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Hi,

I finally have decided to make an upgrade from my Casio CDP-240. I use Casio for several years now (first my daughter took some lessons, then I started to play as well). I play as a hobby and I'm by no means a serious player (somewhere around ~RCM level 1-2). But I play constantly and not going to drop this hobby. Therefore I'm up to purchasing a better instrument to make my learning more enjoyable.

I tried Yamaha P-515 and I really wish to love it - it is right in a sweet spot for me in terms of the budget. However, I'm very concerned about the heavy key action. I work with a computer a lot and already started developing issues with my wrists. And I also not sure if Yamaha's heavy key action will be suitable for my daughter.

I found only one Kawai dealer in our region, but I don't trust it and I'm not sure how easy would be to repair the piano if something happens. Therefore Kawai is out of the question for me.

I'm choosing now mostly between Roland F701 and FP-90X. Both models are new and not available in stores yet.

Roland F701 comes with a stand, 3-pedal unit, and a bench for CAD 2300 (incl. tax) (CAD - Canadian Dollar)
And FP-90X with a standard penal + an optional stand will cost me CAD 3500 (incl. tax)

I know that FP-90X had PHA-50 action, more powerful speakers, a better sound modeling system (as they claim), and overall seems like a more powerful instrument.
F701 has PHA-4 and has overall less impressive features. However it has a wonderful Light Oak color option , has a smaller footprint, and costs CAD 1200 less.

Technically, I can afford either. And of course, an idea of buying the BEST and COOLEST option thrills me a little =)
But I am not sure if I will be able to appreciate the better instrument, considering my current level. Maybe I will be better off buying F701 and saving CAD 1200 for something else?

I know that the general advice is "just try both" And I will try to do that as soon as these models become available here. But in the meantime, I'd love to hear your opinion.

Thanks

Mulberg, I believe the F701/RP701 are specs are closer to the FP-60X than the FP-90X, the latter of which features a superior keyboard action, sound engine, and audio system as you note.

I expect you will need to decide if you wish to purchase the higher spec instrument, or the Light Oak finish.

Kind regards,
James
x

There is a substantial difference between "PHA-4 Standard" (fp30) and PHA-50 (in the GP609, among othe premium Roland DP's).


If the FP-90x is within budget, I think you'll enjoy it enough more, to justify its cost premium.

Close your eyes while playing, if you must.

PHA4 isn't the lightest of actions - I guess if you try them you will notice a considerable difference (magically, all makers manage to make midrange actions a lot better than entry ones). Indeed you should try them, and others. Maybe you shouldn't skip Kawai (ES920, CN39, CA 59/79).

Mind speaker placement, down-facing speakers mostly don't go well with carpets.

If you're into oakwood, you might consider Roland Kiyola KF-10, a designer version of the FP90.

I‘d go with the FP-90X.
Definitely!
Unless you plan to upgrade again in 2 or 3 years after having realised that with developed playing capabilities you want a more sophisticated key action

F701 does not have sound modelling, its engine is two generations behind FP90X.

If you like light oak check HP704, it has FP90 (without X) technology but better cabinet (and probably audio).

Thanks everyone for the answers!

_sem_, on man, Kiyola KF-10 looks gorgeous! I wish I had a budget for it =D

PHA-50 action is definitely much better than PHA-4. So, if you have the budget for it - go for it.

Osho