If you like music, you might want to check out my second channel "Milan Recording Studios". Feel free to subscribe and hit the bell icon if you want to! th-cam.com/channels/u1LrpmWwK1ztTvIayRar9w.html
This proves again: Your channel is the best Piano review channel on YT. Thank you, James! I enjoy you're playing and very helpful insights about what to look at a piano before purchasing it.
I decided to buy the MP11SE, because of the quality of the sound, the wonderful key action, the ease of use and built quality. The Roland didn’t inspire me. Thumbs up for this episode!
I own an MP11SE and decided to pick up an RD2000 as well. I was NOT impressed with the sounds or the screen quality. the hammer action was good. not MP11 quality, but good enough. I ended up returning it though for the Korg Grandstage, which just worked out for me, for some reason.
Sigh....I am a Roland RD fan but honestly watching & hearing this comparisons,also got the opportunity to play one,the Kawai MP11SE really whupped Roland RD ass this time around especially in the acoustic Piano & keybed action dept.
But the default piano sound on the rd2000 is a stage piano designed to sound bright. There are lots of other sounds in the rd like symphony hall and east coast studio that sound very much like the mp11se. There are just so many sounds in the Roland 2000 that the comparison really comes down to action. Kawai has lighter action.
I like the Kawai's sound and I think in general, Kawai's tend to have a somewhat dark and rather lush tone quality. In terms of build quality, I've noticed more complaints in general about Kawai's digital pianos than Roland or Yamaha or Nord. But it's more quality control and reliability maybe perhaps than how they are screwed together. So Kawai's digital division doesn't seem to match the exceptional quality of their acoustic pianos. Still, I prefer the Kawai as a piano substitute here but Roland really makes a great stage piano for all types of music. As usual for this channel, this is a thorough and fun comparison.
Benjamin, I have found the build quality, as well as the fit and finish to be exceptional on the Kawai MP11. I practice on mine from 4 - 8 hours per day and in a couple of years have just recently only has to adjust the foot pedal. I find that to be exceptional reliability. I know of no other keyboard manufacturer that I would place in that category. My Nord Stage 3 broke in a couple of hours, more about that soon.
@@ThePianoforever Good to hear about your Kawai. Sorry about the Nord. I have a friend with an old Nord that's been excellent. I just want to add that the problem Kawais I've read about are the CA series particularly the previous series that ended in 7. Like the CA97 and CA67. Kawai addressed the issues with the CA68 and CA98, CA 58, etc. The stage pianos like the ES8 and MP-series seem not to have the issues.
After watching every available video i could regarding these two stage pianos, I decided to buy both; the Roland for gigs, and the Kawai MP11se for my small studio, running it through a pair of Yamaha HS8 studio monitors. This my musician friends, it a dream combo and I highly recommend pulling the trigger on both if you can afford it. The MP11se manual is not very good, quite confusing, but available TH-cam videos such as this one make it much, much easier to learn each one respectively. The MP11se is much faster and easier to learn as it's much more intuitive, and, of course, much less complicated than the RD2000. A lot of keyboards are starting to use large touch screens which I hate because they are not necessary and provide a needless distraction. Much thanks for providing this video, I'm in heaven with these to distinctive, high quality pianos. FYI, I replaced my Yamaha C2 grand piano with these two keyboards. Now I have a lot more room, no more tuning issues, along with endless musical options and diversity! Cheers!
I agree, the MP11SE's user interface is really simple, I've always found Roland's control panels on the RD-2000 and others to be overly complex, and in my opinion, annoying to use at times.
James, Because of your comparisons my ear has become more aware of the nuances between different keyboards and pianos. Now I'm able to be more critical when listening to the sound of performances. Thank You, Rik Spector
To be honest, the RD 2000 is not a great keyboard. I think I'd pay $1500 (max for what it offers...especially in the piano department). Tried it, had the money for it and was completely uninspired. Even with the parameter function changes it offers, its pianos are just not there...especially considering its price. Just my two cents
Great review. One request for the classical nerds is for a brief harpsichord comparison in future vids, if you don’t mind. Thanks for pointing out the nuances of these two boards.
Interesting the mention of the quality of the Roland action. I just had my Roland rd2000 replaced under warranty and the action has changed and is way better, heavier and altogether different from the old one. Even the key surface has been changed so I think it depends on which RD 2000 you try. I just finished letters on the old one and sooo wish I had this new one to prepare my programme. Kawai looks nice but who can really haul that to a gig.
The crumpled sound of the RD2000 rhodes e-piano sounds in the bass notes much more realistic (compared to the Kawai) if I consider the bahaviour of my original Mark II Rhodes Piano
Your reviews are great, really enjoy them. I am glad you brought so much attention to the MP11se lacking drawbar or any other organs. I use my MP8ii for piano, 90% of the time just use the (very good) default grand. But sometimes I like to switch out the organ - I think I would miss this in the MP11.
