🎹 Roland FANTOM-08 88-Key Synthesizer Keyboard Comprehensive Review & Demo 2024 🎹

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Roland Fantom-08
The Fantom-08 has been out for a year now, and we haven’t done a video to review this synthesizer. I’ll share the reasons why I changed from the RD-2000, and why it’s the highest value 88-key workstation on the market today.
Why The Change?
The RD-2000 was a great machine; not only because of the wooden action, but it felt the best when compared to other keyboards at the time. That being said, great actions can be heavy and the RD-2000 was particularly heavy with its extended key length and heavier mechanism overall. It was built like a tank with a wooden underframe and steel case.
I originally wanted the RD-2000 because of its V-Piano engine and the large number of available sounds that could be mixed live with tactile faders and great controls; however, it was lacking a couple of key features such as an arpeggiator, and had limited recording, and no sequencing options.
I wanted a creative, tactile connection with an instrument that would let you build a song, track, loop, or groove.
High-Value Features of Fantom-08
Weight
The Fantom-08 is much lighter than the RD-2000 weighing in at 32.6 lbs.
For an instrument that is not going to be treated roughly, its plastic case gives a similar experience as metal.
The lighter PHA-4 action, which is the same that is found in a lot of Roland’s mid-range product, has a slight difference in nuance compared to the PHA-50, but will be just as good for 95% of your playing needs.
Touchscreen
The high resolution touchscreen control surface is well laid out. While it is smaller than the full size Fantom offering, there is no noticeable reduction in usability.
Organ Tone
The SuperNATURAL organ tonewheel simulator, accessible from track 2 only, utilizes slide bars on the screen that are adjustable from either the tactile faders or the touchscreen. The manual X toggle turns the Lesley speaker effect on and off, and is exactly where the switch is located on a Hammond organ.
Other Tones
The Fantom-08 has implemented multiple tone engines, including the ZEN-Core, SuperNATURAL, and VTW Organ to produce over 3,500 tones and over 90 drum kits. There is also access to the Roland Cloud for even more tone options.
The sounds are easily selected using the tactile buttons or touchscreen.
Operating Mode
The Fantom-08 is always in 16-Zone C mode. It always has access to the sequencer, muli-function pad, and effects. It is configured as a modeless play instrument.
Every ZEN-Core patch consists of 4 oscillator components, each with a full set of filters, LFOs, amp settings, envelopes, etc., providing ah uge amount of synthesizing power. Four partials per patch and sixteen available patches for a total of 64 partials sounding at any given time.
Assignable Pad
There are lots of options for pad assignability with sample assignment as the default. Each column of the 4x4 set of pads is configured to be a new part. The pads can also be assigned to drum sounds, rhythm pattern control, zone solo control, pattern play control, and sequencer control.
Pattern Sequence
The Fantom-08 has a multi-track recording feature with rhythm sync, step entry, and count in options. There are eight patterns available to record per track, and sixteen tracks to layer.
Adjustments from RD-2000
Effects Structure
The effects structure is different than the RD-2000 and took some adjustment to get accustomed to. At the top level is the Global Master Effects, including compression, EQ, effects, chorus, and reverb. This is followed by Scene-specific Insert Effects such as voice pitch shift and modulation delay. Finally come the Zone Effects that are specific to each Zone.
Acoustic piano sound
There is minimal editability of the SuperNATURAL piano sound when compared to other Roland products because these variations have been programmed into presets.

