It's important to realize that you are hearing two very different things. The Nord is a sample of a real piano. The Roland is a physically modeled simulation of a piano sound. This is not a bad thing--the Roland has much better polyphony and many characteristics of the sound can be customized to change its character. Moreover, if you don't like the physically modeled pianos, the RD-2000 also has dozens of sampled pianos which are similar to the Nord. The Roland also has a much better action (the Fater keyboard on the Nord is terrible). So, overall, the RD-2000 has a lot of advantages, and you definitely need to try one out before judging it, even if you like the Nord here.
This has to be one of the best comparison demos I’ve heard. And thank you performing actual song examples! So tired of demos with endless EP and pad noodling. Cheers from Chicago!
I own an RD-2000, and I agree with many of you that the Roland does sound more "digital", but this is just the default piano. The other presents sound WAAAAAYYYYY better...especially the one they added with the latest upgrade. For those that think the Nord sounds better, it's because it's samples...not knocking it (because I think the Nord sounds great, too) but it speaks to how relatively new physical modeling is, especially when it comes to Pianos.
I felt the Roland spoke with more authority, while the Nord had a more round tone. Each piano would work well in many situations. Love your demo playing!
Update, Roland RD 2000 the V-piano engine has been given new and improved sounds including the “German concert grand” - it sounds absolutely fabulous🤩👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
I have recently purchased one of these Rolands, after trying out both of these pianos (and a few others). Whilst I liked some of the piano sounds on both of them the Roland better suited my playing style and won hands down on its versatility. Each to his own!
I did hundreds of gigs with both those 2 instruments (and a Kurzweil PC3 as well) on my rig at the same time, that is, under the same conditions, and I tried my best to like the piano sounds of the Roland (which I consider a superior instrument overall) but my hands would switch to the Nord (which, in my opinion, has a primitive engineering) each time for its unbeatable piano sounds, ahead of Roland's and Kurzweil's. I ended up using the Nord only for the piano sound and the other two instruments for everything else.
It took me three months to adjust to the ROland action, my muscles needed to develop from the Nord, now I would not go backthe Nord feels liek a toy, no depth to the key action.
@@Notmehimorthem…for sure, as long as you are not a professional… then the Nord sounds are basically a MUST HAVE… Roland brand seems to be a kind of yesterdays news while Nord is rocking the show🤷🏻♀️
I think that's subjective. The sound depends on how it is produced/designed/recorded, even some eq might be happening. For sure they can match each other with some tweaking. Great video, thanks!
One of the best comparative video. Very well done. I can definitively hear the differences. also having the two keyboards visible at all times with the musician on one or the other really helps the brain separate the sound ( i know this is not rational thinking but it does !). This helps in deciding which instrument suit one's taste better. It would have been nice to have the Korg as a third piano. These are both very nice. I would say the RD is more of a soft eerie jazz subdued instrument and the Nord more of a band playing pop lead instrument or self accompanied singer. I don't think neither of them are suited for strictly classical repertoire but most people don't buy these to play Chopin or Rachmaninov.
You’re right because the Roland adds harmonies, dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸 It sounds fuller because of the dynamic additions to the sounds. The nord produces an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band along other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra. In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and is great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
I went into a shop to try out the nord a while ago, I was playing around unsure. Then I went and tried RD2000 and the action on that just felt so right. Which in the end was what won me over.
To my ears the Roland had more definition and ring/overtones especially in the sustained notes. The Nord was kind of dull and lifeless sounding, but the Nord has other piano
You’re right because the Roland addd range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸 The nord produced an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra. In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸 otherwise they’re all great.
After buying and living with the KORG SV-2 for several days, I returned it and bought the RD 2000 . Though it may or may not be discernible to the listener on TH-cam, heard in my studio, I must say that it is everything that one could want in a stage piano accross the board. The patch on the NORD definitely has beautiful tonal qualities in this video that sound best suited for cocktail piano type applications. (though I’m sure there are many others). I would love to have have one in my rig, but don’t have $4000.00 lying around to spend on an instrument. The Roland on the other hand sounds a little brighter, has more presence, and produces more dynamic range when attacked. The action and playability is also superb. The key bed is modeled just like an acoustic piano with escapement, for a very enjoyable and realistic playing experience. There are so many variations of pianos and electric pianos to chose from, that I stopped before going through them all. The B3’s, Strings, and other workhorse sounds are just as authentic with over 1100 of them in all. After seeing many videos in which it seemed that Elton John played Roland exclusively, I knew this had to be a high quality instrument.
Да, Элтон продал свой Стейнвей, а заодно и Ямаху, когда у него возникли финансовые проблемы. Но вот не знал, что его выбор Роланд. Дороговато по нынешним временам, не каждому Элтону по карману. 😢
I enjoyed reading many of the comments below with comments like the Nord is brighter or the Roland is brighter or the Roland sounds more like a real piano or no, the Nord sounds like a real piano. I especially liked the comment about the Nord sounding closest toe the piano sound Elton John used (even though Elton John used Roland pianos for much of his recordings...... it goes to show that these two instruments are very close. Different but close. Of course their are many options to adjust the different sounds. For me, in this video, I much preferred the RD 2000. I went around shopping, checking out the different brands and finally decided to order one as well!
Hello from NC, USA; I actually own the Stage 3 and love it and one of my best friends just bought this Nord 4, we’re just huge fans. I did find it funny how you tend to bounce a bit as you play the Nord, your body language suggest you may be partial to the Nord too! 😂 Both are awesome machines
Thank you so much for this beautiful and rich comparison. I was in love with nord pianos since they were introduced and in this video the 'sweatness' of their natural sound is quickly remarkable compared to the more electronic, artificial flavour of Roland. However, without having a hands-on experience with any of them (only with my incredible kawai VPC-1 which beats nord on touch), I came to this video after a small research on Roland and I realised there is a challenge with digital pianos. While most of us favour natural, sampled sounds, it is mathematically impossible to record all combinations of sounds in respect to resonance, and in that respect, I'd give the winner place to Roland. It might be more artificial, but it computes resonance mathematically and nord seems to output individual notes without their interference (resonance) that strikes you on a real, acoustic piano. Good job, Roland!!!
Ah come on Paul, I am convinced that the idea of acoustic pianos sounding different every time you press a key on them is an incredible exaggeration. I've gotten my first digital piano last November and it's a Roland FP-30 and it's great for the price and I'm largely satisfied with it, but even in supernatural sound engine which is partially modeled, if you got a good ear you can spot the electronic sound. Especially if you've studied for a long time in an acoustic or if you've heard hundred of classical piano peaces from preludes to concertos. Nord is splendid, Keyscape and a handful of VSTS are even better. Roland is doing a great job modeling their pianos from thin-air, but they have a long way ahead. All the best to you!😊
@@stenaldomehilli8809 thank you very much for your input; of course, the price has a lot to say in all this story. I am planing to get a Roland rd 64 for its portability; even if the sound is not perfectly realistic, I hope the touch feel is good - for learning at least
That Roland RD 2000 is amazing. I really hope Roland comes out with a 73 key in 2024, I would buy it at once and thank you for the incredible playing, Tony.