Interesting video.. from the audio I felt the Roland actually sounded better at times... however there is a definite phasey hollowness to the Roland sample (same was in the RD700GX i had)... I played the RD2000 a few times and quite liked it... I think you made a good point on the Yamaha CP88 video about actions and being able to play notes at all points along the key... certainly with the CP88 it seemed hard to do that... I wonder if its the case with all digital pianos?
Helpful review as always! I especially liked when you kept switching back and forth between the keyboards within a single song. That made some of the differences more apparent.
The playing where you switch among the two sounds is reminiscent to me of how an organist would use the manuals on her/his instrument. One on the principals, and one on the hauptwerk or the reeds, and use them to create the dialog among voices effect which is so important in the creation of musical interest. Very nicely done. That Kawaii sound from 5-6 minutes sounds to me like a felt-prepared piano, or some very special small grand sound, in a nicely reverberating space. Just perfect. What might be nice if you had a big digital board is to have a footswitch do a "unacorda" effect, and switch your voices. I love that you did the single note trill test.
Hi james.hope all is well.still love and watch your videos. I'm so glad you did the comparison on the mp11 and the rd2000. I'm getting one of these instruments. Can I ask you a question about the mp11.im leaning towards this piano.can you add sounds too the mp11? Thanks your good friend, tim.
I have been a staunch Roland guy for years as in unwavering hardcore/hardline Roland guy. My views have been changed. If I need a Hammond I'll use my own, or get a digital product specifically cloned to do just that. Eyes set on the Kawai MP11SE... my only issue is that it's a 2+ year old product (and video). Do I wait out Kawai for an updated model? Do I spend the $2800 now? Hmmm...
Hi James, the difference between the loudness of Piano to Organ comes from the press/attack dynamic (sorry for my worse EN). If you set it to fixed e.g. YC88 it is exactly so loud as other voices. You have to be a bit room to reach not to far max loudness. Great Chanel with great content. Thx a lot Jog
Older Korg M-3's (synth) at least the 88 key model has a good piano action that is good as well. However, they're really, really heavy and about 1800.00 used and no longer in production. Sounds are good as well.
Great comparison. I think you are right that the roland works with a single soundbank. Stupid but that’s the cheap way. On the other hand for a single soundbank it doesn’t sound bad. But I like the MP11SE more. Thank you for sharing.
What do you think of Kurtzweil? I mainly want a warm acoustic grand piano sound. Not too many gadgets or thousands of sounds. The Kawaii is a bit pricey. Love your Satie.
excellent comparison man. it might be interesting to see a kawai mp7se compared to rd2000 on organs, etc. (and of course, in general, i would like to see your take on the mp7se)
The song that starts at 3 minutes and 40 seconds (3:40) , what is it called? I would like to learn it, does anybody know the name of that song? Thanks in advance :-)
That is very interesting to hear more about the action comparison between this two. How light or heavy. How long is the key.. can you have same control on black keys
Can I assume, that you are aware that the reason a piano tuner tunes the middle two octaves first, then tunes by playing octave couples out from there because the human ear requires the octaves to be slightly "stretched" to sound perfectly in tune. When I was learning to tune pianos, I found that you having to "stretch" the tune to have it sound in tune a little bit of a strange phenomenon, considering that octaves are just one frequency and its double. But, maybe the construction of the ear just made it that way (from a reinforcing resonance perspective (where the upper frequency reinforces the action of the hammer in the ear against the anvil, distorting the frequency a little))
Darn you... Probably would have never noticed the string resonance issue until you pointed it out. Now I hear it and it bothers me on my RD2000. Specially when playing chords. Em7, Cmaj7, etc... think I will continue playing this until the MP11SE replacement comes out. Gives me a few years to get better.
You are a very good balanced player, seems like u can play just about anything. I remember u said u liked a fazioli, i was wondering what u thought of the williams grand symphony mini , its grand sound was recorded from a faziloi. U have played the yamaha p515, and the kawai mp11. I want to buy one of these 3, so i was wondering which one sounded the most well rounded and the most like what u would like to play , if u werent an accoustic guy?
Every time I've found a Williams instrument they are always broken, brand new in the store. I plan on doing a review of one in the future, but due to the honest nature of my channel, don't expect it to be overly positive. Between the other two instruments you've listed here, the MP11 is the best, but also the most expensive. The P515 is considerably cheaper, but an excellent mid-tier practice instrument, and I like them a great deal.
@@ThePianoforever thank you for answering my question so fast, i do know u can transpose music via an app with the yamaha , can u with the mp11 or mp11se?
Given the weight of the Kawai this is not a practical gigging instrument - I’m not sure a 76 note version would be significantly lighter. Big shame as I’d buy one of these in a flash if it was half the weight.
You play beautifully, and I like your detailed comparisons. Could you perhaps play some two fisted piano, like Dr. John, Pat Coil off his “Steps” CD , Cory Henry & Gospel, etc.? Those are the styles I’m interested in and would like to hear how the pianos you review fare in those genres. Thanks.
Thank you for the great and honest (which is even the greatest thing) review. Now I am sure i will buy kawai, if i ll be able to collect the money))). Thanks again for the great and very helpfull review.
