All Posts by Jaime Echagüe

Digital Piano Roland FP 10 Full Review. Is it a good choice?

Roland Corporation is a Japanese manufacturer of electronic musical instruments, electronic equipment and software. Today I’d like to talk to you about the new Roland FP 10. The new digital piano designed to compete with the Yamaha P45 and the Casio CDP S100. The truth is that this Roland piano was totally necessary and I was surprised that they hadn’t brought it out yet. Normally Roland is priced €499/$589/£449 but this is a complete change of strategy and really worth a look.

Let’s list its characteristics:

  • 88 weighted keys
  • 96-note polyphony, which are the notes that can be played at the same time
  • 15 piano sounds and effects.
  • 2 split zones to divide your keyboard into several instruments
  • Layer function to combine piano and strings for example
  • Hull exit
  • Includes sustain pedal
  • USB MIDI and Bluethooth MIDI 4.0 output
  • Weight 12.3 kg
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1284 x 258 x 140 mm
  • 6W speakers

Well, as we can see it is a very powerful machine for less than 500 euros. It is true that the Yamaha P45 and the Casio CDP S100 are worth a little less. About 30 – 40 euros more or less.

Sound

The sound has the same engine as the Roland FP 30 . The SuperNATURAL sound engine that’s not bad, although the speakers are a little better on the Yamaha P45. But they are quite acceptable. With a small power but enough to play in a small place.

I’m leaving you a video to hear what it sounds like:

Will it fit the entire Roland FP 10?

It is a good piano for beginners and people who are in the first 5 or 6 years of learning. It is counterbalanced and designed to be a best seller for that price.

It has things that for me are not very important either, like Bluetooth MIDI. I would have preferred a little more power in the speakers or recording possibility.

For the conservatory up to medium grade so go ok. For a beginner or intermediate level person with this budget it is one of the best choices.

Now let’s compare it to your main competitors.

Related post you can be interested in

Roland FP 10 vs Roland FP30

First we will compare the Roland digital keyboards, the already analyzed Roland FP10 with an approximate price of €499/$589/£449, and its big brother the Roland FP30 that has a price of €619/$1530/£555, having a difference of approximately €120, we will see the next one face to face, analyzing its differences and similarities:

  • They both have 88 weighted keys with PHA-IV technology with an ivory touch and leakage release. Let’s remember that weighted keys is the weight that the keys of real acoustic pianos have. As well as that, both have sensitivity in their keys. Sensitivity refers to the option of performing dynamics in our performances, that is, when we step or press a key with force it sounds louder or higher, and when we step with less force it sounds lower.
  • Both keyboards also use the SuperNATURAL sound engine, with excellent singles from different musical instruments such as acoustic pianos, organs and strings.
  • The FP10 has 15 different sounds or voices, a maximum polyphony of 96 notes. The Roland FP 30 has 35 different sounds or voices AND a maximum polyphony of 128 notes having a great advantage over the FP 10. Remember that polyphony is the highest number of notes that can be played simultaneously on a computer.
  • Both devices allow the keyboard modes: integer, dual, split and double piano.
  • Both digital pianos have an integrated metronome function, in order to be used in the piano studio. They also have a Bluetooth function that allows them to be connected to an amplification system without cables.
  • The advantages of the Roland FP10 are: Its lighter weight of up to 12.3 kg.
  • The advantages of the Roland FP 30 are: a greater number of sounds and polyphony, more power in its speakers reaching 11 W in each, its 8 preset rhythms, and an SMF recorder for ideas. As well as input for a triple pedalboard.

Both are good digital pianos for the early years of piano study, however the Roland FP 30 has its obvious advantages over its younger brother. Its triple-pedal entry, is very much appreciated when studying the piano in a decent way, so that’s worth the 120 euros.

Let’s put the characteristics of these pianos in a table so you can compare

Roland FP10

Roland FP30

  • 88 keys with hammer mechanism
  • PHA-4 Standard Keyboard
  • Polyphony of max. 96 voices
  • SuperNATURAL technology: 4 pianos, 2 E-pianos and 9 other instruments such as organ and strings, sound effects
  • Twin-Piano Mode
  • 2 Split zones
  • Layer function
  • Integrated metronome
  • Bluetooth 4.0 for wireless MIDI functionality
  • Connections: 3.5 mm stereo mini jack
  • Headphone connection
  • USB-A, USB-B, input for damper pedal
  • 2x 6 W speaker system
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1284 x 258 x 140 mm
  • Weight: 12.3 kg
  • Color: Black
  • Includes power supply, score holder and sustain pedal.
  • 88 keys
  • With built-in speakers
  • The PHA-IV action with ivory touch and leakage
  • Supernatural Piano Engine
  • Integrated Bluetooth 4.0 wireless connection
  • 35 sounds
  • Maximum polyphony of 128 voices
  • Keyboard modes: integer, dual, split and double piano
  • Built-in Metronome
  • SMF recorder for ideas
  • 8 standard rhythms
  • USB playback of audio files (WAV 44.1 / 16 bit) and MIDI
  • Illuminated user interface
  • Powerful 2 x 11w speaker system – 12 cm
  • Maximum SPL of 102dB
  • Includes power supply, stand, foot switch
  • Dimensions: 130 x 28,4 x 15cm (width x depth x height)
  • Weight: 14,1Kg
  • USB connection for the computer: USB Type B
  • USB memory stick connection: USB Type A
  • Headphone jacks used as output jacks: stereo mini-jack and 6.3mm stereo plug

