Hello!
Does anyone know what exactly is the difference between PHA and PHA II?
I mean, is it constructed in a different way, doesit have different parts, more sensors and so on?

Also, if anyone would happen to know, what's the difference between the two mentioned above and the PHA II alpha?

Thanks!

I don't know what the difference is between PHA and PHA II.

One difference between PHA II and PHA II Alpha is that the Alpha version doesn't have the escapement simulation. (i.e, that feeling of "throwing" the hammers) I tried both side by side and noticed a big difference, and much preferred the non-Alpha version.

Greg.

The FP7 is PHA II but doesn't have that escapement feature

^Correct, the PHA/II by itself doesn't have the escapement feature...

The alpha feels much lighter than the normal PHAs, but I don't know why that is.
I'm trying to find out just that with this topic.

The PHA and PHA II are essentially the same mechanism, but the II can include Escapement and/or Ivory Feel. The alphas have a shorter hammer throw and lighter down weight.

Alden, your expertise is much appreciated.

Re the escapement feature, considering the lengths which manufacturers have gone to to minimize the feeling of escapement, this strikes me as being a feature without a benefit.

I agree that the simulation of escapement adds nothing to playability of the piano, but for musicians who need to practise on a digital piano but perform on acoustic ones, the simulation will make the transition between the two types of instruments easier, as long as acoustic pianos cannot get rid of the feel of escapement.

I apologise for the mis-information - I had wrongly assumed from the Roland website that all PHA II (non-Alpha) actions had the escapement feature.

Greg.

Alden:
So there's no difference between the PHAs?

Vid_w

Based on the description I received from Roland Product Management it is the same mechanism. The only difference in feel would result from the structural stiffness or rigidity of the individual model. I've felt differences between slab/console/grand models that used the same action down to the part number. There are subtle differences introduced by the supporting structure.

For slabs and stage pianos, the stand can make a difference in what you feel.

Alden, very interesting point.

Cheers,
James
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