Is there any digital piano that has the touch as good as the MP11se that has only good piano sounds and is more affordable? I wonder because i'm very interested in buying the MP11se but won't be using any other feature than piano sound nor any special connections or effects. I would appreciate your recommendation.
Wow the Kawai sounds much better than the Roland. This will be my next digital piano for sure. BTW, what speaker setup are you running? Also, new subscriber here. Keep up the great work!
Is it the pivot point the same in the both actions?Which one is better for pianissimo and classical study?Help me decide PLEASE I'm 15 years with a keyboard that ruined my hands..I mostly compose soft piano songs in logic..you play very good..!I don't mind about the sounds I have very good pluggins
Hi James, thank you for all your excellent videos! I wondered if you have any speaker recommendations, considering that all the high-fidelity sounds are worthless if you don't have good speakers.
Hey! If you havent bought speakers yet check out the rokit g4 series of studio monitors, best speakers in their price range for sure! Btw you want studio monitors for a keyboard as they will give you the best reflection of the true sounds of the keyboard, if you want to enhance the sound in any way get yourself an audio interface for tweaking.
I believe it is made by Kawai, it is a very nice keybed and I have had no problems with it. Definitely one of the best keybeds in a stage piano these days.
@@ThePianoforever - Cheers! My Kurzweil (2nd one) has finally given up the keybed ghost. The first one (same model) did the same. Fatar keyboards. No use at all. I need a good keyboard first and foremost and then as a Midi controller.
Great work , good incitefull coments ,about the way the notes actually sound and propagate, I have a Yamaha ModX 8Synthesizer which has two great piano samples, and hugely capable sound engines, but am considering adding the Mp11se, just love the sublelty of the sound.. I have had many years as Classica guitar making and repairing some fine instruments, one learns to hear how a note from string is formed, its harmonics and a miriad of nuances, induced by different construction and materials, the Yamaha Bosendorfer sample combined with half damper pedaling an sensitivity, can treulley emulate a fine rosewood, Spanish classic guitar, which is a great test for hearing the difference in notes v keyboards, fine work and great playing, looking forward to more, love your vids on real pianos, cant afford a Bosendorfer or CFX have to settle with digital. I use a top end hifi KEF speakers and sub and powerful amps , top Ar H1 planar magnetic headphones and Senheisers. A must for full enjoyment. 😉🌹🐧🌹
Hi Arnold. Dont need to buy the MP11. Gospel musicians has the Kawai EX Pro sampled sound which you can load into your Modx8. The sanple is incredible and only $49. It takes 270mb of your Modx8 memory.
The muddier sound of the RD-2000 is that "digitally" sound that drives me nuts. Kawai is much brighter and more realistic. The only problem is there are none around where I live to try
love my new RD2000, except a shocking experience tonight: at the end of practicing a piece, all the keys below G1 went silent. I didn't mess around with any setting, just changed Key Touch to light, and was playing the Bold Beauty piano sound, that's it. Had to restart the whole thing. I couldn't find any such reports on the internet though?
Hi JPS, ive watched your comparisons between NORD 3, Roland RD2000, Kawai MP11SE and the YAMAHA CP88, how would you rank these from top to bottom? which one is your champ? thanks in advance!
These are really geared towards slightly different markets, so depending on your needs, the tier list may be different. Overall I'd say that the MP11SE is the best. It has the most realistic action in any stage piano to date, and has some of the best piano sounds as well. However, it is quite heavy and that can be a turn off for many people. The CP88, while the action isn't quite as good, is still very playable and also weighs much less. It also benefits from a very intuitive user interface that anyone can figure out in minutes, which is important on stage. The Nord Stage doesn't have a very realistic action, and I had some serious issues with mine on the build quality, but it does have some great piano sounds and a fantastic organ section. This instrument is geared more towards organists and synth players rather than pianists. Finally, the RD2000 is a bit interesting because I don't love it, but I don't hate it either. It's alright, and its sounds might sound OK in the mix, but by itself it sounds very artificial and its user interface is far too convoluted and confusing, in my opinion. Sorry for writing a book, but there was a lot to say! :D
@@ThePianoforever HAH that is a book alright.. but a really helpful and useful one! i think CP88 is what im leaning towards but i am a little worried it might still be a little overwhelming for my kiddo. the intention is a piano that we can both use... can this be considered as beginner to intermediate level piano or should i really opt for a more basic one? thanks..
Comparison of the v piano would be great. Compared to the kawai that is. I've tried the rd2000, nord grand, yamaha... None of them are as good as the v piano for feel or sound in my opinion. I'm wondering if this kawai has now surpassed the v piano. Not had chance to try this yet
massive price difference? Im seeing them for $2600 or the RD, $2800 for the MP11. Question, were you using V-piano on the RD, or the samples? Im willing to forgive the sampled pianos a bit to gain the highly customizable modeling engine, though it would still eb nice to have great samples!! The MP11 undoubtedly has great piano sounds
Thank you for this great comparison, for me it comes down to the new cp88 v the kawai mp ( although probably the mp7se not the 11 as it’s out of my price range, I believe they have identical sound sets) -sp your review of the cp recently was also very helpful. So weird ( and a shame) the kawai doesn’t have any organ sounds? It’s not a deal breaker but I guess I was hoping they might update it with the next version of the mp.