And here is our video review of the Roland FP30 digital piano:

If you are interested in knowing more, we invite you to see our review of the Roland FP30

Roland FP 10 vs Yamaha P45

Now let’s look at the comparison between the Roland FP 10 digital pianos with a price of about €499/$589/£449, as we had discussed before, and the Yamaha P45 which is priced at €425/$500/£389 being £75 cheaper than the Roland. We will see their versus, reviewing their similarities and differences in the next section:

  • The Roland FP 10 has more polyphony. Which are the notes that can sound at the same time including what we play and the accompaniments that sound at the same time.
  • The Roland FP 10 has more sounds
  • Both have MIDI but the FP 10 has bluetooth, although for me it doesn’t matter
  • The good thing about the Yamaha P45 is that its speakers sound a bit better and it’s cheaper
  • The Yamaha P45 weighs less but not a significant difference either

As we can see the Yamaha P 45 has certain advantages over the Roland FP 10 digital piano, not for nothing the Yamaha has been a Super seller since it came out.

Let’s put the features of these pianos in a table so you can compare

Roland FP10

Yamaha P45

  • 88 keys with hammer mechanism
  • PHA-4 Standard Keyboard
  • Polyphony of max. 96 voices
  • SuperNATURAL technology: 4 pianos, 2 E-pianos and 9 other instruments such as organ and strings, sound effects
  • Twin-Piano Mode
  • 2 Split zones
  • Layer function
  • Integrated metronome
  • Bluetooth 4.0 for wireless MIDI functionality
  • Connections: 3.5 mm stereo mini jack
  • Headphone connection
  • USB-A, USB-B, input for damper pedal
  • 2x 6 W speaker system
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1284 x 258 x 140 mm
  • Weight: 12.3 kg
  • Color: Black
  • Includes power supply, score holder and sustain pedal.
  • 88 weighted hammer action keys (GHS)
  • AWM Stereo Sample Sound Engine
  • Polyphony: 64 voices maximum
  • 10 presets
  • Dual and Duet Mode
  • Integrated effects: Reverb and Chorus
  • Intelligent sound control
  • 10 demo songs and 10 piano songs
  • USB to Host port for connection to computer or iOS drives
  • Built-in Metronome
  • Adjustable Tempo/Transposition and Pitch
  • 2 x 6W amplifiers with built-in speakers
  • 1/4″ stereo TRS headphone output
  • Includes sustain pedal, lectern and PA-150B power supply
  • Dimensions: 1326 x 154 x 295 mm (width x height x depth)
  • Weight: 11,5Kg
  • Color: Black.

Finally, you have a video of the Yamaha P 45:

If you want to know more, here is the review of the Yamaha P45

Roland FP 10 vs Casio CDP S100

Now let’s compare our Roland FP 10 and as we mentioned before it has a price of €499/$589/£449 with the Casio CDP S100 which has a price of €339/£311, and as we will see it has many differences. Here’s the face-to-face:

OK, there’s a difference here but each one is designed for a different thing.

  • The Roland FP 10 has more sounds and more polyphony
  • The advantage of the Casio is that it weighs 2 kg less and takes up much less space. It is designed to be transported and can also be battery operated.
  • Both are counterbalanced with similar quality.
  • For home study, the Roland Fp 10 is best, but for moving it around, the Casio may be the more interesting option.

Let’s put the features of these pianos on a table so you can compare

Roland FP10

Casio CDP S100

  • 88 keys with hammer mechanism
  • PHA-4 Standard Keyboard
  • Polyphony of max. 96 voices
  • SuperNATURAL technology: 4 pianos, 2 E-pianos and 9 other instruments such as organ and strings, sound effects
  • Twin-Piano Mode
  • 2 Split zones
  • Layer function
  • Integrated metronome
  • Bluetooth 4.0 for wireless MIDI functionality
  • Connections: 3.5 mm stereo mini jack
  • Headphone connection
  • USB-A, USB-B, input for damper pedal
  • 2x 6 W speaker system
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1284 x 258 x 140 mm
  • Weight: 12.3 kg
  • Color: Black
  • Includes power supply, score holder and sustain pedal.
  • 88 keys with scaled hammer action (Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II)
  • 64 notes of polyphony
  • 10 sounds
  • Layer function
  • Transposition function
  • Reverb
  • Chorus
  • Metronome
  • App function (‘Chordana play for piano’)
  • 2 demo songs
  • USB to Host connection
  • 1 headphone jack
  • 1 jack for pedal
  • Audio input
  • 2 x 8W speaker system
  • Dimensions: 1322 x 232 x 99 mm (width x depth x height)
  • Weight: 10.5 kg
  • Color: BlackIncludes AD-12150LW power supply and SP-3 sustain pedal

Finally, you have our video of the Casio CDP S100:

Visit our review of the Casio CDP S100

Roland FP 10 vs Korg B2

Finally we proceed to analyze the comparison between the digital pianos the Roland this I asked is that as we have commented before it has a value or price of €499/$589/£449 and the Korg B2 that has a price of €389/$500/£389 in its version in black, and something more economic its version in white. Next we will have their differences and similarities in the following face to face:

  • They both have 88 weighted keys with PHA-IV technology with an ivory touch and leakage release. Let’s remember that counterweight is the weight that the keys of real acoustic pianos have. As well as, both have sensitivity in their keys. Sensitivity refers to the option of performing dynamics in our performances, that is, when we step or press a key with force it sounds louder or higher, and when we step with less force it sounds lower.
  • The Roland has a Super Natural Sound Engine which we talked about earlier, and the Korg has a branded PCM sound engine.
  • The FP10 has 15 different sounds or voices, a maximum polyphony of 96 notes. The Korg has 12 different sounds or voices and a maximum polyphony of 120 notes. Remember that polyphony is the highest number of notes that can be played simultaneously on a computer.
  • The Roland allows the following keyboard modes: integer, dual, split and double piano. What the Korg does not have.
  • Both digital pianos have an integrated metronome function, in order to be used in the piano studio. The Roland has a Bluetooth function that allows them to connect to an amplification system without cables.
  • The advantages of the Roland FP10 are: A Bluetooth system for wireless amplification, sustain pedal.
  • The advantages of the Korg B2: More polyphony and more power to your speakers.

Both are good digital pianos, according to their functions and sounds you can buy some Videos for sure you will make the best decision. However, if you are on a tight budget, the Korg B2 is an economical option and not a bad one.

Let’s put the features of these pianos in a table so you can compare

Roland FP10

Korg B2

  • 88 keys with hammer mechanism
  • PHA-4 Standard Keyboard
  • Polyphony of max. 96 voices
  • SuperNATURAL technology: 4 pianos, 2 E-pianos and 9 other instruments such as organ and strings, sound effects
  • Twin-Piano Mode
  • 2 Split zones
  • Layer function
  • Integrated metronome
  • Bluetooth 4.0 for wireless MIDI functionality
  • Connections: 3.5 mm stereo mini jack
  • Headphone connection
  • USB-A, USB-B, input for damper pedal
  • 2x 6 W speaker system
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1284 x 258 x 140 mm
  • Weight: 12.3 kg
  • Color: Black
  • Includes power supply, score holder and sustain pedal.
  • 88-key keyboard with hammer mechanism
  • 3 dynamic sensitivity curves (light, normal, heavy)
  • 12 sounds
  • 120 voice polyphony
  • 2x 15 W speaker system
  • 3.5 mm mini-jack stereo line input
  • Combined line/headphone output 3.5 mm stereo mini jack
  • USB (MIDI/Audio)
  • Pedal connection
  • Input for external power supply
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 1312 × 117 x 336 mm
  • Weight: 11.4 kg
  • Color: Black
  • Includes score holder, mute pedal as well as Software Bundle with Learning Software.

A video of the Korg B2 digital piano:

If you are interested in learning more we invite you to see our review of Korg B1. Korg B2 predecessor

Where to buy Roland FP 10

Amazon

  • Free Shipping and possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
  • Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
  • Sometimes better price.
  • He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

Thomann

  • Free Shipping.
  • Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
  • 100% reliable payment.
  • Leader in trouble-free shipping.
  • Usually Best price.
  • Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalogue and information.

Check below related models with similar price and features:

 

Digital Piano Kurzweil SPS4 8 Full Review. Is it a good purchase?

Digital Piano Kurzweil SPS4 8 Full Review. Is it a good purchase?

  • 88 Velocity sensitive Keys with Hammer Action (The weight of the keys on an acoustic piano that digital pianos try to imitate to match the touch of a real acoustic piano. The keys in the high register are heavier and in the high register less. This is a different concept of sensitivity on the keyboard that serves to regulate the volume of the note. But a hammer action keyboard always has sensitivity on the keys.)
  • 64 Voice polyphony (Number of notes that can sound at once. This includes songs that sound at once. So if you play over an accompaniment sound, more notes will accumulate.)
  • 16-Part multitembral
  • 4 zones Split (Split the keyboard into two different instruments) function
  • 4 zones Layering function
  • 128 presets + 64 user presets
  • 64 User midi (MIDI allows you to do such wonderful things as connect the keyboard to the computer, record a soundtrack and with certain programs pass with a click what you have played to musical notes in a score. MIDI tracks store information from musical notes) setups
  • Integrated effects as reverb (Reverberation effect which is a reflection effect of the sound), chorus, …
  • pitch bend (Functionality that changes the sound wave of what you play and then returns to its original state) and Modulation wheel
  • LCD screen
  • Two Balanced jack outputs
  • 2 Headphone outputs for Duet mode (Duet mode allows you to divide the keyboard into two pianos to play four hands or the teacher and student on the same keyboard.)
  • Standar MIDI in/out
  • 1 Stereo pedal (The most important pedal of a piano or keyboard is the sustain pedal and is used to keep the note playing even if you stop pressing the key.) input (supports 2 pedal (The most important pedal of a piano or keyboard is the sustain pedal and is used to keep the note playing even if you stop pressing the key.)s with Y adaptor)
  • 1 Continuous control pedal input
  • USB port
  • Powerful stereo speakers with two 4 x 6″ woofers and two 1″ tweeters
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1314 x 368 x 114 mm and a weight of 18.6 kg
  • Sustain pedal not included

Digital Piano Kurzweil SPS4 8 Full Review. Is it a good purchase?

Now that we’ve listed and described the features of this digital piano there’s no better than taking a look at the following video where they tell us more about the Kurzweil SPS4 8 and you can hear the different sounds of this piano.