You’re right because the Roland adds harmonies, dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸 The nord produces an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra. In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and is great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
I come from a classical piano background have a RD700GX with some expansion cards and agree that the rolands have a bit of a duller piano sound, but there are some nice piano sounds in there to suit your playing style. The feel of the keys on the Roland is just great, dont have any complaints with it. the Nord stage 4 demo sound using doesnt sound like its got the richness of the roland sound, but im sure i'd be happy with either (preferrably the one which is lighter in weight!!)
To my ears the Nord has a much more organic quality - it sounds like the interaction of one notes harmonics to the rest of the instrument is better integrated on the Nord. On the roland each note sounds like it’s occurring independently of the others. The roland does also come across as overbright even compared to the brighter Japanese pianos such as Kawai and Yamaha. I wonder if the Roland would be better if it had different velocity curves, it sounds like too much of the upper harmonics occur at too low a velocity.
you canvcalter the velocity curve of each note yourself if you want a different curve. FWIW I find the samples - both Rolands SN ones and the Nords, to be much brighter than the Roland in real life. The Rolands have more mids going on - which is actually what real pianos (un-mic'd) are like. Once you mic them up - they are a lot brighter, which is why samples tend to be brighter sounding. The Rolands "bright" sound your referring to is actually upper mid range, not treble or presence. Samples based pianos have a lot more of that content - which is what I dont like about them. There too harsh and clang'y. The Roland (and real pianos) are mellower, more mid range based. Ultimately it depends what you want. If you want the sound of a real piano, in the room then theRoland V-Pianos are as close as your going to get currently. If you want the sound of a piano on stage (mic'd up[) or recorder, then the sample based sounds are much closer to that.
@stuart Darling - Very well said. From a more simplistic viewpoint ... from the perspective of the listeners, I find that the Roland sits heavier in the mix and the Nord sits in the mix with more fluidity. I've always been a Roland fan, but in this specific example, I would find myself enjoying playing the Nord a bit more.
In my opinion the nord has a cleaner sound, but the roland has a deeper sound. After this short comparison, I lean towards the nord, but both are great instruments and their price is basically the same. I would choose nord
You’re right because the Roland adds dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸 The nord produced an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra. In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
Nord sounds pretty toyish here, although this is no fair comparison and it could be adjusted to your liking, Roland sounds to me quite good right out of the box, with its possibility to adjust the sound to your liking too.. an then still that difference in price, won't pay almost double as much for something is not double as good.. I'd go for the Roland, not less than Nord in any aspect.
@@Notmehimorthem depending on what keyboard you have (I have the Fantom series), you can open or close the piano wing (I open it for a brighter sound). You can also increase or decrease string resonance, or change the hammer sound volume (Casio calls it 'air'). Depending on the situation, I add it mostly when playing solo. And strings or warm pads softly in the background can really level piano sounds when you're playing just by yourself.
Roland 700nx has superb action, better than the 2000 or any Nord, it has the best piano sound in the default concert grand. So useable. The Roland 2000 also includes that sound, and the e pianos are better but the action is not so good. IMO I have never been impressed with Nords, their action or their sounds. I would give the Stage 76% compared to 96% for the. Roland 700NX classical grand. I do find the other sounds on the Roland to be ‘eighties’ but that’s ok with me as I rarely use them. The Tonewheel is pretty good and stands up against my A100 and Hammond SKX pretty well - soundwise, but not controlwise
@@Notmehimorthem Yes, but the lid can be confused with the lid over the keys. The wing (lid) of a wing piano sounds clearer to me. I don't find these effects to be detracting from the sound. If anything, you'll get closer to the originally recorded sound. While Casio's 'air' adds artifacts to lower quality samples, to make them higher quality in appearance, Roland actually detracts artifacts from it's high quality samples. I believe the classic 2015 Roland Piano has +2GB of sample sound, which is a lot (some of it (like standard Midi) is compressed too). Opening the lid, actually gets you the most detail from the original sample. Leaving it stock, applies filters (low pass filters), etc... Though the harmonics (sympathetic strings) are a bit the same as casio; an artificially added harmonics sound that resembles the real thing when pressing the sustain pedal while playing multiple notes.
Thanks Tony for the presentation. I like both pianos.But if i were to perform in a gig that is just ballad,I will go for the Nord. Then for pop songs,I will go for the Roland. Thumbs up
I have gone through loads of reviews of all sorts of keyboards to compare piano sound and the frustrating thing is that every single demonstrator seems to caress the keys and play slow ballads. your can hear nuances, and its all very well and very nice but nobody actually gives the thing any welly. I'm a boogie player and I want to hear a keyboard being put through its paces and really tested. A thumping boogie left hand and some fast runs and licks with the right hand. This is where you can hear (and feel for that matter) whether the piano and keybed is really up for the job.
I like both Pianos, Roland sounds harmonically rich on upper and lower frequencies on first impression, sounds great on solo tracks. Though after listening for long periods the bass notes appears sounds dense and become muddy on chords. The Nord shines with a balanced sounding no matter which key is hit and I can distinguish each not much easier, great when buried in a heavy mix or playing long a band where it doesn't stick out & overshadow the singer. Love to see a digital piano with a slider or knob that you can control the harmonic content to remove those over tones & harmonics to thicken of thin the timbre. To get a piano that sounds between the Roland and Nord. Or go crazy something like the Yamaha's draw bars on their synth on organ voice/patch. Long as it doesn't bring out those awful odd harmonics I'm in.
You’re right because the Roland adds dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸 The nord produced an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra. In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
А что вы скажете по поводу новейшего Casio 7000 ? Есть мнение, что по звукам фортепьяно он уделывает всех в значительно большей ценовой категории. И какой из этих трёх по вашему лучше для аккомпанемента пению?
I'm only listening on laptop speakers so I'm not getting the full sound quality at all. However, in spite of this I can still hear that the Nord (to me) has an elegance to its sound. The Roland is what I'd expect - much like my RD-800, it is rich and unique to Roland. Still though, when Tony plays the Nord it is elegant, much like a quality acoustic grand piano. As always Tony, you're terrific! Thank you, Robert
A lot of the difference was tonal quality. To my ears the softer sound of the Nord sounded classier. However with access to a graphic eq I'm pretty sure i could make them sound almost identical in either direction.
Hard to compare two different piano sounds, the softer woodier tone of the Nord samples with a more fundamentally rich sound of the Roland. Shows that sometimes you get all the different keyboards if you can afford them. From this demo, I preferred the Roland, though I have never been satisified with its sound when playing it in person at a store - could be the amp though which I play back in that store... Both of this are great - if I had to pick one it would be the Roland... The Nord is a bit thin on the bottom end, while the Roland has a wonderful bass, and sparkling highs.
