Which has a more realistic piano feel?

The Kawai MP11SE is widely regarded as having a more authentic acoustic piano feel due to its Grand Feel wooden-key action with longer pivot, graded hammers, and let-off simulation. The Roland RD-2000 EX's PHA-50 action is excellent but uses a hybrid wood/plastic construction that most reviewers find slightly less convincing.

Which is better for gigging musicians?

The Roland RD-2000 EX is better for gigging due to its significantly lighter weight (21.7 kg vs 34 kg) and extensive real-time controls. Its broader sound set and controller features also make it more adaptable for live use across genres.

Which has better piano sounds?

The Kawai MP11SE is often preferred for its realistic acoustic piano tones, particularly the SK-EX and EX grand piano samples. The Roland RD-2000 EX offers expressive modeled pianos and a wide variety of other sounds, but purists tend to favor the Kawai for solo piano work.

Do either have built-in speakers?

Neither the Kawai MP11SE nor the Roland RD-2000 EX has built-in speakers. Both are stage pianos designed to be connected to external amplification or a PA system.

Which is more durable for touring?

Both are built to professional standards, but the Roland RD-2000 EX's lighter weight and metal chassis may make it easier to handle on the road. The Kawai MP11SE's solid wooden construction is robust but heavier, which can be a factor in frequent transport.

Is the Kawai MP11SE worth the extra weight?

For pianists who prioritize touch and acoustic piano realism, the MP11SE's superior action and sound justify the extra weight. If portability and versatility are more important, the Roland RD-2000 EX is a compelling alternative.

Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano vs Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano

The Kawai MP11SE is the better choice for pianists who prioritize an acoustic-like key action and realistic piano sound. Its Grand Feel wooden-key action with let-off and counterweights is widely praised as one of the most authentic digital actions available. The Roland RD-2000 EX offers a lighter, more portable build and a broader sound set with deep synthesis and controller features, making it better for gigging musicians who need versatility. Reviewers and owners consistently note the MP11SE's superior touch and piano tone, while the RD-2000 EX is valued for its flexibility and lighter weight.

Choose the Kawai MP11SE if you want the most realistic piano feel and sound for serious piano playing, and portability is not a priority.
Choose the Roland RD-2000 EX if you need a versatile stage piano with synth and organ sounds, extensive controller features, and easier transport.

Prices

Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano: $2,029.00 at musicstore.com (checked today)
Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano: $2,299.00 at musicstore.com (checked today)
Difference: the Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano is $270.00 cheaper than the Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano today

	Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano	Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano
Key action	Grand Feel wooden-key action with long pivot, graded hammers, counterweights, and let-off simulation	PHA-50 hybrid wood/plastic action with escapement and ebony/ivory feel
Weight	34 kg (74.9 lbs)	21.7 kg (47.8 lbs)
Sound engine	EX, SK-EX, and SK-5 acoustic piano samples; 256-note polyphony	V-Piano and SuperNATURAL modeling, plus PCM sounds; 128-note polyphony
Built-in speakers	No built-in speakers (requires external amplification)	No built-in speakers (requires external amplification)
Pedal inputs	3 pedal inputs (damper, soft, sostenuto) with included pedal unit	4 pedal inputs (damper, soft, sostenuto, and expression) with included damper pedal
Controller features	Limited real-time controls; focuses on piano performance	Extensive sliders, knobs, and buttons for real-time control; supports drawbar organ
Audio recording	USB audio recording and playback	USB audio recording and playback
Connectivity	MIDI, USB, 1/8" headphone jack, line out	MIDI, USB, 1/4" headphone jack, XLR and 1/4" outputs

Spec	Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano	Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano
Number Of Keys	88	88
Weighted Keys	Yes (Grade-weighted Hammer-action)	Yes
Key Action	Hammer action, Responsive Hammer III Keyboard	Weighted hammer action, PHA-50 keyboard
Touch Sensitivity	Touch sensitive	Velocity-sensitive (encoders)
Key Material	Wood	Wood and Plastic Hybrid Structure, Ebony/Ivory …
Key Finish	Ivory Touch	Ebony/Ivory Feel
Number Of Pedals	3	Four (inputs)
Pedal Type	Sostenuto, Damper, Soft	Damper pedal
Pedals Included	Yes	Yes
Pedal Functions	Sostenuto, Soft	Sustain
Weight	34 kg	21.7 kg
Width	138 cm	55-5/8 inches

Spec	Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano	Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano
Depth	45.2 cm	367 mm
Height	19 cm	5-9/16 inches
Headphone Jack	Yes	Yes
Built-In Speakers	No	No
Volume Control	Yes	Partial volume control (from performance faders)
Audio Recording	Yes	Yes
Key Size	Full	—
Polyphony	256	—
Audio Effects	Integrated effects processor	—
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Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano vs Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano

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Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano vs Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano

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Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano

Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano

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Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano

Roland RD-2000 EX Stage Piano

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Kawai MP11SE Stage Piano

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