What is the primary sound engine used in the Roland DP603?

The DP603 uses Roland's SuperNATURAL Piano Modelling technology. This provides a more authentic and responsive sound compared to standard sampling by simulating the physical components of an acoustic piano.

What type of keyboard action does this model feature?

It features the PHA-50 keyboard action. This is a hybrid structure consisting of wood and moulded materials with an escapement mechanism for a realistic acoustic feel.

Does the DP603 support wireless connectivity?

Yes, it includes Bluetooth connectivity. This allows for wireless music streaming and integration with various mobile apps for learning and MIDI control.

Is the white finish on the DP603 matte or glossy?

This specific model features a Polished White finish, which is high-gloss. It is designed to be a standout visual piece in a modern home environment.

How does the DP603 compare to the Roland RP701?

The DP603 features a more advanced PHA-50 keyboard and modelling technology compared to the RP701. It also has a more premium, slimline cabinet design whereas the RP701 is part of the more affordable family-oriented series.

Can I use headphones with the Roland DP603?

Yes, the DP603 supports headphones and often includes Roland's 'Headphones 3D Ambience' for a more immersive listening experience. This makes it suitable for silent practice at any time.

What is the typical price point for a new DP603 in Polished White?

The typical price for this model is approximately £2,539. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any additional bundles offered.

How does the DP603 cabinet serve limited spaces?

The DP603 has a slimline profile with a depth that is typically shallower than traditional digital uprights. The lid also shuts flat to save space when the instrument is not in use.

Is the PHA-50 action suitable for professional pianists?

Yes, the PHA-50 is widely regarded as one of Roland's high-end actions. Its hybrid wood/moulded construction provides the weight and resistance expected by experienced players.

Which Kawai models are similar to the Roland DP603?

The Kawai CN301 and CA501 are comparable alternatives. While they offer different sound characters and actions, they occupy a similar market segment in terms of quality and performance.

Does the DP603 include internal speakers?

Yes, it has a built-in speaker system designed to deliver the depth of the SuperNATURAL sound engine. These speakers can also be used to play back audio streamed via Bluetooth.

How does the sound modelling differ from standard sampling?

Standard sampling plays back recorded snippets of an acoustic piano. SuperNATURAL modelling calculates the sound in real-time, allowing for a more continuous and organic response to different touch velocities.

Gear article

Roland DP603 Digital Piano

The Roland DP603 is a premium digital piano designed with a minimalist, contemporary cabinet and high-end performance features. It focuses on high-fidelity sound reproduction through SuperNATURAL modelling and tactile precision via its PHA-50 hybrid keyboard action.

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Design and Cabinetry

The Roland DP603 is distinguished by its slim, stylish cabinet design, making it an ideal choice for modern living spaces where floor space may be limited. The polished white finish provides a high-gloss, classic aesthetic. A notable design feature is the keyboard lid, which, when opened, serves as a music rest, and when closed, provides a flat, unobtrusive surface that blends into contemporary decor.

Keyboard Action and Playability

Central to the DP603's performance is the PHA-50 (Progressive Hammer Action with Escapement) keyboard. This hybrid structure combines wooden sides for the traditional feel of an acoustic piano with durable inner materials to ensure longevity and reliability. The action is designed to sense subtle nuances in a musician's touch, allowing for high levels of expression and individual performance dynamics.

Sound Modelling Technology

Unlike many digital pianos that rely on fixed samples, the DP603 utilises Roland's SuperNATURAL Piano Modelling technology. This process recreates the complex physical interactions of an acoustic piano, resulting in a rich, responsive tone that reacts to the player's input in real time. This technology covers the entire dynamic range, providing smooth transitions between soft and loud passages.

Connectivity and Modern Features

The instrument is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to function as a modern multimedia hub. Users can stream music from smartphones or tablets through the piano's internal speaker system or connect to various educational and MIDI-based apps for practice and composition. This integration facilitates a more interactive learning experience compared to traditional standalone pianos.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other digital pianos in the market, the DP603 occupies a premium designer niche. While the Roland HP704 offers a more traditional upright cabinet style, the DP603 focuses on a space-saving footprint. Other alternatives include the Kawai CA501 and CA901, which also offer high-quality wooden-key actions, or the Casio AP-300 for those looking at different aesthetic profiles. The DP603 remains a flagship choice for those prioritising the balance of high-end modeling and minimalist design.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary sound engine used in the Roland DP603?: The DP603 uses Roland's SuperNATURAL Piano Modelling technology. This provides a more authentic and responsive sound compared to standard sampling by simulating the physical components of an acoustic piano.
What type of keyboard action does this model feature?: It features the PHA-50 keyboard action. This is a hybrid structure consisting of wood and moulded materials with an escapement mechanism for a realistic acoustic feel.
Does the DP603 support wireless connectivity?: Yes, it includes Bluetooth connectivity. This allows for wireless music streaming and integration with various mobile apps for learning and MIDI control.
Is the white finish on the DP603 matte or glossy?: This specific model features a Polished White finish, which is high-gloss. It is designed to be a standout visual piece in a modern home environment.
How does the DP603 compare to the Roland RP701?: The DP603 features a more advanced PHA-50 keyboard and modelling technology compared to the RP701. It also has a more premium, slimline cabinet design whereas the RP701 is part of the more affordable family-oriented series.
Can I use headphones with the Roland DP603?: Yes, the DP603 supports headphones and often includes Roland's 'Headphones 3D Ambience' for a more immersive listening experience. This makes it suitable for silent practice at any time.
What is the typical price point for a new DP603 in Polished White?: The typical price for this model is approximately £2,539. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any additional bundles offered.
How does the DP603 cabinet serve limited spaces?: The DP603 has a slimline profile with a depth that is typically shallower than traditional digital uprights. The lid also shuts flat to save space when the instrument is not in use.
Is the PHA-50 action suitable for professional pianists?: Yes, the PHA-50 is widely regarded as one of Roland's high-end actions. Its hybrid wood/moulded construction provides the weight and resistance expected by experienced players.
Which Kawai models are similar to the Roland DP603?: The Kawai CN301 and CA501 are comparable alternatives. While they offer different sound characters and actions, they occupy a similar market segment in terms of quality and performance.
Does the DP603 include internal speakers?: Yes, it has a built-in speaker system designed to deliver the depth of the SuperNATURAL sound engine. These speakers can also be used to play back audio streamed via Bluetooth.
How does the sound modelling differ from standard sampling?: Standard sampling plays back recorded snippets of an acoustic piano. SuperNATURAL modelling calculates the sound in real-time, allowing for a more continuous and organic response to different touch velocities.