Nord and Roland both excellent pianos.. Both sounds great with good amplification... However, in my experience Nord wins in sound, and Roland wins in action
In this video and for the type of played songs, I definetely prefer the RD over the ND, it's more vibrant and rich than the other, also its resonance is superior to my ears here, although I'm a big fan of ND piano sounds (yet not its action), both are good pianos if you play decently.
Roland piano 🎹 wins.👍 Bohemian Rhapsody at 2:28 mins 🎶 🎹 🥁 was amazingly. Thanks for playing that intro. Just seen the movie last week's so was most touched by the Melody you played 🎶.
This is a demo of every default piano sound and of course there is an adjustment for every sound according to your sound taste. For me the default piano sound of Roland is way better than Nord, more definition, emphasis and clarity. The ring on highs are very much like a grand piano, however, in my experience with Roland RD, if I use a cheap or low end studio speakers, Roland RD default sound will be tend into over bright or more highs which is easy to adjust to the way I like. Roland default piano sound work perfectly without equalisation or adjustment by using head phone and a better sound system. Nord on the other hand is a beautiful instrument, if you know how to use it and manipulate according your taste it will deliver a better sound even in a cheaper monitor speakers.
I don't know what kind of reverb settings on the Roland and the Nord in this video, but I'm liking Roland's "breathier" sound here while the Nord sounds like its played in a vacuum i.e. no ringing of the physical space around the instrument.
rio197 I am of the same opinion. The Roland has some reverb and the Nord seems to have none,. Overall the Nord sounds richer but the Roland more lively😬
It was stated in the video that they use the default preset when turning on the piano. As someone with a Nord Piano 4, I can tell you that the default preset has reverb entirely turned off. Considering how much influence reverb has on the way people perceive an instrument, I don't think it was the best choice to compare the instruments without at least trying to match that up. Personally, I love how the Nord sounds more, but only if the reverb is actually on.
I always check Bonners before buy. In this case I swapped my Nord Electro 6D 73 keys for the Roland RD-2000. It has got the pianosounds (and modifications) I wanted, got a very good (tweakable) "hammond" organ. But what really strikes me is the playability - the keybed - of the Roland. It is silly good and silent! And you can make these fast runs without cutting any fingers. So, why would I stick with those noisy waterfall keys of the Electro, at the same time missing out on good piano feeling and neighbourship? Nope, the Roland RD-2000 for me. Great comparison, thank you!
I have both Nord Stage 3 and RD 2000 in my studio and I think the Nord pretty much eats RD 2000 for breakfast when it comes to piano sound. I`m probably going to sell the RD2000....
@@obriantomlinson2776 Also the piano settings. Nord has other options that sound fuller like the Roland. To me, the Nord has more clarity. The Roland sounds rather messy. I can pick out individual voicings in the Nord better.
I find it interesting that the NP4 sounds a bit thin along side the RD2000. I’ve heard other demos of Nord Piano’s that produce as much of a low end or richness as the RD2000. Just curious if the NP4 preset was on upright, because the RD had more of a grand characteristic. Very good demo.. Thank You.
You’re right because the Roland adds dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸 The nord produced an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra. In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
The Roland . It's slightly brighter, seems to have much richer harmonics.That said, to my ears it also sounds as if it's running with a touch of reverb, where as the Nord is a dryer, more mellow sound.
As someone who owns a nord stage, I have to say it sounds as though the damper pedal effect is full on. Maybe its the patch but my stage piano sounds seem much more true and not nearly as muddy.
Nice comparison. It really comes down to taste. I have the Roland but would be very happy with the Nord as well. Two points to mention- the Nord street price is 500 American dollars more than the Roland and the Roland includes it's tone wheel model while the Nord Piano 4 does not.
I like the trebles in the nord, they are so well defined 🔥 but at the same time the bass notes on the Roland could never be matched to nord 😭😭 I'm damn confused
Well he plays them both very mágnifico , but my preference is with Nord piano 4, even when no has aftertouch . I want to know if accept sound fond like the Dexibell s9, so I can load down other sounds o buy sound and put it ? Nice video.
First thank you for your video and review. About the keys noise, what is your opinion ? About it, I tested The Nord Stage and it's noisy like the M-88 from M-Audio and it is not the same price... ;-)
Roland is a brighter, clearer sound. It's more suited to this sort of music. The Nord is a little muffled, although some of the base notes harmonics are nice. The Roland clinches it for me.
Upon first hearing these two pianos in isolation your ear tends to go intuitively for the Roland, with the Nord sounding almost a little dull in comparison. But when you play the Nord in a recording situation or mix, it actually tends to sit better ( to my ears ) and sound more natural, because it's not inherently hyped as much to begin with. It reminds me of microphone shootouts, with say, a Neuman (very expensive), and a cheaper copy. Often the copy sounds more flattering initially, but once you start stacking tracks, the cheap mics end up sounding too hyped and over-blown, and you end up constantly messing with EQ to fix things, whereas the expensive, slightly less flattering ones just sit in the mix, with a lot less tweaking. Of course, the Roland is cheaper, has more bells and whistles, different feel etc, so it really depends what you want to do with them, and what you need. I love the red, as it's a nice change from black, but some people hate it. I only want a few good sounds, that's it. Some people need a ton of sounds and options. You have to sit down and play both for a good 30 mins+ each, to get a feel for which one is the best for you. I've had both in the past, Roland's are built like tanks, very reliable, Nords are a different flavour and also built to last. Both are great, not knocking either, but ultimately everyone has their preferences.
Theres a reason behind that. a "natural" acoustic piano tone is NOT the same tone as a mic's sound in a mix (same with guitars). The Roland is MUCH closer to a real, in the room piano. Sample based sounds like the Nord (and Rolands own SN sample based Pianos) are much closer to that "in themix" sound for a reason - there taken from a microphone the same as a mix is. If you want real inthe room, the Roland is best. If you want in the mix, or recorded tone the Nord and Rolands SN tones are better- the Nord probably has the edge in that comparison.
Which one is better in Tony’s opinion? Why does the Nord stage 3 cost 2 grand more than the RD-2000? Which one has better sounds, which one has more sounds to choose from and better for layering sounds together?
After listening through the tracs several times, I concluded that I prefer Roland RD2000 on most songs, as it is bright, it cuts through the mix and if feels mix ready, while the nord is more mid-heavy and and less bright in my ears. Would drown in the mix without heavy EQ processing. While RD2000 I feel would need little to no EQ at all to fit perfectly. I am listening to Yamaha HS8. Except on one track "The way it is" that for some odd reason I liked the Nord a bit better. I think it will be perfect match together with MODX+, Nautilus and MPC Key61 in my rig using Camelot Pro to contoll it all))
I prefered the Roland in this comparison it had more definition and ring/overtones especially in the sustained notes. The Nord was kind of dull and lifeless sounding, but the Nord has other piano sounds and lots of adjustment ability so it could be tweaked to individual taste. Minor point the Nord is about $500 more than the Roland.
just to add, the Roland as a LOT of piano sounds, and can be edited on a note by more basis. The stage piano chosen in the demo is NOT my favourite sound on the RD anyway. There are sounds much closer to the Nord if you prefer a more mellow sound.