A mi tmbien me mola mas, lo único.... q no hago mas q ver vídeos de los fallos de su teclado...de como repararlos etc etc En los kawai CA... el panel del software (donde eliges los sonidos etc etc) parece ser q es deplorable. Entonces, pues no se si fiarme de esta compañía. Tengo un Yamaha p-95 y me gustaría cambiar uno mucho mejor, al primer flechazo fue e l kawai, pero ahora lo veo con otros ojos, tanto q al rubiales le veo pagado para machacar al roland rd2000
I think the RD2000 lacks 'soul', by lack of a better word. I owned a Roland FA-08 but sent it back because I just couldn't get along with it. This RD2000 tries to be too much, I'm afraid. Over a 1000 sounds for a stage 'piano' ? Basically, it's a computer inside a keyboard and more akin to a workstation, rather than a stage piano. I have the MP11SE, couldn't be happier.
Christof, the KAWAI sounds better hands down. James is right about the aim Roland was taking on the RD2000. It is meant to be a STAGE piano. And like he said, the piano sounds are geared to cut through and not be drowned out while playing on stage with others. The MP11 would not be able to cut through as well as the RD2000. However, the MP11 is much better at replicating a real piano. They both have their purpose.
The Kawai sounds so much better to me. The Roland sounds as though it has a cold, and it has a metallic edge to it, compared to the smoother and more musical Kawai sound.... like the difference between a real Pultec and a plugin.
There is a saying in life that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I agree with all the positive comments regarding the Kawai MP11SE regarding sound, touch, etc but I don't think I have ever come across such an ugly digital piano in my life. It simply does not look right. What possible reason can there be for raising the controls so high above the keybed ?
I personally don't find the MP11SE unattractive, but I think the reason the controls are so much higher than the keybed is possibly due to the design of the action. The mechanism lies above the wooden key and thus forces the controls to be a bit higher. Other keyboards have hollow plastic keys with the weighted mechanism lying underneath or within the key, but these don't feel as nice as the GrandFeel, although they may be more slim.
Well, so far (at least for me) Except for it's ugly color, Nord comes in 1st, Kawai come in at a very distant 2nd, and Roland comes in at an even more distant 3rd.
Kawaii.....Roland actions have always felt to me like, no bounce, more like just pushing buttons on a computer keyboard. I have an older Techniques elect piano with an action that I like really well. The downfall is the piano sounds aren't as good as I would like.
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If you like music, you might want to check out my second channel "Milan Recording Studios". Feel free to subscribe and hit the bell icon if you want to!
th-cam.com/channels/u1LrpmWwK1ztTvIayRar9w.html
Wow, thanks for the unexpected and prompt response, I look forward to checking out your second link!
This proves again: Your channel is the best Piano review channel on YT. Thank you, James! I enjoy you're playing and very helpful insights about what to look at a piano before purchasing it.
Right. They come from the point of view of a passionate player.
I decided to buy the MP11SE, because of the quality of the sound, the wonderful key action, the ease of use and built quality. The Roland didn’t inspire me. Thumbs up for this episode!
New Roland Fantom is really good bro!
And.. the build quality... i Dont know what to say...
To my ears the Kawai sounds warmer, less electronic IMHO...
@@txdap786 i agree! I'm deciding if I should buy one...
I own an MP11SE and decided to pick up an RD2000 as well. I was NOT impressed with the sounds or the screen quality. the hammer action was good. not MP11 quality, but good enough. I ended up returning it though for the Korg Grandstage, which just worked out for me, for some reason.
Thank you. I love the level of detail you go into. I really appreciate your honesty comparing both keyboards :)
Wow, I do love the RD2000 and use it at my church but the MP11SE sound quality is just outstanding. The MP11 sounds very realistic.
Sigh....I am a Roland RD fan but honestly watching & hearing this comparisons,also got the opportunity to play one,the Kawai MP11SE really whupped Roland RD ass this time around especially in the acoustic Piano & keybed action dept.
But the default piano sound on the rd2000 is a stage piano designed to sound bright. There are lots of other sounds in the rd like symphony hall and east coast studio that sound very much like the mp11se. There are just so many sounds in the Roland 2000 that the comparison really comes down to action. Kawai has lighter action.
I like the Kawai's sound and I think in general, Kawai's tend to have a somewhat dark and rather lush tone quality. In terms of build quality, I've noticed more complaints in general about Kawai's digital pianos than Roland or Yamaha or Nord. But it's more quality control and reliability maybe perhaps than how they are screwed together. So Kawai's digital division doesn't seem to match the exceptional quality of their acoustic pianos. Still, I prefer the Kawai as a piano substitute here but Roland really makes a great stage piano for all types of music. As usual for this channel, this is a thorough and fun comparison.