[@XeNieRChris]

This is such a phenomenal instrument! It's incredible how much the technology with digital instruments has come. Great job to Roland And great job to you Stu for this awesome review and your good taste for choosing this instrument ^^

[@MerriamPianos]

Thank you so much for tuning in! We certainly agree! The FANTOM-08 is an amazing proposition from Roland given how much technology it has packed into it at this price. :)

[@keneokpareke1753]

Great overview. Thanks 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! :)

[@aurumnebulus]

-You didn't mention the (optional) model expansions! (Jupiter 8, Juno-106, SH-101, JX8P). They're very powerful and would have been great during the synth section of the video. -There is a scene remain mode that allows smooth transitions between 8 patches into a different scene if you're into that, but it only allows for 8 active patches in a scene. -There is also an undocumented midi import feature that's great for playing along. You can trigger the sampling pads this way as well. edit: I do appreciate this being an informative video and not flashy like most of the other videos covering this keyboard.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for sharing the additional insights! And thank you for the kind words! We appreciate you tuning in and supporting our channel. :)

[@KutayYavuzMusic]

I own one for a year and I love it!

[@MerriamPianos]

That's awesome to hear! The FANTOM-0 series workstations are incredible instruments for the money! :)

[@ajotech]

Great video Stu. Love how you channeled that bass line at 12:27 ala Motown's James Jamerson, so soulful🥰 Roland please update the RD-2000

[@MerriamPianos]

Thank you for tuning in! We're glad you enjoyed Stu's review and playing! :)

[@pianoforever]

I always enjoy and learn so much from you every time I watch your videos. Would you make a demo of a solo live performance with the Roland Fantom 08 playing a full song? I’m looking forward to it if possible, thank you so much for such a fantastic job 🙏.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks so much for tuning in! I think a live performance video of Stu playing on the FANTOM-08 is a great idea. I will be happy to pass that suggestion along to our production team. :)

[@hansklostermann117]

GIVE THE PEOPLE WHAT THE PEOPLE NEED!

[@Shogunai87]

Thank you for the video review. All these are very informative in my piano purchase decision. Are there any videos of the DGX 670 just reviewing the instrument?

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! Thanks so much! We have not tackled an individual review for the DGX670, but Stu did compare it against the FP-E50, which you can check out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nnPaqpump5aXhbc

[@noggindoo]

Hi thanks for the demo. You started playing along with the included pads, do they have music styles you can playalong with like most other brands. Trigger an intro and outo and fills and chord change as u play etc say like the yamaha genos ?

[@MerriamPianos]

You're welcome! The FANTOM-08 is not exactly designed to be an arranger style piano with built-in backing tracks. It is actually designed to be a workstation to produce music and backing tracks. Models like the Roland FP-E50 are a little more aligned with what you're describing. :)

[@user-ju7mk4et5v]

Great review there! I'm considering this keyboard, and I can't find one specific info - can you change (select) scenes that are on display via physical category buttons (there is also 16 of them)? Thanks!

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks so much! We're glad you enjoyed it. :) You can create a "scene chain", which allows you to save a group of "scenes" together and recall them using the various tone selection buttons. This also allow you to save them in a specific order.

[@Danny-jv3xo]

This is a great summary. I’ve had it for a while and my biggest gripe is the way that they slimmed down the fantom 8 controls was pretty clunky. Losing all the lights to know where parameters are set when changing presets, combining 2 rows of buttons for the zone controls into one row with a shift button, and randomly losing one of the physical sliders on the tone wheel organ, removing the synth envelope controls, it makes the navigation kinda quirky and you lose a lot of tactile control. And then I’m also bummed that the cool n/zyme expansion they came out with is only for the full fantom 8 and we don’t get it here. I wish you could get the lighter weight and smaller size of the PHA-4 keys but with the full functionality of the fantom 8. Even with all that it’s still a great value though and it’s a lot of fun to play.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for tuning in and sharing your insights! Naturally, given the $3500 (CAD) price gap between the models, it is natural for some concessions to be made. In any case, the FANTOM-08 is still an extremely impressive instrument for the money in my opinion. :)

[@oscarcancino1638]

Thank you Stu for your great reviews. Would you make a comparison of Yamaha CLP-795 vs Roland GP-6? Thanks.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! Thanks for the suggestion! I will add that to the list of potential comparison videos for the future. :)

[@piik7516]

Great review! Is Yamaha P-525 on your list for future review/comparison?

