Pros and Cons
The Roland RD-2000 EX is a professional-grade stage piano and an enhanced version of its predecessor, the RD-2000. In addition to the previously paid ‘German Grand’ expansion, the EX version also includes the ‘Essential Upright’ expansion.
Of course, my main focus is on the new piano sounds, some of which are created with the physical modeling technology of the legendary Roland V-Piano. However, what truly excites me is the extensive range of high-quality sounds. In this respect, the Roland RD-2000 EX not only offers exceptional quality but also remarkable versatility.
The selection of sounds is impressive. A total of 1,113 are available—as usual, Roland calls them “tones”. These cover nearly every instrument that could play a role in a band.
As expected, the emphasis here is on acoustic, electric, and electronic keyboard instruments. To ensure that these sounds are vibrant and authentic, the Roland RD-2000 EX employs multiple sound generation technologies.
→ Please refer to the FAQ at the end of the review for detailed information on the features and specifications.
Overall, the piano sounds of the RD-2000 EX are exceptional. While not every tone from the V-Piano and its expansions resonates with me or achieves perfect realism, the diverse palette provides remarkable artistic flexibility. As a result, this stage piano is suitable for a wide range of applications. It shines especially brightly in the studio, where it makes finding the perfect sound quick and intuitive, right in the style of Scott Storch. This versatility is even more impressive given the staggering 166 sounds available in the acoustic piano category alone.
The V-Piano’s presets stand out with exceptional expression, character, and detail. Thanks to physical modeling, the piano sounds also impress with high-resolution dynamics. Playing the RD-2000 EX feels remarkably organic, with a rich, full-bodied sound. For a lighter or more subtle piano sound, the SuperNATURAL engine provides a wide range of alternative sounds. While these are also excellent, they lack the same level of vibrancy and intricate detail as the V-Piano sounds.
More clarity would have been appreciated when it comes to the EX sounds—the preset names don’t always make it clear which specific piano sound you’re working with.
The newly added sounds expand the possibilities for pianistic expression. Alongside the familiar grand piano sound from its predecessor, the German Grand introduces a beautifully nuanced sound with a slightly more subdued character. The charming upright sound is equally noteworthy.
The electric pianos on the RD-2000 EX impress with their warm, rich, and expressive character. With 152 presets in this category, there’s plenty to explore.
Beyond the electric pianos, the instrument selection is vast. In particular, the string sounds stand out, whether you’re looking for lush pads, sharp staccatos, or unique options like Tron strings. The same goes for the orchestral tones, with the brass and combination sounds being particularly strong. However, the solo string sounds fall short of the same standard and might have been better left out.
The choir category is unexpectedly strong, with the “Large Choir” preset being a standout. Its realism and immersive atmosphere are striking—you can almost feel the singers’ breath. In the synth department, you’ll find excellent pads and basses that are well-suited for both band rehearsals and beat-making sessions.
A note for all keyboard and stage piano manufacturers: Novelty sound effects such as ocean waves, applause, and passing cars can be safely retired in 2024. They weren’t particularly cool in the ’90s—and today, they mostly serve as clichéd interludes during rehearsal breaks.
Like its predecessor, the Roland RD-2000 EX uses multiple independent sound engines rather than relying on a single one:
SuperNATURAL Engine: This engine powers the majority of the sounds, including strings, orchestral instruments, guitars, basses, and a substantial portion of the piano and electric piano categories.
Virtual Tone Wheel Organ: Designed specifically for vintage organ sounds, with the faders functioning as drawbars.
PCM Sound Generator: With up to 128 voices of polyphony, this engine offers a wide selection of standard sounds from Roland’s extensive library. This makes it ideal for layering and arranging.
Physical Modeling: The RD-2000 EX also features technology developed for the Roland V-Piano. This engine delivers exceptionally realistic and detailed piano sounds. Since it does not rely on samples, its many settings and parameters support extensive customization of presets.
The V-Piano technology allows up to 264 simulated piano strings to resonate simultaneously, capturing intricate details such as string resonance, damper resonance, and duplex scaling. Moreover, you can play all V-Piano sounds with full polyphony.
