A Side by Side of Rolands Entry Level Uprights | LX-705 & LX-5

Summary

In this video, Ted Barcelo compares the Roland LX705 and LX5 digital pianos, focusing on key differences in sound, action, and design. The LX5 offers upgraded sound modeling with more realistic resonance and improved speaker placement, making it closer to an acoustic piano experience. Both models feature the same Progressive Hammer Action, but the LX5 enhances overall sound clarity. While the LX705 is a great option, especially at discounted prices, the LX5 stands out as a refined upgrade. Both pianos come with a 10-year warranty, offering great value for musicians looking for quality digital instruments.

Takeaways

• 😀 Roland is constantly innovating and updating its digital piano models, with the LX705 being phased out in favor of the new LX5.
• 🎶 The LX705 and LX5 feature four different piano sounds, with significant changes to the sound modeling system in the new LX5, leading to a clearer and more realistic piano tone.
• 🔊 The LX5 has enhanced speaker placement and a more precise resonance system, making it sound closer to an acoustic piano in a room compared to the LX705.
• 🎹 Both the LX705 and LX5 use Roland's Progressive Hammer Action, though the LX5 offers slightly improved feel and response.
• 🔄 The new sound modeling system in the LX5 includes four distinct piano sounds, labeled as Piano 1, 2, 3, and 4, compared to the LX705’s European Grand and American Grand variants.
• 🛠️ Roland provides a standout 10-year warranty that covers parts, labor, and on-site service, giving buyers confidence in the long-term reliability of their products.
• 🏆 Roland’s marketing strategy emphasizes the 'Roland Piano' over the term 'digital piano,' highlighting their focus on delivering authentic acoustic piano experiences.
• 💡 The changes in the LX5’s modeling, action, and speaker systems contribute to a noticeable improvement in sound and playability, making it a more competitive option in its class.
• 💬 The LX5 is an upgrade that justifies its name change, with a more immersive and refined playing experience compared to the LX705.
• 🛍️ The LX705 is still available at discounted closeout prices, and buyers can negotiate for even better deals at piano galleries.
• 📣 Ted Barcelo encourages viewers to leave comments or questions about the LX705 or LX5, fostering interaction and engagement with the audience on future videos.

Q & A

What are the main differences between the Roland LX705 and the LX5?

The primary differences between the Roland LX705 and LX5 are in the sound modeling system, action, and speaker configuration. The LX5 features improved sound modeling with four piano tones (Piano 1, 2, 3, and 4), compared to the LX705's traditional European and American Grand sounds. The LX5 also offers better resonance and speaker placement for a more immersive experience.

How does the sound modeling system differ between the LX705 and LX5?

The LX705 uses traditional acoustic piano sounds, with European Grand and American Grand variations. The LX5, however, features a more advanced sound modeling system with four new piano tones, offering a richer and more dynamic sound, which Roland has fine-tuned for better realism.

What is Roland's approach to naming their digital pianos?

Roland prefers to call their instruments 'Roland Pianos' rather than explicitly labeling them as digital pianos. This subtle distinction reflects their emphasis on making the digital experience feel as close to a traditional acoustic piano as possible.

What kind of piano action is used in both the LX705 and LX5?

Both the LX705 and LX5 use Roland's Progressive Hammer action, which simulates the feel of an acoustic piano. The key action in both models is similar, though the LX5 has been further refined for a more authentic and responsive playing experience.

What makes the LX5's speaker system superior to the LX705?

The LX5 features an enhanced speaker system with improved speaker placement and resonance. This arrangement allows for a more realistic and precise sound, simulating the acoustics of a real piano in a room. The LX705, while still a great model, has a less advanced speaker configuration.

What is the benefit of Roland’s 10-year warranty for their pianos?

Roland offers a 10-year warranty that covers parts, labor, and on-site service, which is rare in the digital piano market. This warranty provides peace of mind to customers, ensuring long-term support and reliability.

Why does Roland refer to their instruments as 'Roland Pianos' instead of digital pianos?

Roland uses the term 'Roland Pianos' to emphasize the quality and authenticity of their instruments. This branding choice reflects their goal of creating digital pianos that deliver an acoustic piano experience, without overtly labeling them as digital.

Which of the two models, LX705 or LX5, offers a better piano-playing experience?

The LX5 offers a better piano-playing experience due to its refined sound modeling, enhanced speaker system, and more responsive key action. These improvements make the LX5 feel closer to an acoustic piano, especially in terms of resonance and room acoustics.

Can you still purchase the Roland LX705, and are there any discounts available?

Yes, the Roland LX705 is still available, but it is part of a phase-out process. Many models like the LX705 are being sold at discounted closeout prices, making them a good deal for those seeking a great instrument at a lower price.

How do the LX705 and LX5 compare in terms of overall value?

Both the LX705 and LX5 offer excellent value, but the LX5 provides more advanced features like improved sound modeling and speaker placement, making it a better investment for those seeking a top-tier digital piano. Additionally, Roland's 10-year warranty adds significant value to both models.