[@MerriamPianos]

Yup! We will try to tackle that as soon as possible. :)

[@jorjajorjan3863]

Is there a way to create sounds and have them saved on a plugged in usb so you can use them? The built in storage is too small and will run out fast that's my concern. Any thoughts on that? Thanks for the amazing content.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! Any of the ZEN-Core compatible instruments, including the FANTOM-08, are capable of saving patches and moving them to other ZEN-Core instruments. It is one of the amazing features of Roland workstations! And thank you so much - we appreciate the kind words! :)

[@sonic2000gr]

I sympathize with you on the weight. I can happily carry the MODX+ around, but the montage just stays on the table. I barely even move it around the house. And it's just the 61 key version. I have not seen any of the Fantom 0 but they seem to be amazingly good.

[@MerriamPianos]

It is a legitimate concern for gigging musicians! The FANTOM-0 series instruments offer a lot of technology in a relatively portable package. It is a really compelling option - that is for sure! :)

[@MediaMusik777]

Snap , I have been eye balling the Juno x

[@MerriamPianos]

There is certainly a bit of cross-over between the two models. In either case, they are both exceptional pieces of equipment! :)

[@Jvaldes609]

Great video. Do you run into polyphony issues when laying sounds??

[@MerriamPianos]

Thank you kindly! It is a very rare to do so as the max polyphony is 256 notes. :)

[@MediaGrope]

How does the piano sound compare to the fp 60x? I see the action is the same. Is it basically an fp-60x combined with a synth etc?

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi there! The FANTOM-08's core piano sound is quite comparable to the FP60X's thanks to the use of the SuperNATURAL tone engine. With that said, the FANTOM-08 is quite a bit different than the FP60X in that it does not have any onboard speakers. It is an instrument that is designed for studio and stage use opposed to at home practice like the FP60X. Thanks so much and hope this helps! :)

[@user-dn8hh4fq3b]

Great review as usual ! Would love to see a Yamaha P525 review ?

[@MerriamPianos]

Thank you kindly! We have had a few requests for the P525 review. We will do our best to tackle that as soon as we can!

[@viormand4060]

Hello, thanks for the great review! I've already had experience, but now I'm looking for my first real instrument to immerse myself in music again) So I'm trying to choose between an RD-08 (just released but much less functional), a fantom 08 (released 2 years ago) or something else. The instrument will be used for hobby, not production, but still I would like to have a mighty instrument for “one man band”. Thanks in advance for the advice!

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! Thanks so much! We're glad you enjoyed the review. The RD08 and FANTOM-08 are both excellent instruments with some crossover in terms of features and functionality. With that said, the FANTOM-08 is a more feature-rich instrument that is a proper workstation. I would also recommend checking out the FP-E50 model if you're looking for simple, user-friendly accompaniment options.

[@paulmapp8306]

I can just about manage the RD2000. So I use the RD2000 on the bottom and a Fantom 7 (not the series) o the top.....

[@MerriamPianos]

That would be a really solid set up that would cover all of your bases! :)

[@mickandrews9458]

Thanks for the video and as you say, impossible to cover everything this amazing instrument can do. I initially bought a Fantom 8 (as opposed to 08). It weighed a ton, but also had a fault. So it went back and I got a Fantom 7. This was before the O series came out. It is a lot lighter, but of course, only a synth keyboard (but I do have an acoustic piano). The O series does not have the V-Piano, but to be honest, I think I prefer the supernatural pianos anyway. So with the 08, even though it does not have V-Piano, nor analogue filter etc. one is still getting extremely good value for money with a hammer action keyboard, sequencer, sampler and powerful tone engine without it weighing a ton.