@Konstantin Ridaya Nord is expensive in the US (where I'm located) because it is a imported product, same with Marshall amps and other imported products. As for sound you said it personal taste. Like acoustic piano I like Yamaha compared to some traditional favorites like Steinway for similar reason. My background as recording engineer, live audio, and musician I've always like brighter, very define notes, and the punchiness of Yamaha. With a bright defined note a lot can be done with it if recording or live mix. My best friend is a classical pianist and you'd never get her off her Steinway, so I fully understand. The great thing about Nord and the Roland the user can adjust as much as they want to their taste.
@Konstantin Ridaya Im in Europe, and the RD cost £1000 less than the stage (£1900 I paid, v £2800+ for the stage 3). Regards warmth.....totally depends on which model/patch you select. Im guessing the RDs patch was 01 - the stage grand, which is far from warm (its designed to cut through). In general terms - ie across all the various piano tones, I found the RD warmer than the Nord - in real life that is, not based on videos. Judging sounds across youtube is pretty pointless in truth - compression, how you listen, how things are recorded and (most crucially in an X v Y scenario) which patches are used by the demonstrater.
@Konstantin Ridaya hum. Just looked on that site (I've used them lots). Bird piano 4 and rd are practically the same price. Stage 3 is a lot more. It's the cheapest I've seen the note by quite a bit, but the rd is available a lot cheaper in many places.
I liked the rd2000 better. It just sounded a little bit fuller to me. Thw Nord's sounded more suited for a singer whereas the Roland sounded like it would stand out better within a band.... if you know what i mean.
I like Nord more. I would put it this way to explain my opinion: Roland sounds like the best and most amazing piece of "small home pianos" (I don't know how to call them propertly, I'm Russian, sorry). But Nord sounds as an Imperial class Grand piano.
It doesn’t sound like an apples to apples comparison to me. For those of you who are familiar with piano voicing techniques, the Roland sounds quite bright, while the Nord sounds like a piano that’s had the hammer felt pretty heavily needled. Having tried both, I can say that the Roland action feels much better, but you could definitely get a sound that would make you happy out of either. And the RD is much less expensive.
This is so tough to choose. For Your Song the Nord sounds closer to what EJ played in the recording. I think the Roland sounds almost too perfect. I prefer not to use grand piano sounds and I think the people that like Roland are looking for the perfect grand. I like piano sounds with more character and imperfections like an old upright sound for writing. Both pianos are amazing making it hard to decide
Hi Tony! I was wondering if you could do some comparison videos between the Kawai ca series vs the Yamaha clp series, like the clp 645 vs the ca 48 . Thanks for your videos!
Hi and congratullations for your contents in TH-cam. I am doubting between RD2000, nord grand or Nord piano 5 or numa piano gt Whats are your recomendations,? Others?? The idea is for playing at home and 1 concert a month. Thaks in advance!
If Roland were make the length 6" shorter by moving the mod wheel I'd go buy one today.... while i wait to see what NAMM 2019 holds, I will save the additional money to buy the Nord ;)
It realy depends on the intro played, for some like Bohemian Rapsody, The way it is and Desperado the more muted jazz piano like sound of the Nord suited better, where the Roland has more hat grand piano sound. It depends on further available sound settings which is going to be favorite, and for a good comparission similar settings and not just the default settings should be compared.
I prefered the Nord piano. I think I can hear a great variety of sound depending on the articulation and velocity. And the Roland seems not to achieve that aspect at the same level as the Nord. Great video.
You are a very gifted piano player. Personally I kind of liked the Roland a bit better, but it’s like comparing fruit to vegetables. Just two different tastes.
Judging these on the grounds of piano-sound and keyboard response alone, for me the NORD wins by a large margin. Yet, if you need synth capabilities, I think the comparison is almost irrelevant to the actual personality of these two instruments. Of course the Roland is a better overall player. But if one is looking for the best digital Piano, I’d look no further than the NORD. Still, one thing I’d urge Nord to consider for their next stage piano, is adding on board speakers too. It makes such a huge difference, to be able to carry this anywhere and everywhere without the need for external speakers & also, the choice of speakers used makes such a huge difference on the actual sound produced.
Roland RD2000 is having a much more great sounds...may be what is lacking in Nord mixing is the Reverb...may be just in mixing... because in RD2000 we can change tone color..dont know with Nord
It's important to realize that you are hearing two very different things. The Nord is a sample of a real piano. The Roland is a physically modeled simulation of a piano sound. This is not a bad thing--the Roland has much better polyphony and many characteristics of the sound can be customized to change its character. Moreover, if you don't like the physically modeled pianos, the RD-2000 also has dozens of sampled pianos which are similar to the Nord. The Roland also has a much better action (the Fater keyboard on the Nord is terrible). So, overall, the RD-2000 has a lot of advantages, and you definitely need to try one out before judging it, even if you like the Nord here.
excellent comment!
Well said !!
When you play on nord piano samples long enough, you start hearing the lack of obertones and that pisses me off.
Not to mention the rd 2000 has the legendary classic rd 1000 piano sounds, main reason why I went with the red 2000
so the roland is like a synthesised piano?
This has to be one of the best comparison demos I’ve heard. And thank you performing actual song examples! So tired of demos with endless EP and pad noodling. Cheers from Chicago!
I own an RD-2000, and I agree with many of you that the Roland does sound more "digital", but this is just the default piano. The other presents sound WAAAAAYYYYY better...especially the one they added with the latest upgrade. For those that think the Nord sounds better, it's because it's samples...not knocking it (because I think the Nord sounds great, too) but it speaks to how relatively new physical modeling is, especially when it comes to Pianos.
I felt the Roland spoke with more authority, while the Nord had a more round tone. Each piano would work well in many situations. Love your demo playing!
@@sebastianlidman8994 I'd bet you aren't.
Update, Roland RD 2000 the V-piano engine has been given new and improved sounds including the “German concert grand” - it sounds absolutely fabulous🤩👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
I have tried both of them, found the sounds very good and bought the Roland RD 2000. I'm sooooo satisfied! (Hungary)
P. Szekely Szia. Mi segitett neked a Roland melle alni?
Most helpful comparison vid on the web for these two instruments. Thank you!!
Hello there
Love you Roland RD... 😍😍😘😘💕💕
I have recently purchased one of these Rolands, after trying out both of these pianos (and a few others). Whilst I liked some of the piano sounds on both of them the Roland better suited my playing style and won hands down on its versatility. Each to his own!
I did hundreds of gigs with both those 2 instruments (and a Kurzweil PC3 as well) on my rig at the same time, that is, under the same conditions, and I tried my best to like the piano sounds of the Roland (which I consider a superior instrument overall) but my hands would switch to the Nord (which, in my opinion, has a primitive engineering) each time for its unbeatable piano sounds, ahead of Roland's and Kurzweil's. I ended up using the Nord only for the piano sound and the other two instruments for everything else.
It took me three months to adjust to the ROland action, my muscles needed to develop from the Nord, now I would not go backthe Nord feels liek a toy, no depth to the key action.
