What is the primary sound engine used in the Roland HP704?

The HP704 uses Roland's SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling technology. This differs from traditional sampling by recreating the sound through physical modelling for a more expressive and organic response.

What type of keyboard action does the HP704 feature?

It features the PHA-50 (Progressive Hammer Action) keyboard. This is a hybrid action that uses both wood and moulded materials to balance authentic feel with modern durability.

How many speakers are included in the HP704?

The HP704 is equipped with a four-speaker Acoustic Projection System. This setup is designed to deliver a rich, immersive sound field that captures the nuances of the piano's resonance.

Does the Roland HP704 support Bluetooth?

Yes, it includes built-in Bluetooth connectivity. This supports both audio streaming for playing along with songs and MIDI for connecting to various music apps.

What finish is specific to this model?

This specific model comes in a Polished Ebony finish. It is a premium, high-gloss black finish that gives the piano a sophisticated and classic appearance.

Is the HP704 suitable for professional practice?

Yes, due to its PHA-50 hybrid action and SuperNATURAL modelling, it is designed to satisfy the needs of advanced players who require high levels of expression. Its features make it a viable alternative to an acoustic upright piano for home practice.

How does the HP704 compare to the Roland RP701?

The HP704 is a higher-tier model than the RP701. It features a more advanced PHA-50 keyboard (compared to the PHA-4), a superior four-speaker sound system, and a more sophisticated cabinet design.

Can I use headphones with the Roland HP704?

Yes, the HP704 includes headphone outputs. These typically feature 3D Ambience technology to provide a natural, spacious sound experience while practicing privately.

What is the typical price for the Roland HP704 Polished Ebony?

The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 2075. Prices may vary slightly based on the retailer and current promotions.

How does the PHA-50 action differ from standard plastic keys?

The PHA-50 action uses wooden sides on the keys to provide the familiar weight and texture of an acoustic piano. The internal structure is made of modern materials to ensure the keys remain stable and do not require the maintenance of all-wood actions.

What are some alternative models from other brands?

Notable alternatives include the Kawai CN301 and CA501, or the Casio AP-300. Those looking for higher-end wood-key actions might also consider the Kawai CA901.

Does the cabinet design serve a functional purpose?

Yes, the contemporary-style cabinet is designed to house the four-speaker Acoustic Projection System. The physical layout helps project the sound in a way that mimics how sound radiates from the body and soundboard of an acoustic piano.

Gear article

Roland HP704 Digital Piano Polished Ebony

The Roland HP704 is a premium-grade digital piano featuring the manufacturer's SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling technology and a high-end four-speaker Acoustic Projection System. Designed for authentic playability, it incorporates the PHA-50 hybrid keyboard and modern wireless connectivity within a contemporary cabinet design.

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Overview and Design

The Roland HP704 in Polished Ebony represents the mid-to-high tier of Roland's Home Piano (HP) series. It is housed in a contemporary-style cabinet that balances traditional piano aesthetics with modern minimalist lines. The Polished Ebony finish provides a mirror-like sheen, positioning the instrument as a focal point for home interiors. The cabinet is designed not only for visual appeal but also to house a sophisticated internal audio system that mimics the resonance of an acoustic instrument.

Keyboard Action and Playability

Central to the HP704's performance is the PHA-50 keyboard. This hybrid action combines wooden sides for the look and feel of traditional piano keys with durable internal moulded materials that ensure long-term reliability. The progressive hammer action provides a weighted feel that is heavier in the lower registers and lighter in the high notes, intended to replicate the mechanical response of a grand piano. This allows for high levels of expression and nuance during complex passages.

Sound Generation and Audio System

Unlike many digital pianos that rely on static samples, the HP704 utilises Roland's SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling technology. This process recreates the physical interactions of an acoustic piano in real-time, resulting in a more fluid and responsive sound.

The audio is delivered through the Acoustic Projection System. This configuration uses four internal speakers arranged to create a rich, multi-dimensional sound field. By separating different elements of the piano's tone—such as the fundamental notes and the resonance of the strings—the system provides a more immersive listening experience for both the player and the audience.

Modern Features and Connectivity

The HP704 integrates Bluetooth technology for both MIDI and Audio. This allows users to stream music from smartphones or tablets directly through the piano's four-speaker system, enabling play-along sessions. Furthermore, the Bluetooth MIDI connectivity allows the piano to interface with various music educational apps, facilitating practice and learning without the need for external cables.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Roland range, the HP704 offers a more substantial speaker system and cabinet compared to the RP701, and a more traditional aesthetic than the compact DP603. When compared to external competitors such as the Kawai CA501 or CA901, the HP704 is distinguished by its modelled sound engine as opposed to sampled sound engines. For users seeking a more entry-level upright experience, models like the Casio AP-300 or Kawai CN301 provide alternatives at different price points and feature sets.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary sound engine used in the Roland HP704?: The HP704 uses Roland's SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling technology. This differs from traditional sampling by recreating the sound through physical modelling for a more expressive and organic response.
What type of keyboard action does the HP704 feature?: It features the PHA-50 (Progressive Hammer Action) keyboard. This is a hybrid action that uses both wood and moulded materials to balance authentic feel with modern durability.
How many speakers are included in the HP704?: The HP704 is equipped with a four-speaker Acoustic Projection System. This setup is designed to deliver a rich, immersive sound field that captures the nuances of the piano's resonance.
Does the Roland HP704 support Bluetooth?: Yes, it includes built-in Bluetooth connectivity. This supports both audio streaming for playing along with songs and MIDI for connecting to various music apps.
What finish is specific to this model?: This specific model comes in a Polished Ebony finish. It is a premium, high-gloss black finish that gives the piano a sophisticated and classic appearance.
Is the HP704 suitable for professional practice?: Yes, due to its PHA-50 hybrid action and SuperNATURAL modelling, it is designed to satisfy the needs of advanced players who require high levels of expression. Its features make it a viable alternative to an acoustic upright piano for home practice.
How does the HP704 compare to the Roland RP701?: The HP704 is a higher-tier model than the RP701. It features a more advanced PHA-50 keyboard (compared to the PHA-4), a superior four-speaker sound system, and a more sophisticated cabinet design.
Can I use headphones with the Roland HP704?: Yes, the HP704 includes headphone outputs. These typically feature 3D Ambience technology to provide a natural, spacious sound experience while practicing privately.
What is the typical price for the Roland HP704 Polished Ebony?: The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 2075. Prices may vary slightly based on the retailer and current promotions.
How does the PHA-50 action differ from standard plastic keys?: The PHA-50 action uses wooden sides on the keys to provide the familiar weight and texture of an acoustic piano. The internal structure is made of modern materials to ensure the keys remain stable and do not require the maintenance of all-wood actions.
What are some alternative models from other brands?: Notable alternatives include the Kawai CN301 and CA501, or the Casio AP-300. Those looking for higher-end wood-key actions might also consider the Kawai CA901.
Does the cabinet design serve a functional purpose?: Yes, the contemporary-style cabinet is designed to house the four-speaker Acoustic Projection System. The physical layout helps project the sound in a way that mimics how sound radiates from the body and soundboard of an acoustic piano.