I have been studying classical piano for 10 years, and now play rock, popular, and jazz in addition to the classics. I am now going to college, and need a portable keyboard (no built-in speakers) to keep in my dorm room, as well as use when gigging. My priority is not the extra features and voices, but realistic grand piano simulation. I have looked at the Yamaha P-30, but its low end seems muddy and its action isn't quite realistic. A better option may be the Roland FP-3, similar to the P-30. As far as amplification, I am probably going to buy a Roland KC-300. It's a good little amp with a strong punch. Has anyone used any of these products, or has a better suggestion?

I have two Roland KC300's. Love 'em. I think they sound better than the KC500 (next model up).

Steve,
I have the K500. I'm thinking of getting a 300. Why do you like the sound of the 300 better than the 500? I'm curious; 'cause I really like the 500. thanks

Hi Eldon,
In my attempt to affirm Strangefolker's choice in keyboard amps, I ended up bagging on your choice. My apologies.

However, I honestly do like the KC300 better than the KC500. I find it a little more "natural" sounding. The KC500 is a little "tubby" and a little "punchy" for me which makes piano patches sound unnatural to me. It serves it's purpose well, however. It is used by a lot of rock musicians that need its high volume output on stage. Although I need a lot of volume sometimes as well, I've found stereo KC300's to do the trick. Using the "stereo link" function, I can have an incredible sounding set-up without driving either amp too hard. I even use them as my monitor mix by running my mix through the 4th channel. What a great design!!!

Steve,
Thanks. Well then it's settled. I'll get a 300.
I wonder how much I can expect to pay at a Mars store?

Mars might be a great place to get one (or two)!!!

The KC500... used by... musicians that need its high volume output... - SteveY

LOL- I use the KC500 as my monitor. Just remove the back wheels and it leans up, so I can hear myself over the 60' speaker towers.

Yeah, it's pretty loud. I've even used a stereo KC500 set-up before. I was like the memorex guy with the hair blowing back...

You did bring up a good point -- that is that the KC500's have wheels. The KC300's don't (but should). I use a cart to lug mine around most of the time. I also had rolling flight cases built for them, but they're a pain to use unless I'm flying. Kind of builds some extra cost into the monitors (unless you're built like Schwartzenegger).

HEY! Now I'm p****d. My "500" doesn't have wheels!

HEY! Now I'm p****d. My "500" doesn't have wheels! - Eldon

I think Roland realeased a few without wheels for the Rome market (similiar to Yamaha's "grey market") so they wouldn't roll down those hills

I've done a little research as far as digital/electronic pianos go. I'm interested in something with a realistic feel and sound but that I can put headphones on and not wake up my wife in the morning when I like to practice. I have a grand piano, but practicing while she's trying to sleep is out of the question. Anyway, I'm told the Kawai MP9500 is very close to the touch of the real thing and the sound is quite good also. It has wooden keys and a weighted action. One drawback is it's weight. It weighs around 75 pounds, so you wouldn't want to have to lug it around a lot. I've seen it sell anywhere from $1800 to $2200. Good luck.