! :) I am not exactly sure what you mean by tonal sifts.

[@Zoco101]

​​@@MerriamPianos Just that the colour/timber of the allegedly "same patch" seemed different on each dp. Assuming that line outs were used, can that be possible? Different dsps? Actually, it would have been good to hear those onboard speakers since they are one of the big differences between the two models.

[@christophebrunel8875]

greeaat electric pianos on thr Rd88 i own, BUT a strange sound on the D and E 4 acoustic piano sound, like bell sound, am i the only one to notice ?

[@MerriamPianos]

The RD88 is quite the powerhouse! That is interesting to hear. I have not personally noticed that issue with any of our units at our showrooms. Is this unique to a specific patch or all piano sounds?

[@christophebrunel8875]

@@MerriamPianos I hear un special "resonance" on the D4 on the patch concert piano, a kind of WOOD/Bell resonance , on the E4 with the patch Bright piano, and also on the mellow , it hurts my ear, ... i regret this because the acoustice pianos sounds are very musical, vivid, and i ieasely forget i'm playing on a numeric piano

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

Neather LOL! I'll still watch the video though🎹🎹🎹🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶

[@MerriamPianos]

Not every piano is every player's cup of tea of course. Thanks for tuning in! :)

[@cinepost]

What do you prefer and why?

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@@cinepost I prefer the Yamaha DGX670 which I use as my personal piano. The thing I don't like about these keyboards is the PHA4 action it compared to the GHS on the DGX is a lot harder to control when playing softely because notes will unintentionally play louder than expected. The feel of the keys isn't bad just the responce could need a bit of improvement. Haven't tried any of these 2, however I did try the Roland HP702. The RNB rhythm/accompaniments is nicer sounding on the Roland ILO🎹🎶

[@cinepost]

@@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12 so you like the accompaniments on the Roland?

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@@cinepost yeah kinda. They are a bit catchy haha. The ones on the DGX are great too, however since I use my DGX as a piano instrument I don't really use them that much or at all for serious use. The controls I think are a lot beter on the DGX670 than on the FPE50🎹🎶

[@PakBudiTarigan]

FpE50 supernatural piano is much better than zen piano rd88

[@MerriamPianos]

The fact that the FP-E50 has two tone engines on board (SuperNATURAL and ZEN-Core) is quite an attractive feature! :)

[@pianoman_JP]

I believe both have the supernatural piano sound, should be no difference!

[@christophebrunel8875]

RD88 has the two engines too

[@christophebrunel8875]

it's absolutely false : RD88 has suer natural acoustic AND electric piano supernatural engine !, You should read the specifications before writing a comment ...

[@christophebrunel8875]

RD88 has the super natural E PIANOS, FPE50 doesn't, imho, if you're searching the best E pianos, the RD88 should be the best option...except the wurlys, which are not as good as the rhodes...

[@MerriamPianos]

There are definitely some pros and cons to both. That is why it is important to know exactly which sounds are your particular priority when choosing between these two powerhouse instruments. :)