Gear article

Roland KPD-90 Triple Pedal

The Roland KPD-90 is a dedicated triple-pedal unit designed specifically for the Roland FP-60 and FP-90 digital pianos. It provides a permanent, integrated pedal solution that facilitates traditional piano techniques through its progressive damper action.

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Overview and Construction

The Roland KPD-90 is a stationary triple-pedal board finished in black, intended to be used in conjunction with the KSC-72 or KSC-90 designer stands. Unlike portable sustain pedals, the KPD-90 offers an elegant, integrated look suitable for home environments. It replicates the standard three-pedal layout found on acoustic grand pianos, consisting of the damper (sustain), sostenuto, and soft pedals.

Technical Features

The primary technical advantage of the KPD-90 is its support for progressive damper action. This mechanism produces a continuous response rather than a simple on/off switch, allowing players to utilise half-pedalling and other nuanced expressive techniques. This level of sensitivity is essential for performing advanced classical and contemporary piano literature where subtle control over string resonance is required.

Target Audience

This accessory is primarily aimed at advancing players and students who require a traditional piano setup for practice. Because it requires a compatible Roland stand to be mounted, it is best suited for users who intend to keep their digital piano in a fixed location, such as a living room or studio, rather than for gigging musicians who require a portable rig.

Comparison to Alternatives

While portable expression pedals like the Yamaha FC7 or specialized effects such as the Boss DD-3T Digital Delay are designed for versatile routing or sound manipulation, the KPD-90 is a dedicated ergonomic solution. Unlike generic single pedals, the KPD-90 provides the specific mechanical feedback and physical spacing required for academic piano study. For those seeking distortion or modulation, units like the Electro Harmonix Big Muff or Fender Hammertone Flanger would be used separately, as the KPD-90 is focused strictly on traditional piano articulation.

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Frequently asked questions

Which digital pianos is the Roland KPD-90 compatible with?
The KPD-90 is specifically designed for use with the Roland FP-60 and FP-90 digital piano models. It is not intended for use with other brands or different Roland series.
Does the KPD-90 support half-pedalling?
Yes, the unit features progressive damper action. This allows for continuous response and half-pedalling techniques similar to those on an acoustic piano.
What is the typical price for the KPD-90?
The typical price range for this triple pedal unit is approximately £140. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Can the KPD-90 be used without a stand?
The KPD-90 is designed to be mounted to the KSC-72 or KSC-90 furniture-style stands. It is not a standalone portable pedal unit.
What three functions do the pedals perform?
The unit provides the three standard piano pedals: the damper (sustain) pedal on the right, the sostenuto pedal in the middle, and the soft pedal on the left.
Is the KPD-90 suitable for professional performance?
It is highly suitable for advancing players who need an authentic feel. Its integrated design makes it ideal for home or studio use where a permanent setup is preferred.
How does the KPD-90 differ from a standard sustain pedal?
A standard sustain pedal often acts as a simple switch, whereas the KPD-90 offers progressive action and two additional pedals for full piano control.
Does this pedal work with the Roland FP-30?
No, the KPD-90 is specifically listed for the FP-60 and FP-90. The FP-30 requires its own specific pedal board model, the KPD-70.
What colour is the KPD-90 available in?
This specific model is finished in black to match the black versions of the FP-60 and FP-90 pianos and their respective stands.
Can the KPD-90 be used for guitar effects like a Wah or Chorus?
No, the KPD-90 is a piano-style controller. For guitar effects, you would look at pedals like the Dunlop Mick Ronson Cry Baby or the Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus.
Is the build quality of the KPD-90 robust?
Yes, it is built by Roland to provide a stable and elegant integrated look for the home, ensuring it stays in place during vigorous playing.
Does the KPD-90 require its own power supply?
No, the KPD-90 connects directly to the dedicated pedal port on the compatible Roland digital piano, which provides the necessary power and signal processing.