Hi folks -

New here, just found the forum and am pleased to know it exists. I'm on the verge of buying a DP, and after playing the Roland RD-700 at a shop I thought, "that's probably it." But what else should I look at? I'm a pianist of some experience, a composer and teacher. My interests cover classical and jazz, and I'm putting a high value on a good combination of realistic action (I know it'll never be the same) and good samples, but I'm also attracted to the versatility and range of sounds on the RD-700.

Thanks for any suggestions.

Ken Durling

Because I think the RD is a great keyboard, I'm tempted to say "there IS no competition". But to be fair, the RD is up against similar offerings from Korg, Kurzweil, Yamaha and the like.

With all due respect, I knew that much. Being unfamiliar by and large with current DPs, I'm looking for specific model numbers. I guess I can just go find out what's the top of the line for the other companies....

Thanks.

Sorry Ken for the lack of info.

If I were you, I'd make the trip over to Guitar Center (no matter how painful that might be) to play the various options. Just make sure you're comparing apples-to-apples. For example, the RD700 doesn't compare to the Korg Triton or the Yamaha Motif. Those are workstation/synths that compare more favorably to the Roland XV88. What you're looking for is a stage piano that has other sounds (they all do). I don't know as much about the model numbers, etc. of stage pianos. I'm more familiar with the synths.

No problem, Steve - thanks for taking the time. GC, now that's a good idea - they're likely to have a fairly good cross-section. I'll just bring my can of "Salesman-B-Gone!"

Now that's a product I'd like to invest in!!!