Related post you can be interested in

Now let’s compare the Kurzweil SPS4 8 with its more common alternatives. Also at the end of the post you will find a section with the best shopping possibilities for this digital piano. But you can go directly to that part of the post by pressing the following button.

Kurzweil SPS4 8 vs Yamaha YDP 163

The digital piano Kurzweil SPS4 8 is usually about 45 € more expensive than Yamaha YDP 163, but with so little price difference this can vary.

Let’s put the features of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences

Kurzweil SPS4 8

Yamaha YDP 163

  • 88 Velocity sensitive Keys with hammer action
  • 64 Voice polyphony
  • 16-Part multitembral
  • 4 zones Split function
  • 4 zones Layering function
  • 128 presets + 64 user presets
  • 64 User MIDI setups
  • Integrated effects as reverb, chorus, …
  • Pitch bend and Modulation wheel
  • LCD screen
  • Two Balanced jack outputs
  • 2 Headphone outputs for duet mode
  • Standar MIDI in/out
  • 1 Stereo pedal input (supports 2 pedals with Y adaptor)
  • 1 Continuous control pedal input
  • USB port
  • Powerful stereo speakers with two 4 x 6″ woofers and two 1″ tweeters
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1314 x 368 x 114 mm and a weight of 18.6 kg
  • Sustain pedal not included
  • Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) Keyboard with 88 weighted keys and hammer action
  • Synthetic ivory key tops
  • Pure CF Sound Engine
  • Intelligent Acoustic Control (IAC )and Acoustic Optimizer for a better simulation of a real piano
  • Stereophonic Optimizer
  • 192 voice polyphony
  • 10 Sounds
  • 4 Reverb types function
  • Dual-Function
  • Metronome
  • Duet mode
  • Recording function
  • 10 Demo songs and 50 piano songs
  • Triple pedal
  • Keyboard cover to avoid dust
  • USB to Host
  • 2 x Headphone outputs
  • Loud-speakers of 2x 20W
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 1357 x 849 x 422 mm and a weight of 42 kg

And below a video of the Yamaha YDP 163

If you want to know more about this model do not miss our Yamaha YDP 163 review

Kurzweil SPS4 8 vs Yamaha YDP S54

The digital piano Kurzweil SPS4 8 is usually about 9 € cheaper than Yamaha YDP S54, but with so little price difference this can vary.

Let’s put the features of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences

Kurzweil SPS4 8

Yamaha YDP S54

  • 88 Velocity sensitive Keys with hammer action
  • 64 Voice polyphony
  • 16-Part multitembral
  • 4 zones Split function
  • 4 zones Layering function
  • 128 presets + 64 user presets
  • 64 User MIDI setups
  • Integrated effects as reverb, chorus, …
  • Pitch bend and Modulation wheel
  • LCD screen
  • Two Balanced jack outputs
  • 2 Headphone outputs for duet mode
  • Standar MIDI in/out
  • 1 Stereo pedal input (supports 2 pedals with Y adaptor)
  • 1 Continuous control pedal input
  • USB port
  • Powerful stereo speakers with two 4 x 6″ woofers and two 1″ tweeters
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1314 x 368 x 114 mm and a weight of 18.6 kg
  • Sustain pedal not included
  • Hammer action(GH3) keyboard with 88 weighted keys
  • Synthetic ivory feeling
  • 10 Sounds
  • 192-Voice polyphony
  • Yamaha CFX Sound Engine
  • Intelligent Acoustic Control (IAC) and Acoustic Optimizer for a better real piano experience
  • 10 demo songs
  • Reverb function and damper resonance with new development
  • Dual function
  • Recording function
  • Triple pedal
  • Keyboard antidust cover
  • 2 Headphone outputs
  • USB to host
  • Speakers system of 2x 20 W
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 1353 x 792 x 309 mm and a weight of 40 kg

And below a video of the Yamaha YDP S54

Kurzweil SPS4 8 vs Casio PX 560

The digital piano Kurzweil SPS4 8 is usually about 95 € cheaper than Casio PX 560.

Let’s put the features of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences

Kurzweil SPS4 8

Casio PX 560

  • 88 Velocity sensitive Keys with hammer action
  • 64 Voice polyphony
  • 16-Part multitembral
  • 4 zones Split function
  • 4 zones Layering function
  • 128 presets + 64 user presets
  • 64 User MIDI setups
  • Integrated effects as reverb, chorus, …
  • Pitch bend and Modulation wheel
  • LCD screen
  • Two Balanced jack outputs
  • 2 Headphone outputs for duet mode
  • Standar MIDI in/out
  • 1 Stereo pedal input (supports 2 pedals with Y adaptor)
  • 1 Continuous control pedal input
  • USB port
  • Powerful stereo speakers with two 4 x 6″ woofers and two 1″ tweeters
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1314 x 368 x 114 mm and a weight of 18.6 kg
  • Sustain pedal not included
  • 88 Keys with scaled hammer action II (Tri-Sensor)
  • Synthetic ebony and ivory touch keys for a better piano playing
  • 650 Sounds
  • Multi-Dimensional Morphing AiR sound generation
  • 220 Styles
  • 30 User Styles
  • 256 voices of Polyphony
  • Split, layer and duet function
  • Chorus, Reverb, Master EQ
  • Tone Editor
  • Transposer
  • Metronome
  • Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels
  • LCD Screen
  • 2 Headphone connections for duet mode
  • Midi In / Out
  • Sustain Pedal connection
  • Line In / Out (L / Mono, R) for gigs
  • USB port
  • Speakers 2 x 8 W
  • Dimensions 1322 x 293 x 147 mm
  • Weight: 12 kg
  • Power supply and sustain pedal included

And below a video of the Casio PX 560

If you want to know more about this model do not miss our Casio PX 560 review

Kurzweil SPS4 8 vs Korg PA 700

The digital piano Kurzweil SPS4 8 is usually about 85 € cheaper than Korg PA 700.