@@Notmehimorthem…for sure, as long as you are not a professional… then the Nord sounds are basically a MUST HAVE… Roland brand seems to be a kind of yesterdays news while Nord is rocking the show🤷🏻♀️
I think that's subjective. The sound depends on how it is produced/designed/recorded, even some eq might be happening. For sure they can match each other with some tweaking. Great video, thanks!
One of the best comparative video. Very well done. I can definitively hear the differences. also having the two keyboards visible at all times with the musician on one or the other really helps the brain separate the sound ( i know this is not rational thinking but it does !). This helps in deciding which instrument suit one's taste better. It would have been nice to have the Korg as a third piano. These are both very nice. I would say the RD is more of a soft eerie jazz subdued instrument and the Nord more of a band playing pop lead instrument or self accompanied singer. I don't think neither of them are suited for strictly classical repertoire but most people don't buy these to play Chopin or Rachmaninov.
You’re right because the Roland adds harmonies, dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸
It sounds fuller because of the dynamic additions to the sounds.
The nord produces an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band along other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra.
In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and is great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
@@NathanKwadade waste of everyone's time to paste the same comment in response to everything dude.👎
I went into a shop to try out the nord a while ago, I was playing around unsure. Then I went and tried RD2000 and the action on that just felt so right. Which in the end was what won me over.
To my ears the Roland had more definition and ring/overtones especially in the sustained notes. The Nord was kind of dull and lifeless sounding, but the Nord has other piano
You’re right because the Roland addd range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸
The nord produced an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra.
In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸 otherwise they’re all great.
After buying and living with the KORG SV-2 for several days, I returned it and bought the RD 2000 . Though it may or may not be discernible to the listener on TH-cam, heard in my studio, I must say that it is everything that one could want in a stage piano accross the board. The patch on the NORD definitely has beautiful tonal qualities in this video that sound best suited for cocktail piano type applications. (though I’m sure there are many others). I would love to have have one in my rig, but don’t have $4000.00 lying around to spend on an instrument. The Roland on the other hand sounds a little brighter, has more presence, and produces more dynamic range when attacked. The action and playability is also superb. The key bed is modeled just like an acoustic piano with escapement, for a very enjoyable and realistic playing experience. There are so many variations of pianos and electric pianos to chose from, that I stopped before going through them all. The B3’s, Strings, and other workhorse sounds are just as authentic with over 1100 of them in all. After seeing many videos in which it seemed that Elton John played Roland exclusively, I knew this had to be a high quality instrument.
Да, Элтон продал свой Стейнвей, а заодно и Ямаху, когда у него возникли финансовые проблемы. Но вот не знал, что его выбор Роланд. Дороговато по нынешним временам, не каждому Элтону по карману. 😢
Great playing Tony ! :-)
Roland 10/10
I fast forward nord, and enjoying the beautiful playing on beautiful keyboard ROLAND
not a very objective opinion
I enjoyed reading many of the comments below with comments like the Nord is brighter or the Roland is brighter or the Roland sounds more like a real piano or no, the Nord sounds like a real piano. I especially liked the comment about the Nord sounding closest toe the piano sound Elton John used (even though Elton John used Roland pianos for much of his recordings...... it goes to show that these two instruments are very close. Different but close. Of course their are many options to adjust the different sounds. For me, in this video, I much preferred the RD 2000. I went around shopping, checking out the different brands and finally decided to order one as well!
Hello from NC, USA; I actually own the Stage 3 and love it and one of my best friends just bought this Nord 4, we’re just huge fans.
I did find it funny how you tend to bounce a bit as you play the Nord, your body language suggest you may be partial to the Nord too! 😂
Both are awesome machines
The body language: I picked up on that, too : )
Beautifully done, Tony!
Thank you so much for this beautiful and rich comparison. I was in love with nord pianos since they were introduced and in this video the 'sweatness' of their natural sound is quickly remarkable compared to the more electronic, artificial flavour of Roland. However, without having a hands-on experience with any of them (only with my incredible kawai VPC-1 which beats nord on touch), I came to this video after a small research on Roland and I realised there is a challenge with digital pianos. While most of us favour natural, sampled sounds, it is mathematically impossible to record all combinations of sounds in respect to resonance, and in that respect, I'd give the winner place to Roland. It might be more artificial, but it computes resonance mathematically and nord seems to output individual notes without their interference (resonance) that strikes you on a real, acoustic piano. Good job, Roland!!!
Ah come on Paul, I am convinced that the idea of acoustic pianos sounding different every time you press a key on them is an incredible exaggeration. I've gotten my first digital piano last November and it's a Roland FP-30 and it's great for the price and I'm largely satisfied with it, but even in supernatural sound engine which is partially modeled, if you got a good ear you can spot the electronic sound. Especially if you've studied for a long time in an acoustic or if you've heard hundred of classical piano peaces from preludes to concertos.
Nord is splendid, Keyscape and a handful of VSTS are even better. Roland is doing a great job modeling their pianos from thin-air, but they have a long way ahead.
All the best to you!😊
@@stenaldomehilli8809 thank you very much for your input; of course, the price has a lot to say in all this story. I am planing to get a Roland rd 64 for its portability; even if the sound is not perfectly realistic, I hope the touch feel is good - for learning at least
I prefer the Roland sound in this comparison.
That Roland RD 2000 is amazing.
I really hope Roland comes out with a 73 key in 2024, I would buy it at once and thank you for the incredible playing, Tony.
Personally for me, the Nord sounds realistic. The Roland seems over processed and boomy.
You’re right because the Roland adds harmonies, dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸
The nord produces an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra.
In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and is great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
I have to say that in every instance I preferred the Roland.
I come from a classical piano background have a RD700GX with some expansion cards and agree that the rolands have a bit of a duller piano sound, but there are some nice piano sounds in there to suit your playing style. The feel of the keys on the Roland is just great, dont have any complaints with it. the Nord stage 4 demo sound using doesnt sound like its got the richness of the roland sound, but im sure i'd be happy with either (preferrably the one which is lighter in weight!!)
The Nord has a more fuller sound. The tonality is just out of this world. Great demo Tony!
To my ears the Nord has a much more organic quality - it sounds like the interaction of one notes harmonics to the rest of the instrument is better integrated on the Nord. On the roland each note sounds like it’s occurring independently of the others. The roland does also come across as overbright even compared to the brighter Japanese pianos such as Kawai and Yamaha. I wonder if the Roland would be better if it had different velocity curves, it sounds like too much of the upper harmonics occur at too low a velocity.
you canvcalter the velocity curve of each note yourself if you want a different curve. FWIW I find the samples - both Rolands SN ones and the Nords, to be much brighter than the Roland in real life. The Rolands have more mids going on - which is actually what real pianos (un-mic'd) are like. Once you mic them up - they are a lot brighter, which is why samples tend to be brighter sounding. The Rolands "bright" sound your referring to is actually upper mid range, not treble or presence. Samples based pianos have a lot more of that content - which is what I dont like about them. There too harsh and clang'y. The Roland (and real pianos) are mellower, more mid range based. Ultimately it depends what you want. If you want the sound of a real piano, in the room then theRoland V-Pianos are as close as your going to get currently. If you want the sound of a piano on stage (mic'd up[) or recorder, then the sample based sounds are much closer to that.