Benjamin, I have found the build quality, as well as the fit and finish to be exceptional on the Kawai MP11. I practice on mine from 4 - 8 hours per day and in a couple of years have just recently only has to adjust the foot pedal. I find that to be exceptional reliability. I know of no other keyboard manufacturer that I would place in that category. My Nord Stage 3 broke in a couple of hours, more about that soon.
@@ThePianoforever Good to hear about your Kawai. Sorry about the Nord. I have a friend with an old Nord that's been excellent. I just want to add that the problem Kawais I've read about are the CA series particularly the previous series that ended in 7. Like the CA97 and CA67. Kawai addressed the issues with the CA68 and CA98, CA 58, etc. The stage pianos like the ES8 and MP-series seem not to have the issues.
Both sound great. I love the direct comparison of the sounds. :-)
The "A" note on the Roland RD2000 IS extra. Not just you. Great review.
After watching every available video i could regarding these two stage pianos, I decided to buy both; the Roland for gigs, and the Kawai MP11se for my small studio, running it through a pair of Yamaha HS8 studio monitors. This my musician friends, it a dream combo and I highly recommend pulling the trigger on both if you can afford it. The MP11se manual is not very good, quite confusing, but available TH-cam videos such as this one make it much, much easier to learn each one respectively. The MP11se is much faster and easier to learn as it's much more intuitive, and, of course, much less complicated than the RD2000. A lot of keyboards are starting to use large touch screens which I hate because they are not necessary and provide a needless distraction. Much thanks for providing this video, I'm in heaven with these to distinctive, high quality pianos. FYI, I replaced my Yamaha C2 grand piano with these two keyboards. Now I have a lot more room, no more tuning issues, along with endless musical options and diversity! Cheers!
I agree, the MP11SE's user interface is really simple, I've always found Roland's control panels on the RD-2000 and others to be overly complex, and in my opinion, annoying to use at times.
Great channel! I'd love to see the MP7SE reviewed
Great comments and observations. Thanks for raising so many details.
thank you, James. You are very knowledgeable and helpful, and extremely talented.
James,
Because of your comparisons my ear has become more aware of the nuances between different keyboards and pianos.
Now I'm able to be more critical when listening to the sound of performances.
Thank You,
Rik Spector
Thank you for letting me know I was able to help.
0:50 "So if you're looking for a keyboard that has an absolute...load of sounds..." Nice family-friendly recovery there! :-)
To be fair, the RD-2000 has a level of adjust-ability far beyond the MP-11 SE. So much so, that you can adjust the notes of individual keys.
To be honest, the RD 2000 is not a great keyboard. I think I'd pay $1500 (max for what it offers...especially in the piano department). Tried it, had the money for it and was completely uninspired. Even with the parameter function changes it offers, its pianos are just not there...especially considering its price. Just my two cents
Yet Kawai still won
@@esongsore what's wrong w/ Roland keyboard? Too stiff? Too light?
Great review. One request for the classical nerds is for a brief harpsichord comparison in future vids, if you don’t mind. Thanks for pointing out the nuances of these two boards.
Interesting the mention of the quality of the Roland action. I just had my Roland rd2000 replaced under warranty and the action has changed and is way better, heavier and altogether different from the old one. Even the key surface has been changed so I think it depends on which RD 2000 you try. I just finished letters on the old one and sooo wish I had this new one to prepare my programme. Kawai looks nice but who can really haul that to a gig.
The crumpled sound of the RD2000 rhodes e-piano sounds in the bass notes much more realistic (compared to the Kawai) if I consider the bahaviour of my original Mark II Rhodes Piano
Your reviews are great, really enjoy them. I am glad you brought so much attention to the MP11se lacking drawbar or any other organs. I use my MP8ii for piano, 90% of the time just use the (very good) default grand. But sometimes I like to switch out the organ - I think I would miss this in the MP11.
We can hear it here from Europe, that Kawai sounds better. Nice video!
You are extremely thorough and you know your stuff. Thumbs up!
Interesting video.. from the audio I felt the Roland actually sounded better at times... however there is a definite phasey hollowness to the Roland sample (same was in the RD700GX i had)... I played the RD2000 a few times and quite liked it... I think you made a good point on the Yamaha CP88 video about actions and being able to play notes at all points along the key... certainly with the CP88 it seemed hard to do that... I wonder if its the case with all digital pianos?
Helpful review as always! I especially liked when you kept switching back and forth between the keyboards within a single song. That made some of the differences more apparent.
The playing where you switch among the two sounds is reminiscent to me of how an organist would use the manuals on her/his instrument. One on the principals, and one on the hauptwerk or the reeds, and use them to create the dialog among voices effect which is so important in the creation of musical interest. Very nicely done. That Kawaii sound from 5-6 minutes
sounds to me like a felt-prepared piano, or some very special small grand sound, in a nicely reverberating space. Just perfect. What might be nice if you had a big digital board is to have a footswitch do a "unacorda" effect, and switch your voices.