Let’s put the features of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences

Kurzweil SPS4 8

Korg PA 700

  • 88 Velocity sensitive Keys with hammer action
  • 64 Voice polyphony
  • 16-Part multitembral
  • 4 zones Split function
  • 4 zones Layering function
  • 128 presets + 64 user presets
  • 64 User MIDI setups
  • Integrated effects as reverb, chorus, …
  • Pitch bend and Modulation wheel
  • LCD screen
  • Two Balanced jack outputs
  • 2 Headphone outputs for duet mode
  • Standar MIDI in/out
  • 1 Stereo pedal input (supports 2 pedals with Y adaptor)
  • 1 Continuous control pedal input
  • USB port
  • Powerful stereo speakers with two 4 x 6″ woofers and two 1″ tweeters
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1314 x 368 x 114 mm and a weight of 18.6 kg
  • Sustain pedal not included
  • 61 sensitive keys. It is a profesional keyboard
  • 128-voice polyphony
  • EDS-X (Enhanced Definition Synthesis – eXpanded)
  • Defined Nuance Control (DNC)
  • More than 1,700 sounds
  • 360 styles
  • 1.152 locations
  • 960MB internal memory
  • 128MB compressed PCM user memory
  • MP3 and MP3 compatible+G
  • ‘Guitar Mode 2’
  • 7″ TouchView TFT Display
  • 16-track sequencer
  • Letters in screen
  • Micro-SD card slot
  • MIDI to HOST
  • L/R line output (mono), good for live music
  • Line input L/R
  • MIDI input/output
  • USB-Device
  • Sustain pedal input
  • Programmable pedal input
  • 25W 2-way speaker system
  • Dimensions: 1030 x 378.3 x 132mm and a weight of 9.9kg/li>.
  • Weight: 9.9kg
  • Includes music rest

And below a video of the Korg PA 700

If you want to know more about this model do not miss our Korg PA 700 review

Where to buy Kurzweil SPS4 8

Amazon

  • Free Shipping and possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
  • Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
  • Sometimes better price.
  • He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

 

Thomann

  • Free Shipping.
  • Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
  • 100% reliable payment.
  • Leader in trouble-free shipping.
  • Usually Best price.
  • Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalogue and information.
Check below related models with similar price and features:

Did you like this post? > > > >

Digital Piano Kurzweil SP6 Full Review. Is it a good choice?

Digital Piano Kurzweil SP6 Review Complete Is it a good choice?

Kurzweil Music Systems is an American company that produces electronic musical instruments. It was founded in 1982 by instrumentalist musician Stevie Wonder, multi-faceted (inventor, musician, entrepreneur, writer and scientist) Raymond Kurzweil and software developer Bruce Cichowlas.

Among its models of stage pianos, here’s the Kurzweil SP6 with a price of €999/$1300/£938. This is a great musical instrument with many functions and features that make it a very interesting digital piano, which has the following characteristics:

  • 88-key weighted keyboard (Weight of the keys on an acoustic piano, which digital pianos try to imitate to match the touch of the piano. The keys in the high register are heavier and in the high register less. This is different from the sensitivity on the keyboard which serves to regulate the volume of the note. But a weighted keyboard always has sensitivity to the keys) and sensitivity to touch and velocity
  • 128 notes of polyphony (Number of notes that can sound at once. This includes accompaniments that also consume notes. So if you play over an accompaniment more notes will be accumulated)
  • Very innovative VAST sound engine
  • DSP (Digital Signal Processing) effects. These are digital effects that modify the sound of the keyboard) signal and anti-aliasing
  • Split function (divide the keyboard into two different instruments) up to 4 Split parts
  • Dual function (Dual mode allows you to combine two sounds to create a more complete one. Typical is the combination of piano + stringed instrument sound) or quick layer up to 4 parts
  • 256 sounds (Various piano and other instrument sounds) from the factory, 130 multis from the factory, 1024 user-created programs or sounds (Various piano and other instrument sounds), 1024 multi-user, and 5 favorites
  • Forte SE and PC3 program compatible
  • A host of effects including reverb and chorus
  • Pitch bend wheel (Functionality that changes the sound wave of what you play and then returns to its original state)
  • Modulation wheel
  • Tap Tempo Control
  • 2 inputs for foot switches. Here is the sustain pedal (The sustain pedal of a piano or keyboard is used to keep the note playing even if you stop pressing the key)
  • Line output
  • Single color LCD display
  • Hull exit Jack
  • USB midi input and output (MIDI allows you to do such wonderful things as connect your keyboard to your computer, record a sound track, and with certain programs, click through what you’ve played to musical notes on a score. MIDI tracks store the information of the musical notes)
  • 2 extra USB storage places
  • Music editing software
  • Operating system update. Charged by USB
  • It includes a foot switch that is used as a sustain and a USB cable
  • Weight 12.36 kg and dimensions 133.3 x 38.1 x 14.6 cm (width x depth x height)

 

review kurzweil-sp6

Two very interesting videos for you to see and hear all the power of this keyboard:

 

Posts you can be interested in

Now let’s compare the Kurzweil SP6 with its more common alternatives. Also at the end of the post, you will find a section with the best shopping possibilities for this digital piano. But you can go directly to that part of the post by pressing the following button.