@@paulmapp8306 Thank you for the informative perspective...
@stuart Darling - Very well said. From a more simplistic viewpoint ... from the perspective of the listeners, I find that the Roland sits heavier in the mix and the Nord sits in the mix with more fluidity. I've always been a Roland fan, but in this specific example, I would find myself enjoying playing the Nord a bit more.
Pianoteq
In my opinion the nord has a cleaner sound, but the roland has a deeper sound. After this short comparison, I lean towards the nord, but both are great instruments and their price is basically the same. I would choose nord
You’re right because the Roland adds dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸
The nord produced an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra.
In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
Nord sounds like a real piano.
Nord sounds pretty toyish here, although this is no fair comparison and it could be adjusted to your liking, Roland sounds to me quite good right out of the box, with its possibility to adjust the sound to your liking too.. an then still that difference in price, won't pay almost double as much for something is not double as good.. I'd go for the Roland, not less than Nord in any aspect.
I have had a ROland 700NX since it was released. I only play the first piano straight out of hte box no filters - I find that they detract.
@@Notmehimorthem depending on what keyboard you have (I have the Fantom series), you can open or close the piano wing (I open it for a brighter sound).
You can also increase or decrease string resonance, or change the hammer sound volume (Casio calls it 'air'). Depending on the situation, I add it mostly when playing solo.
And strings or warm pads softly in the background can really level piano sounds when you're playing just by yourself.
Muranaman I find that all detracts from the sound. I don’t know what you mean by wing, I presume you mean lid.
Roland 700nx has superb action, better than the 2000 or any Nord, it has the best piano sound in the default concert grand. So useable. The Roland 2000 also includes that sound, and the e pianos are better but the action is not so good. IMO I have never been impressed with Nords, their action or their sounds. I would give the Stage 76% compared to 96% for the. Roland 700NX classical grand. I do find the other sounds on the Roland to be ‘eighties’ but that’s ok with me as I rarely use them. The Tonewheel is pretty good and stands up against my A100 and Hammond SKX pretty well - soundwise, but not controlwise
@@Notmehimorthem Yes, but the lid can be confused with the lid over the keys. The wing (lid) of a wing piano sounds clearer to me.
I don't find these effects to be detracting from the sound. If anything, you'll get closer to the originally recorded sound.
While Casio's 'air' adds artifacts to lower quality samples, to make them higher quality in appearance, Roland actually detracts artifacts from it's high quality samples. I believe the classic 2015 Roland Piano has +2GB of sample sound, which is a lot (some of it (like standard Midi) is compressed too).
Opening the lid, actually gets you the most detail from the original sample.
Leaving it stock, applies filters (low pass filters), etc...
Though the harmonics (sympathetic strings) are a bit the same as casio; an artificially added harmonics sound that resembles the real thing when pressing the sustain pedal while playing multiple notes.
Thanks Tony for the presentation. I like both pianos.But if i were to perform in a gig that is just ballad,I will go for the Nord. Then for pop songs,I will go for the Roland. Thumbs up
Thank you very much for your comments!
Hello from the US! Great video! Love your channel and review videos! Great demo! Thanks for the info!
Hi Alexander. Thank you very much for your comments!
Does any one else hate the way he plays Bohemian Rhapsody... For the rest, it was a great demo! Solid player.
i skipped that part so i could live a better life.
It's just a demo...not a tribute band.
@Davi Plutarcho: It's not clear what your bitchiness is aimed at.
I have gone through loads of reviews of all sorts of keyboards to compare piano sound and the frustrating thing is that every single demonstrator seems to caress the keys and play slow ballads. your can hear nuances, and its all very well and very nice but nobody actually gives the thing any welly. I'm a boogie player and I want to hear a keyboard being put through its paces and really tested. A thumping boogie left hand and some fast runs and licks with the right hand. This is where you can hear (and feel for that matter) whether the piano and keybed is really up for the job.
I like both Pianos, Roland sounds harmonically rich on upper and lower frequencies on first impression, sounds great on solo tracks. Though after listening for long periods the bass notes appears sounds dense and become muddy on chords. The Nord shines with a balanced sounding no matter which key is hit and I can distinguish each not much easier, great when buried in a heavy mix or playing long a band where it doesn't stick out & overshadow the singer. Love to see a digital piano with a slider or knob that you can control the harmonic content to remove those over tones & harmonics to thicken of thin the timbre. To get a piano that sounds between the Roland and Nord. Or go crazy something like the Yamaha's draw bars on their synth on organ voice/patch. Long as it doesn't bring out those awful odd harmonics I'm in.
You’re right because the Roland adds dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸
The nord produced an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra.
In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
А что вы скажете по поводу новейшего Casio 7000 ? Есть мнение, что по звукам фортепьяно он уделывает всех в значительно большей ценовой категории. И какой из этих трёх по вашему лучше для аккомпанемента пению?
I'm only listening on laptop speakers so I'm not getting the full sound quality at all. However, in spite of this I can still hear that the Nord (to me) has an elegance to its sound. The Roland is what I'd expect - much like my RD-800, it is rich and unique to Roland. Still though, when Tony plays the Nord it is elegant, much like a quality acoustic grand piano. As always Tony, you're terrific! Thank you, Robert
A lot of the difference was tonal quality. To my ears the softer sound of the Nord sounded classier. However with access to a graphic eq I'm pretty sure i could make them sound almost identical in either direction.
People complain about the Roland but it's good enough for marasy8!
For me the Roland sounds head and shoulders above the Nord. What would be interesting would be Tony's opinion on the action of each keyboard.
Hard to compare two different piano sounds, the softer woodier tone of the Nord samples with a more fundamentally rich sound of the Roland. Shows that sometimes you get all the different keyboards if you can afford them. From this demo, I preferred the Roland, though I have never been satisified with its sound when playing it in person at a store - could be the amp though which I play back in that store... Both of this are great - if I had to pick one it would be the Roland... The Nord is a bit thin on the bottom end, while the Roland has a wonderful bass, and sparkling highs.
Nord and Roland both excellent pianos.. Both sounds great with good amplification... However, in my experience Nord wins in sound, and Roland wins in action
Nord grand with kuwaii action piano.
Wins
@@محمدالخلفي-ط1ل At more than twice the price it should.
Roland all day any day. Everything is kust right. The feel of the keys and the sound...
The bass end in the Roland is tremendous, you can feel the music hit you. IMHO the Roland has it, the Nord is lifeless.
In this video and for the type of played songs, I definetely prefer the RD over the ND, it's more vibrant and rich than the other, also its resonance is superior to my ears here, although I'm a big fan of ND piano sounds (yet not its action), both are good pianos if you play decently.
