Review by Mahlers2nd for Roland DP-990-MC Designer Piano in Medium Cherry finish-with Benchr Piano in Medium Cherry finish
Rating:
I grew up having the luxury of learning to play piano on a Kawai Baby Grand. Nothing can compare to the feel and experience of playing on a top notch acoustic piano.

However, when I moved into an apartment after college and when my aunt — a professional pianist — had to downsize to a condo, we both bought Roland pianos. The action is outstanding. My aunt believes that the action is actually easier on her arthritis. If you are like me and like to bang away on the piano with music to sooth the savage beast, this keyboard is particularly satisfying. I have played other electronic keyboards and stability has always been an issue even if the action was ok. Roland pianos can certainly stand up to Brahms, Beethoven, or more subdued Bach and Debussy.

The sound quality is excellent as well — as close to an acoustic sound as you could want but with the added advantage of being able to use headphones and not bother nearby neighbors with your late night practice sessions.

The appearance of Roland pianos and the workmanship demonstrates that this is a serious instrument for serious pianists. It may not have the gravitas of a Baby Grand but it looks like a real piece of furniture and doesn’t look out of place in traditional decors.

I also like the fact that his piano has all three pedals and not just two (or one) that many lesser electronic keyboards have. Again, the target here is for serious pianists.

That said, as I have grown and now have children of my own, I like having this piano for my own children to learn on. Kids can be a bit harder on instruments and you hate to buy a Steinway to have sippy cups or pocket knives dropped on it. This piano can certainly withstand punishment of kids. But it also provides a great learning mechanism so when it is time to transition to a “real” piano, they are already more or less used to “the real thing”.

As an extra keyboard, a starter piano or a main piano, I can’t recommend this piano enough. It will last for many years and give many many hours of pleasure.