Kurzweil SP6 vs Kurzweil PC4

In our first comparison, we will have two digital pianos of the same brand Kurzweil, the keyboard Kurzweil SP6 which as we saw is priced at €999/$1300/£938 and the big Kurzweil PC4 which is priced at €1.799/$2000/£1,655 a big difference of 800 euros, we will see their similarities and differences:

  • Both digital pianos offer a keyboard with 88 weighted keys, which those of the Kurzweil PC4 have RPHA (Real Piano Hammer Action) technology and adjustable aftertouch sensitivity achieved to have a more realistic simulation of an acoustic piano. Weighted Keyboard, means the weight that the keys have to resemble more to those of an acoustic piano, in the low notes more weight that decreases as it reaches the high notes. All keyboards with weighted keys have sensitivity, which is the option to make dynamics, that when we press a key strongly, it sounds higher, than another we press less strongly.
  • Both have the VAST (Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology) sound engine, the SP6 with 128 notes of polyphony and the PC4 with 256 notes of polyphony, which is the most notes that can be played at the same time.
  • In terms of sounds, the SP6 has 256 factory sounds, 1024 user sounds, 130 multis factory sounds and 1024 multis factory sounds, in total 2Gb storage. And the PC4 offers more than 1000 factory sounds, 4096 user sounds, more than 50 multis factory sounds, which speaking in storage are 2Gb of factory sounds and 2Gb of user sample memory sounds.
  • Both have the KB3 ToneReal Organ function, K.S.R. (Kurzweil String Resonance), and a software editor. They offer very real organ tones and string resonances that give a great simulation of the instruments.
  • In physical controllers, the Kurzweil SP6 has 20 controllers (4 knobs, 1 Switch, 2 Wheels (Pitch and Modulation), 2 Dual-Switch Pedal Inputs, and 1 Continuous Control Pedal Input. The PC 4 has 35 (9 Faders) Sliders, 9 Knobs, 10 Switches, 2 Wheels (Pitch and Modulation), 2 Pedal Switch Inputs (with support for half a pedal), and 2 Continuous Control Pedal Inputs, Aftertouch and Ribbon controllers.) which allows greater control of the functions and performance of the digital stage piano. Both are good, however on the PC4 we have more control.
  • Both have USB inputs, the SP6 has 2, while the PC4 has 4, they are for extra storage.
  • Both pianos have auxiliary audio input and audio outputs, plus they have the option of USB MIDI for connection to a computer to serve as a MIDI controller in a music composition/production program.
  • In weight and measurements, both keyboards are very similar, the SP6 has 12.36 Kg and measures 1333 x 381 x 146mm (width x depth x height), and the PC4 has a weight of 13Kg and measures 1270 x 374.6 x 165.1 cm (width x depth x height)

Both digital pianos are very similar, taking into account that one is a stage piano and the other is an arrangement piano. The PC4 has better and more features, having a greater amount of sounds and more physical controllers, which allow a greater control towards its different functions. It can also be noted that the PC4 has four extra storage inputs and has a lot of space for compositions, demos and arrangements. Both are excellent in their different purposes, and the SP6 is still an excellent choice for stage piano.

We invite you to listen to the sounds of each piano and make an auditory comparison for yourself.

We will put the characteristics of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences:

Kurzweil SP6

Kurzweil PC4

  • Weighted, touch-sensitive and speed-sensitive keyboard
  • 128 notes of polyphony
  • Very innovative VAST sound engine
  • DSP signal processing and anti-aliasing
  • quick split function up to 4 parts
  • dual function or fast layer up to 4 parts
  • 256 factory sounds, 130 factory multis, 1024 user-created programs or sounds, 1024 multi-user, and 5 favorites
  • Forte SE and PC3 program compatible
  • A mockery of effects including reverb and chorus
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Modulation wheel
  • Tap Tempo Control
  • 2 inputs for foot switches. Here’s the one for sustain
  • Line output
  • Single color LCD display
  • Hull exit Jack
  • USB MIDI input and output
  • 2 extra USB storage places
  • Music editing software
  • Operating system update. Charged by USB
  • Includes foot switch used as a sustain and USB cable
  • Weight 12.36 kg and dimensions 133.3 x 38.1 x 14.6 cm (width x depth x height)
  • 88 fully weighted hammer action notes
  • With speed-sensitive keys and aftertouch
  • V.A.S.T. engine with 256 polyphony voices
  • FM engine with 6 operators
  • 2 GB of factory sounds
  • 2 GB of user sample memory
  • More than 1000 sound presets
  • KB3 ToneReal Organs
  • Effects Engine
  • Importing WAV and AIF files (16 Bit / 96 kHz maximum)
  • Import of files in Kurzweil format (.P3K, .KRZ, .K25, .K26)
  • 16-track MIDI sequencer
  • Arpeggiator and Riff generator for each MIDI track
  • Tone modulation wheel and modulation wheel
  • 9 knobs, 9 sliders and 9 buttons for real-time control
  • 4.3″ colour widescreen
  • 4 audio outputs (6.3 mm TRS)
  • Stereo headphone output (6.3 mm TRS)
  • 2 audio inputs (6.3 mm TS)
  • 1 audio input (3.5 mm TRS)
  • MIDI input / output
  • Input for tape controller
  • 4 inputs for pedals and foot switches (6.3 mm jack)
  • 2 USB ports
  • Dimensions: 127 x 37.46 x 16.51 cm (width x depth x height)
  • Weight: 13 kg
  • Includes sustain pedal, USB cable, external power supply (15 V DC) and power cable

And now a video of the Kurzweil PC4

If you want to know more about this model don’t miss our review of the Kurzweil PC4.