I love that you did the single note trill test.
Hi friend, do you have any midi file of your test song? If yes, could you please share? Thanks a lot!
Excellent. Thanks for raising so many details!
Hi james.hope all is well.still love and watch your videos. I'm so glad you did the comparison on the mp11 and the rd2000. I'm getting one of these instruments.
Can I ask you a question about the mp11.im leaning towards this piano.can you add sounds too the mp11?
Thanks your good friend, tim.
There's really no contest here. The Kawai wins on most levels.
The gnossienne 1-erik Satie piece was incredibly spooky to listen to. I liked it. It wouldn't have been boring if u played it twice on both keyboards
I have been a staunch Roland guy for years as in unwavering hardcore/hardline Roland guy. My views have been changed. If I need a Hammond I'll use my own, or get a digital product specifically cloned to do just that. Eyes set on the Kawai MP11SE... my only issue is that it's a 2+ year old product (and video). Do I wait out Kawai for an updated model? Do I spend the $2800 now? Hmmm...
Hi James, the difference between the loudness of Piano to Organ comes from the press/attack dynamic (sorry for my worse EN). If you set it to fixed e.g. YC88 it is exactly so loud as other voices. You have to be a bit room to reach not to far max loudness. Great Chanel with great content. Thx a lot Jog
Older Korg M-3's (synth) at least the 88 key model has a good piano action that is good as well. However, they're really, really heavy and about 1800.00 used and no longer in production. Sounds are good as well.
Have you done a comparison including the Yamaha CP4? Especially to the MP11/SE?
Great comparison. I think you are right that the roland works with a single soundbank. Stupid but that’s the cheap way. On the other hand for a single soundbank it doesn’t sound bad. But I like the MP11SE more. Thank you for sharing.
I want the same jacket! What is it called?
What do you think of Kurtzweil? I mainly want a warm acoustic grand piano sound. Not too many gadgets or thousands of sounds. The Kawaii is a bit pricey. Love your Satie.
excellent comparison man. it might be interesting to see a kawai mp7se compared to rd2000 on organs, etc. (and of course, in general, i would like to see your take on the mp7se)
The song that starts at 3 minutes and 40 seconds (3:40) , what is it called? I would like to learn it, does anybody know the name of that song? Thanks in advance :-)
Gnossienne No. 1 by Erik Satie
Easy to learn, even for a beginner
That is very interesting to hear more about the action comparison between this two. How light or heavy. How long is the key.. can you have same control on black keys
I prefer the Kawai ... from this posting .... But I would have to compare the Kawai with a Yamaha ...
Can I assume, that you are aware that the reason a piano tuner tunes the middle two octaves first, then tunes by playing octave couples out from there because the human ear requires the octaves to be slightly "stretched" to sound perfectly in tune.
When I was learning to tune pianos, I found that you having to "stretch" the tune to have it sound in tune a little bit of a strange phenomenon, considering that octaves are just one frequency and its double. But, maybe the construction of the ear just made it that way (from a reinforcing resonance perspective (where the upper frequency reinforces the action of the hammer in the ear against the anvil, distorting the frequency a little))
Darn you... Probably would have never noticed the string resonance issue until you pointed it out. Now I hear it and it bothers me on my RD2000. Specially when playing chords. Em7, Cmaj7, etc... think I will continue playing this until the MP11SE replacement comes out. Gives me a few years to get better.
You are a very good balanced player, seems like u can play just about anything. I remember u said u liked a fazioli, i was wondering what u thought of the williams grand symphony mini , its grand sound was recorded from a faziloi. U have played the yamaha p515, and the kawai mp11. I want to buy one of these 3, so i was wondering which one sounded the most well rounded and the most like what u would like to play , if u werent an accoustic guy?
Every time I've found a Williams instrument they are always broken, brand new in the store. I plan on doing a review of one in the future, but due to the honest nature of my channel, don't expect it to be overly positive.
Between the other two instruments you've listed here, the MP11 is the best, but also the most expensive. The P515 is considerably cheaper, but an excellent mid-tier practice instrument, and I like them a great deal.
@@ThePianoforever thank you for answering my question so fast, i do know u can transpose music via an app with the yamaha , can u with the mp11 or mp11se?
Kawai beautiful build and action but so heavy!
Given the weight of the Kawai this is not a practical gigging instrument - I’m not sure a 76 note version would be significantly lighter. Big shame as I’d buy one of these in a flash if it was half the weight.
You play beautifully, and I like your detailed comparisons. Could you perhaps play some two fisted piano, like Dr. John, Pat Coil off his “Steps” CD , Cory Henry & Gospel, etc.? Those are the styles I’m interested in and would like to hear how the pianos you review fare in those genres. Thanks.
Thank you for the great and honest (which is even the greatest thing) review. Now I am sure i will buy kawai, if i ll be able to collect the money))). Thanks again for the great and very helpfull review.
Is there any digital piano that has the touch as good as the MP11se that has only good piano sounds and is more affordable? I wonder because i'm very interested in buying the MP11se but won't be using any other feature than piano sound nor any special connections or effects. I would appreciate your recommendation.