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! Thanks for tuning in and sharing your thoughts! The FANTOM-08 is a dream instrument for a gigging musician. I definitely agree with your sentiments about the SuperNATURAL tone engine. It is a fantastic and authentic piano sound. The combination of all of these features and the portability/form factor make the FANTOM-0 series instruments a really formidable line!

[@creativekeyspianostudio6695]

What a machine. Beautiful overall. I would have a question. I am looking for an upright digital piano with audio line out. I know that Korg has a product with this capability, but honestly the Korg piano sound is not my favourite. I would go for Kawai, but I dont know Kawai has digital upright with audio line out. So could you please suggest a few model (brand) for me which have this feature. I really appreciate your answer. Tom.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi Tom! Brent here! The FANTOM-08 is an incredible, fully-loaded instrument - that is for sure! In terms of console digital pianos with an audio line out, there are quite a few models actually. The premium pianos, namely the CN301, CA501, CA701, and CA901, from Kawai's various digital piano lines all have dedicated line outs. There are also a number of Roland models that also have line outs.

[@creativekeyspianostudio6695]

@@MerriamPianos I will check those models, thank you very much.

[@BUJU2007]

Wish you guys could make an exception and look at the Korg Grandstage X that was just released. I'm pretty sure you're not a dealer for that, but I'm really interested in it.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for the suggestion! We are not Korg dealers at present, but I will add it to the list of potential candidates for a review/comparison as sometimes we get other brands in used on trade. :)

[@davebittner822]

I agree - I love this channel, but the only glaring omission for me is the lack of any comparisons or reviews of instruments from Korg.

[@4tune889]

I used to have fa08 and it was phenomenal, but, the key action was notoriously very stiff. Can someone please indicate how this one compares in that regard ? Is the key bed as hard as the fa08 or is it a softer hammer action?

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! The FA-08 uses Roland's Ivory Feel-G action, whereas the FANTOM-08 uses Roland's PHA4. The Ivory Feel-G action actually feels a little closer to the PHA50 action (a bit heavier and firmer). You'll probably find that the PHA4 action on the FANTOM-08 is a touch lighter and softer feeling, but it is still a heavier/firmer touch compared to other manufacturer's actions.

[@4tune889]

Thanks so much for the reply. Thankfully there is a Fantom 07 I believe and hoping that it has synth like keys, I’ll probably go for that one. I’ve not had a better synth than FA08, but was fed up with its heavy action, later Yamaha P515 had the same problem (only worse), so I ended up selling that off now as well. I have never owned one but in the music store the action on the new version of Yamaha piano 515 felt better than the original first generation units. Action on Nord and even some Casio pianos that tried in store was lighter, but I like the features of Fantom (previously FA series). Again, amazing that you helped with my query 😊

[@MediaGrope]

Is the fp-90x a far superior piano playing experience than the fantom? I know the fantom is 4 action and the 90x is 5 action, but piano-wise, is the fp-90x in a different class? I'm considering the fantom if the piano sound is as rich and complex and frankly, as good as the fp-90x

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi there! The FP90X does have a superior touch (PHA50 action), which has a longer key stick and a composite wood/plastic key action, and tone engine (PureAcoustic Piano Modelling). In terms of the piano sound, it really comes down to subjectivity. Some people prefer the sample-based engine of the SuperNATURAL tone engine, whereas other players prefer the FP90X's modelling engine. I would recommend testing both out in person to see which one you gravitate towards more. :)

[@sriharshaa7997]

Pls do comparison video of Yamaha Modx8+ vs Fantom-08. Can't choose which one to buy...