Kurzweil SP6 vs Yamaha MX 88

Now we will compare two digital pianos the Kurzweil SP6 keyboard which as we know is priced at €999/$1300/£938 and the Yamaha MX 88 digital piano which is priced at €888/$1099/£818, with a difference of about 100 Euro, we will see their differences and similarities in the face to face:

  • Both pianos have 88-key weighted keyboards (each keyboard with its own technology) and sensitivity.
  • The Kurzweil SP6 has its VAST sound engine, with a large number of sounds, about 2500, with 128 polyphonic notes. The Yamaha MX88 has its AWM2 sound engine with 1000 tones/speakers, and 128 notes of polyphony, which is the highest number of notes that can be played at the same time. Where the Kurzweil has a great advantage by almost doubling the sounds or voices of the Yamaha.
  • In terms of effects, the Kurzweil SP6 has a powerful effects engine with 32 units. The Yamaha MX88 has its VCM (Virtual Circuitry Modeling) effect engine. As always we invite you to watch the Videos so you can compare the sounds of each piano.
  • In physical controllers the Kurzweil SP6 has 20 controllers (4 knobs, 1 Switch, 2 Wheels (Pitch and Modulation), 2 Dual-Switch Pedal Inputs and 1 Continuous Control Pedal Input. The Yamaha MX88 Pitch has only 8 (2 Wheels (Pitch and Modulation), 4 Knobs, 2 Pedal Inputs). Where the Kurzweil stands out due to its greater control, which if you are playing live is more than good for you.
  • Both keyboards have: line out and line in, USB MIDI to serve as a MIDI controller in a computer for use in a music composition and production program.
  • Both are compatible with music editing software.
  • The Kurzweil SP6 weighs 12.36 kg and measures 1333 x 381 x 146 mm (W x D x H), and the Yamaha MX88 weighs 13 kg and measures 1320 x 405 x 168 mm (W x D x H). Both weighing about the same size and weight.

Here is a video of the Yamaha’s engine:

We will put the characteristics of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences:

Kurzweil SP6

Yamaha MX88

  • Weighted, touch-sensitive and speed-sensitive keyboard
  • 128 notes of polyphony
  • Very innovative VAST sound engine
  • DSP signal processing and anti-aliasing
  • quick split function up to 4 parts
  • dual function or fast layer up to 4 parts
  • 256 factory sounds, 130 factory multis, 1024 user-created programs or sounds, 1024 multi-user, and 5 favorites
  • Forte SE and PC3 program compatible
  • A mockery of effects including reverb and chorus
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Modulation wheel
  • Tap Tempo Control
  • 2 inputs for foot switches. Here’s the one for sustain
  • Line output
  • Single color LCD display
  • Hull exit Jack
  • USB MIDI input and output
  • 2 extra USB storage places
  • Music editing software
  • Operating system update. Charged by USB
  • Includes foot switch used as a sustain and USB cable
  • Weight 12.36 kg and dimensions 133.3 x 38.1 x 14.6 cm (width x depth x height)
  • With standard 88-key hammer-action keyboard (Graded-Hammer)
  • AWM2 tone generator
  • 128-note polyphony
  • 16 multi-timbral parts
  • VCM effects (Virtual Circuitry Modeling)
  • 1000 voices based on MOTIF XS waveforms
  • Arpeggiator
  • Split/Layer Function
  • Playing standard MIDI files and WAV and AIFF audio from USB devices
  • USB Audio/MIDI interface with iOS support
  • Pitch Bend wheel
  • Modulation wheel
  • LED and LCD display
  • 2 Jack line outputs from ¼” (L/R)
  • Stereo “¼” headphone jack output
  • Input for pedal and sustain controller
  • MIDI Input/Output
  • USB
  • Auxiliary input 1/8″ jack
  • Includes licenses to download versions of Cubase AI PC/Mac software, Cubasis LE for iOS and the FM Essential Synthesis App (4 operator FM synthesis)
  • Dimensions: 1320 x 405 x 168mm
  • Weight: 13,9kg

First, a comparative video between the two teams, in which it is worth mentioning certain important points:

  • Both have professional sounds, that is to say, in neither you will be disappointed by the audio quality
  • In general, the Yamaha sounds brighter than the Kurzweil. However as a personal opinion, Kurzweil sounds more real.
  • On the low notes, I like the sound of the Yamaha better, however and taking into account that both are EQ’s at zero (i.e. it has no EQ) the dynamic range of the Kurzweil sounds better.
  • If we classify them by a musical style, Kurzweil might be more suitable for classical compositions, ballads, and film music. ballads, and film music. The Yamaha may be more suitable for playing contemporary pianists.

Here is the video, listen to each piano and draw your own conclusions.

