Introduction to the Roland FP-60X Digital Piano

Roland’s beloved FP series just turned 30, and to celebrate 30 music-filled years Roland has just released updates to three of their FP series instruments with the new FP-X series. The FP60X is the brand new upgrade to the FP-60, and fills a very specific niche in Roland’s lineup as an upper mid-range/professional option that doesn’t break the bank.

While many folks opt for a traditional stage piano or synthesizer for gigging, the main drawback for some is the lack of onboard speakers. That’s where an all-in-one instrument like the FP60X comes in given its powerful onboard speaker system powering Roland’s SuperNATURAL piano engine. 

The PHA-4 hammer action, a staple throughout Roland’s lineup, is featured once again, and that’s a welcome sight for anyone familiar with this reliable, great feeling action. 

All of the basics are covered too such as metronome and split, but it also features the latest tech like Bluetooth connectivity (easy to connect with Roland’s) Piano Designer and a host of rhythms via Roland’s Piano Partner 2 app.

If you’re after an all-in-one portable instrument around the $2,000 price point such as the Kawai ES920 or Yamaha P515, you’ll definitely want to add the FP-60X to your list.

**Upgrades over the FP-60 include**

• On-board sounds expanded to 358 total
• New My Stage feature
• Mic input
• Compatibility with new Piano Every Day app
• 22 additional internal songs
• Improved speaker design

Roland FP-60X Features Roland’s 88-note PHA-4 Standard Keyboard Action

The Roland FP60X digital piano uses the same action found in the FP60, the 88-note PHA-4 standard keyboard action with Ivory-touch and escapement. This action has been on the market for several years now and is known for offering a professional quality experience with exceptional durability. Roland knows gigging musicians put their instruments through the ringer, so the PHA4 is more than up for the challenge.

This action features ivory feel keys (white keys) and ebony (black keys), escapement meant to mimic the feel of an acoustic grand piano and a triple sensor for accurate MIDI output.

Roland FP-60X Features Roland’s Renowned SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine

The Roland FP-60X brings back Roland’s acclaimed SuperNATURAL piano sound. The piano tones are rich and complex, and ambience effects recreate the sound of playing in various locations, including concert halls.

While not as sophisticated as Roland’s new PureAcoustic engine you’ll find in the FP-90X, this is still one of the top sound engines in the class, and the stereo speaker system is solid with a 26-watt amplifier.

In terms of other tones, there’s 358 total, including a host of electric pianos, organs, strings, synths, and more. Roland’s intention here was clearly to make the FP60X a versatile instrument equipped for a variety of professional situations.

Roland FP-60X’s Bluetooth MIDI Connectivity

The FP-60X covers many bases with 1/4″ L/Mono, R audio output jacks for easy connection to an external sound system. A mini Stereo input jack is also available.

USB to host and device are both also present, so playing back WAV files is a breeze.

The FP60X once again has Bluetooth MIDI and now offers Bluetooth Audio. Bluetooth Audio allows you to effortlessly stream music from a mobile device, effectively turning your FP-60X into a giant Bluetooth speaker.

Notable Features

• SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine with 256-voice polyphony for true acoustic piano sound and response
• PHA-4 keyboard with escapement and Ivory Feel keys for inspiring grand piano touch
• Connect your smartphone or tablet wirelessly via Bluetooth and play along with favorite songs through the piano’s speaker system
• Advanced onboard speaker system provides rich, powerful sound for home playing and intimate live performances
• Also includes electric pianos, strings, organs, and synth sounds from Roland’s flagship instruments
• Enhance performances and practice sessions with Roland’s Piano Partner 2 app and create music with Apple’s GarageBand for iOS and other leading music apps
• Three-band EQ with dedicated front-panel controls
• DP-10 damper pedal included; compatible with optional RPU-3 triple pedal
• Optional KSC-72 stand and KPD-90 three-pedal unit provide an elegant integrated look for home use
• Available in black or white finish

Conclusions

As the second from the top model the FP-60X fills a pretty specific niche – the perfect fit for those looking for something more than the FP-30X, but needing to go as far as the FP-90X.

Roland FP-60X Owner’s Manual

• [English] FP-60X Owner’s Manual

Roland FP-60X Related Resources

• Roland FP Series Digital Pianos Overview – FP-10, FP-30, FP-60, FP-90
• New Roland Digital Pianos: Roland FP-30X, FP-60X, FP-90X, F701, & RP701 (Roland FP-X Series)