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! Thanks for the suggestion! We will do our best to tackle that comparison for you, but we have a number of videos in the queue currently. With that said, it all comes down to a matter of personal preference. My suggestion is to test out both pianos in person to see which one you connect more with musically. :)

[@f5770]

@@MerriamPianos for me it's the same, I love yamaha piano sounds where I found roland supernatural sounds too dry for me, but I love the roland s.o. that's so much intuitive! I'd like to have your comparison also about the piano sounds, knowing how much you love roland sounds, but I trust in your honest opinion as usual 🙂

[@PetrKulda]

HI, Fantom 0 is missing V-piano engine, which is present on pro model. Instead, you get SN piano, based on samples. I am used to Yamaha digital piano sound and for me, Roland SN piano is somewhat weak. What you think about SNPIANO. Do you have some hints on ow to elevate SN piano in Fantom 0. Overal, its great instrument for its price.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi there! The FANTOM-08 is a powerhouse instrument for the money. In terms of the SuperNATURAL piano tones, it really comes down to a matter of preference. There are quite a few piano tones to choose from and you can always customize further if desired. I am personally a huge fan of the SuperNATURAL tone engine. :)

[@vicmartinez4532]

Thank you for comparing the pha4 and PHA 50 actions

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! :)

[@johnnylong2023]

@@MerriamPianos PHA 50 action are heavy vs. pha 4??????

[@mavicone5845]

Are all the sounds that are availbile on the RD 2000 on this machine ? Is this both v piano and zen ? … technically do I buy the RD 2000 or this ? I like grand piano, I’m not really into the sampling adding drums and things …

[@MerriamPianos]

The FANTOM-08 has far more available tones than the RD2000. IT also has the ZEN-Core technology, which the RD2000 does not possess. It comes down to personal preference of course, but I find the FANTOM-08 to be more versatile and sonically-extensive.

[@mavicone5845]

@@MerriamPianos what defines the difference in price between the models please?

[@andreanarcisi97]

Can any Fantom 08 owner tell me if there is at least a decent piano that doesn't have the short decay problem that makes it seem fake? I couldn't find a piano that I liked (including expansions), otherwise I would have already purchased this instrument. 

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! It all comes down to a matter of personal preference of course. Everyone will have a different opinion on the piano tones a specific model offers. With that said, perhaps a FANTOM-08 user from our community can chime in with a few options/solutions for you. :)

[@Yackman80]

How high is the Fantom-08? According to the specs on Roland's website it is 138 mm or 5-7/16 inches high, but does that include the wheels and the knobs? I have a rigid case for the Roland FP-80 and based on the specs, the Fantom-08 would fit inside that but only if the 138 mm height includes the wheels and the knobs. If the 138 mm is measured up to the top panel and the wheels and the knobs are extra height above that, then the case will not close. I'm looking to sell the FP-80 but would like to keep the case, if the Fantom-08 will fit in it.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! I believe the measurements provided on Roland's site is for the chassis/enclosure and does not include the knobs/wheels. But, that portion of the instrument is on a bit of an angle if I recall correctly, which helps mitigate the amount of extra height it adds. Given how tight the dimensions are for the case, it may be best to actually bring the case to a store and confirm that the FANTOM-08 will fit safely.

[@Yackman80]

@@MerriamPianos Thank You very much for the reply!

[@omedome2787]

there seems to be a problem with polyphony and note-dropout with this instrument, what is your experience on this? That worries me a bit but this thing ticks all the boxes for me, after lugging around an MP11SE I'm ready for compromise :).

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi there! Thanks for the question! That is surprising to hear. I have not personally experienced this issue with the FANTOM-08 nor have we had any customers complain about this issue. The FANTOM-0 models have 256 note polyphony. With that said, if you layered enough sounds and played enough notes simultaneously (particularly when using the damper pedal), it is possible to max out the polyphony, which would cause note dropouts as you've described.

[@omedome2787]

Right, that makes sense. I'm going to go for it, cause if you're not noticing it -with your experience - I can not imagine it being a problem. Thank you Stu. Great reviews!@@MerriamPianos

[@Zoco101]

I can see why Stu is taking this route for gigging. It covers most of the bases without much pain involved, in any sense. Congratulations Roland!