Wow the Kawai sounds much better than the Roland. This will be my next digital piano for sure. BTW, what speaker setup are you running? Also, new subscriber here. Keep up the great work!
what's the name of the first piece this boy plays? Thanks
Great review!
Is it the pivot point the same in the both actions?Which one is better for pianissimo and classical study?Help me decide PLEASE I'm 15 years with a keyboard that ruined my hands..I mostly compose soft piano songs in logic..you play very good..!I don't mind about the sounds I have very good pluggins
The MP11se has the best action of any keyboard.
@@ThePianoforever thanks ..keep the great job i ve seen dozens videos..
Amazing review!
Which piano patch are you using on the RD2000?
"STAGE GRAND" it is a V-PIANO.
Hi James, thank you for all your excellent videos! I wondered if you have any speaker recommendations, considering that all the high-fidelity sounds are worthless if you don't have good speakers.
Hey! If you havent bought speakers yet check out the rokit g4 series of studio monitors, best speakers in their price range for sure!
Btw you want studio monitors for a keyboard as they will give you the best reflection of the true sounds of the keyboard, if you want to enhance the sound in any way get yourself an audio interface for tweaking.
Your youtube channel id so helpful, thank you
What is the key bed that Kawai use? Hopefully not Fatar.
I believe it is made by Kawai, it is a very nice keybed and I have had no problems with it. Definitely one of the best keybeds in a stage piano these days.
@@ThePianoforever - Cheers! My Kurzweil (2nd one) has finally given up the keybed ghost. The first one (same model) did the same. Fatar keyboards. No use at all. I need a good keyboard first and foremost and then as a Midi controller.
My good Sir! Roland does not use any samples on this piano. it is all modeled on the fly :)
Any way to review the kurzweil PC4?
Great work , good incitefull coments ,about the way the notes actually sound and propagate, I have a Yamaha ModX 8Synthesizer which has two great piano samples,
and hugely capable sound engines, but am considering adding the Mp11se, just love the sublelty of the sound.. I have had many years as Classica guitar making and repairing some fine instruments, one learns to hear how a note from string is formed, its harmonics and a miriad of nuances, induced by different construction and materials, the Yamaha Bosendorfer sample combined with half damper pedaling an sensitivity, can treulley emulate a fine rosewood, Spanish classic guitar, which is a great test for hearing the difference in notes v keyboards, fine work and great playing, looking forward to more, love your vids on real pianos, cant afford a Bosendorfer or CFX have to settle with digital. I use a top end hifi KEF speakers and sub and powerful amps , top Ar H1 planar magnetic headphones and Senheisers. A must for full enjoyment. 😉🌹🐧🌹
Hi Arnold. Dont need to buy the MP11. Gospel musicians has the Kawai EX Pro sampled sound which you can load into your Modx8. The sanple is incredible and only $49. It takes 270mb of your Modx8 memory.
Kawai!!!
@ThePianoforever, Could you make a review of Roland DS 88 ? Thanks for your amazing and detailed reviews, cheers.
33:15 in default setting Roland doesn't use samples...
Which keyboard is very close to acoustic piano in terms of sound and action ?
The Kawai Mp11se is the one everyone needs to beat if you like classical music.
The muddier sound of the RD-2000 is that "digitally" sound that drives me nuts. Kawai is much brighter and more realistic. The only problem is there are none around where I live to try
love my new RD2000, except a shocking experience tonight: at the end of practicing a piece, all the keys below G1 went silent. I didn't mess around with any setting, just changed Key Touch to light, and was playing the Bold Beauty piano sound, that's it. Had to restart the whole thing. I couldn't find any such reports on the internet though?
Hi JPS, ive watched your comparisons between NORD 3, Roland RD2000, Kawai MP11SE and the YAMAHA CP88, how would you rank these from top to bottom? which one is your champ? thanks in advance!
These are really geared towards slightly different markets, so depending on your needs, the tier list may be different. Overall I'd say that the MP11SE is the best. It has the most realistic action in any stage piano to date, and has some of the best piano sounds as well. However, it is quite heavy and that can be a turn off for many people.
The CP88, while the action isn't quite as good, is still very playable and also weighs much less. It also benefits from a very intuitive user interface that anyone can figure out in minutes, which is important on stage.
The Nord Stage doesn't have a very realistic action, and I had some serious issues with mine on the build quality, but it does have some great piano sounds and a fantastic organ section. This instrument is geared more towards organists and synth players rather than pianists.
Finally, the RD2000 is a bit interesting because I don't love it, but I don't hate it either. It's alright, and its sounds might sound OK in the mix, but by itself it sounds very artificial and its user interface is far too convoluted and confusing, in my opinion.
Sorry for writing a book, but there was a lot to say! :D
@@ThePianoforever HAH that is a book alright.. but a really helpful and useful one! i think CP88 is what im leaning towards but i am a little worried it might still be a little overwhelming for my kiddo. the intention is a piano that we can both use... can this be considered as beginner to intermediate level piano or should i really opt for a more basic one? thanks..