Roland has retained the PHA-50 keyboard in the RD-2000 EX. This hybrid wooden keyboard combines conventional digital piano keys with integrated wooden elements. This results in a premium feel, which is further enhanced by the ivory-feel keytops.
The playing experience is much more realistic compared to glossy polished keys. Next to authenticity, the keyboard also offers excellent grip on both the white and black keys and a let-off simulation.
However, I found the overall weight of the keys to be a bit too light for my liking. In addition, the key travel felt slightly shorter than ideal. For more demanding passages, I found it easier to “dig into” the keyboard on the RD-88 EX, which features the PHA-40 keyboard.
When comparing the RD-2000 EX to its predecessor, it’s worth noting that the keyboard on the RD-2000 EX is noticeably louder. The noise it produces could become distracting over time, particularly during home practice sessions or on quieter stages, such as in a cabaret setting.
That said, these are, of course, my personal impressions. Many keyboard players may have very different experiences and preferences. As always, the best advice is to test the instrument yourself before making a purchase!
True to this motto, the Roland RD-2000 EX introduces few changes compared to its predecessor. However, the new instrument not only builds on the legacy of a high-quality stage piano designed for professional use—the EX version also promises an even more enjoyable playing experience. It’s a thoroughly impressive instrument of exceptional quality.
For professionals who spend a lot of time on stage or in the studio, the RD-2000 EX offers a wealth of outstanding sounds and possibilities. However, amateur pianists and beginners are unlikely to take full advantage of the extensive sound library.
As for whether it’s worth upgrading from the RD-2000, that’s a personal decision. The main additions are two new expansions, but they’re undeniably excellent. Either way, the RD-2000 EX is a pleasure to play.
Release date: August 2024
Keyboard: 88 fully weighted keys with let-off simulation and Ivory Feel
Polyphony: Fully polyphonic for V-Piano sounds, 128 voices for PCM and SuperNATURAL engines
Special features: Two expansions for the V-Piano sound engine with physical modeling technology
Manufacturer/Distributor: Roland
With impeccable materials, craftsmanship, and feel, the RD-2000 EX exemplifies Roland’s renowned quality. While the display may seem modest in size, it provides a clear overview and sufficient ease of use, especially in combination with the jog wheel.
Yes, the Roland RPU-3 is available as an optional accessory. It has three independent jacks, all of which support half-pedaling. The latter is also true for the Roland DP-10 damper pedal included with the stage piano.
The RD-2000 EX features two modulation wheels in the upper left corner of the case, while the pitch wheel with a tremolo function is located in the lower left corner. This slightly unconventional layout offers more modulation options than the standard dual-wheel setup.
The eight faders control the zones and layered sounds and can also double as drawbars for organ sounds. In addition, the eight illuminated knobs make it easy to adjust effect parameters. The build quality is excellent, including the faders, which are stable and move silently. The layout of the RD-2000 EX is well thought out and allows for an intuitive workflow that is easy to learn.
If you’re looking to go beyond “just” playing piano during live performances or studio sessions and want greater flexibility with sounds, the Roland RD-2000 EX offers not only a wealth of high-quality tones but also the ability to combine them in creative ways.
The faders are particularly useful when layering multiple tones, allowing you to quickly and precisely adjust the volume of each layer.
The Roland RD-2000 EX is a professional-grade instrument, as evidenced by the back panel. The stage piano features three stereo outputs for balanced, unbalanced, and sub-out signals, providing significant routing flexibility and seamless integration into professional sound systems. Of course, there is also a headphone output, also located on the rear panel.
Additionally, it features a line input for connecting external devices like smartphones, two USB ports, and three classic five-pin MIDI jacks for IN, OUT, and THRU/OUT2 functionality. For foot control, the RD-2000 EX offers four pedal jacks, some of which are freely assignable.
Yes, the RD-2000 EX supports USB audio/MIDI for seamless connection to computers and mobile devices. This allows you to integrate additional sounds from a DAW or piano apps and efficiently manage them using the RD-2000 EX’s comprehensive MIDI control functions.
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Pros and Cons
Tobias Homburger
The advanced Roland RD-2000 EX is a thoroughly impressive stage piano, and a real pleasure to play.
RD-2000 EX : 2.544,00 €
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