[@MerriamPianos]

Absolutely! It is a great balance between performance, features, and portability. :)

[@markom1976]

Is it correct that the Zencore OS lost the ability to place two filters in a series, compared to Juno DS?

[@MerriamPianos]

That is a good question. I was not aware of that change personally. Perhaps, one of our FANTOM-08 users from our community can confirm this.

[@ArmandoFerrerMusic]

What you say is true, Zencore filters are better but can´t be on series, Juno DS filters not so good but can be on series.

[@markom1976]

@@ArmandoFerrerMusic In what way are Zencore filters better?

[@ArmandoFerrerMusic]

change the character of the sound more@@markom1976

[@ArmandoFerrerMusic]

@@markom1976 Zencore filters change the character of the sound more

[@KARHUGAMECHANNEL]

Have you tried Korg Kronos? if yes, what can you say about it and about comparison between Korg Kronos and Roland Phantom 08?

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent from Merriam Music here! I have played the Korg Kronos before and I can certainly attest to the notion that it is a powerhouse instrument that is built like a tank. I'd say that the Korg Kronos and FANTOM-08 are fairly comparable in terms of how extensive their featuring offerings are. With that said, I personally give a slight edge to the FANTOM-08 for two main reasons: the core piano experience feels more authentic to my hands and, secondly, the lighter weight makes it a far more comfortable instrument to gig with. The FANTOM-08 is about 20 lbs lighter than the Kronos, which will save you a lot of back pain and strain!

[@KARHUGAMECHANNEL]

@@MerriamPianos thank you. Can you say something about piano sounds, strings sounds in two these instruments?

[@FingersKungfu]

Stu is such a big fan of Roland keyboards.

[@MerriamPianos]

It is hard not to love them! They're impressive instruments with incredible cost-to-value ratios! :)

[@AliaksejKa]

Great successor to ROland FA-08 which also was very popular. Main area Fantom series excel at is user interface. It's always convenient and quick. Yamaha MODX sounds better almost in any aspect excluding VA area.

[@MerriamPianos]

Absolutely! The FANTOM-0 series is quite impressive to say the least! Thanks for tuning in and sharing your insights! We appreciate it. :)

[@AliaksejKa]

@@MerriamPianos impressive from functional point and from synth sounds point.

[@diogoqueiroz4726]

Olá pessoal. Vocês podem encontrar e apresentar um casio wpx1? Aqui no Brasil é melhor que podemos comprar sem gastar mais de 6 mil reais

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! We haven't tackled that particular model before, but we will do our best to do so for you. Thanks for the suggestion! :)

[@diogoqueiroz4726]

@@MerriamPianos tks. Eu escrevi errado. O modelo é Xw-P1 haha. Abraços do Brasil

[@KarolPiano]

Stu, I 'm not sure if you are aware of that (if you are, just ignore that comment), but what Roland calls currently "PHA4" used to be called "PHA4 Standard", which is different design from PHA4 Premium or Concert, used for example in RD800. And those video parts presenting PHA4 in your video do not show PHA4 Standard - I know, since I disassembled both my Rolands FP10 and FP30 at some point for mods and re-greasing. I have picutres for proof ;) PHA4 Concert/Premium shown in the video is actually the predecessor of PHA50 and successor of PHAIII and Ivory Feel-S from RD700/FP7/FP80 era. They have longer keys than current PHA4 Standard.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi, Brent from Merriam Music here. Thanks for tuning in and for the message. We are aware of the different variants of the PHA4 action of course. In some cases, we don't have action displays or stock images for all variations of a particular series of action and use the nearest equivalent. With that said, given some of the finer design detail differences as you've mentioned, we have gotten out of this habit and favoured actually pulling out the action from a piano. It is interesting to note that, with some manufacturers, there are even design/implementation differences of the same action across different models.

