Stage crews the World over will be anticipating the arrival of the new Roland RD-SX series. Certainly beats lugging a full size piano about the place and by all accounts the new RD-SX models have nailed the sound too. The new RD-700SX and RD-300SX digital pianos feature Roland’s most powerful audio processing engines, enabling great sound quality and expressive performance. With a sizable amount of concert grand piano waveforms at
their core, the RD-SX is a new breed of stage piano.
The flagship RD-700SX contains two complete 88-note individually sampled
grand pianos, plus a suite of authentic 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 top-grade 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 an impressive, heavy-duty metallic appearance, but it’s
the lightest 88-note piano in its class. At less than 35 pounds, it’s ultra
easy to transport, yet built tough enough for the road.
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.
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