Roland updates HP-series of digital pianos

Following the release of the HP-3 and HP-7 at winter NAMM show 2002, Roland launched more models of digital piano to complete line-up of new HP-Series at Musikmesse Frankfurt. HP-7e, HP-3e, HP-2e feature a different choice of finishes and software matching the taste of european market, HP-7, HP-3 and HP-2 are shipping to the rest of of the world. Including the worldwide available entry level HP-1, these 64-voice pianos all benefit from improved stereo-sampled piano sounds, hammer-action keyboards, and more powerful speaker systems for rich stereo output. The HP-2/HP-2e gives players Roland's Progressive Hammer Action Keyboard, with a heavier touch in the lower range and a lighter touch in the upper range, plus a convenient metronome function and easy 2-track song recorder. A total of 20 instrument sounds are provided, which can be played using dual and split functions for layering tones or playing two different sounds at once. Moving to the HP-3/HP-3e model, the metronome function has been enhanced with the addition of 53 preset rhythms. A game function offers ear training exercises that make learning about music fun. The flagship HP-7/HP-7e adds a Progressive Hammer Action Keyboard with escapement (let-off) for even greater expression. Users can adjust the piano's hammer response and key touch to their liking, while a Lid Angle control simulates the changes in tone color and reverberation resulting from the position of a grand piano's lid. The HP-7/HP-7e includes 24 instrument sounds and a 4-speaker sound system that sends lower frequencies to speakers built into the stand and higher frequencies to speakers on the top of the piano.