[@KarolPiano]

@@MerriamPianos Indeed, the action 'name' itself does not tell everything. For example PHA4 Standard in FP10 lacks that felt strip (which, by the way, I added as a 'mod') at the end of keys and it makes it feel different than for example FP-E50. Kawais RHIII in ES8 vs ES920, PHA50 in FP90 vs RD2000 is another example (I tested them side by side with sound engine turned off). Little changes, different chasis, even different grease and a lot of other stuff we might not know about ;)

[@datooch]

I wish this had built in speakers. I would buy it in an instance if it did.

[@MerriamPianos]

I certainly understand the sentiment. The FANTOM-08 is designed more for studio/stage use opposed to personal use. With that said, have you explored the RD88 model? It has built-in speakers and has many features that crossover with the FANTOM-08.

[@datooch]

@@MerriamPianos ❤ Thank you! I’ll be sure to look at that!

[@rcjwhiting]

A superb video, as always Stu! I am strongly leaning towards the 07 due to a combination of arthritic hands struggling with my weighted keyboard (Numa Piano X) and a desire to more easily smash organ licks and glissandos. But I still also want an expressive piano performance experience. Can you comment on the keybed and action on the 06/07? Thanks and keep up the great work! Yours are my favorite keyboard videos! Rich

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi Rich! Brent here! Thanks so much for tuning in and writing in with your question! The 06 and 07 models are fantastic, but they are a very different touch than the 08. They are a synth action opposed to a fully-weighted touch like 08. To that point, they certainly don't play/feel like an acoustic piano. Thanks and all the best! :)

[@thiagomandrade1987]

What is the best purchasing option for a beginner? - New Rockjam 761 - New Rockjam 506 - New Alesis Melody61 MKII - New Casio CT-S200BK - Used Yamaha PSR-220 - Used Yamaha PSR-E343 - Used Casio Ctk-731

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi there! Thanks for reaching out! It really comes down to a matter of personal taste and preference. If you are looking to learn piano, I would advise making the jump to a fully weighted 88-note instrument like the Roland FP10. The instruments you've listed serve as decent introductions or as keyboards, but they are not true digital pianos.

[@thiagomandrade1987]

​@@MerriamPianos thanks for the reply. I understand, but the problem is that were I live the 88 key option is too expensive. I was thinking more if an old yamaha or casio are better than a new cheaper keyboard. Or the quality is basic the same?

[@henrycstjamesjr8194]

Do you like the Super Natural editing over the Integra 7

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! I don't personally have any experience with the Integra 7 module, but I believe there is some overlap in terms of the sonic capabilities between that and the SuperNATURAL engine onboard some of these pianos.

[@Awardman1]

Who has x8 88 keys who can help me the dual settings

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent from Merriam Music here! We have not received our first batch of FANTOM-X8 pianos yet, but you should be able to find the info that you need in the user manual that is posted on Roland's website. :)

[@jeno.javori_music]

Great Video however 11:33 Touchscreen Clip touch "pretty cool" just it didn't work. -I am sorry I dislike touchscreens. I'd buy 1000 times rather a Fantom G .

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks so much! That is fair. The FANTOM-08 is a bit more streamlined that the FANTOM-8 of course, but that is also reflected in the price tag. :)

[@BUJU2007]

I just wish Roland had better quality piano sounds. It's the only thing keeping it from literally blowing away all the competition.

[@ppremnaikk]

I find that the Roland piano is not that great in Merriam's videos only, but I've heard an excellent piano sound from the Roland RD-2000 especially in Yohan Kim's interpretation of 'Caravan' (KZbin Title: "Caravan by Yohan Kim"). I could be completely wrong and find that Yohan maybe edit's his piano sounds through a computer but if he doesn't then I consider the piano sound to be pretty good. Just my opinion tho.

[@BUJU2007]

@ppremnaikk Yohan's videos seem to have a pretty high level of post production. He also uses VSTs like keyscape. So unless he specifically says it's the internal sound of the keyboard/workstation I don't make assumptions.