On the Nord you can download the piano sound you want from their website, from a Bosedorfer to a (more brighter) Yamaha grand.
Start 1:46
GREAT comparison video.
I like the Roland , its cleaner and more airy .
Roland piano 🎹 wins.👍
Bohemian Rhapsody at 2:28 mins 🎶 🎹 🥁 was amazingly. Thanks for playing that intro. Just seen the movie last week's so was most touched by the Melody you played 🎶.
I like the Nord, but what I'd really like to know is what sort of amplification/monitor system are you playing thru?
This is a demo of every default piano sound and of course there is an adjustment for every sound according to your sound taste. For me the default piano sound of Roland is way better than Nord, more definition, emphasis and clarity. The ring on highs are very much like a grand piano, however, in my experience with Roland RD, if I use a cheap or low end studio speakers, Roland RD default sound will be tend into over bright or more highs which is easy to adjust to the way I like. Roland default piano sound work perfectly without equalisation or adjustment by using head phone and a better sound system. Nord on the other hand is a beautiful instrument, if you know how to use it and manipulate according your taste it will deliver a better sound even in a cheaper monitor speakers.
Both sound very good - my preference is the Nord.
I don't know what kind of reverb settings on the Roland and the Nord in this video, but I'm liking Roland's "breathier" sound here while the Nord sounds like its played in a vacuum i.e. no ringing of the physical space around the instrument.
rio197 I am of the same opinion. The Roland has some reverb and the Nord seems to have none,. Overall the Nord sounds richer but the Roland more lively😬
It was stated in the video that they use the default preset when turning on the piano. As someone with a Nord Piano 4, I can tell you that the default preset has reverb entirely turned off.
Considering how much influence reverb has on the way people perceive an instrument, I don't think it was the best choice to compare the instruments without at least trying to match that up. Personally, I love how the Nord sounds more, but only if the reverb is actually on.
I don't *want* 'ringing of the physical space around the instrument', whatever that means. I want a great piano sound that is neither tinny nor boomy.
I always check Bonners before buy. In this case I swapped my Nord Electro 6D 73 keys for the Roland RD-2000. It has got the pianosounds (and modifications) I wanted, got a very good (tweakable) "hammond" organ. But what really strikes me is the playability - the keybed - of the Roland. It is silly good and silent! And you can make these fast runs without cutting any fingers.
So, why would I stick with those noisy waterfall keys of the Electro, at the same time missing out on good piano feeling and neighbourship? Nope, the Roland RD-2000 for me. Great comparison, thank you!
I have both Nord Stage 3 and RD 2000 in my studio and I think the Nord pretty much eats RD 2000 for breakfast when it comes to piano sound. I`m probably going to sell the RD2000....
This is why I feel like these reviews don’t use the right speakers and settings...
@@obriantomlinson2776 Also the piano settings. Nord has other options that sound fuller like the Roland. To me, the Nord has more clarity. The Roland sounds rather messy. I can pick out individual voicings in the Nord better.
Fun demo. I like full piano sound on the black one. Less tinny sound for sure.
I find it interesting that the NP4 sounds a bit thin along side the RD2000. I’ve heard other demos of Nord Piano’s that produce as much of a low end or richness as the RD2000. Just curious if the NP4 preset was on upright, because the RD had more of a grand characteristic. Very good demo.. Thank You.
You’re right because the Roland adds dynamic range and full reverb to the sounds so it’s ideal for one man performances without other instruments 🎸
The nord produced an isolated pure sound without any embellishments and it is ideal for studio or live music performances with a band with other instruments 🎸 🥁 accompanying to create an ensemble or orchestra.
In short, Nord is for studio recordings and live performances with distinct isolated sounds sans embellishments. Roland adds dynamic ranging to the sounds and great for solo performances without a band of other instruments 🎸
@@NathanKwadade you post the same thing over and over. Do you work for Nord or just bored?
The Roland . It's slightly brighter, seems to have much richer harmonics.That said, to my ears it also sounds as if it's running with a touch of reverb, where as the Nord is a dryer, more mellow sound.
As someone who owns a nord stage, I have to say it sounds as though the damper pedal effect is full on.
Maybe its the patch but my stage piano sounds seem much more true and not nearly as muddy.
Same for the Roland. Piano 1 is more of a classical piano. Piano 2 or 5 is the Grand piano (which sounds much closer to a Steinway piano).
In
Definitively Nord !!! Incredibly natural sound. Close your eyes and relax...
I enjoyed your performance!
Nice comparison. It really comes down to taste. I have the Roland but would be very happy with the Nord as well. Two points to mention- the Nord street price is 500 American dollars more than the Roland and the Roland includes it's tone wheel model while the Nord Piano 4 does not.
What was the intro at 7:53? It’s sounds very similar to one of my favorite songs today. No doubt it was probably used as inspiration.
I like the trebles in the nord, they are so well defined 🔥 but at the same time the bass notes on the Roland could never be matched to nord 😭😭 I'm damn confused
Well he plays them both very mágnifico , but my preference is with Nord piano 4, even when no has aftertouch . I want to know if accept sound fond like the Dexibell s9, so I can load down other sounds o buy sound and put it ? Nice video.
First thank you for your video and review. About the keys noise, what is your opinion ? About it, I tested The Nord Stage and it's noisy like the M-88 from M-Audio and it is not the same price... ;-)
great comparison, what sound system are you using for this test?
thnaks
Roland is a brighter, clearer sound. It's more suited to this sort of music. The Nord is a little muffled, although some of the base notes harmonics are nice. The Roland clinches it for me.
Great video, thank you! I will buy the roland.
By the way they keys on the rd2000 feel amazing, similar on the roland fa08 they have like a rough texture unlike a regular piano
Absolutley agree - the RD2000 has the best feeling keys of pretty much all the stage pianos. No contest on that one... Really lovely to play.
If you are looking for the best feeling keys..., then try Kawai MP7/11...
Upon first hearing these two pianos in isolation your ear tends to go intuitively for the Roland, with the Nord sounding almost a little dull in comparison. But when you play the Nord in a recording situation or mix, it actually tends to sit better ( to my ears ) and sound more natural, because it's not inherently hyped as much to begin with. It reminds me of microphone shootouts, with say, a Neuman (very expensive), and a cheaper copy. Often the copy sounds more flattering initially, but once you start stacking tracks, the cheap mics end up sounding too hyped and over-blown, and you end up constantly messing with EQ to fix things, whereas the expensive, slightly less flattering ones just sit in the mix, with a lot less tweaking. Of course, the Roland is cheaper, has more bells and whistles, different feel etc, so it really depends what you want to do with them, and what you need. I love the red, as it's a nice change from black, but some people hate it. I only want a few good sounds, that's it. Some people need a ton of sounds and options. You have to sit down and play both for a good 30 mins+ each, to get a feel for which one is the best for you. I've had both in the past, Roland's are built like tanks, very reliable, Nords are a different flavour and also built to last. Both are great, not knocking either, but ultimately everyone has their preferences.
