Kawai ES520 Vs Roland FP 30X

When it comes to digital pianos, Kawai and Roland are two of the most reputable brands in the market. The Kawai ES520 Vs Roland FP 30X are two of their popular models, but which one is better? In this article, we will compare and contrast the features of both pianos to help you make an informed decision.

In this comparison, we will talk about the following:

  • What are the Kawai ES520 and Roland FP 30X?
  • How is the Design of Kawai ES520 and Roland FP 30X?
  • How is the Keyboard Action in Kawai ES520 and Roland FP 30X?
  • How is the Sound Quality from Kawai ES520 and Roland FP 30X?
  • What are the Features of Kawai ES520 and Roland FP 30X?
  • How is the Connectivity in Kawai ES520 and Roland FP 30X?
  • How is the Price of Kawai ES520 and Roland FP 30X?
  • Which Digital Piano to Buy?
Kawai ES520 Roland FP 30X
Product Dimensions56.5 x 18.4 x 11 inches51.2 x 11.2 x 6 inches
Shipping Weight34.9 pounds32.7 pounds
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About the Kawai ES520 and Roland FP 30X

Designed for both beginners and intermediate players, the Kawai ES520 is a portable digital piano that offers a range of useful features in a compact and affordable package. With 88 weighted keys and Kawai’s Responsive Hammer Compact II keyboard action, it provides an authentic and responsive playing experience that mimics the feel of an acoustic piano. The ES520 also includes Harmonic Imaging sound technology, which delivers a rich and dynamic sound, making it suitable for a variety of musical styles.

The Roland FP-30X is a more advanced digital piano that is suitable for intermediate to advanced players. It features 88 weighted keys with Roland’s PHA-4 Standard keyboard action, and SuperNATURAL piano sound technology that delivers a highly expressive and authentic sound. The FP-30X also includes a variety of features such as Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in speaker system, and a selection of voices and sound effects, making it an excellent choice for home use, live performances, and recording studios. Read also: Korg LP 380 Vs Casio PX 870 here.

Design and Build Quality

The Kawai ES520 has a sleek and elegant design with a glossy black finish. It has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to move around; this piano is approximately 52 x 14 x 5 inches and weighs 14.5 kg. On the other hand, the Roland FP 30X also supports a modern and minimalist design with a matte black finish. It is compact at 51 x 12 x  inches and weighs 14.8 kg. Both pianos have a solid build quality and are made from high-quality materials.

Keyboard Action

The keyboard action is an essential factor to consider when choosing a digital piano. The Kawai ES520 features the Responsive Hammer II (RHII) action, which replicates the touch and feel of an acoustic piano. The RHIII action has a realistic motion and offers a wide range of expression. The Roland FP 30X features the PHA-4 Standard keyboard action, which also simulates the touch and feel of an acoustic piano. The PHA-4 Standard action has a responsive and natural feel, making it ideal for both beginners and professionals.

Sound Quality

The sound quality is another critical factor to consider when choosing a digital piano. The Kawai ES520 features the Harmonic Imaging Sound Technology, which provides a rich and dynamic sound. It has a 40- watt speaker output system, which delivers a clear and powerful sound. The Roland FP 30X features the SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine, which provides an authentic and expressive sound. It has a 2-speaker output system, which delivers a clear and balanced sound.

As for the built-in tones, you will get more in Roland FP 30X because it offers 56 different tones in which 12 of them are acoustic pianos with 20 electric piano options. On the other hand, the Kawai ES520 has 34 tones which should fit most people.

Features

The Kawai ES520 and the Roland FP 30X both have a range of features that make them versatile and user-friendly. The Kawai ES520 has a variety of instrument sounds, including pianos, electric pianos, organs, and strings. It also has a dual mode, which allows you to combine two sounds together. The Roland FP 30X also has a range of instrument sounds, including pianos, electric pianos, organs, and strings. It has a dual mode and a split mode, which allows you to play two sounds simultaneously or split the keyboard into two parts.

Connectivity

Both pianos have a range of connectivity options that allow you to connect to other devices. The Kawai ES520 has Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect to your smartphone or tablet wirelessly. It also has USB connectivity, which allows you to connect to your computer or other devices. The Roland FP 30X also has Bluetooth connectivity and USB connectivity. It also has MIDI connectivity, which allows you to connect to other MIDI devices.

Price

The Kawai ES520 and the Roland FP 30X are both reasonably priced digital pianos. The Kawai ES520 is notably more expensive than the Roland FP 30X, but it offers the better piano tones as Kawai is always known for their rich and versatile pianos. Check our other comparison in: Korg LP 380 Vs Korg C1 Air here.

Kawai ES520 Vs Roland FP 30X

Here are some key differences between the two models:

  • Keyboard action: The Kawai ES520 features the Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHCII) keyboard action, while the Roland FP-30X features the PHA-4 Standard keyboard action. Both actions provide a realistic feel, but the PHA-4 Standard is widely regarded as one of the best keyboard actions on the market, with a more responsive and expressive touch. This series also has escapements.
  • Sound technology: The Kawai ES520 uses Harmonic Imaging sound technology, while the Roland FP-30X uses SuperNATURAL piano sound technology. You get more tones on the FP30X, but the piano tones may sound better on the ES520.
  • Price: The Kawai ES520 is generally more expensive than the Kawai ES520, reflecting its impressive sound quality.
- 88-key Digital Stage Piano with Responsive Hammer Compact II Action
- 40-watt Onkyo Stereo Speaker System
- Bluetooth MIDI pts
- 192-note Polyphony
- Balancing affordability with superior performance, the FP-30X is the sweet spot of Roland’s FP-X series.
- This slim and stylish portable piano builds on the entry-level FP-10 with an enhanced sound engine, more powerful onboard speakers, and increased polyphony.
- Optional KSC-70 stand and KPD-70 three-pedal unit for upright performance and traditional playing styles
- SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine for rich expression, from pianissimo to fortissimo

Conclusion

Both the Kawai ES520 and the Roland FP 30X are excellent digital pianos that offer high-quality sound and keyboard action. However, the Kawai ES520 has a more advanced keyboard action and better sound quality than the Roland FP 30X. If you are a professional pianist or a serious beginner, the Kawai ES520 is the better choice. However, if you want to optimize the budget, the Roland FP30X is already an impressive option, moreover it has a wider range of tones.