Roland Ships New RD-SX Series Digital Pianos

RD-300SX (Click for a close-up)

RD-700SX (Click for a close-up)

Roland used the 2005 Winter NAMM show to announce the RD-SX series. The RD-700SX and RD-300SX digital pianos are driven by Roland's most powerful audio processing engines, enabling quality sound and expressive performance.

The flagship RD-700SX contains two complete 88-note individually sampled grand pianos, plus a suite of electric pianos, virtual tonewheel organs, strings, as well as an entire GM2 sound set. In all, there are an impressive 474 internal tones and 14 rhythm sets onboard, which can be expanded further by adding two optional Roland SRX boards. Sounds can be processed through the onboard twin multi-effects engines, offering hands-on access to reverb, chorus, multi-band compression, 3-band parametric EQ, and more.

Outfitted with a Progressive Hammer-Action Keyboard, the RD-700SX simulates a real grand by providing a lighter touch in the upper range that gets progressively heavier in the lower range. Combined with a true hammer action, this keyboard delivers an incredibly realistic feel and response.

The RD-700SX is well connected for the gigging professional. Both 1/4" and XLR outputs provide compatibility with all popular types of mixers and amplification systems. For performance expression, the RD-700SX has inputs for damper, sostenuto, and soft pedals. Use the tandem MIDI outs and USB I/O for MIDI controller and data backup/exchange. Standard MIDI Files can be loaded and played on the RD with its built-in MIDI File player.

The travel-light RD-300SX is a portable stage piano with heavyweight specs. Sharing much in common with the RD-700SX, the RD-300SX features 128-voice polyphony, 88-note individually sampled grand piano waveforms, and hundreds of additional sounds and rhythms -- from pop to orchestral.

Players will appreciate the RD-300SX's Compact Progressive Hammer-Action Keyboard, ease of operation, and hands-on controls. Dedicated buttons and knobs are provided for instant access to favorite piano sounds, EQ settings, and dual/split keyboard setups. No searching through menus or submenus to find the most common functions; everything is within quick reach. Thanks to the handy Setup mode, parameter changes can be stored and recalled with the touch of a button. A pitch bend/modulation lever has been included for expressive control.

With 78 multi-effects types onboard, plus independent effects such as compression and reverb, the RD-300SX delivers quality sounds and textures that range from smooth and lush to high-impact punch.

The RD-300SX has a metallic appearance, but it's the lightest 88-note piano in its class. At less than 35 pounds, it's ultra easy to transport. Connect the RD-300SX to computers and other external devices via USB port for one-cable MIDI communication. Standard MIDI in/out ports connectors are provided as well.

MSRP:

• RD-300SX: $1,599
• RD-700SX: $2,499