Theres a reason behind that. a "natural" acoustic piano tone is NOT the same tone as a mic's sound in a mix (same with guitars). The Roland is MUCH closer to a real, in the room piano. Sample based sounds like the Nord (and Rolands own SN sample based Pianos) are much closer to that "in themix" sound for a reason - there taken from a microphone the same as a mix is. If you want real inthe room, the Roland is best. If you want in the mix, or recorded tone the Nord and Rolands SN tones are better- the Nord probably has the edge in that comparison.
@@paulmapp8306 Yes, I agree with you there.
Nord is character.
Roland is cleanliness.
Which one is better in Tony’s opinion? Why does the Nord stage 3 cost 2 grand more than the RD-2000? Which one has better sounds, which one has more sounds to choose from and better for layering sounds together?
After listening through the tracs several times, I concluded that I prefer Roland RD2000 on most songs, as it is bright, it cuts through the mix and if feels mix ready, while the nord is more mid-heavy and and less bright in my ears. Would drown in the mix without heavy EQ processing. While RD2000 I feel would need little to no EQ at all to fit perfectly. I am listening to Yamaha HS8. Except on one track "The way it is" that for some odd reason I liked the Nord a bit better.
I think it will be perfect match together with MODX+, Nautilus and MPC Key61 in my rig using Camelot Pro to contoll it all))
I prefered the Roland in this comparison it had more definition and ring/overtones especially in the sustained notes. The Nord was kind of dull and lifeless sounding, but the Nord has other piano sounds and lots of adjustment ability so it could be tweaked to individual taste. Minor point the Nord is about $500 more than the Roland.
just to add, the Roland as a LOT of piano sounds, and can be edited on a note by more basis. The stage piano chosen in the demo is NOT my favourite sound on the RD anyway. There are sounds much closer to the Nord if you prefer a more mellow sound.
@Konstantin Ridaya Nord is expensive in the US (where I'm located) because it is a imported product, same with Marshall amps and other imported products.
As for sound you said it personal taste. Like acoustic piano I like Yamaha compared to some traditional favorites like Steinway for similar reason. My background as recording engineer, live audio, and musician I've always like brighter, very define notes, and the punchiness of Yamaha. With a bright defined note a lot can be done with it if recording or live mix. My best friend is a classical pianist and you'd never get her off her Steinway, so I fully understand. The great thing about Nord and the Roland the user can adjust as much as they want to their taste.
@Konstantin Ridaya I bought a Roland RD-2000 found a good Black Friday deal on one. I am very happy with it.
@Konstantin Ridaya Im in Europe, and the RD cost £1000 less than the stage (£1900 I paid, v £2800+ for the stage 3). Regards warmth.....totally depends on which model/patch you select. Im guessing the RDs patch was 01 - the stage grand, which is far from warm (its designed to cut through). In general terms - ie across all the various piano tones, I found the RD warmer than the Nord - in real life that is, not based on videos. Judging sounds across youtube is pretty pointless in truth - compression, how you listen, how things are recorded and (most crucially in an X v Y scenario) which patches are used by the demonstrater.
@Konstantin Ridaya hum. Just looked on that site (I've used them lots). Bird piano 4 and rd are practically the same price. Stage 3 is a lot more. It's the cheapest I've seen the note by quite a bit, but the rd is available a lot cheaper in many places.
I liked the rd2000 better. It just sounded a little bit fuller to me. Thw Nord's sounded more suited for a singer whereas the Roland sounded like it would stand out better within a band.... if you know what i mean.
I like Nord more. I would put it this way to explain my opinion: Roland sounds like the best and most amazing piece of "small home pianos" (I don't know how to call them propertly, I'm Russian, sorry). But Nord sounds as an Imperial class Grand piano.
It doesn’t sound like an apples to apples comparison to me. For those of you who are familiar with piano voicing techniques, the Roland sounds quite bright, while the Nord sounds like a piano that’s had the hammer felt pretty heavily needled. Having tried both, I can say that the Roland action feels much better, but you could definitely get a sound that would make you happy out of either. And the RD is much less expensive.
This is so tough to choose. For Your Song the Nord sounds closer to what EJ played in the recording. I think the Roland sounds almost too perfect. I prefer not to use grand piano sounds and I think the people that like Roland are looking for the perfect grand. I like piano sounds with more character and imperfections like an old upright sound for writing. Both pianos are amazing making it hard to decide
Hi Tony! I was wondering if you could do some comparison videos between the Kawai ca series vs the Yamaha clp series, like the clp 645 vs the ca 48 . Thanks for your videos!
What song is that at 7:54?
I own a Roland RD2000 and I think I much prefer Nord's piano sounds, even if I still love my Roland and the amazing functionality that comes with it.
I prefer the Roland RD2000 in this comparison .
The best piano in the Roland is the Concert Grand from the older RD-700 NX series. its much more expressive.
The name of the piano sound in Nordstage, please ? :)
3D Royal grand
Hi and congratullations for your contents in TH-cam.
I am doubting between RD2000, nord grand or Nord piano 5 or numa piano gt
Whats are your recomendations,? Others?? The idea is for playing at home and 1 concert a month.
Thaks in advance!
I like Nord. Warm and natural sound.
What kind of stands are you using? The keyboards don’t seem to shake at all.
If Roland were make the length 6" shorter by moving the mod wheel I'd go buy one today.... while i wait to see what NAMM 2019 holds, I will save the additional money to buy the Nord ;)
It realy depends on the intro played, for some like Bohemian Rapsody, The way it is and Desperado the more muted jazz piano like sound of the Nord suited better, where the Roland has more hat grand piano sound.
It depends on further available sound settings which is going to be favorite, and for a good comparission similar settings and not just the default settings should be compared.
I prefered the Nord piano. I think I can hear a great variety of sound depending on the articulation and velocity. And the Roland seems not to achieve that aspect at the same level as the Nord.
Great video.
I know this is an old comment but I must agree. I can hear individual voicings with more clarity on the Nord.
Thank you , of course Roland with a richer sound
Good comparison.Roland sounds bold and deep.
You are a very gifted piano player. Personally I kind of liked the Roland a bit better, but it’s like comparing fruit to vegetables. Just two different tastes.
Judging these on the grounds of piano-sound and keyboard response alone, for me the NORD wins by a large margin. Yet, if you need synth capabilities, I think the comparison is almost irrelevant to the actual personality of these two instruments. Of course the Roland is a better overall player. But if one is looking for the best digital Piano, I’d look no further than the NORD. Still, one thing I’d urge Nord to consider for their next stage piano, is adding on board speakers too. It makes such a huge difference, to be able to carry this anywhere and everywhere without the need for external speakers & also, the choice of speakers used makes such a huge difference on the actual sound produced.
The Nord sounds like a piano and the Roland sounds better than a piano. I own a RD2000 and love it.
What you just said makes no sense
Roland RD2000 is having a much more great sounds...may be what is lacking in Nord mixing is the Reverb...may be just in mixing... because in RD2000 we can change tone color..dont know with Nord
Roland's Voice sounds soo sweet to my ears