Roland RD170 88-Key Digital Piano

No longer available at zZounds
Supplied accessories Owner's Manual, Power cable, Music rest, Damper Pedal

This attractively designed piano features an improved 88-note weighted hammer-action keyboard, 64 piano and instrument sounds and new Master Keyboard functions with 16 setup memories - making the RD170 a great MIDI controller as well. With its simplified front-panel and classy wooden end bells, the RD170 simply outshines the competition.

Features

Affordable 64-voice digital piano ideal for students and stage performers alike

88-note weighted hammer-action keyboard with improved touch response

64 high-quality Tones including an amazing stereo grand piano and more

New Master Keyboard functions for controlling external MIDI modules

16 Programmable Setups allow instant recall of custom settings

New half-pedal recognition for sustained playing just like an acoustic piano

Split and Layer functions for dividing the keyboard or playing two Tones at onceRD-170 Specifications

Onboard 2-track recorder makes recording performances easy

Supplied accessories Owner's Manual, Power cable, Music rest, Damper Pedal

The sounds are equally impressive. Thanks to stereo sampling, every nuance of an acoustic piano is faithfully reproduced. And with new half-pedal recognition, the RD170 can sense pedal positions between "On" and "Off" using the optional DP-8 Damper Pedal. High-quality onboard sounds include electric pianos, strings, mallets and new organ sounds unavailable on its predecessor. The RD170 also makes a great master keyboard. In addition to Split and Layer functions, there are read more also controller functions built-in that allow users to play and control up to two MIDI modules simultaneously. Sixteen programmable setup memories make it easy to save and recall custom settings - great for performance. Other convenient features include a 2-track recorder and metronome, plus 16 onboard demo songs. Connections to the RD170 include stereo 1/4 in. outputs, two stereo Headphone jacks, MIDI In and Out, and two pedal jacks (damper DP-8, Soft).

The Perfect Stage Piano for Beginner or Pro
With its attractive looks, improved weighted hammer-action keyboard and 64 world-class piano and instrument sounds, the new RD-170 Digital Piano is a worthy addition to Roland's acclaimed stage piano lineup. New half-pedal recognition and Master Keyboard functions make this lightweight instrument perfect for professional players, while the RD-170's affordable price keeps it within reach of all musicians.

Professional Quality at an Affordable Price
The RD-170 is a marvel of design. Inside this sleek, lightweight package is a surprisingly powerful digital piano with features that rival instruments costing much more. From its improved weighted hammer-action keyboard to the simplified front panel and classy wooden end bells, the RD-170 simply outshines the competition.

New Half-Damper Capabilities
With new half-pedal recognition, the RD-170 takes on all the expressiveness of an acoustic grand piano. When used with the supplied Damper Pedal, this technology allows the RD- 170 to sense pedal positions other than just "On" and "Off". The result is more natural sustained playing that captures the true spirit of an acoustic piano.

Legendary RD Piano Sounds and More
As one might expect, the RD-170's piano sounds are nothing less than phenomenal. The acoustic grand piano is a real standout; thanks to stereo sampling, every nuance can be faithfully captured. Of course, there's also a selection of fine instrument Tones ranging from electric piano and strings to organs, mallets and more - 64 Tones in all.

Built-In Song Recorder and More
The RD-170's onboard 2-track recorder makes capturing a performance ultra-intuitive. Or if you don't feel like playing, simply listen to one of 16 outstanding demo songs. A built-in metronome makes it easy for students to stay on beat while practicing. Whether for home use or on stage, the RD-170 has the features you need most at a price you can afford.

Convenient Master Keyboard Functions
Whether taking advantage of the onboard Split and Layer functions to play the internal sounds, or controlling a rack of MIDI modules, you'll love using the RD-170 as your master keyboard. With controller functions built-in, you can play and control external MIDI modules simultaneously - all with minimal fuss. The RD-170's 16 programmable setup memories make it easy to save and recall custom settings - great for performance.
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For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 323-890-3700

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. (58 ratings)
Submitted March 12, 2005 by a customer from aol.com

"Not the best, but the best for the buck!"

Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Well, I'm already contemplating one of the newer Roland models, in part due to my impression with the 170. I'd like a few more features, sounds, more polyphony, although at 64 the 170 has no drop outs unless you stack 2 sounds and hold the sustain pedal.

Sound
The pianos are quite good on this unit, and the RD-170 represents the very best you can buy in 2005 for $900.00. The keyboard action is flawless, even smoother than more expensive models out there. The guitars sound very real as well, if played like a guitarist (good luck with that). I use the board with a Triton Classic and Alesis Sr-16 drum machine. You really have to layer a couple of EPs to get a useable one with as mellow as this machine is. Organs are way too limited, with no real leslie effect.

Features
Needs an onboard graphic. The EP's and guitars are quite bassy compared with the acousitic pianos, and an onboard graphic like on Roland's more expensive models should equalize that. Too bad the Roland engineers didn's do that when they built the thing. When switching between your own stored sounds, the thing blares at you. Again, Roland engineers, why didn't you catch this at your factory??

Quality
Typical Roland, made like a Sherman tank. It is great looking as well, with the exception of some pretty garish lighted buttons on the console. Have used it alone, and would always be comfortable without back-up. read more

Value
My criticisms aside, you cannot beat this board for the $900.00 price tag. I imagine they are phasing this unit out, as the new 300 and 700 SX models are out there now. I would consider trading for the 700sx.

Manufacturer Support
Roland customer service? Forget it...they ask you to fax questions after hours, and they don't answer the fax. No email? Hey Roland wake up, we are in the era of CUSTOMER SERVICE. You're only lucky you build such nice products.

The Wow Factor
Yea, it's good looking, and the board action is super.

Musical Background:
active

Musical Style:
Rock and pop
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