And now a video of the Yamaha MX88

If you want to know more about this model don’t miss our review of the Yamaha MX88.

Kurzweil SP6 vs Roland Juno-DS 88

Finally, we will have the comparison of the digital pianos the Kurzweil SP6 that as we know has the price of €999/$1300/£938 and the Roland Juno-DS88 digital piano that has a price of €939/$1100/£855, with a difference of 60 euros, we will see their differences and similarities in the face to face:

  • Both pianos have keyboards with 88 weighted keys (each keyboard with its technology) and with sensitivity. The Roland has its keys with an ivory touch, which offer more realism of an acoustic piano when playing.
  • The Kurzweil SP6 has its VAST sound engine, with a large number of sounds, about 2500, with 128 notes of polyphony. The Roland Juno DS88 has its sound engine with 1200 tones/speakers, and 128 notes of polyphony, which is the highest number of notes that can be played at the same time. The Roland is compatible with the GM2 sound engine, here a list of sounds. The SP6 outperforms it with more than double the amount of sounds, however the Roland is not far behind with its virtual wave expansion slots, which allows new waveforms to be downloaded.
  • When it comes to effects, the Kurzweil SP6 has a powerful effect engine with 32 units. The Roland Juno DS88 has a total of about 96 effects.
  • In physical controllers the Kurzweil SP6 has 20 controllers (4 knobs, 1 Switch, 2 Wheels (Pitch and Modulation), 2 Dual-Switch Pedal Inputs and 1 Continuous Control Pedal Input. The Roland Juno DS88 Pitch has only 18 (4 Knobs, 4 Sliders (Faders), 8 Multicolor Pads, 2 Pedal Inputs)
  • Both keyboards have: line out and line in, USB MIDI to serve as a MIDI controller in a computer for use in a music composition and production program. Giving both keyboards a good control of their defects and performance, which for live playing is very useful. The Roland Juno DS88 also has microphone input and dedicated effects such as reverb, vocoder and tone effects, which is an advantage over the Kurzweil.
  • Both are compatible with music editing software.
  • The Kurzweil SP6 weighs 12.36 kg and measures 1333 x 381 x 146 mm (W x D x H), and the Yamaha MX88 weighs 13 kg and measures 1320 x 405 x 168 mm (W x D x H)

Both are excellent stage pianos, each having its own advantage over the other. While the Kurzweil has a greater amount of sound. The Roland, has a virtual wave expansion, eight phrase pads to trigger samples or songs, and a microphone input with effects to modify the sound of the voice.

We’ll put the characteristics of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences:

Kurzweil SP6

Roland Juno-DS 88

  • Weighted, touch-sensitive and speed-sensitive keyboard
  • 128 notes of polyphony
  • Very innovative VAST sound engine
  • DSP signal processing and anti-aliasing
  • quick split function up to 4 parts
  • dual function or fast layer up to 4 parts
  • 256 factory sounds, 130 factory multis, 1024 user-created programs or sounds, 1024 multi-user, and 5 favorites
  • Forte SE and PC3 program compatible
  • A mockery of effects including reverb and chorus
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Modulation wheel
  • Tap Tempo Control
  • 2 inputs for foot switches. Here’s the one for sustain
  • Line output
  • Single color LCD display
  • Hull exit Jack
  • USB MIDI input and output
  • 2 extra USB storage places
  • Music editing software
  • Operating system update. Charged by USB
  • Includes foot switch used as a sustain and USB cable
  • Weight 12.36 kg and dimensions 133.3 x 38.1 x 14.6 cm (width x depth x height)
  • Keyboard with 88 ivory feel-g keys
  • Weighted Touch
  • Polyphony of maximum 128 voices
  • More than 1200 preset patches: More than 30 drum kits and 64 performances:
  • 256 user memory patches: 8 drum kits and 128 interpretations
  • Powered by power supply and batteries
  • Includes all Juno-DI sounds plus recently upgraded acoustic and electric pianos, additional organs, and other stage essentials
  • The virtual wave expansion slot allows new sound waveforms to be downloaded
  • The sounds are available free of charge on the Axial de Roland website
  • Sample import function
  • Easy sound manipulation and editing
  • Eight phrase pads to trigger audio samples and songs stored on the USB memory stick
  • Microphone input
  • Dedicated reverb, vocoder and automatic tone effects for impressive vocal performances
  • Intuitive eight-track pattern sequencer with nonstop recording for fast-developing song ideas
  • DAW and USB Audio/MIDI control mode
  • Pedal retaining jack
  • Foot Control Jack
  • 6.3 mm jack microphone input
  • External stereo mini-jack input
  • Output (L/MONO / R) 6.3 mm jack
  • Headphone jack
  • 6.3 mm stereo jack headphone output
  • MIDI connectors (input and output)
  • USB memory stick port
  • USB computer port (supports USB Audio/MIDI)
  • Includes power supply
  • Dimensions: 1415 x 341 x 144 mm (width x depth x height)
  • Weight: 16.2 kg

And now a video of the Roland Juno DS88:

If you want to know more about this model don’t miss our review of the Roland Juno-DS 88

Where to buy Kurzweil SP6

Thomann

  • Free Shipping.
  • Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
  • 100% reliable payment.
  • Leader in trouble-free shipping.
  • Usually Best price.
  • Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalogue and information.

Amazon

  • Free Shipping and possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
  • Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
  • Sometimes better price.
  • He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

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