Nice Kid. Well played.
In fact there is a long way to run to have the real sound of the acoustic piano...
Comparison of the v piano would be great. Compared to the kawai that is.
I've tried the rd2000, nord grand, yamaha... None of them are as good as the v piano for feel or sound in my opinion. I'm wondering if this kawai has now surpassed the v piano. Not had chance to try this yet
Try Kawaii MP-11 and come back to tell us what you thought !
Have you compared the RD 88 to the P515?
That video will be coming out in the future. Stay tuned!
Excelente.
But the volume goes to 11 on the Roland
7:31. Not sure why, but the first piece reminds me of the Jurassic Park theme music.
massive price difference? Im seeing them for $2600 or the RD, $2800 for the MP11. Question, were you using V-piano on the RD, or the samples? Im willing to forgive the sampled pianos a bit to gain the highly customizable modeling engine, though it would still eb nice to have great samples!! The MP11 undoubtedly has great piano sounds
In my Country ( Brasil ) Kawaii MP-11 costs the double of Roland RD-2000.
Thank you for this great comparison, for me it comes down to the new cp88 v the kawai mp ( although probably the mp7se not the 11 as it’s out of my price range, I believe they have identical sound sets) -sp your review of the cp recently was also very helpful. So weird ( and a shame) the kawai doesn’t have any organ sounds? It’s not a deal breaker but I guess I was hoping they might update it with the next version of the mp.
Pizza Gogo the mp7se has more sounds than the mp11se, including organ!
The MP7 has a very nice organ.
In my Country ( Brasil ) Kawaii MP-11 costs the double of Roland RD-2000.
Strange! Here in EU Kawai costs about 100 EUR less...
2:24 kawai
2:59 roland
3:39 kawai
3:51 roland
The Roand sounds better to my ear.
On the RD2000 are you playing the sampled (supernatural) piano or the physical modelling (V) piano?
He was playing the V-PIANO. When you power up the RD2000, it defaults to the "STAGE GRAND", which is a V-PIANO.
Me gusta más el kawai ...La verdad
A mi tmbien me mola mas, lo único.... q no hago mas q ver vídeos de los fallos de su teclado...de como repararlos etc etc
En los kawai CA... el panel del software (donde eliges los sonidos etc etc) parece ser q es deplorable.
Entonces, pues no se si fiarme de esta compañía.
Tengo un Yamaha p-95 y me gustaría cambiar uno mucho mejor, al primer flechazo fue e l kawai, pero ahora lo veo con otros ojos, tanto q al rubiales le veo pagado para machacar al roland rd2000
You tell it like it is...
Love the sound of the Kawai... but the Roland is a bit more affordable
Check the prices. The Roland is slightly more expensive. At least in EU.
Does the Kawai MP 11 SE have built in speakers ?
No built in speakers, you must use headphones, amplifiers, or speakers.
I think the RD2000 lacks 'soul', by lack of a better word. I owned a Roland FA-08 but sent it back because I just couldn't get along with it. This RD2000 tries to be too much, I'm afraid. Over a 1000 sounds for a stage 'piano' ? Basically, it's a computer inside a keyboard and more akin to a workstation, rather than a stage piano. I have the MP11SE, couldn't be happier.
Christof, the KAWAI sounds better hands down. James is right about the aim Roland was taking on the RD2000. It is meant to be a STAGE piano. And like he said, the piano sounds are geared to cut through and not be drowned out while playing on stage with others. The MP11 would not be able to cut through as well as the RD2000. However, the MP11 is much better at replicating a real piano. They both have their purpose.
The Kawai sounds so much better to me. The Roland sounds as though it has a cold, and it has a metallic edge to it, compared to the smoother and more musical Kawai sound.... like the difference between a real Pultec and a plugin.
There is a saying in life that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I agree with all the positive comments regarding the Kawai MP11SE regarding sound, touch, etc but I don't think I have ever come across such an ugly digital piano in my life. It simply does not look right. What possible reason can there be for raising the controls so high above the keybed ?
I personally don't find the MP11SE unattractive, but I think the reason the controls are so much higher than the keybed is possibly due to the design of the action. The mechanism lies above the wooden key and thus forces the controls to be a bit higher. Other keyboards have hollow plastic keys with the weighted mechanism lying underneath or within the key, but these don't feel as nice as the GrandFeel, although they may be more slim.
@@ThePianoforever James, also I think the keys on the KAWAI go pretty far in as well. That means the circuit boards have to be mounted above the keys.
Thank you..
Well, so far (at least for me) Except for it's ugly color, Nord comes in 1st, Kawai come in at a very distant 2nd, and Roland comes in at an even more distant 3rd.
Kawaii.....Roland actions have always felt to me like, no bounce, more like just pushing buttons on a computer keyboard. I have an older Techniques elect piano with an action that I like really well. The downfall is the piano sounds aren't as good as I would like.
Roland piano sounds hurt my ears