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Average Price: $1,291
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$200
$501+
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Description
Discover a seamless blend of authenticity and versatility with the Roland A-88 MIDI Keyboard Controller. Crafted for musicians who demand the feel of a grand piano in a portable format, the A-88 features 88 Ivory Feel-G weighted keys that replicate the touch and response of a traditional piano. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the A-88's dual/split keyboard functionality lets you explore new creative horizons, while the D-BEAM controller adds unique expression to your performance.
Designed for effortless integration, the A-88 offers USB bus power for simple plug-and-play connectivity with your favorite DAWs and music production software. Its compact design doesn't compromise on quality, making it the perfect companion for musicians who need a reliable and expressive controller for both practice and professional settings. With a sleek interface and intuitive controls, the A-88 ensures that your focus remains on what truly matters—your music.
Key Features:
- 88 Ivory Feel-G weighted keys for authentic piano touch
- Dual/split keyboard functionality for versatile play
- D-BEAM controller for added performance expression
- USB bus power for easy plug-and-play connectivity
- Compact and portable design suitable for studio and live use
Product specs
| Brand | Roland |
| Model | A-88 MIDI Keyboard Controller |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2012 - 2019 |
| Categories | Keyboard MIDI Controllers |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Weighted |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Output, USB MIDI |
| Number of Keys | 88 Keys |
FAQs
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Does the Roland A-88 have weighted keys?
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Yes, the Roland A-88 features fully weighted keys, providing a realistic piano feel which is ideal for both studio and live performance settings.
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What are the connectivity options available on the Roland A-88?
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The Roland A-88 offers MIDI Output and USB MIDI connectivity, allowing it to easily integrate with various DAWs and external MIDI devices.
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Is the Roland A-88 suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Roland A-88 is designed for both studio and live performances, offering a realistic playability with its weighted keys and reliable connectivity options.
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Can the Roland A-88 be used with popular DAWs like Ableton Live or Logic Pro?
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Yes, the Roland A-88 is compatible with popular DAWs such as Ableton Live and Logic Pro via USB MIDI, making it versatile for music production tasks.
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What is the primary use case for the Roland A-88?
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The Roland A-88 is primarily used as a MIDI keyboard controller, suitable for musicians seeking a realistic piano feel with comprehensive MIDI capabilities for both studio and live environments.
Videos
RolandChannel
A-88/A-49 MIDI Keyboard Controller Overview - Roland Connect Sept. 2012
A-88/A-49 MIDI Keyboard Controller Overview - Roland Connect Sept. 2012
RolandChannel
Roland A-88MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller
RolandChannel
Review/unboxing A-88 Roland midi keyboard
XM STudio
Roland A-88 and A-49 MIDI Keyboard Controllers
Gear4music Guitars
NAMM 2020 - A88 MKII by Roland
Sample Library Review
Roland A-88 MKII Keyboard Controller at Winter NAMM 2020
Sweetwater
Reviews
PROS
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Ivory Feel-G keys offer a superior playing experience
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Dual computer control capability straight out of the box
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Exceptional durability with a track record of no failures over a decade
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Great balance between advanced features and quality key feel
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Includes unique infrared beam for creative control possibilities
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Full-sized, weighted keyboard ideal for studio use
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Features two assignable knobs for added control flexibility
CONS
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Keys are heavier and lack the escapement feel of a Steinway piano
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland A-88.
Features and functionality
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The A-88 MK1 includes 2 programmable knobs and buttons but lacks aftertouch, which is a significant limitation for some users.
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The A-88 MK2's lack of onboard sounds contrasts with the FP30X, which includes built-in piano sounds, making it versatile for both standalone and MIDI use.
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The pitch and modulation are controlled via a floppy disk-like mechanism, a feature appreciated by some users for its unique feel.
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The Roland A-88 MKII is noted for its PHA-4 graded action keyboard, superior to many MIDI controllers in its price range.
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The A-88 lacks a mod wheel, with pads positioned above knobs, which some find a questionable design choice.
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Value and pricing
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The FP30X is seen as a cost-effective alternative to the A-88 MK2, especially when considering its lower price and additional features like built-in sounds.
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A user regretted selling their A-88 during COVID and repurchased it, indicating strong satisfaction and perceived value at around €300.
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Setup and maintenance
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The FP30X's larger dimensions, due to built-in speakers, can affect placement in compact setups compared to the slimmer A-88.
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User experience
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Owners find Roland A-88 MK2's knobs and dials effective when programmed for specific plugins like Nexus and Spitfire.
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The keybed's action and feel are highly praised, considered unrivaled under $500, making it a top choice for keybed quality enthusiasts.
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The control apps for the A-88 are highly praised, adding value to its MIDI controller functionality.
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Comparisons
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The Roland FP30X and A-88 MK2 share the same PHA-4 keybed, offering similar playing experiences at different price points.
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Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII offers faders and doubles the pads, but does not claim MIDI 2.0 readiness like the A-88.
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The A-88's keybed is compared favorably to Kawai models, which are considered a step up but at double the price.
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Build quality
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Owners emphasize the Roland A-88's durable, stage-ready construction, highlighting its longevity with proper care.
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Use cases and applications
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The A-88 is seen as a versatile option for those wanting a full 88-key experience with MIDI controller capabilities, particularly useful for improving piano skills with advanced VSTs.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 3 Reviews and 14 Ratings
229
Excelent
Ivory Feel-G are the prototype for the PHA, it is heavier and sadly the scapement is not like a Stenway, but overall, is the best controller (about keys) I ever had. Also, works as a controller for 2 computers at the same time (just out of the box). It is 10 years old and never failed once. It is an excelent investment
198
Amazing touch and feel.
I searched for several controllers and some had great features and awful feel. Some had great feel but sloppy features. I came up with the Roland A-88 and it has a wonderful feel and amazing features. The infrared beam was a great plus when routed to filter cutoff on any VI.
165
Great MIDI controller
If what you're looking for is an easy to use, full sized, weighted keyboard, but aren't really bothered about having any internal sounds... This keyboard is perfect for you! It's basically the famous Roland weighted keyboard touch without any of the sounds, which if you're working in a studio, you would never use anyway, as you should have keyboard sounds. Also ahs two assignable knobs which is kind of useful sometimes
Artist usage
Add artist
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You can see the A-88 in this instagram post right underneath the top of the desk.
At 11:26 into this video, Scott plays some of his classic hit on the A-88.
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You can spot it on the photo. In the comments section Tobu confirmed that he uses this controller:
james_stika: What keyboard? Thanks for answer :) 7obu: @james_stika_music Roland A-88
In this YouTube video of Slushii Playing Never Let You Go (Slushii Cover), You can see Slushii Playing the piano And Plucks on the Roland A-88 Throughout the video.
Anomalie is seen in the Live Performance of "Cresent" using this keyboard, as well as in his other videos performing at his home setup. This item can be seen fully beginning at 0:08 into the video.
He is playing a Roland-88 in this picture.
In this live performance, Kirk Franklin can be seen playing the Roland A-88 throughout.
At 2 minutes and 33 seconds into the video titled "WORK OF ART 'Can't Let Go' Live at Vasby Rock Festival 2015," Marcus Möller can be seen using a Roland A-88 during a live performance with Work of Art. This footage is provided by Jacob Kuznetsov on YouTube.
Album Usage
The Roland A-88 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland A-88, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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