[@MerriamPianos]

It all comes down to a matter of taste and preference. We have many customers that prefer the Roland sound over any other manufacturer. Everyone's ears and tastes are a bit different of course!

[@DMcC]

@@MerriamPianos as you clearly indicate, people's needs vary. If you're playing in any kind of louder environment with a band, the cork-sniffing approach to sound is often misplaced anyway IMO. Something that sounds vaguely like a piano, and can cut through the mix when needed, will typically get the job done. A solo pianist banging out pieces where the sound of the piano is front and center will have a different set of requirements in that regard.

[@ppremnaikk]

@@BUJU2007 fair. I did not know that thanks for letting me know, either way even though Roland models a Steinway D I don't know why the sample doesn't sound as rich and warm as a Yamaha CP88 for example which I think should probably be your next choice if you're looking for a more "piano-oriented" stage piano either way the YC and CK are good alternatives as well. Although I imagine my words don't hold as much weight cause I didn't recognise keyscape lol.

[@kingrys2870]

nice, but screen should be bigger.....

[@MerriamPianos]

It is impressive how much they have offered at this price point, but, of course, there will always be some concessions made when trying to optimize the cost-to-value ratio of a product.

[@synergypiano]

For the price, PHA-4 action is most definitely a deal breaker for me. Would rather buy something cheaper and wait for Roland to decide it's time to step up the game...

[@MerriamPianos]

The PHA4 action is very solid! The other thing to factor in with this particular model is that it is designed to be portable enough for gigging. The lighter, all-plastic design of the PHA4 facilitates this. But, at the end of the day, it is a matter of preference. There is always the RD2000, which uses the PHA50 action.

[@tuneunleashed]

the highest value workstation on the market today? That’s a bold claim. You’ve got to check out the Yamaha Montage M8X that keybed is the greatest keybed next to the Kawhi VPC1 it’s that good!! Better than any Roland keybeds. Roland’s have slow keybeds and not as responsive especially keybeds that have the PHA-4 action which I HATE. If the weight is a big issue then check out the Yamaha CP88

[@MerriamPianos]

These types of claims will always come down to a matter of personal opinion and subjectivity of course. I would personally agree with Stu as I have yet to find a more compelling offering at this particular price point. However, there will naturally be other players that favour other models. In any case, the FANTOM-08 is worth a test drive for customers exploring work stations in this price category.

[@rayandrewmunroe5003]

The montage feels great.. yes it comes down to opinion But it’s not a fair comparison IMO… the montage is a $4500 piece of equipment compared to the $2000 fantom

[@EdPin_]

Need fangs, need claws, sometimes need to be intense like Shia LaBeouf kzbin.info/www/bejne/kInWgnSOrcSUpZI Time is ticking

[@MerriamPianos]

While we appreciate the sentiment and feedback, I am not sure if discussing piano models requires the same intensity as battling Transformers and other Hollywood-invented villains!

[@EdPin_]

@@MerriamPianos 8:34 More please 😁 kzbin.info/www/bejne/faHHpZtqipWVfZo Maybe I'm expecting too much? Maybe Stu doesn't care much enough? --- There is more than just Transformers kzbin.info/www/bejne/gYi9eHR7rc9gm9U --- It looks like some of my comments do not appear for some reason. Is there a particular reason or just my browser "behaves"?

[@Arminchen]

Oh, come on, especially the pianos of roland are more than oldfashioned! As almost every sound of roland is oldfashioned! This is too bad, because the only good thing about roland is the workflow.

[@MerriamPianos]

I don't know if I agree with notion that they are "old fashioned." There are a lot of samples of classical synth sounds on their workstations and stage pianos, but I think that very much aligns with the production trends of the times. There are many pop, rock, and EDM genres that heavily utilize throwback/classic synth sounds like the JUNO for instance. It all comes down to a matter of personal preference though. Every creator will have a different palette of sounds they gravitate to of course.